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The Rehabilitation of Mines and Quarries There is no doubt that mining activity can leave a permanent scar on landscapes and ecosystems. However, most mining activity that changes an ecosystem affords the opportunity to restore a useable habitat when the mining or quarrying is finished. Let’s have a look some of the ways in which the rehabilitation of mines and quarries takes place. Reclamation Reclamation of mining lands can take many forms. The goal of reclamation is to return the area to a useable habitat. Although many mines and quarries were simply abandoned in years past, reclamation is considered from the initiation of most modern mining operations. Reclamation typically involves restoring a natural grade to the mining area, providing suitable topsoil for vegetation to take root and planting key species of trees, grass or other flora to return the former mine to a working ecosystem. Parks
Reclaimed mining and quarry lands are frequently set aside
for use as a park. Level ground with little or no development makes an ideal
area for recreation. Because the landscape is being rebuilt from the ground up,
it is also possible to re-establish ecosystems that had long-since been
destroyed, such as tall-grass prairies. Lakes for Recreation and Wildlife
When strip mining and quarrying operations are finished,
the pit is often left as it was. Groundwater, rainwater and water from springs
that were struck during the mining operation can fill up the pit, creating a
lake. Water-filled quarries may be very deep and are popular for swimming,
boating and scuba diving. Strip-mine pits which are filled with water are
typically shallower than quarry pits. The Chinook Fish and Wildlife Area near
Staunton, Indiana is a good example of a former strip mine that now provides a
quality habitat for fish, wildlife and vegetation. Copyright ser2011.org All Rights Reserved HOME |