In general, when dealing with mining and mineral extraction, "cutting into the ground" typically refers to methods of excavation used to access minerals located underground, such as through open-pit mining, underground mining, or strip mining. The phrase "flip a mine" is not a standard term in mining; however, it could be interpreted as changing the operation or approach to mining a site.
You cannot simply "flip" a mine to extract minerals above ground, as mining operations are complex processes that involve careful planning, environmental considerations, and often significant regulatory oversight. Additionally, minerals that are located in the mine itself need to be extracted using established mining techniques, which usually involve heavy machinery and labor.
If you are referring to the concept of seeking out or indirectly accessing minerals that are above ground (such as through surface mining) or exploring alternative methods of mineral retrieval, then yes, proper techniques can be employed to extract those resources.
If you are considering a specific mining operation, it would be beneficial to consult with mining engineers or geologists who can provide expertise based on the specific context and regulations governing the area in question.