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EVALUATION OF THE MRSP PLAN AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 35 SUBPROGRAMS problems. However, the validity of certain geoenvironmental models has been questioned by potential users who gave presentations to the panel. One question concerning the models is that site-specific predictions of the environmental behavior of mineral deposits are not sufficiently accurate using generalized characteristics of mineral deposits. For example, zones of hydrothermal alteration around ore deposits should be mapped in detail (generally at scales of 1:24,000 or larger) before site-specific predictions are made. Improved communication with users will determine the level of detail and appropriate map scale that will improve the utility of these models (see General Recommendation 2). Similar concern regarding map scales is discussed above under Assessments Subprogram Evaluation. Another question about the models concerns the physical and chemical variability among deposits of a particular type and the ability of the models to accurately predict releases of chemical components from mineral deposits. Staff of MRSP and WRD should collaborate to address this issue. Additional joint research efforts in acid drainage prediction and metal leaching by MRSP and WRD scientists will improve the accuracy and validity of the geoenvironmental models (see General Recommendation 4). Subprogram Recommendations The panel recommends the following changes and modifications to the Mitigation Studies Subprogram: Recommendation D Merge two components of the Mitigation Studies Subprogram, namely, (1) Studies in Support of Remediation, and (2) Environmental Behavior of Mineral Deposits, into the Resource Investigations Subprogram. A suggested name for this combined subprogram is âResource and Environmental Investigations Subprogramâ (Figure 2-1). Recommendation E Elevate the Geochemical Backgrounds and Baselines component to subprogram status. Emphasize such elements as Discrimination Between Natural and Mining-Related Geochemical
