Cut and fill mining is a method used to extract minerals from underground deposits. In this technique, miners first create a horizontal tunnel, or "cut," to access the ore. Once the ore is removed, the empty space is filled with waste material, known as "fill," to support the surrounding rock and prevent collapse. This mining method is particularly useful in steep or irregular terrain, where traditional methods may be less effective. It allows for selective mining, meaning that miners can target specific areas of ore while minimizing waste and environmental impact.