The Importance of Groundwater in the Mining Life Cycle
by: Christoph Wels, Ph.D., M.Sc.
The life of a mining project can be viewed as a sequence of developmental stages: starting with exploration and feasibility studies, followed by start-up and operation and finally concluding with reclamation and closure. During each phase of the mining life cycle, the miner is confronted with unique challenges and opportunities related to the presence of groundwater. This paper examines the various hydrogeological issues that are commonly encountered during the life of a mining project.
The following hydrogeological topics will be covered in this review:
Baseline Characterization
Mine Dewatering
Water Supply for Processing
Tailings Seepage Control
Contaminant Migration Control during Mining
Mine Closure & Aquifer Remediation
Post-Closure Aquifer Protection
Forward to Baseline Characterization.
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/ Surface Water
