SC137: Porphyry Field Course | June 2025
SC137: Porphyry Field Course | June 2025
Copper Mountain and New Afton Alkalic, and Highland Valley Copper Calc Alkalic Porphyry Deposits
Princeton and Kamloops, BC | June 2 to 7, 2025
This six-day field course focuses on the diverse porphyry systems in the prolific Late Triassic Quesnel Terrane (Quesnellia) of southern British Columbia. It introduces participants to various types of porphyry deposits, styles of mineralization and alteration through field exercises and background lectures. In particular, participants evaluate alteration types associated with both alkalic Cu-Au and calc alkalic Cu-Mo porphyry systems. Evening lectures provide insight and context for the porphyry deposits, as well as an excellent opportunity for discussion and socializing.
The course takes place at Copper Mountain mine, near the town of Princeton, and Highland Valley Copper and New Afton mines near Kamloops. These deposits include examples of calc alkalic Cu-Mo and alkalic Cu-Au porphyry deposits, which represent an important part of British Columbia’s mineral endowment. Participants also learn about the regional geology to provide context for the Late Triassic arc environment, whence the deposits formed. The region is well-exposed; open pits, roadcuts, and surrounding outcrops provide a fantastic natural laboratory.
Course exercises provide an introduction to the practical techniques for porphyry deposit characterization and core logging, including their alteration, lithology, mineralization and associated structures as it applies to exploration. Drill core data also provide opportunity to examine application of lithogeochemical and SWIR data for mapping and exploration.
Participants include a mix of industry and MDRU graduate students and researchers. All participants should be comfortable in open pits and on uneven terrain and have appropriate boots and clothing.
DATES: Monday, June 2 – Saturday, June 7, 2025
LOCATION: Princeton and Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada
COURSE LEADERS: Farhad Bouzari (MDRU), Brian McNulty (MDRU), John Ryan (Teck), Neal Mankins (Hudbay Minerals), and Devin Wade (New Gold)
TRANSPORTATION: Mini Van or SUV ground transportation departs Vancouver June 2nd and returns to Vancouver, Saturday June 7th. Course technical program ends Friday June 6th afternoon, and the participants have the option to arrange their own return from Kamloops after 5 pm on Friday. Daily transportation to all field sites near Kamloops and Princeton is provided.
ACCOMMODATION and FOOD: Five nights of shared hotel accommodation (double) provided in Kamloops and Princeton. Lunch bag or picnic-style lunches will be provided daily.
EOI APPLICATION
We are currently accepting EOI applications.
EOI applicants will be invited to register for the course based on priority, with MDRU members receiving the highest priority.
EOI application deadline: April 11, 2025
APPLICATION PROCESS
We want to keep you informed about the application process:
1. PROCESSING APPLICATIONS: Your application will be processed in the order in which it was received. PLEASE NOTE: preference will be given to MDRU Members and Project Sponsors. High demand courses may have a limit of participants per company.
2. NOTIFICATION TIMELINE: You’ll receive an update by April 18 regarding your application status. This notification will let you know if you’ve secured a spot for the course or if you’re placed on the waitlist.
3. WAITLIST COMMUNICATION: If any spots open up due to cancellations or changes, we’ll reach out to those on the waitlist and offer them a chance to join the course.
CANCELLATION POLICY: As all expenses are pre-paid due to the nature of field course logistics, registration fees are non-refundable. Additional details will be provided in the invoice sent to participants following successful registration.
NOTICE OF PHOTOGRAPHY: Memorable moments during the course may be captured and shared out (including photos and videos). You can opt out of having your image taken / shared by speaking to the organizer.
