REGULATION AND RECLAMATION OF SURFACE MINES: BIBLIOGRAPHY AND ABSTRACTS OF RESEARCH REPORTS AVAILABLE FROM THE U.S. OFFICE OF SURFACE MINING 1991-1998 Edited and prepared for computer access by Michael S. Hamilton and Dale Barrett University of Southern Maine P.O. Box 9300 Portland, Maine, 04104 THIS DOCUMENT MAY BE COPIED FREELY TO DISC, PAPER OR OTHER MEDIA. PLEASE ACKNOWLEDGE IT AS THE SOURCE OF INFORMATION WHENEVER IT PROVES USEFUL. INTRODUCTION This file contains abstracts to aid researchers in identifying technical reports related to coal mining and reclamation which are available from the U.S. Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement. These documents report research completed under contract to the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSM) between years 1991 and 1998. This file supplements and updates Surface Mining Regulation and Reclamation: BIBLIOGRAPHY OF RESEARCH REPORTS AVAILABLE FROM THE NATIONAL TECHNICAL INFORMATION SERVICE 1978-1991, Portland, ME: University of Southern Maine, July 1995. 237 pp. [Available at: http://www.usm.maine.edu/~pos/osm.txt]. Guide to Use This file may be searched for any keyword by loading into a word processing program such as Wordperfect and using the Search function. Individual abstracts may thus be printed. Complementary copies of all documents may be requested from: Joe R. Galetovic, Technical Coordinator, Office of Technology Transfer, Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement, U.S. Department of the Interior, 1999 Broadway, Suite 3320, Denver, CO 80202-5733. Email: jgaletove@osmre.gov Suggested programmatic terms for keyword search (others will work): Abandoned Mine Lands Alluvial Valley Floors Approximate Original Contour Backfilling Blasting Blasters Training Coal Mine Waste Erosion Control Excess Spoil Disposal Fish and Wildlife Grading Hydrologic Balance Non-Coal Regulation Overburden Analysis Prime Farm Land Remote Sensing Revegetation Sediment Control Sedimentation Ponds Siltation Structures Subsidence Topsoil Wetlands This file may also be searched by author or name of organization preparing a report, if known. The bibliography is also available on floppy disc from: Michael S. Hamilton, Department of Political Science, University of Southern Maine, Portland, Maine, USA 04104. Please send a 3.5" floppy disc in appropriate mailer, with return postage. ABSTRACT A MANUAL FOR TRAINING RECLAMATION INSPECTORS IN THE FUNDAMENTALS OF HYDROLOGY 56pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service; Northeastern Forest Experiment Station; 1835 Big Hill Road; Berea, Kentucky 40403 Type of Report: Training Manual ABSTRACT: The handbook is intended to be a desk reference to help nonhydrologists achieve a basic understanding of hydrology as it relates to surface mining and reclamation. Surface coal mining and reclamation inspectors and other staff will find it useful in implementing regulatory programs. The handbook is not meant to be a comprehensive treatment of the subject. The handbook can be used in the training of surface mining and reclamation inspectors, both Federal and State, and as a basic reference for inspectors in carrying out their assigned duties. The handbook describes clues and indicators of potential problems, suggests ways to prevent or mitigate them, and discusses various observation and sampling techniques. Portions of the text were taken nearly verbatim from earlier published and unpublished works including primarily: (1)The Office of Surface Mining Groundwater Information Manual: Coal Mine Permit Applications, Volume 1. The Glossary of Geohydrologic Terms was obtained here.(2) A Field Methods for the Collection of Water-Quality Data.(3) A Small Surface Coal Mine Operators Handbook.(4) A Water Sampling Handbook.(5) A Coal Mining and Reclamation Operations, Part 1: The Determination of the Probable Hydrologic Consequences. Keywords: Water control and quality Drainage and erosion Site selection Sampling methods and procedures Inspection procedures Author(s) Willie R. Curtis, Kenneth L. Dyer, and George P. Williams, Jr. ABSTRACT A MANUAL FOR TRAINING RECLAMATION INSPECTORS IN THE FUNDAMENTALS OF SOILS AND REVEGETATION 178pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Surface Type of Report: Training Manual ABSTRACT: The purpose of this handbook is to give surface mining and reclamation inspectors a basic knowledge and understanding of soils and vegetation as they relate to surface mining and reclamation. It is not meant to be a detailed treatment of all revegetation situations, but to provide guidance in understanding and adapting principles and practices of soil and plant sciences appropriate to overburden and soil removal, replacement, testing, and treatment; selecting and using species for various conditions and land uses; and evaluating revegetation success. The handbook can be used in the training of surface mining and reclamation inspectors, both Federal and State, and as a reference for inspectors in carrying out their assigned duties. Keywords: Training manual Surface mining Reclamation Revegetation Overburden Soils Author(s) Willis G. Vogel ABSTRACT ACHIEVING LAND USE POTENTIAL THROUGH RECLAMATION.(9TH ANNUAL NATIONAL MEETING) (June 1992) 763pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: American Society for Surface Mining and Reclamation, 21 Grandview Drive, Princeton, WV 24740 Type of Report: Proceedings. ABSTRACT: The proceedings covered the following major topics: POLICY,RULES,AND REGULATIONS: The three R's of surface mining; total quality environmental management integration. SURFACE MINE SPOIL AND SOIL: Disturbed prime agricultural farmland; soil develepoment in sandy tailings. WETLANDS: Hydraulic conductivity of substrates; potential wetland substrates evaluation; hydrologic impact management. FORESTRY AND WILDLIFE: Early tree survival and growth; better reclamation with trees; use of Sharp-Tailed Grouse. ABATEMENT AND TREATMENT OF ACIDIC CONDITIONS: Acidic coal spoils; pyrite oxidation; minerock stockpiles reclamation. WETLANDS: Aerobic removal of manganese; anoxic cattail wetland; heavy wetland removal; watershed rehabilitation. ECOLOGICAL EVALUATIONS OF RECLAMATION SUCCESS: Plant community characteristics as an indicator; drought effects on plant diversity. INTERNATIONAL TAILING RECLAMATION: Vegetation response (organic soil) on taconite tailings; native transplants. DISPOSAL AND UTILIZATION OF COAL COMBUSTION RESIDUES: Environmental and engineering behavior of coal ash; paper mill sludge-fly ash mixtures. LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE: Geographic information systems; remote sensing; recreational development plan. IMPACTS AND BIOLOGICAL TREATMENT OF ACIDIC DRAINAGE: Acid mining drainage; water quality; chemical characterization to predict environmental impact. RECLAMATION WITH TREES AND WOODY SHRUBS-"WHATS GOING ON NOW": Performance of trees and shrubs; eight hardwood tree response; native hardwoods; commercial pine forest. RECLAMATION AND RESTORATION PRACTICES: Research; abandoned iron mines. ULTIMATE LAND USE: Comparative effects of alternative re-mining; intensive aquaculture. Keyword(s): Spoil Wetlands Forestry Ecological evaluations Landscape architecture Trees and woody shrubs Author(s): Various. ABSTRACT AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR SURFACE MINING AND RECLAMATION. VISION 2000: AN ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT. (MAY 10-15, 1997) 787pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: American Society for Surface Mining and Reclamation, 21 Grandview Drive, Princeton, WV 24740. Type of Report: Proceedings. ABSTRACT: The proceedings covered the following topics: ARCHEOLOGY: archeological investigations (Texas); cultural resource investigations. WATERSHED PROTECTION: drainage management; geophysical mapping; retention of metals. WATERSHED AND WETLAND ISSUES: hydrologic modeling. REVEGETATION: vegetation trends in reclaimed areas; warm season grass establishment. EVALUATION OF MINESOILS: concepts and criteria; land capability classification; physicochemical analytical results. BATS AND MINES: North American bats and mines project; bat-compatible closures. INTERNATIONAL ISSUES: mobile equipment in open pit lignite mines; environmental management (India). MINE RECLAMATION IN THE SOUTHWEST: livestock impact: decision-making, vegetation, and animal response (Navajo mine): RECLAMATION STRATEGIES: first year survival of bareroot and hardwood tree seedlings (Texas); coal refuse and papermill sludge; reducing costs; socio-economic realities. POST-RECLAMATION LAND USE: sensitive species; biodiversity; commercial forestry. STRUCTURES AND PREVIOUSLY MINED LAND: residential (Indiana); siting a prison complex; allowable deformations. PREDICTION OF ACID MINE DRAINAGE: characterization of hard-rock mine sites; geochemical forecast. COMPUTERS IN RECLAMATION PLANNING: optimum post mine reclamation; overburden evaluation. COMBUSTION AND MINING BY-PRODUCTS: erodibility of fly-ash treated minesoils; hydraulic conductivity (ash mixtures). WATER QUALITY: treatment of cyanide; storm runoff; aquatic life standards; RECLAMATION OF MINE TAILINGS: TREATMENT OF ACID MINE DRAINAGE: COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY - HYDROLOGY: geographic information systems. MINING AND EDUCATION: RECLAMATION AND SOILS: mixed overburden; post-mine soils. REGULATORY ISSUES: compliance audits for environmental health. APPLIED TECHNOLOGY: infiltration control at soil surface: a new revegetation technique; an in situ anaerobic biochemical system; ditch stabilization with shoreline common reed. Keyword(s): Archeology Wetlands Reclamation Water quality Author(s): Editors: Jon E. Brandt, Joe R. Galevotic, Lisa Kost, and Joel Trouart ABSTRACT CLIMATOLOGIC, SOIL-WATER, GROUND-WATER, GEOLOGIC, SURFACE-WATER, AND WATER-QUALITY DATA FOR A SURFACE COAL MINE IN NORTHWESTERN COLORADO (DECEMBER 1993) 218pp Performing Organization name and Address: U.S. Geological Survey, Box 25046, Mail Stop 415, Federal Center, Denver, CO 80225-0046 Type of Report: Open-file report 92-122 ABSTRACT: Climatologic, soil-water, ground-water, geologic, surface-water, and water-quality data were collected at five sites at a surface coal mine in northwestern Colorado. The data were collected to help describe the hydrogeology and geochemistry of an area that is being surface mined for coal. The study area was at the Seneca II Coal Mine. Lennox coal and Wadge coal are the major seams being mined. Confined Aquifers in bedrock and unconfined aquifers in reclaimed spoil are present in the area. Springs are present at the toe of the reclaimed spoil slope. Climatologic data were collected at two sites. Air temperatures, relative humidity, solar radiation, windspeed, and wind duration were collected at one site. Precipitation was measured at three rain gages. Snow-course data were collected at three sites. Soil-water content and soil dry density were measured. Eighteen wells in the confined aquifer and seven in the unconfined aquifer were installed at the study area. Geophysical and geologic logs were recorded for selected cored boreholes. Water levels were measured at the wells. Porosity, grain density, and permeability of selected core were estimated. Mineral composition also was determined. Ground-water samples were collected for water-quality analysis. Spring discharge and water quality were measured for two springs. Water quantity and quality were measured for two lysimeters. Keyword(s): Reclaimed spoil Hydrogeologic processes Author(s): Robert S. Williams, Jr., Gregory M. Clark, and Norman E. Spahr ABSTRACT COAL MINE DRAINAGE PREDICTION AND POLLUTION PREVENTION IN PENNSYLVANIA. (April 21, 1999) 371pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. Rachel Carson State Office Building, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8461 Type of Report: Research ABSTRACT: GEOCHEMISTRY OF COAL MINE DRAINAGE: production & measurement of acidity; bacteria & pH; neutralization of acidity & production of alkalinity. GROUNDWATER FLOW ON THE APPALACHIAN PLATEAU OF PENNSYLVANIA: climate; groundwater; geology; aquifers. HYDROGEOLOGIC CHARACTERISTICS OF SURFACE-MINE SPOIL: characteristics of groundwater; hydraulic parameters. EFFECTS OF MINE DRAINAGE ON AQUATIC LIFE, WATER USES, AND MAN-MADE STRUCTURES: metals; pH; chemical impacts & industrial water supplies. PLANNING THE OVERBURDEN ANALYSIS: purpose; preparation; required information; sample collection & preparation. LABORATORY METHODS FOR ACID-BASE ACCOUNTING: components; pH; sulfur; Fizz rating. KINETIC LEACHING TEST FOR THE PREDICTION OF MINE DRAINAGE QUALITY: physical, chemical & biological factors; procedures; relationships & prediction methods. INFLUENCE OF GEOLOGY ON POSTMINING WATER QUALITY: mineralogy of mine site overburden; geologic controls on overburden mineralogy; surface weathering. GROUNDWATER CHEMISTRY FROM PREVIOUSLY MINED AREAS AS A MINE DRAINAGE PREDICTION TOOL: factors; hydrologic complications; mining practices. NATURAL GROUNDWATER QUALITY FROM UNMINED AREAS AS A MINE DRAINAGE QUALITY PREDICTION TOOL: methods; Appalachian Plateau comparisons. INTERPRETATION OF ACID-BASE ACCOUNTING: development; application; principles; analyzing; interpreting. RECLAMATION AND REVEGETATION: plant species & tolerance; top soiling. ALKALINE ADDITION: theory; studies; practices; applications; materials & cost. SPECIAL HANDLING TECHNIQUES IN THE PREVENTION OF ACID MINE DRAINAGE: strategy; geologic & geochemical conditions; handling techniques; placement; constraints. BACTERICIDAL CONTROL OF ACIDIC DRAINAGE: anionic surfactants; procedures; ongoing research. WATER MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES ON SURFACE MINING SITES: erosion & sedimentation controls; infiltration; reclamation speed; groundwater management. REMINING: historical impact; techniques; impact of discharge flow; recommendations. APPLICATION OF THE PRINCIPLES OF POSTMINING WATER QUALITY PREDICTION: complicating factors; risk assessment; the best tool; key principles; predictive decisions. Keyword(s): prediction techniques; interpretation; reclamation; acid mine drainage prevention methods Author(s): various ABSTRACT COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF METHODS OF SELENIUM ANALYSIS FOR DETERMINING POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS (May 1995) 54pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: Energy & Environmental Research Center University of North Dakota PO Box 9018, Grand Forks, ND 58202-9018 Type of Report: Mining Research Contract Report ABSTRACT: A study was undertaken to evaluate extraction procedures designed to predict the leachability of selenium in sediments and overburden from reclaimed mine lands. The four extraction procedures evaluated in this study were the 1) Synthetic Groundwater Leaching Procedure (SGLP), 2) Synthetic Acid Rain Leaching Procedure, 3) Hot-Water-Soluble Extraction and 4) Ammonium Bicarbonate-Diethylenetriaminepentaacetic Acid. The results indicated good correlation among the procedures with respect to selenium mobility. Analytical methods (furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy, inductively coupled argon plasma spectroscopy, and hydride generation) were also evaluated to determine the most appropriate analytical techniques. The SGLP provided the data most likely to parallel natural field phenomena while providing solutions for analysis unlikely to contain elements that would interfere with selenium determination. Leaching of overburden cores suggested that total and leachable selenium might be related to lithology. Scanning electron microscopy/microprobe studies suggested disseminated sources in organic matter. Sand and silt beds were selenium deficient and carbonaceous beds enriched, focusing attention on selected zones in geologic section. Selenium content was mapped using existing geologic sections to project concentrations along and within key lithogic and stratigraphic units across the mine. This required spatial reconstruction of stratigraphy based on depositional environments, providing a superior method for extrapolating selenium into data poor areas optimizing sampling/analysis resources. Keyword(s): Predicting leachability Sediments and overburden Reclaimed mine lands Selenium and lithology Author(s): D.J. Hassett, C.M. Lillemoen, and R.D. Butler ABSTRACT CONSTRUCTED VERTICAL FLOW AERATED WETLANDS (October 1992-September 1993) 115 pp Performing Organization Name and Address: University of Wyoming; Laramie, WY 82071 Type of Report: Annual Report ABSTRACT: Constructed wetlands are used to mitigate water quality problems related to wastewaters and mine drainage waters. They are, however, constructed with inconsistent design recommendations and function with varying degrees of success. Typically, wetlands fall into one of two classes, free water surface (FWS) or vegetated submerged bed (VSB), one being primarily aerobic and the other anaerobic, respectively. A bench-scale wetland is described in this thesis in which the main reactive bed consists primarily of limestone and the flow through it is vertical. Ponded water on the initial topsoil layer infiltrates through the thin soil layer, through a pea gravel layer and through the main limestone bet. Flow through the wetland is controlled by the soil layer which has the least hydraulic conductivity of the three layers. Unsaturated flow occurs throughout the limestone media which also is exposed to aeration. Laboratory studies indicate that the model wetland routinely increased the acid mine drainage from pH 4.9 to pH 8.5 and was effective in removing heavy metals such as manganese, iron, molybdenum, copper, zinc, lead, chromium, and nickel from the drainage. Variations in the nominal water flow velocity and forced ventilation of the wetland apparently had no influence on the metals removal when metals concentrations were low. However, when metals concentrations were more than doubled in the influent source water, water flow rate did become significant to the removal efficiency of the wetland. Keywords: Constructed wetlands Wetland classification Acid mine drainage Heavy metal removal Author(s) Tammy L. McMillen, James L. Smith, and Patricia J.S. Colberg ABSTRACT CONSTRUCTED VERTICAL FLOW AERATED WETLANDS. (DECEMBER 1994) 53PP. Performing Organization Name and Address: University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY 80271. Type of Report: Final Report ABSTRACT: Constructed wetlands are a viable alternative for treatment of acid mine and tailings drainage prior to discharge into a receiving stream. In addition to cost advantages compared to active treatment systems, wetlands can be adapted to overall reclamation and remediation plans in an environmentally sound and aesthetically pleasing manner. Wetland technology is described in which the main reactive layer is limestone gravel (rather than organic material) which is overlain by a fine gravel filter and soil. Water ponded on the soil surface infiltrates through the soil and filter and into the limestone layer. Soil has the least hydraulic conductivity and limestone is vented to the atmosphere; therefore, water flows through the limestone in an unsaturated condition. Calcium, carbonate and oxygen are the major reactants available in the limestone. Acid mine drainage was neutralized and limestone was very effective in removing metals including manganese. In general, neither water nor air flow rate influenced metals removal. Based on the results of this study and additional experience in treating other mine drainage waters, design specifications were prepared for a field scale aerated vertical flow wetlands. This wetland should have approximately 1500 square feet in area and would treat from 1 to 6 gallons per minute of acid mine drainage. Keyword(s): Wetland technology Acid mine drainage Metals removal Author(s): Norbert Swoboda-Colberg, Patricia Colberg, and James L. Smith ABSTRACT CROP SALT TOLERANCE STUDY - PHASE II (January 1995) 155 pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523. Type of Report: Experimental Study ABSTRACT: The report under the title of Crop Salt Tolerance Study - Phase II includes two theses, their titles are: Determination of Salinity Threshold Levels for Selected Grass and Legume Forage Species, by James A. Ippolito, and Determination of Salinity Response of Two Alfalfa Cultivars, by Malik Mohammed Al- Wardi. The study includes extensive experimental data. The tolerance study submits both theses as evidence in support of its proposition. To determine the salinity tolerance of crop cultivars used for hay production and revegetation of mined lands in the intermountain West, greenhouse experiments were conducted in mixtures of salt and nutrient solutions carefully prepared for this purpose. The main purposes of these experiments were to determine if the results of experiments conducted with chloride salts can be extended to sulfate salts, since some regions in the intermountain West have irrigation waters that contain mainly sulfate salts. The results showed that for the cultivars tested, there were small differences between their chloride and sulfate salinity tolerance. This is fortunate, because the majority of the experiments found in the literature were conducted with chloride salts. The results also showed that most tested cultivars were sensitive or semi-sensitive to salinity. Therefore, waters and soils of mining areas should be tested to monitor the impact of mining activities on accumulation of salts in irrigation water and in soils. Results showed that air temperature during the growing period can affect crop tolerance to salinity. Keyword(s): Salinity tolerance Crop cultivars Chloride salts Sulfate salts Author(s): P.N Soltanpour, W.T. Franklin, Dan Mathews, M. Guiaume, M. Al-Wardi, J. A. Ippolito, L. Rodrigues, J. Self, and L. Sommers ABSTRACT DECADES LATER: A TIME FOR REASSESSMENT. 12TH ANNUAL MEETING (June 1995) Volume 1. 453pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: American Society for Surface Mining and Reclamation, 21 Grandview Drive, Princeton, WV 24740 Type of Report: Conference Proceedings ABSTRACT: The conference proceedings addressed the following issues: Reproduction and trace elements in deer mice; trace element effects on riparian plants and food webs; avians and wetlands; abandoned mine sites and wetlands; reconstructed channel stability; metal removal and toxicity reduction; mineland reclamation using office waste paper; water quality, plant growth, and coal refuse; tillage, vegetation, and phosphogypsum; ecological factors and d germination; inter-planting loblolly pine and nitrogen fixing nurse trees; soil depth and drought; crop and pasture tolerance of lime treated acid water; lime kiln dust and acid mine drainage; post surface mining agricultural land reclamation; transplanting grasslands; rotational grazing and reclaimed pastures; selenium digestion method; redox potential on selenium speciation in ground water; selenite and selenate in water; natural organic solutes on selenium; soil selenium; distribution control of selenium (geomorphic/pedologic); selenium mobility; release, retention, and amino acid interaction; selenium prediction through regression analysis; Saltbush and yellow sweet clover selenium uptake; mining, selenium, vegetation analysis, root and plant relationship, and selenium concentrations in deer mice livers; plants, animals, and selenium absorption; grazing mammals and selenium toxicity; selenium exposure and immunotoxicity; phytoremediation and selenium; reclamation and sediment control; evaluation of desert bloom plus and ion moisture film in reclamation; mine reclamation and water harvesting features; vegetation survey's; and vegetal response of irrigation. Keywords: Wetlands Forest reclamation Reclaimed minelands Environmental impacts Shrub ecology Author(s): ABSTRACT DECADES LATER: A TIME FOR REASSESSMENT. 12TH ANNUAL MEETING (June 1995) Volume II. 414pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: American Society for Surface Mining and Reclamation, 21 Grandview Drive, Princeton, WV 24740 Type of Report: Conference Proceedings ABSTRACT: The conference proceedings addressed the following issues: Eastern China and abandoned mine reclamation; revegetation experimentation; bactericide treated reclaimed mine land; deep mine back filling; earthen structures; marine environment and metal release of tailings; subaqueous closure of tailings disposal; geochemical drainage characterization; sulfate generation and flow; permafrost, geochemistry, hydrology, and metal-sulfide tailing impoundment; high altitude tailings reclamation; mine dump mineral reactions; sulfate-reducing bacteria and arsenic and chromium behavior; watershed, landform stability, and computer model assessment; observational approach to open pit mine slopes; W. Australian national parks and exploration access; W. Australian marine reserve petroleum and mineral exploration; reconstructed soil measurement; South African collieries closing problems; revegetation treatability study; geochemical engineering and acid rock drainage; plant growth and heap leach materials; digestion method and siderite; plant communities on iron tailings; lime slurry, tailings, and wet closure; revegetation of streambank tailings; hydrogeologic characterization and acid minespoil; seedling failure in Atriplex (Chenopodiaceae); genetic diversity and Atriplex; Mancos saltbush population trends; transplanting Western snowberry (Symphoricarpos occidentalis Hook.); cultural methods and Sagebrush establishment; Big Sage (Artemisia tridentata var. wyomingensis) seedling survival; municipal reclamation tree and shrub enrichment; and Sagebrush and Rubber Rabbitbrush on disturbed sites. Keyword(s): Abandoned mine reclamation Revegetation Tailings disposal Landform stability Acid rock drainage Heap leach Author(s): Various ABSTRACT DESCRIPTION OF TECHNIQUES USED TO DRILL, COMPLETE, AND DEVELOP WELLS AND TO TEST SAMPLE AQUIFERS AT A SURFACE COAL MINE IN NORTHWESTERN COLORADO (1993) 39pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY. Type of Report: Water-Resources Investigations Report (92-4067) ABSTRACT: Techniques used to obtain hydrologic information at a surface coal mine in northwestern Colorado are described in this report. Drilling, completion, and development techniques for wells in bedrock and reclaimed spoils are described. Aquifer hydraulic properties and water quality were measured for confined bedrock aquifers and unconfined reclaimed spoil aquifers. To the extent possible, techniques for testing aquifer hydraulic properties and for obtaining water-quality samples were compared. Flowing-well tests, recovery tests, slug tests, and pressure slug tests were used in the confined bedrock aquifers. The flowing-well test was used for wells that flowed sufficiently to permit easy measurement of discharge. Recovery tests were used to check results of two flowing-well tests. The slug test was used for confined bedrock aquifers where the water level in the well was above land surface but below the top of the well casing. The pressure slug test was used for confined bedrock aquifers that did not produce enough discharge to be easily measured. Pumping tests were used for the unconfined reclaimed spoil aquifers. Well water was sampled using three techniques. Samples were collected when the first water flowed or was pumped from the well, when measurements of field water-quality properties were stable, and when three casing volumes of water were removed. Sampling after three casing volumes of water were removed from the well generally was the preferred technique. Keywords: Ground water Water quality Author(s) Robert S. Williams, Jr., and Gregory M. Clark ABSTRACT DEVELOPMENT OF HIGH MOUNTAIN PLANT COMMUNITIES AS WETLAND MITIGATION SYSTEMS FOR COPPER MINE EFFLUENT (June 4, 1993) 141pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: Department of Plant, Soil and Insect Sciences; University of Wyoming Type of Report: Project End Report ABSTRACT: Wetlands can be used very effectively to prevent release of heavy metals into stream systems. Both abiotic and biotic factors act to prevent the movement of heavy metals. Soils, especially those high in organic matter and of fine particle size, chelate heavy metals and hold them in place. Plants also uptake these metals, preventing their escape. In 1991, it was discovered that many plants accumulate various heavy metals to a great degree. All of the metal-tolerant species studied also accumulated significant amounts of heavy metals in comparison to the amounts found in the water where they occur. For copper, the best accumulators were Pohlia annotina (a moss), Deschampsia cespitosa (a grass), Pohlia wahlenbergii (a moss), and Senecio fremontii (a forb). For zinc, the best accumulators were Pohlia wahlenbergii (a moss), Equisetum arvense (a horsetail) Poa interior (a grass), and Agrostis exarata (a grass). The best lead accumulators were Carex microptera (a sedge), and Poa interior (a grass). The greatest arsenic accumulation was in Pohlia wahlenbergii (a moss), Bryum lisae (a moss), Epilobium glaberrimum (a forb), and Carex scopulorum (a sedge). Cadmium was accumulated best by Pohlia wahlenbergii (a moss). All of these plants were capable of accumulating multiple metals. Keywords: Wetlands Heavy metals Plant accumulators Native plant germination Plant toxicity tests Copper release and uptake Author(s) Nancy Kastning-Culp, Larry DeBrey, and Jeffrey Lockwood ABSTRACT DIAGENESIS AND LEACHING CHARACTERISTICS OF AGED COAL CONVERSION SOLID RESIDUES FROM MINE DISPOSAL ENVIRONMENTS (June 1995) 26pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: Energy & Environmental Research Center University of North Dakota Grand Forks, ND 58202-9018 Type of Report: Mining research contract report ABSTRACT: Disposal in mine pits is the current fate of most combustion ash. Prediction of long-term impact should rely on field monitoring and performance, but lack of field data often puts too much reliance on laboratory testing to simulate performance. This study provides test results for cores extracted from several engineered disposal cells in western North Dakota dating to 1983 and containing scrubber ash and bottom ash produced by a conventional combustor. The mineral transformations and diagenesis have been spectacular and varied. Early reactions with water transformed basic reactive mineral phases in raw material to various cemetitious and hydrated phases. (Once completed and capped, the cells have minimized contact with air and water.) Significant amounts of ettringite, thaumasite, tobermorite, and some Na-Pl zeolite, sodium-calcium sulfate, calcite, and gypsum were identified. Some cores contained 70% thaumasite or tobermorite. Synthetic groundwater leaching procedure (SGLP) leachates had pH 10-11 and composition of sodium and sulfate, with little ease. Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and other important metals in the ash cores did not leach. Core tests indicated unconfirmed compressive strengths ranging from 208 to 5075 psi, permeability 1.7 E-4 to 2.1 E-6 cm/s, bulk density 70 to 100 pcf, and moisture 16% to 38%. Groundwater was not involved in the performance of these disposal cells. In addition to direct impact in current disposal cell construction, operation, and monitoring practices, these results can guide ash use in underground mine stabilization projects. Keyword(s): Mine pits Scrubber and bottom combustion ash Leaching measurements Underground stabilization Author(s) Ray D.Butler and Debra F.Pflughoeft-Hassett ABSTRACT EVALUATING RECLAMATION SUCCESS: THE ECOLOGICAL CONSIDERATION. (April 23-26, 1990) 107pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: American Society for Surface Mining and Reclamation. Type of Report: General Technical Report NE-164 ABSTRACT: Includes 10 papers from a symposium organized to review what is known about ecological principles that govern the ultimate success or failure of all reclamation efforts on drastically disturbed lands. The papers cover four general areas: soil biological properties and nutrient cycling; vegetation dynamics; animal recolonization; and landscape-scale processes. Keyword(s): Microbes Ectomycorrhiza Critical nutrients Ground cover Erosion control Seed scarification Plant densities Species diversity Faunal analysis Hydrology Remote sensing Water quality Mycorrhizae Author(s): John C. Zak, Phillip R. Fresquez, Suzanne Visser, Michael P. Allen, Carl F. Friese, John P. Palmer, James A. Young, Edith Bach Allen, Jeanne C. Chambers, James C. MacMahon, Gary L. Wade, Robert A. Parmenter, Paul T. Tueller, Howard G. Halverson, and Roy C. Slide. ABSTRACT EVALUATION OF PRIMARY PAPERMILL SLUDGE AS A SOIL AMENDMENT IN LIGNITE MINE RECLAMATION (May 1992) 120pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: Louisiana State University. Type of Report: M.S. Thesis, Agronomy ABSTRACT: A field experiment was initiated to evaluate primary papermill sludge as a soil amendment for lignite mine reclamation. Treatments consisted of primary papermill sludge (0, 11.2, 22.4, and 112 Mg/ha), fertilizer, and lime in various combinations grown on an Arent. Selected soil chemistry and plant tissue analysis were used to compare the mine soil treatments. The site was located in southern DeSoto Parish and planted to common bermudagrass (Cyanodon dactylon (L.) Pers.) on May 31, 1989. Fertilizer was necessary for successful revegetation. Although not significant, yields obtained with 22.4 Mg/ha sludge + twice the recommended rate of fertilizer (22.4+Fx2) were greater than all other treatments. Recommended fertilizer rates proved unsuccessful in obtaining critical N concentrations (2.0-2.5%). This is presumably due to low microbial populations, net immobilization, and inherently low N levels. Protein concentrations of the forage were significantly greater in treatments receiving sludge alone compared to sludge + Fx2. Concentrations of Mn were significantly greater while Al and Na were significantly less than reported optimal levels. Overall, treatments had no significant effect upon the soil chemistry parameters with the exception of %base and %Al saturation. The pH decreased with depth and time while total acidity increased. Base saturation in 22.4 Mg/ha sludge treatment was significantly less than either the recommended rate of fertilizer+lime or 11.2 Mg/ha sludge+twice the recommended rate of fertilizer, while %Al saturation was opposite. Extractable P increased indicating that immobilization, Al, Fe and inherently low N levels were declining. Exchangeable Na and Mg decreased while Ca increased significantly with time. Water extractable elements (Al, Fe, Ca, Mg, S, K and Na) responded to precipitation patterns. The DTPA-TEA extractable Zn, Fe, Cu, and Mn were greater in the 15-45 cm depths. Levels of organic C increased with initial papermill sludge application, but have leveled off. Keywords: Forage Papermill sludge Bermudagrass Groundcover Author(s): Troy A. Brady ABSTRACT FATE OF METALS IN SURFACE WATERS OF THE COEUR D'ALENE BASIN, IDAHO (1996) 73pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: Bureau of Mines. Type of Report: Report of investigations (RI 9620) ABSTRACT: The surface waters of Moon Creek and the lower Coeur d'Alene River were sampled to investigate the fate of metals from mine waste. Most metals entering Moon Creek originate from a seep discharging acidic, metal-laden ground water. A mass balance constructed from the seep area was solved using a conservative-nonconservative pair of elements (Al-Zn). Concurrent with the precipitation of Al and Fe hydroxides, transition metals are scavenged in the following order: Pb > > Cu > Mn > Zn = Cd. Goechemical modeling indicates that this scavenging is not a result of transition metal precipitation. Adsorption modeling onto Al and Fe hydroxides is consistent with observed trends. Downstream of the source metals, two tracers (Si and sulfate) were used to deconvolve the attenuation of metals into a physical dilution component and biogeochemical removal. Dilution by Pine Creek and North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River was the primary factor governing decreases in metal concentrations in the Coeur d'Alene River. The increases in pH and suspended matter concentrations also enhanced Zn adsorption. Keyword(s): Metals Seep area Mine waste Author(s): Anthony J. Paulson ABSTRACT GEOCHEMICAL PROCESSES AND THE EFFECTS OF NATURAL ORGANIC SOLUTES ON THE SOLUBILITY OF SELENIUM IN COAL-MINE BACKFILL SAMPLES FROM THE POWDER RIVER BASIN, WYOMING (1995) 53pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: U.S. Geological Survey in cooperation with the Wyoming Water Resources Center and the University of Wyoming, Cheyenne, Wyoming. Type of Report: Final report ABSTRACT: This report describes geochemical processes affecting the solubility of selenium and the effects natural organic solutes have on the solubility of selenium in surface coal-mine backfill aquifers. Three field sites selected for this study were located in reclaimed areas at two large surface coal mines in the Powder River Basin, Wyoming. These sites were selected on the basis of the known presence of selenium in ground water. Two backfill cores were collected from within an approximately 5-meter of each existing well site. X-ray diffraction analyses indicated that ll samples contained quartz, daolinite, potassium feldspar, illite, and muscovite. Water samples collected from each well were analyzed for concentrations of cations and anions. Selenium concentrations ranged from 3 to 125 micrograms per liter. Hydrogeologic monitoring is conducted on a regular basis at both mines. A general decline in selenium concentrations and concurrent increase in water levels has been observed at all sites. Precipitation/dissolution studies were conducted to predict the solid phases controlling dissolved selenium concentrations and to evaluate the effect of dissolved organic carbon on selenium solubility in backfill-core samples. Keywords: X-ray diffraction Geochemical processes and selenium solubility Backfill cores Hydrogeologic monitoring Natural organic solutes Author(s) Randolph B. See, Katta J. Reddy, George F. , Amr A. Fadlelmawla, and Michael J. Blaylock ABSTRACT GEOCHEMICAL PROCESSES IN GROUND WATER RESULTING FROM SURFACE MINING OF COAL AT THE BIG SKY AND WEST DECKER MINE AREAS, SOUTHEASTERN MONTANA (September 1995) 80pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: U.S. Geological Survey. Type of Report: Water-Resources Investigations Report (95-4097). ABSTRACT: A potential hydrologic effect of surface mining of coal in southeastern Montana is a change in the quality of ground water. Dissolved-solids concentrations in water in spoils aquifers generally are larger than concentrations in the coal aquifers they replaced; however, laboratory experiments have indicated that concentrations might decrease if ground water flows from a spoils aquifer to a coal aquifer. This study was conducted to determine if the decreases indicated in laboratory results occur onsite and, if so, which geochemical processes caused the decreases. Solid-phase core samples of spoils, unmined overburden, and coal and samples of ground water were collected from 16 observation wells at the two mine areas. Selected solid-phase samples were analyzed for elemental concentrations, exchangeable cations, and mineral constituents. Water samples were analyzed for major and trace constituents, selected isotopes, and dissolved gases. Data for solid-phase and aqueous geochemical characteristics, including types of reactive minerals, isotopic ratios, and dissolved-gas concentrations, were used to develop geochemical models to analyze changes in water chemistry. Even though these processes are thought to be those most likely occurring, they are considered nonunique and might not be the only feasible processes. Questions about the sulfate system, the rate of sulfate reduction, the isotopic composition of the coal, the existence of secondary carbonates and amorphous iron-sulfide minerals in the coal, and other questions need to be resolved before the geochemical processes occurring in the system are fully understood. Keywords: Sulfate-reduction Solid-phase analysis Water quality Author(s) David W. Clark ABSTRACT A GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM DATA BASE FOR COAL AND WATER RESOURCES OF THE POWDER RIVER COAL REGION, SOUTHEASTERN MONTANA. (December 1990) 83pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: U.S. Geological Survey, 428 Federal Building, 301 South Park, Drawer 10076 Helena, MT 59626-0076 Type of Report: U.S. Geological Survey, Open-File Report 90-568. ABSTRACT: A computerized data base was developed, using Geographic Information System technology, for the coal and water resources of the Powder River coal region of southeastern Montana--an area with coal reserves of about 39.7 billion tons and 1989 coal production of 37.5 million tons. This report describes the data base and documents and its layers. The data base was developed to assist agencies having responsibilities relating to coal evaluation, leasing, and management to more efficiently access, display, and analyze spatial data. The data base currently contains the following 23 data themes or layers: abandoned mines, aquifers, alluvial valley floors, boundaries, climate, coal reserves and chemistry, coal stratigraphy, drainage basins, flood plains, geographic names, geology, hydrology, land survey, land and land use cover, permit sites, railroads, roads, saturated paste, streamflow, templates, utilities, water quality, and wells. Each layer contains documentation consisting of an index map showing the geographic extent of coverages in the layer, coverage documentation, source-map information (where data were digitized from maps), and attribute information for the listed coverages. Keyword(s): Data base Spatial information GIS Author(s): M.R. Cannon ABSTRACT GEOMORPHIC EVALUATION OF EROSIONAL STABILITY AT RECLAIMED SURFACE MINES IN NORTHWESTERN COLORADO (1990) 67pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: U.S. Geological Survey Type of Report: Water-Resources Investigations Report (90-4132) ABSTRACT: Rill erosion and gully erosion of hillslopes and valley floors were studied at the Trapper, Hayden Gulch, Grassy Gap, Seneca II, CYCC, and Edna Mines in Moffat and Routt Counties. Data were collected from reclaimed and nearby unmined areas. Reclaimed and unmined hillslopes were similar geographically; however, reclaimed hillslopes had greater topsoil bulk densities, lower topsoil- infiltration rates, less woody vegetation, and a greater occurrence of rill erosion. Total-rill density was positively correlated with the product of hillslope length and hillslope gradient and inversely correlated with age since reclamation. Gullies on some reclaimed hillslopes developed on steep or convex hillslope segments and below subtle topographic depressions that may have functioned as moisture-collection areas. Valleys in reclaimed drainage basins were re-created by spoil-material handling and lacked resistant geologic controls. Reclaimed valleys often were narrow or v-shaped in cross section. Most stable reclaimed valley floors could be distinguished from unstable reclaimed valley floors on the basis of three geomorphic variables; drainage area, valley gradient, and valley-floor width. The relation between valley-floor width and area-gradient index and the clustering of data from stable and unstable valley-floor reaches defined the valley-erosion threshold. Valley-erosion indices that quantified the relative stability or instability of reclaimed valley-floor reaches were calculated with reach-specific geomorphic data and the coefficient and exponents of the valley-erosion threshold. Empirically derived geomorphic relations may be useful as planning tools. Keywords: Erosion stability Rill gully Infiltration rates Woody vegetation Author(s) John G. Elliott ABSTRACT GROUNDWATER DATA FROM THE SILVER CRESCENT MILLSITE, EAST FORK OF MOON CREEK, IDAHO (1996) 64pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: United States Department of Energy - Spokane Research Center Type of Report: Report of Investigations (RI9628) ABSTRACT: Ground water in the area upland of a seep discharging metals into the surface waters of the entire Moon Creek watershed was investigated through the installation of 13 monitoring wells. The water level was measured and a groundwater sample was collected from each well during 15 sampling events over a 2-year period (October 1993 through August 1995). The field parameters and results of chemical analyses of the groundwater samples are reported after a rigorous quality assurance-quality control examination of the data. The groundwater data indicate that a plume of acidic, metal-laden ground water is flowing underneath the flotation mill at the Silver Crescent millsite rather than being generated within the study area. Property-plots suggest that mixing between the contaminated plume and ground water is the dominant process affecting metal transport. Only on the fringes of the plume, where neutralization begins to take place, are metals removed from solution. Keywords: Well construction methods Sampling methods Chemical analysis Contaminated groundwater Author(s): Anthony J. Paulson and Jami Girard ABSTRACT GROUNDWATER MOVEMENT AND CHEMICAL EVOLUTION FROM THE ROOT ZONE TO THE WATER TABLE (May 1995). 420 pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: Energy & Environment Research Center University of North Dakota Grand Forks, ND 58202-9018 Type of Report: Mining research contract report. ABSTRACT: The assessment of environmental risks associated with surface mining and reclamation requires detailed site-specific information to allow for logical planning in a broad context of complex environmental and socioeconomic relations. This final report contains detailed characteristics of key hydro and geochemical processes participating in pore and groundwater evolution at three sites in North Dakota and innovative interpretation of large sets of field and laboratory data. Interpretation of over 3700 soil extracts analyses, geochemical modeling, and statistical analysis used in the study proved fast, accurate, reasonable, and effective tools in geochemical characterization of sites at Fritz, Indian Head, and Velva mines. The presence of acid-generating materials and their impact on pore and groundwater evolution have been documented at the Fritz site. The prediction of the most probable extent of the oxidation zone is based on the field data and geochemical modeling. This information should become the essential requirements in both the decisions on environmentally sound reclamation and those made before and during mining operations. Understanding that reclamation is an inseparable part of the mining activities will result in programmatic planning and substantial economic benefit for all participants in the mining process. Keywords: Groundwater Geochemical characterization Geochemical modeling Statistical analysis Acid-oxidation Author(s):J. Solc ABSTRACT HANDBOOK OF WESTERN RECLAMATION TECHNIQUES (Dec 1996) Performing Organization Name and Address: Abandoned Coal Mine Lands Research Program University of Wyoming Laramie, WY Type of Report: Final Report - Handbook ABSTRACT: Handbook reviews: 1) topsoil reclamation methods; 2) hydrological techniques; 3) topographic relief for ecological diversity; 4) wildlife resource management during mining operations; 5) vegetation monitoring; 6) postmining land use; 7) drilling regulations and planning. Reclamation science has responded to legal requirements, the reconstruction of endangered habitats, revitalization of damaged environmental systems, and attempts to minimize human impact. Keywords: Isometric drawings of steel structures. Topsoil management Hydrology: structures, reconstruction techniques, and soil erosion control Topography: hillslope shaping, and backfill grading Wildlife: fencing, powerlines, traffic hazards, and raptors, Vegetation: revegetation, seeding, husbandry, and recording methods Postmining: grazing, and wildlife Drilling: pre and post-drilling requirements Author(s): Frank K. Ferris; Larry H. Kleinman; D.G. Steward; Robert R. Stowe; Laurel E. Vicklund; John D. Berry; Robert Cowan; Claire Gabriel Dunne; Richard Dunne; Doyl M. Fritz; Roy L. Garrison; Robert K. Green; Marlys M. Hansen; C. Marty Jones; Greg E. Jones; Christopher D. Lidstone; Marilee G. O=Rourke; Bonnie C. Postovit; Howard R. Postovit; R.S. Shinn; Partick T. Tyrrell; Richard C. Warner; Kenneth L. Wrede. ABSTRACT IDENTIFYING SUBSIDENCE HAZARDS USING A UNIQUE HIGH-RESOLUTION EM SYSTEM AND NEURAL NETWORK INTERPRETATION (June 1995) 88pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: Laboratory for Add Subsurface Imaging, Dept. of Mining & Geological Engineering, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721 Type of Report: Final Report ABSTRACT: A high-frequency, high-resolution electromagnetic (EM) imaging system has been developed for shallow geophysics surveys. Some key features of this system include: (1) rapid surveying to allow dense spatial sampling over a large area, (2) high-accuracy measurements which are used to produce a high-resolution image of the subsurface, (3) measurements which have excellent signal-to-noise ratio over a wide bandwidth (1 kHz to 1 MHZ), (4) rapid neural network interpretation at the field site, and (5) visualization of earth models during the survey. The EM system has been used to survey an area over the abandoned Union Pacific #9 coal mine near Rock Springs, Wyoming. A portion of the mine is subsiding due to a fire in the coal seam. The locations of subsidence-prone zones were successfully mapped by the system. Keywords: Geophysics High-resolution subsurface electromagnetic imaging system Neural network interpretation Data visualization software Author(s) Mary M. Poulton and Ben K. Sternberg ABSTRACT INFLUENCE OF FLY ASH ADDITIONS ON ACID MINE DRAINAGE PRODUCTION FROM COARSE COAL REFUSE (March 1996) 205pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Type of Report: Ph.D. Dissertation ABSTRACT: The exclusion of coal fly ash from regulation as a hazardous waste has led to increased interest in returning ash to the coalfields for disposal. Bulk-blending alkaline fly ash with acid forming coal refuse may present a disposal option that aids in the control of acid mine drainage. A preliminary column leaching study examined the leachate quality from acid-forming coal refuse: fly ash blends. Coal refuse (2.2% total-S), and two refuse: fly ash blends (20% and 33% ash w/w) were packed into leaching columns and leached under unsaturated conditions for over four years. The coal refuse columns acidified quickly, producing peak leachate levels of acidity (pH 1.7), Fe (10,000 mg 1-1), SO4-2 (30,000 mg1-1), and Mn (300 mg 1-1). Both ash blended treatments provided alkaline leachate with low metal levels. A second column study used a refuse with higher potential acidity (4% total-S), and two alkaline ash sources; one blended at two rates (20% and 33%) and one at four rates (5%, 10%, 20%, and 33%). Bulk-blended ground agricultural limestone, rock phosphate ore, and topsoil treatments were also studied. The unamended refuse treatment acidified rapidly and produced acidic (pH 1.7) leachates with high peak dissolved metal levels (>15,000 mg 1-1 Fe; 200 mg 1-1 Mn). Treatments blended with 33% ash produced alkaline (pH >8.4) leachates with low metal levels (Al<1.0 mg 1-1; Cu-0.10 mg 1-1; Fe<2.0 mg 1-1; Mn<3.0 mg 1-1). Treatments containing less ash eventually acidified and ash bound metals (Mn and Cu) were stripped from the ash and eluted in quantities proportionate to the amount of ash in the blend. A field experiment with water sampling lysimeters examined bulk-blended refuse (0.8% S) with two acidic and one alkaline ash. The ash treatments did not produce consistent negative impacts on leachate water quality, and produced positive effects on plant biomass production compared to unamended controls. Overall, the inhibition of pyrite oxidation by high ash blends was attributed to alkalinity effects, chemisorption, decreased hydraulic conductivity, and decreased oxygen diffusion to pyritic surfaces. Ash alkalinity and refuse potential acidity must be balanced for environmental safety in this co-disposal environment. Keywords: Coal refuse Leachates Water quality Plant growth Author(s) Barry Robert Stewart ABSTRACT INTERNATIONAL LAND RECLAMATION AND MINE DRAINAGE CONFERENCE AND THIRD INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON THE ABATEMENT OF ACID DRAINAGE. MINE DRAINAGE. VOLUME 1 OF 4. (APRIL 24-29, 1994) 439 pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: American Society for Surface Mining and Reclamation and the Canadian Land Reclamation Association. Type of Report: Proceedings. ABSTRACT: The proceedings covered the following topics: MODELING MINE WATER QUALITY: assessing the risk of acid rock drainage; predicting the chemistry of water; assessment of contaminant load changes; mathematical simulation. WATER TREATMENT WITH WETLANDS: acidic mine drainage treatment evaluation; metal removal; manganese and iron removal by green algae-microbial. PREDICTING MINE WATER QUALITY: early weathering behavior of pyritic coal spoil; predicting the quality of drainage; chemical predictive modeling; acid forming mine wastes in Australia & Southeast Asia. WATER TREATMENT - CHEMICAL: anoxic limestone; alkalinity-producing systems; biosulfide process; metal recovery/recycle. CONTROL OF AMD - WET COVERS: the laboratory quality assurance component of environmental monitoring; subaqueous disposal of mine waste; geochemistry of submerged tailings. SITE CHARACTERIZATION MONITORING: sediment quality assessment; methodology for locating and quantifying acid mine drainage in ground waters entering surface waters; high-frequency geochemical monitoring; internal hydrogeologic monitoring. CONTROL OF AMD - ALKALINE ADDITION: alkaline overburden addition to acid-producing materials to prevent acid mine drainage; coal refuse disposal using engineering design and lime chemistry; concentrated alkaline recharge pools for acid seep abatement. MINE WATER GEOCHEMISTRY: oxidation rates and pollution loads in drainage; monitoring gaseous and liquid flux in sulfide waste rock; acid-neutralization reactions in inactive mine tailings impoundments and their effect on the transport of dissolved metals. Keyword(s): Acid mine drainage Water quality modeling Wetlands Chemical treatment Geochemistry Author(s): Various ABSTRACT INTERNATIONAL LAND RECLAMATION AND MINE DRAINAGE CONFERENCE AND THIRD INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON THE ABATEMENT OF ACIDIC DRAINAGE. MINE DRAINAGE. VOLUME 2 OF 4. (APRIL 24-29, 1994) 433pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: American Society for Surface Mining and Reclamation and the Canadian Land Reclamation Association. Type of Report: Proceedings. ABSTRACT: The proceedings covered the following major topics: MINE DRAINAGE: assessing acid rock drainage; regulatory controlled design; decommissioning of tailings and waste rock areas at Stekenjokk, Sweden; acid prevention techniques. CONTROL OF MINE DRAINAGE: long term behavior of acid forming rock; methods of forming hardpan in pyrrhotite tailings and prevention of acid mine drainage; decommissioning techniques for uranium mining sites in eastern Germany; prevention of acid rock drainage; the porous envelope effect; potential microencapsulation of pyrite by artificial inducement of FePO4 coatings. CONTROL OF ACID MINE DRAINAGE: shotcrete cover for acid generating waste rock piles; evaluation of soil cover to control acid waste rock pile drainage; controlling acid mine drainage using an organic cover (Quebec); field and laboratory performance of engineered covers on tailings; composite organic wastes as anaerobic reducing covers for long term abandonment of acid-generating tailing. MINE HYDROLOGY: compaction behavior of lightly cemented sandstone as a result of dewatering; assessment of acid mine drainage remediation schemes on ground water flow regimes at a reclaimed mine site; hydrologic and water quality characteristics of a partially-flooded, abandoned underground coal mine; hydrology and hydrogeochemistry of the Star Fire Site, eastern Kentucky; hydrogeologic evaluation and water balance of a thickened tailings deposit (Canada); the pore-water geochemistry of the Cu-Zn mine tailings (Canada). Keyword(s): Acid mine drainage Hydrology Author(s): Various. ABSTRACT INTERNATIONAL LAND RECLAMATION AND MINE DRAINAGE CONFERENCE AND THIRD INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON THE ABATEMENT OF ACIDIC DRAINAGE. VOLUME 4 OF 4. ABANDONED MINE LANDS AND TOPICAL ISSUES. (April 24-29, 1994) 422pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: American Society for Surface Mining and Reclamation and the Canadian Land Reclamation Association. Type of Report: Proceedings. ABSTRACT: Proceeding topics are: SUBSIDENCE - RECLAMATION, CHARACTERIZATION:investigating a subsidence event in Ohio; Shawnee National Forest; resolving abandoned mine conditions; remote sensing using downhole radio imaging; concrete placement support device for abandoned mines; grout column support evaluation. SUBSIDENCE - STRUCTURAL RESPONSE:mining-induced surface damage and countermeasures; retaining walls on subsidence areas; mine buildings serviceability criteria - eurocodes adjustment; reinforcement of residential masonry foundations; Washington West apartments subsidence event; highways & railroads damage prevention; solid waste disposal facilities & mine subsidence. ABANDONED MINE LAND STUDIES:a laboratory study of containment barriers & fire fighting foams in coal waste bank fires; cryogenic slurry in extinguishing waste bank fires; mine fire diagnostics; temperature-induced changes in magnetic susceptibility in coal seam strata; physical properties of landslides; reclamation of abandoned underground mines in the U.K. MINE HYDROLOGY - TOPICAL ISSUES:approaches to determine the potential influence of longwall mining on ground water resources; evaluating domestic & farm ground water supplies under mining conditions; application of an analytical ground water flow model to a pseudokarst setting in a surface coal mine spoil; metal & nonmetal ion migration through an active phospogypsum stack. MINE WASTE - TOPICAL ISSUES:remote techniques applied to mining-related environmental & engineering problems; acid mine drainage abatement using fluidized bed combustion ash grout; effects on water quality of coal combustion residues; metal adsorption capacity of soils by land application; aerial and aqueous dispersion of inorganic contaminants; assessment of an inactive cyanide heap leach stack. POLICY ISSUES:BLM acid rock drainage policy and evolution in environmental protection; the environmental management programme route to integrated environmental management: A South African mining industry perspective; Canadian legislation decommissioning acid mine drainage sites; ARD policy for mine sites in British Columbia; vegetation productivity equation compatibility with selected state environmental reclamation laws and regulations. Keyword(s): Subsidence, abandoned mines, hydrology, mine waste, policy Author(s): various ABSTRACT LONG-TERM STABILITY OF DESIGNED EPHEMERAL CHANNELS AT RECLAIMED COAL MINES, WYOMING (May 25, 1993) 46pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: Western Water Consultants, Inc. 611 Skyline Road, Laramie, Wyoming 82070. Type of Report: Final Technical Report. ABSTRACT: Evaluating the long-term performance and success of channel reclamation is a great challenge because major channel adjustments typically occur in response to large, infrequent flood events. A risk-based channel stability analysis is presented to facilitate regulatory decisions and engineering design by statistically comparing reclaimed channel designs with natural analog areas. An inventory of reclaimed information was compiled for AML coal sites in Wyoming. Natural data for 17 basins adjacent to the Rainbow and Colony mines in south central Wyoming were collected in the field. Natural, undisturbed drainage basins adjacent to the mined areas are considered stable. Three channel design elements (channel slope, flow velocity, channel flow area) comprise separate long-term stability tests. One-tailed confidence intervals calculated about the mean predicted channel slope, flow velocity, and flow area from the natural data indicate that 18 out of 20 reclaimed channels at the Rainbow and Colony mines are stable at a risk level or alpha=0.1. Alpha is the risk associated with accepting a channel design that does not meet the stability test criteria. A more stringent stability test, alpha=0.01, indicates that 16 out of the 20 reclaimed channels are stable. Those channels that do not satisfy the stability test either have steeper channel slopes or smaller flow areas than the mean from adjacent natural channels, aspects that enhance erosion potential. User flexibility in choosing an acceptable alpha, and any combination of the three tests, allows modifications to suit the application. If channel reclamation truly intends to replicate a natural drainage system, then reclaimed channel designs should be judged based on geomorphic characteristics and relations established from natural areas. Keyword(s): Channel stability Erosion Author(s): S.L. Rathburn, P.A. Rechard, T. Hanlin and D.R. Jensen. ABSTRACT MINING--GATEWAY TO THE FUTURE. (May 17-21, 1998) 777pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: American Society for Surface Mining and Reclamation, 21 Grandview Drive, Princeton, WV 24740 Type of Report: Proceedings. ABSTRACT: The proceedings covered the following major topics: MINERALS EDUCATION: mining education; taking mineral education to the mine. HYDROLOGY CHARACTERIZATION AND MONITORING: water quality analysis; optimizing surface and groundwater programs; underground hydrologic tracers in abandoned coal mines. TAILINGS RECLAMATION: native plant restoration; vegetation establishment on reclaimed coal slurry; plant selection for dewatering and reclaiming of tailings. REFORESTATION: topsoil, ripping, and herbicide influence; successful tree planting techniques for disturbed land; forested wetland restoration. MINE DRAINAGE-BIOGEOCHEMICAL PROCESSES: microbial role; removal of manganese; 1200 GPM passive bioreactor for metal drainage. MINE DRAINAGE TREATMENT: construction techniques; purification and treatment in China; dense sludge process. MINE DRAINAGE PREDICATION AND MONITORING: hydrologic conditions; geophysical investigations; phycomicrobial ecology; tailings water quality. ACID SOILS RECLAMATION PRACTICES: pH control; reclamation with alkaline biosolids; waste rock geochemistry; ecological restoration program. WILDLIFE AND FISHERIES HABITAT: freshwater shrimp stocking density; bird communities comparison; wild ungulate use. SUBSIDENCE ENGINEERING PRACTICES AND ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS: environmental damage in China; global positioning technology. OSM ACID FORMING MATERIALS MINI WORKSHOPS. RUSLE-EROSION PREDICTION TECHNIQUES. IDNR WETLANDS TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER PROGRAM. MINE PLANNING AND POSTMINING LAND USE: total resource management; virtual modeling; remining to reclaim. VEGETATION ESTABLISHMENT-PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES: working with nature (Wales); species diversity; reclamation research (Canada); stabilizing shorelines. VEGETATION ESTABLISHMENT-WARM SEASON GRASSES. COAL COMBUSTION BY PRODUCTS. COAL COMBUSTION BY-PRODUCTS-MINE DRAINAGE TREATMENT: injection techniques; passive treatments; metal release; vegetation establishment. PRIME FARMLAND RECLAMATION AND MINE SOILS MANAGEMENT: soil based productivity evaluation; land use; future techniques. Keyword(s): Minerals education Hydrology Reforestation Mine drainage Wildlife and fisheries Author(s): Various ABSTRACT MINING AND RECLAMATION CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION, 1990. VOLUME I (APRIL 23-26, 1990) 307pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: American Society for Surface Mining and Reclamation, 21 Grandview Drive, Princeton, WV 24740. Type of Report: Proceedings. ABSTRACT: Proceeding topics covered: ACID MINE DRAINAGE: long-term leaching of mine spoil; successful reclamation using bactericides; phosphate refuse as potential AMD ameliorant; prediction and control; neutralization and stabilization of combined refuse using lime kiln dust; aspects of SSPE/PSM modeling; coal refuse reclamation: growth and maintenance of vegetation; mine drainage bioremediation. EVALUATING RECLAMATION SUCCESS: ECOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS: minesoil morphology; nutrient cycling; soil microbial processes and dynamics; Mycorrhizal Fungi in reclaiming a landscape; seed and seedbed ecology; landscape ecology and reclamation success; cumulative effects of mining on hydrology, water quality, and vegetation; ecological importance of post-reclamation land uses. MINESOIL PRODUCTIVITY AND POSTMINING LAND USES: slope stability on reclaimed surface mines; principles of microbial ecology and reclamation; forage production; organic matter dynamics on reclaimed coal mines; evaluation of minesoil quality (Canada); managing restored prime farmland for corn production. RECLAMATION FOR IMPROVED LAND USE IN APPALACHIA: reclamation for wood production; sewage sludge/compost utilization; ground water in mine spoil; mining economics and land use. RECLAMATION POLICY AND REGULATORY ISSUES: determining plant productivity for bond release; mineral resources policies; reclamation practice, perceptions and policy (Australia). MINING, RECLAMATION AND THE MEDIA; OVERBURDEN ANALYSIS: evaluation of acid base accounting data; effectiveness of the addition of alkaline materials and preventing and abating acid mine drainage; interpreting & modifying Neutralization Potential measurements; delineation of potential manganese sources in coal overburdens of Western Pennsylvania; effects of oxygen on pyrite oxidation; acid-base accounting for highway construction. FORESTRY: establishing productive forest land; reforestation reclamation treatments and nitrogen dynamics; factors limiting tree growth; successful oak establishment; white pine establishment study; land reclamation practices to improve tree conditions (Canada). Keyword(s): Acid mine drainage Ecology Overburden Forestry Editors: Jeff Skousen, John Sencindiver, and Dave Samuel ABSTRACT MINING AND RECLAMATION CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION, 1990. VOLUME II (APRIL 23-26, 1990) 290pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: American Society for Surface Mining and Reclamation, 21 Grandview Drive, Princeton, WV 24740. Type of Report: Proceedings. ABSTRACT: The proceedings covered the following topics: RESTORATION OF FORESTED WETLANDS: development and summary of MiST: a classification system. WETLANDS - GENERAL: forested wetland reclamation; geologic history of a wetland and wetland construction on mine lands; volunteer Cattail wetlands on drainage quality; removal of iron and manganese from acid mine drainage; mine drainage treatment and biological sulfate reduction; diversity patterns of invertebrate fauna; wildlife use of mitigated wetlands. WETLANDS - U.S. BUREAU OF MINES: sizing and performance; design and treatment effectiveness; bacterial sulfate reduction; metal removal efficiencies; organic matter additions for the neutralization of acid mine drainage. REVEGETATION - GENERAL: soil sterilant contaminated soils; comparisons of different mulches, lime and fertilizer applications; establishment of native plant species; recolonization of Vesicular-Arbuscular Mycorrhizae; the importance of VAM Fungi; retardation of pyrite oxidation. ABANDONED MINE LAND - GENERAL: experiments to detect mine cavities; highwall stability analysis; using a magnetometer for investigating underground coal mine fires, burning coal, refuse banks, and for locating AMD source areas on surface mines; locating and abating sources of acid mine drainage; distribution and characteristics of outcrop fires in horizontal strata; fire diagnostic simulation for burning coal waste banks; relative self-heating tendencies of coal, carbonaceous shales and coal refuse. REVEGETATION - AML: tree species composition, canopy coverage, and importance; revegetation of abandoned mine lands with containerized seedlings and soil amendments; an evaluation of lime requirements tests on pyritic minesoils; survival and growth of Bigtooth Aspen on acidic surface-mine soils as influenced by Pisolithus tinctorius and nitrogen and phosphorus fertilization; municipal sludge on abandoned mine land; stimulation of Aspen establishment. Keyword(s): Forest wetlands Revegetation abandoned mines Author(s): Various ABSTRACT PASSIVE TREATMENT OF COAL MINE DRAINAGE (1994) Performing Organization Name and Address: US Bureau of Mines Pittsburgh Research Center Pittsburgh PA Type of Report: Information Circular/1994 (IC 9389) ABSTRACT: Passive methods of treating mine water use chemical and biological processes that decrease metal concentrations and neutralize acidity. Compared with conventional chemical treatment, passive methods generally require more land area, but use less costly reagents and require less operational attention and maintenance. Currently, three types of passive technologies exist: aerobic wetlands, organic substrate wetlands, and anoxic limestone drains. Aerobic wetlands promote mixed oxidation and hydrolysis reactions, and are most effective when the raw mine water is net alkaline. Organic substrate wetlands promote anaerobic bacterial activity that results in the precipitation of metal sulfides and the generation of bicarbonate alkalinity. Anoxic limestone drains generate bicarbonate alkalinity and can be useful for the pretreatment of mine water before it flows into wetland. Rates of metal and acidity removal for passive systems have been developed empirically by the U.S. Bureau of Mines. Aerobic wetlands remove Fe and Mn from alkaline water at rates of 10-20 and 0.5-1.0g.m-2.d-1, respectively. Wetlands with a composted organic substrate remove acidity from mine water at rates of 3-9gm-2.d-1. A model for the design and sizing of passive treatment systems is presented in this report. Keywords Mine drainage Retention time Contaminant removal Aerobic wetlands Organic substrate wetlands Anoxic limestone drains Author (s): Robert S. Hedin, Robert W. Nairin, and Robert L.P. Kleinmann ABSTRACT PNEUMATIC BACKFILLING DEMONSTRATION (October 1995) 22 pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: Burnett Associates, Inc. 816 North Traver Trail Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 Type of Report: Final contract report (1432 J0349028) ABSTRACT: Two pneumatic stowing devices developed under U.S. Bureau of Mines AML program contracts were demonstrated in West Virginia to private contractors and state and federal government representatives. The purpose of the demonstration was to demonstrate the improved systems and encourage those who specify backfilling to make use of the new technology. A mine portal was filled for a distance of 70 ft and sealed and an underground void was pneumatically stowed through a borehole. The mine portal was pneumatically backfilled using the Burnett Pneumatic Pipefeeder with ASHTO number 57 limestone. The portal was packed solidly to the roof. The water flow rate of approximately 5 gal/min, draining from the mine, remained unchanged and has gone from a pH of 2.8 before the mine was sealed to a pH of 7.0 in the 7 months since the portal was sealed. An underground void was pneumatically stowed through an 8-in-diam borehole using the Burnett High Efficiency Ejector. The process stowed 30 st of ASHTO number 67 limestone in less than two hours into a void that is 42-in-high by 15-ft-wide. The stowing process was monitored by a video borehole camera provided and operated by the Office of Surface Mining personnel. Keyword(s): Abandoned mines Mine sealing High efficiency ejector Pneumatic backfilling Pneumatic stowing device Author(s): Mackenzie Burnett ABSTRACT PROCEEDINGS OF THE 1992 NATIONAL SYMPOSIUM ON PRIME FARMLAND RECLAMATION (August 1992) 284pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: Department of Agronomy, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801 Type of Report: Symposium proceedings ABSTRACT: The National Symposium proceedings held in St Louis, Missouri addressed the following issues: Corn Grain Production; Rowcrop responses to traffic and equipment impact; Reclamation of alluvial soils; Soil strength; Effects of deep tillage on roots; Computer tracking of revegetation; Air injection to prevent soil recompaction; Phosophorous availability; Lime-Stabilization fly ash scrubber sludge in surface mine reclamation; Growth of legumes and grasses and fly ash scrubber sludge; Nitrogen, Phosophorous and Potassium effects on yield and leaf composition; Iowa farmland row crop production; Coal mine subsidence effects on soil, crop yields, and soil macroporosity; Near-surface fracturing and hydrogeological effects; Agricultural lands productivity formula; Cropland and Hayland productivity restoration; Evaluatory procedures for prime farmland; Assessment of reclaimed surface mined land; Development of prime farmland in cast overburden; Restoration strategies of farmland in coastal plains of Eastern USA; Root restriction prediction in mine spoil; Natural reformation of mined land; Prime farmland soil productivity index; Placement method response and remedial measures in reconstructed farmland; Soil-based mine reclamation productivity index; Mapping and classification of minesoils; Evaluation of grain crops; Ecological succession; Vegetation productivity equations; Small grain evaluation on mine soils; and Corn hybrids for reclaimed surface mine soils in Kentucky and Illinois. Keywords: Prime farmland reclamation Computer tracking Air injection of organic material Ecology Corn hybrids Author(s): Edited by: Robert E. Dunker, Richard I. Barnhisel, and Robert G. Darmody ABSTRACT RECLAMATION OF MINE SOIL USING BLEACHED, PRIMARY PAPERMILL SLUDGE-GREENHOUSE STUDY (August 1990) 160pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College Type of Report: M.S. Thesis, Agronomy. ABSTRACT: A greenhouse study was conducted to determine the effects of papermill sludge on the establishment, yield and elemental concentrations of subterranean clover and bermudagrass grown on mine soil treated with fertilizer, sludge (56, 112 and 224 Mg/ha), lime, or fertilizer with each sludge rate. These were planted to clover from November 1987 - April 1988, and then to bermudagrass through September 1988. Fertilizer was found necessary to revegetate mine soil with clover and bermudagrass. Sludge significantly (a=5%) increased yields in the second harvest of clover and in the last two harvests of bermudagrass with maximum yield at 112 Mg/ha of sludge. Biological N2-fixation and native N did not raise N concentration in clover within the critical values. Fertilizer improved N uptake, presumably due to better vegetative growth. Nitrogen concentrations in bermudagrass remained below the normal levels (2.0-2.5%) in all treatments. Dry matter yields of clover and P within the critical levels (0.1-0.2%) in most cases while those of bermudagrass were mostly below the critical levels, even though no visual deficiency symptoms were observed. Excessive accumulations of K, Ca, Mg, S. Fe, Cu, Zn, Al and Na were observed in non-fertilized subclover. Bermudagrass was observed to be predominantly high in Mg, Zn, Mn and Cu and low in K and S. Fertilizer (N, P and K) application was needed to build-up the nutrient status of the soil and to produce high-yield vegetation. Soil pH and CEC were favorably affected by sludge application. Soil pH changed from 5.5 (starting mine soil) to 7.0 in the fertilized soil and to 7.6 in the non-fertilized soil with increasing amounts of sludge up to 224 Mg/ha. The CEC went up from 2.78 to 4.97 and 3.94 in the fertilized and non-fertilized soil, respectively. Microbiological assay did not show any significant trends in relation to the treatments. Keywords: Groundcover Papermill sludge Revegetation Clover and bermudagrass Author(s) Marilou S. Del Rosario ABSTRACT RE-EVALUATION OF SELENIUM TOXICITY IN GRAZING MAMMALS (June 1995) 6pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: Abandoned Coal Mine Lands Research Program Type of Report: Final Report Update ABSTRACT: The potential uptake and concentration of selenium by vegetation grown on abandoned coal mine lands has been the focus of many restrictions governing the reclamation of such sites. While there is little question that selenium is very toxic, recent research suggests that much of what has been anecdotally attributed to selenium in the past, is, in fact, due to other environmental factors. This presentation will summarize research undertaken by the authors during the last 6 years to more clearly define the effects of selenosis on herbivores in Wyoming. Keyword(s): Selenosis Poisoning Antelope Cattle Author(s): M.F. Raisbeck, D. O'Toole, D.A. Sanchez, R.L. Simieon, and J.W. Waggoner. ABSTRACT RELATION OF COMPACTION AND SOIL PHYSICAL PARAMETERS TO PRODUCTIVITY OF RECLAIMED SOILS (January 31, 1993) 136pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: North Dakota State University Land Reclamation Research Center; P. O. Box 459; Mandan, ND 58554-0459 Type of Report: Final Report ABSTRACT: Compaction by heavy equipment during reclamation of surface-mined lands may affect soil physical parameters as bulk densities increase; porosity and pore sizes decrease. Water infiltration and permeability may decrease and rooting depth may be restricted. The objectives of this research were to determine the effects with time that various topsoil and subsoil tillage treatments (including chiseling, grader ripping and deep ripping) had on physical properties and yields, to determine the effects of prior cropping history on physical properties and small grain yield, and to determine long-term changes in physical properties on reclaimed mineland in North Dakota. Parameters measured included bulk density, soil strength, and yields of various forages and spring wheat. Results indicated that subsoil tillage treatments applied prior to topsoil respreading with scrapers were not effective in reducing bulk densities because the subsoil materials were recompacted during topsoil respreading. Subsoil bulk densities and soil strength increased with time due to reconsolidation. Rooting depths have not, as yet, been affected by the bulk densities and soil strength measured and showed few significant tillage effects. Prior cropping effects on small grain yields for the one-year of data collected were generally not significant and were greatly influenced by growing conditions. Overall the data indicated that the applied tillage treatments had few significant effects on bulk densities or soil strengths with time. Weather was the most dominant factor affecting both forage and small grain yields. Keywords: Chiseling Ripping Tillage Bulk Densities Soil strength Author(s) Dr. Stephan A. Schroeder and Dr. Kevin C. Vining ABSTRACT REMOTE DETECTION OF STRATA MOVEMENTS OVER ABANDONED COAL MINES (November 1995) 94pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: U.S. Bureau of Mines, 5629 Minnehaha Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55417 Type of Report: Investigative report ABSTRACT: This report documents a process in which historical data was compiled to assess the progression of subsidence over abandoned coal mines, and then instrumentation was installed to allow remote detection of strata movements which occur prior to the development of surface subsidence. The instrumentation consisted of coaxial cables grouted into boreholes that had been drilled from the surface into the mines. The cables were connected to a data acquisition system and interrogated daily. Data was downloaded weekly to the USBM office in Minneapolis where it was compiled to allow visual and quantitative monitoring of subsurface displacements. At the Dorris School, movement has been detected in a fractured shale at a depth of 139 feet but there has been no surface movement detected. This is consistent with previous studies in which shear deformation occurs in strata which are less stiff than adjacent strata. It is also consistent that subsurface shearing along horizontal discontinuities is occurring prior to surface movement. Additionally, it was found that the mine underlying Dorris School is not only flooded but the water is pressurized and providing support to the mine roof. Changes in water conditions have been detected in one of the TDR monitoring cables. Keywords: Data collection Hole selection Subsidence lateral progression Overburden Mine conditions TDR instrumentation Author(s) Kevin M. O'Connor ABSTRACT REMOVAL OF MANGANESE FROM ACIDIC MINE WATERS IN LABORATORY WETLANDS; THE RELATIVE CONTRIBUTIONS OF GEOCHEMICAL AND MICROBIAL PROCESSES (May 1994) 137pp Performing Organization Name and Address: University of Wyoming; Laramie, WY 80271 Type of Report: M.S. thesis, Zoology ABSTRACT: Constructed wetlands are used to treat both wastewaters and acidic mine drainage. A vertical-flow aerated wetland is described in this study in which the main reactive bed consisted of a column of limestone gravel overlain by pea gravel and soil. The soil had the lowest hydraulic conductivity of the three layers and controlled the flow rate. The limestone, which was vented to the atmosphere, operated under unsaturated conditions. Results obtained from studies in 36 large-scale model wetland columns suggest that the vertical configuration combined with the aerated limestone matrix is very effective in both removing heavy metals, especially manganese (Mn), and in neutralizing influent mine drainage waters from a mean pH of 4.3 to effluent values averaging pH 8.5. Sulfate-reducing bacteria as well as Mn-oxidizing bacteria were present in all of the active, Mn-removing columns suggesting that redox microzones were manganite [MnO(OH)] and Ca-Mn carbonate [Ca(MnCa)(CO3)2)]. Inhibition experiments indicated that the microbial population was not involved in Mn removal and the Mn species found in the columns were formed by purely chemical reactions. Keywords: Acid mine drainage Wetland Bacteria Author(s) Michele Marie DeLeo ABSTRACT RESEARCH MATERIALS ON SELENIUM IN THE UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING AMERICAN HERITAGE CENTER (1991)173 pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: Office of Research, University of Wyoming Laramie, WY 82071-3355 Type of Report: Final Report ABSTRACT: The records and literature collections of pioneer selenium researchers, were in unusable condition in the University of Wyoming Archives. The collections which includes data, literature, unpublished materials, photographs and experimental designs can be a crucial resource for on-going research in agriculture and mining environments. Much of the work of these researchers addresses long term studies on disturbed sites including a large plot of seleniferous mine-spoil material which was transported to Laramie and established as a site to study uptake of selenium by selenium accumulators plants. Much of this work has implications for selenium in abandoned mine lands. The catalogued records provide a valuable base line for further research. Keywords: Selenium research Mine-spoil Selenium accumulator plants Abandoned mine lands Author(s): Stephen E. Williams and Thomas P. Wilstead ABSTRACT SALT TOLERANCE STUDY PHASE 1 SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS PART 1. (1987) 513pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523. Type of Report: Final report. Volume 1 of 2 ABSTRACT: Environmental data was collected to help evaluate whether or not salinity in strip mine drainage water is causing material damage to vegetation on alluvial valley floors or whether mine drainage effluents constitute a hazard to soil salinity build-up that would be expected to cause material damage to crops grown in the future. The environmental data consisted of surface water discharge and quality, groundwater depth and quality, soils and soil analyses, crops grown, irrigation practices, and climatic conditions. Areas adjacent to active and reclaimed strip mine spoils have a potential for causing material damage to plants because of the increased salt content in the groundwater. This damage potential is dependent upon water depth, amount of leaching by snowmelt, and vegetation type. The soil analyses reported in Section II in the following report are from samples taken prior to 1980 to obtain mining permits. It is recommended that soil profiles be sampled periodically on AVF adjacent to spoils to determine if there is a corresponding increase in root zone salinity with increased groundwater salinity. Also, it is recommended that the reliability and frequency of groundwater analyses be increased along with depth measurements. If the accuracy and reliability of electrical conductivity measurements cannot be improved, then TDS measurements should be increased. Plant damage by salinity generally does not decrease the yield according to a simple average of soil salinity in the root zone. A time-weighted combined average of irrigation water salinity plus soil salinity in the zone of maximum water uptake has been found to be a better predictor of crop yield. Keyword(s): Soils Plant damage Irrigation water Salinity Author(s): W.T. Franklin, L.E. Sommers, R.K. Jump, E.G. Siemer, J.E. Cipra, and R.E. Danielson ABSTRACT SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS OF LABORATORY BASED MINE OVERBURDEN ANALYTICAL TECHNIQUES FOR THE PREDICTION OF ACIDIC MINE DRAINAGE (September 1995) 267pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: Department of Geological Sciences; University of South Carolina Type of Report: Final research report ABSTRACT: A three part sensitivity analysis was conducted to evaluate commonly used mine overburden analytical techniques. The primary objectives of the study were: (1)Identify and evaluate the effects of variability in mine overburden geochemistry, as measured by pyrite weight percent and neutralization potential (NP), on variability of contaminant production. (2)Determine which acid/base accounting interpretation technique best predicts both qualitative and quantitative leachate quality in laboratory analytical testing. (3)Identify the predominant factors of weathering cells, soxhlet extraction, and column leaching tests, and evaluate variability of contaminant production due to variations in: storage conditions, leachant temperature, particle size, particle sorting efficiency, and leaching interval. Acid/base accounting (ABA) data were compared to weathering (humidity) cell leachate data from 83 coal mine overburden samples. Neutralization ratios of 19 resulted in no type I acid base accounting errors, i.e. those in which an overburden sample is classified as alkaline, but actually produces acid; and in 55 type II errors, i.e. those in which an overburden sample is classified as acidic but actually produces alkaline leachate. The neutralization potential (NP) threshold for 100% confidence of alkaline leachate was 73.1%. Leachate quality comparisons between weathering cells and columns were dominated by particle size effects which controlled the rate of water movement through the overburden material. Keywords: Overburden Soil toxicity Acid mine drainage Author(s) William S. Bradham and Frank T. Caruccio ABSTRACT SOIL-WATER HYDROLOGY AND GEOCHEMISTRY OF A COAL SPOIL AT A RECLAIMED SURFACE MINE IN ROUTT COUNTY, COLORADO (1988) 100pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: U.S. Geological Survey, Federal Center, Bldg.810, Denver, CO 80225-0425 Type of Report: U.S. Geological Survey ABSTRACT: Coal-spoil water quantity and quality were monitored, by five drainage-type lysimeters installed in a reclaimed coal spoil. Soil-water access tubes were used to monitor soil-water content at the coal spoil and at an adjacent undisturbed area. Results of the monitoring indicate that the undisturbed soils are nearly saturated at 4.5 to 5 feet. Coal spoils are not near saturation at similar depths. Normal recharge in the nearby unmined area is estimated to be about 0.5 inch per year. At a depth of 8 feet, 2 to 6 inches of water per unit surface area is percolating through the coal spoil in the lysimeters. The water is potential recharge to a coal-spoil aquifer. The coal-spoil leachate has an average dissolved-solids concentration of 3,600 milligrams per liter. Calcium (460 milligrams per liter), magnesium (370 milligrams per liter), and sulfate (2,540 milligrams per liter) are the dominant ions in the leachate; sodium (111 milligrams per liter) and bicarbonate (224 milligrams per liter) are present in lesser concentrations. Gypsum dissolution and carbonate dissolution by carbonic acid from carbon dioxide and by sulfuric acid from pyrite oxidation account for most of the dissolved-solids concentration. Saturation indices indicate that he water is saturated with many minerals and is composed of the aforementioned ions. Keywords: Water quality Soil water profiles Geochemistry Author(s) Robert S. Williams, Jr., and Stephen E. Hammond ABSTRACT STABILITY EVALUATION FOR DESIGNED EPHEMERAL CHANNELS IN WYOMING (July 1995) 51pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: Western Water Consultants, 611 Skyline Road, Laramie, Wyoming 82070 Type of Report: Final Technical Report ABSTRACT: Evaluating the performance of reconstructed ephemeral channels at coal mine sites in Wyoming is a great challenge because major channel adjustments typically occur only in response to infrequent flood events. A risk-based channel stability analysis was developed by Western Water Consultants, Inc. (WWC, 1993) which allows statistical comparison between reclaimed channel designs and similar characteristics of unmined channels. Unmined, natural stream channels can provide critical information about stable channel forms because the natural channel geometry has evolved over long time periods under prevailing climatic conditions. The 1993 research was limited to areas encompassing Abandoned Mine Land (AML) channel reclamation projects near Rock Springs and Hanna, Wyoming. Three channel parameters that are important channel design elements (channel slope, flow velocity, cross sectional flow area) comprised separate stability tests. One-tailed confidence intervals calculated about the mean predicted channel slope, flow velocity, and flow area define the recommended range of acceptable designs. Stream channel and drainage basin information was compiled for five coal-bearing areas in Wyoming using mine permit application premining data, published reports, and field data. Additional parameters including sediment characteristics of the channel bed and banks was included in the analysis to better understand how sediment influences channel stability. Results, in general, showed a high degree of correlation between basin parameters and ephemeral channel hydraulic parameters. Recommended channel design criteria which provide for stability are presented. Results of the study provide mine reclamation specialists and regulatory personnel with a quantitative method to evaluate reclaimed designs for ephemeral channels in the main coalmined areas of Wyoming. Keywords: Reclamation Geomorphology Channel design Channel stability Stability evaluation Author(s): S.L. Rathburn, T. Hanlin, P.A. Rechard, and D.R. Jensen ABSTRACT STABILIZATION OF UNDERGROUND MINE VOIDS BY FILLING WITH COAL CONVERSION RESIDUALS (June 1995) 43 pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: Energy & Environmental Research Center University of North Dakota Grand Forks, ND 58202-9018 Type of Report: Mining Research Contract Report ABSTRACT: Coal mining from the early part of this century left numerous abandoned mines in North Dakota with surface subsidence problems. One mine reclamation project to mitigate subsidence that is currently receiving attention involves injecting fly ash grout as a flowable fill into a groundwater-saturated haul beneath a state highway near Wilton, ND. This study presents the preliminary findings. Flowable fill (480 yd3) consisting entirely of fly ash and 16% water was gravity fed from cement trucks into injection wells to fill the tunnel cavity. A high-lime, cementitious fly ash produced locally from combustion of low sodium lignite was used. The initial impact on groundwater in the cavity area involved elevation of pH, dissolved solids, and sulfate. After 10 days, the effects of the injection slug dissipated to near preinjection levels as monitored by five wells around the filled cavity. Six months later, sulfate and dissolved solids were several hundred mg/L above background and pH was normal. Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and other trace metals were not leached. Tests of cores taken at 6 months indicated permeabilities of 1E-5cm/s and average compressive strengths ranging from 96 to 485 psi, suggesting certain parts of the fill lacked the expected intensity of cementitious reactions. Mineral analyses confirmed calcium based cement phases were not well developed, possibly because groundwater pH or sulfate composition buffered cementitious reactions. Keywords: Fly ash, sand, and cement mixture Backfill Abandoned coal mines Groundwater Leaching Author(s): Ray D. Butler, Debra F Pflughoeft-Hassett, Bruce A.Dockter, and H.John Foster ABSTRACT STRATEGIES FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF BIG SAGEBRUSH (ARTEMESIA TRIDENTATA SSP. WYOMINGENSIS) ON WYOMING MINED LANDS (March 1998) 53pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: High Plains Grasslands Research Station USDA, Agricultural Research Service; 8408 Hildreth Road; Cheyenne, WY 82009 Type of Report: Final Report ABSTRACT: Wyoming big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis) is one of the dominant shrubs on native rangeland in this region but reestablishing it on reclaimed mined lands has been difficult. This project investigates cultural and ecological factors affecting sagebrush reestablishment. The research was designed to evaluate several cultural methods to define effective strategies for establishing big sagebrush, to evaluate the role of a A pioneer species on sagebrush establishment, to assess the role of Arbuscular Mycorrhizae (AM) in sagebrush seedling drought stress tolerance, and to evaluate the success of shrub establishment using pre-1985 reclamation technology. Mulching and elimination of herbaceous plant competition significantly enhanced early sagebrush establishment. Direct-placed topsoil improved first year sagebrush seedling establishment over that of 5-year old stockpiled topsoil but had little effect in the established Pioneer species. Arbuscular Mycorrhizae infection was found to improve drought tolerance of sagebrush seedlings. Older sagebrush seedlings (>120 days old) exhibited a greater dependency on AM than younger seedlings. Seeding fourwing saltbush (Altriplex canescens) 1 year before did not show any benefits nor did it significantly reduce sagebrush establishment compared to other seeding treatments. Shrub communities established using pre-1985 technology resulted in suboptimum wildlife habitat as defined by shrub density, cover, or species diversity. Climatic conditions, particularly precipitation and temperature, significantly influence sagebrush germination and seedling establishment; however, the negative effects of environmental stress can be reduced using cultural practices described. Keywords: Drought tolerance Wild life habitat Shrub density Species diversity Author(s) Gerald E. Schuman and D. Terrance Booth ABSTRACT SURFACE AND ROOT ZONE HYDROLOGY OF MINELANDS (May 1995) 150pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: North Dakota State University Land Reclamation Research Center, P.O. Box 459, Highway 6 South Mandan , ND 58554-0459 Type of Report: Mining Research ABSTRACT: To understand topographic position and soil quality effects on distribution of water, seasonal variability of soil water contents and infiltration -- water retention characteristics were measured on surface coal minelands of North Dakota from 1989 to 1993. During the study period, soil water moved below the 0.9 m depth in a few toeslope positions of undisturbed premine lands and abandoned minelands. In reclaimed profiles, storage and movement of soil water was limited to topsoil (0.3m) and upper subsoil depths. Infiltration experiments indicated that undisturbed soils have high hydraulic conductivities due to an abundance of macropores (radius > 50um). The appended data from the various disturbed and natural soil profiles show that satiated hydraulic conductivity increases with the square of the volume of effective pores (radius > 5um). The hydraulic conductivity of reclaimed soils mainly due to low volume and poor continuity of effective pores in the subsoil. For sustainability of agricultural and environmental quality of reclaimed lands, the overburden respreading and post-mine management technology need to minimize subsoil compaction and increase the volume of effective pores in the entire root zone. Keyword(s): Soil water Soil physical and chemical properties Infiltration Reclamation Abandoned minelands Soil compaction Soil quality Author(s): P.P. Sharma, F.S. Carter, G.A. Halvorson, and E.C. Doll ABSTRACT TOXICOLOGIC EVALUATION OF CHRONIC SELENOSIS IN WYOMING HERBIVORES. (December 1996) 28pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: University of Wyoming Type of Report: Final Report ABSTRACT: This study was undertaken to qualitatively describe the pathophysiology of chronic selenosis in ruminants, a condition which constitutes the major starting point of many reclamation decisions and regulations. Economic limitations led to exclusion of horses and large scale reproductive experiments. Adverse health effects were not detected in any animals fed less than 10 ppm Se. These experiments were not designed specifically to derive a no-effect level (such would require many more animals and cost proportionately more) and lacked sufficient statistical power to be conclusive. There are also many environmental factors such as nutrition or concurrent disease which may potentiate selenosis The most distinctive chronic toxic effect of Se is dyskeratosis manifested as a particular pattern of hair loss and hoof deformities. An equally-or possibly more-sensitive toxic effect is inhibition of PAR. Unfortunately, this condition may be produced by many other toxicants, infectious agents and national deficiencies and is thus much less specific than pathology. Many of the popular summaries of earlier selenosis research describe infertility as a prevalent effect in livestock. More recent experimental studies in lab animals, sheep and non-human primates have either not been able to produce such effects or produced them only at doses which produced overt intoxication. Keyword(s): Toxicologic evaluation Selenium Ruminants Dyskeratosis Author(s): M.F. Raisbeck, E.L. Belden, D.O'Toole, and J.W. Waggoner. ABSTRACT TREATMENT OF FLUVIALLY DEPOSITED STREAMSIDE MINE WASTE: MATERIAL FROM CANYON CREEK, IDAHO. 54pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: United States Department of Energy. Spokane Research Center. Type of Report: Report of Investigations 9633 ABSTRACT: Three mine-waste contaminated materials from the flood plain of Canyon Creek, ID, were separated by size to determine if the amount of on-site metal release could be reduced. Comparing weighted-average metal release of damp-screened, sized fractions with metal release from original materials suggested that separation marginally reduced metal releases. In contrast, wet screening of all three material types led to significant reductions in metal release without removing any solid material. However, the results from some column leaching tests suggest that some of these effects may be only temporary. Decreases in metal releases as a result of removing the finer fraction were greatest when the mineralogical characteristics of the size fraction remaining on-site were significantly different from those of the material removed. Wet screening and removal of 23% of the mass as -2-mm fines from alluvium from below the mine waste resulted in decreases of Zn releases by 65% and Cd releases by 80%. Screening reworked tailings from the streambed removed 53% of the mass smaller than -19.5 mm and reduced Zn and Cd releases by 85% and 88%, respectively. The similar mineralogical characteristics among the size fractions minimized the benefits of separating fluvially deposited tailings. Keyword(s): Sampling methods Mine waste Released metals Wet screening Tailings Author(s): Anthony J. Paulson, Robert Balderrama, and Eric Zahl ABSTRACT TREATMENT OF FLUVIALLY DEPOSITED STREAMSIDE MINE WASTE--MATERIAL FROM NINE MILE CREEK, IDAHO (1996) 67pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: United States Department of Energy - Spokane Research Center Type of Report: Report of Investigations (RI 9631) ABSTRACT: The size separation of flood plain material contaminated with mine waste was tested to determine if the interaction of water flow with geochemical processes could be changed sufficiently to reduce release rates of metals in a manner that would allow on-site disposal of all material as the sole remediation action. Size separation reduced Zn release by 60% over a 270-day period, partially by changing hydrogeochemical conditions and partially by the flushing action of the wet-separation process. Since Pb was controlled by anglesite solubility, reduced sulfate concentrations in the segregated material actually resulted in increased Pb release. The initial release of metals from the gravel fraction seemed to be controlled by adhered fines, even though the wet-separation process removed more of this finer material. In ancillary separation tests, aggressive water treatment of the coarser fraction was required to limit initial metal release. This treatment involved thoroughly removing the finer fraction. Gravity separation of the finest fraction produced a concentrate high in Pb. In contrast, conventional flotation to remove sulfide minerals was ineffective because the material had been weathered and heavily oxidized on the flood plain. Keywords: Sampling methods Geochemical modeling Mine waste Separation tests Water treatment Author(s) Anthony J. Paulson, Robert Balderrama, Eric Zahl, and Ryan L. Cox ABSTRACT USE OF THE REVISED UNIVERSAL SOIL LOSS EQUATION (RUSLE) VERSION 1.06 ON MINED LANDS, CONSTRUCTION SITES, AND RECLAIMED LANDS. (AUGUST 1998) Performing Organization Name and Address: RUSLE Task Working Group, Office of Technology Transfer, Office of Surface Mining(OSM), Denver, Colorado Type of Report: Manual with floppy disk ABSTRACT: A variety of human activities disturb the land surface of the earth, and thereby alter natural erosion rates. Federal and State legislation mandate erosion control and sediment containment from lands subjected to many activities, including mining, construction, and reclamation. Effective erosion control and sediment containment begin with the project-planning process. The authors developed a mathematical model, known as RUSLE, that allows participants to develop models to evaluate erosion under specific conditions. RUSLE is a set of mathematical equations that estimates soil loss and sediment yield resulting from interrill and rill erosion. It does not estimate gully or stream-channel erosion. It is derived from the theory of erosion processes, more than 10,000 plot-years of data from natural rainfall plots, and numerous rainfall-simulation plots. RUSLE is an exceptionally well-validated and documented equation. Keyword(s): Erosion RUSLE Rainfall/Runoff erosivity Hillslope length and gradient Cover-management Support-practices Author(s): Terrence Troy, Ken Renard, Glenn Weesies, Steve Schroeder, William Kuenstler, Gary Wendt, Richard Warner, and George Foster. ABSTRACT UTILIZATION OF SAWMILL BY-PRODUCTS AND GYPSUM TO REVEGETATE SODIC BENTONITE MINE SPOILS 31pp. Performing Organization Name and Address: Agricultural Research Service, USDA; High Plains Grasslands Research Station; 8408 Hildreth Road; Cheyenne, WY 82009 Type of Report: Final Report ABSTRACT: Lands disturbed by or abandoned after bentonite mining in the Northern Great Plains are difficult to reclaim because of adverse chemical and physical properties of the spoil material, the limited inherent topsoil, the arid/semiarid climate of the area, and to some extent, the mining methods utilized. Research findings leading to the development of a reclamation technology for abandoned bentonite mine spoils were tested. Wood residue amendment resulted in immediate improvement of the physical characteristics of bentonite spoils, enabling improved water infiltration, leaching and the concurrent establishment of a desirable productive plant community. The studies have also pointed out the need for an inorganic amendment, such as gypsum, to be incorporated with the wood residue to replace the sodium in the system with calcium and prevent further sodication of the spoil. Nitrogen fertilizer should also be incorporated with the wood residue to provide adequate nitrogen for both plant growth and wood residue decomposition. This technology has been readily adaptable to large scale reclamation of abandoned bentonite spoils. The Wyoming Abandoned Mine Land Program has reclaimed over 3500 ha of these spoils since 1985 using the technology. Average cost per ha was $12,048 with amendments accounting for only 21.3% of the total cost. Keywords: Bentonite mines Gypsum Nitrogen fertilizer Author(s) Gerald E. Schuman ABSTRACT WETLAND HYDROLOGY OF MINE LANDS (February 1997) 30pp Performing Organization Name and Address: Energy & Environmental Research Center; University of North Dakota; Grand Forks, ND 58202-9018 Type of Report: Mining research contract report ABSTRACT: Results of a multidisciplinary effort at seven wetland locations in North Dakota provide general information on key environmental factors controlling hydrological interactions at wetlands in natural, abandoned mine, and reclaimed settings. Described localities are characterized by extremely low-permeable clayey-silty sediments with slow circulation, a stagnant groundwater regime, and a reduced potential for interaction between surface water and groundwater. Extremely low values of hydraulic conductivity in both the saturated and the unsaturated zones, ranging from 8 x 10-6 to 3 x 10-9 m s-1 and from 8.7 x 10-4 cm s-1 to 5.4 x 10-7 cm s-1, respectively, indicate the absence of more permeable zones capable of providing potential for groundwater flow in natural, abandoned mine, and reclaimed wetland localities. Climatic conditions control soil temperature fluctuations during the year. Freeze-thaw periods in North Dakota are almost equal, resulting in a very limited potential for surface water to recharge groundwater systems. Comparison of environmental conditions and water balance at natural, abandoned mine, and reclaimed wetland localities indicates the original wetland functions were not fully restored at reclaimed locations, particularly with respect to potential groundwater recharge/discharge. Reclaimed wetland localities, however, can support premining vegetation and biohabitat and provide an effective control of the local surface flow. Detailed site characterization and understanding of the key environmental factors are prerequisite to successful restoration of wetlands to premining conditions and are logical tools to justify the costs associated with reclamation in the wider environmental and economic context. Keywords: Wetland reclamation Groundwater Wetland design Author(s) Jaroslav Solc, Padam P. Sharma, and Fredric S. Carter