Placer mining is one of the oldest forms of mining using gravity and water to remove heavy minerals from river gravels. Higher Ground Exploration specializes in placer testing. This includes: initial prospecting and pan testing of drainges and adjacent benches; mechanical trenching and test pitting; bulk sampling; and drilling. Material that is recovered is measured and concentrated to determine dollar value per yard of material. These methods are used to determine size, distribution, and value of underlying gravels. Depending on glacial and fluvial history of a drainage gold may be deposited through out a gravel package or in the bottom several feet above bedrock. Determination of where gold is deposited is essential for mining a placer deposit efficiently and economically.