coyote plant, page-35

"A scoping study is just that (in most cases), a gathering of thoughts and possibilities"

Initially yes, but a scoping study will evaluate all the data produced from the various thoughts and possibilities and deliver a recommendation, or a preferred solution that delivers the most cost effective outcomes and profit for the company.

Scoping studies are also inherently conservative often using worst case scenarios. The provider of the scoping study has his reputation on the line - if the outcomes recommended in the scoping study are not met then the buck will stop with him.

As others have mentioned, since the scoping study was written and issued, there have been further positive discoveries, which are not reflected in the scoping study previously released.