Core logging in exploration: Practices, data management and workflow integration - ME Feature Article

Core logging represents one of the most critical control points in mineral exploration, serving as the stage in which geological observations are transformed into structured data that underpin interpretation, modeling and economic decision-making. Every geological model and resource estimate ultimately depends on how accurately drill core is logged, recorded and managed. Despite its importance, core logging is frequently treated as a routine operational activity rather than a data-critical process. In practice, inconsistencies in logging approaches, subjective interpretation and weaknesses in data management can introduce errors that propagate throughout the exploration workflow. These errors often remain undetected until later stages, where they can significantly affect model reliability and project evaluation. As exploration programs become increasingly data-driven, there is a growing need to improve not only how geological data are collected, but also how they are structured and integrated into downstream workflows. This article presents a practical overview of core logging practices, examines the evolution of logging systems and highlights key challenges and opportunities for improving data reliability from field logging through to resource estimation.