Event Description
Artisanal Mining
Being low on cash, a neighbour has started digging for cobalt and other rare minerals on his lands – and he’s had some luck! He’s willing to help you set up your own artisanal mine, although safety could be a concern.
Expected profit: $100
Start digging?
In-game Effects
On acceptance, the player will receive the expected $100. However, at the end of the following season a random check is performed to see whether the mine collapses, killing one farm family member in the process. The risk is relatively high, compared to other special events.
If an accident does occur, it will be explained in the summary section of the annual report. In either case, the mine is considered exhausted after one season and will not provide any additional revenue after the first $100.
External Links
WikiPedia articles on Artisanal mining and Conflict resources:
“Young and dying: the scandal of artisanal mining”, The Globe and Mail, 2012:
“The Real Price of Gold,” National Geographic Magazine, 2009:
Some interactive world maps of artisanal and small-scale mining:
