Appropriate for diverse audiences, this book is an outstanding technical reference that provides the reader with an understanding of the fundamental principles associated with the design and planning of modern surface open-pit mines. The book is well-written and addresses topical subjects in a manner highly conducive for use in undergraduate and graduate education, as well as by a wide range of professionals interested in the subject. The text emphasizes the influence of economic and environmental considerations in mine design and planning, where applied engineering principles and approaches are effectively introduced through numerous examples and exercises. While the book is ideally suited for students in mineral related disciplines, seasoned professionals will also find it extremely useful as a technical reference. Overall, it is an excellent book that successfully introduces the interdisciplinary aspects of surface design and planning in a straight-forward, easy to understand manner that challenges the reader to think in a broader context about the subject. Hugh B. Miller, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Mining Engineering Department, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, CO, USA Over the years, attempts have been made to capture the essence of open pit engineering. Past volumes have been organized by assembling papers and chapters written by experts and practitioners. These works contain valuable information but often digress into specialized areas and frequently repeat introductory material. Students who are trying to put all this information into a practical context find the repetition tedious and often are overwhelmed by esoteric subtopics. In this two-volume treatise, Dr.Hustrulid and his coauthors have captured the essence of ore body modeling, open pit planning, unit operations, and responsible mining in an organized and succinct manner. This work is especially valuable for mining students who are eager to learn about open pit mining and for the faculty tasked to teach the topic. The software included with the volumes provides an excellent introduction to computerized planning and a logical transition to more complicated programs. M. K. McCarter, Ph.D., P.E., Professor of Mining Engineering, Malcolm N. McKinnon Endowed Chair, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA Open Pit Mine Planning and Design is an ideal textbook for courses in surface mine design, open pit design, geological and excavation engineering, and in advanced open pit mine planning and design, and can also be a priceless reference resource for active professionals around the world. Australian Journal of Mining, October 30, 2014
