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Applications of Geomorphology in Mine Reclamation

Tailings and Mine Waste Conference (2023 : Vancouver, B.C.); University of British Columbia. Norman B. Keevil Institute of Mining Engineering

The principals of both process geomorphology and fluvial geomorphology have broad application in mine reclamation. Geomorphology is the study of the landforms we see on the surface of the earth and the processes that create and sustain them, while fluvial geomorphology focuses specifically on the processes that involve the movement of water and sediment and the features and landforms that they create. Concepts like dynamic equilibrium, slope evolution, basin morphometry and drainage networks, sediment transport, grade control, and armour formation are some of the geomorphic approaches that can be used to mitigate some of the common problems and failure mechanisms encountered in the reclamation of mining facilities (including waste rock storage facilities, heap leach pads, tailings storage facilities, diversion channels, and impacted streams). Application of these techniques typically promotes a higher level of sustainability and reduced maintenance cost. This paper will illustrate where and how these techniques can be applied through the use of actual examples and case histories.

Text

2024-02-15

Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International

http://hdl.handle.net/2429/87446

Unreviewed

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/