Project Number: WVA00401
CRIS Number: 0180501
CONTROL OF NON POINT SOURCE POLLUTION FROM LAND APPLICATION OF WASTES
Investigators: Skousen, J. G., Sencindiver, J. C., Bhumbla, D. K., McDonald, L. M.
Performing Department: Plant & Soil Sciences -- 1825
Start Date: 10/01/1998
Termination Date: 09/30/2003
Reporting period: 01/01/2001 to 12/31/2001
Progress Report:
A study was conducted to evaluate the water quality coming from surface mines after application of coal combustion by-products (alkaline fly ash) and lime during the reclamation process. Three sites, having different amounts of alkaline addition, were monitored. The first site, where no alkaline addition was practiced, produced acid mine drainage with high iron concentrations in the water. The second site, which had special handling and 174 tons of limestone on the pit floor, showed water pH between 6 and 7, and low levels of iron. The third site, which had special handling and 2000 tons of alkaline amendment applied, showed water pH of 7.5, and less than 1 mg/L iron.
Publications:
Hamric, R., V. Miller, and J. Skousen. 2001. Alkaline addition techniques in the prevention of acid mine drainage. p. 83-92. In: Proceedings, 22nd West Virginia Surface Mine Drainage Task Force Symposium, April 3-4, 2001, Morgantown, WV.
Impact:
This information and other studies like it give coal operators and federal and state regulators guidance and confidence in the quantities of alkaline addition and techniques of reducing acid mine drainage from surface mines. As more projects are conducted at mine sites and experience is gained, better decisions for permitting can be made and acid mine drainage can be reduced and controlled.