This paper summarizes a research to develop an optimization algorithm used to support
short term planning decisions in an open pit operation. In particular, it is sought to use this
algorithm to evaluate block models that have been computed using different geostatistical
techniques. This leads to several production schedules, each representing the best
production option for a given block model. Then, these schedules are compared against a
most likely optimal schedule that uses blast hole grade information as a main input. This …