Mine dewatering involves planned stages for the effective removal of groundwater and surface water to ensure safe and efficient mining operations.
These stages typically include:
1. Determination of site feasibility: This stage includes aquifer characterization through methods like large-scale pumping tests. These tests determine hydraulic conductivity (K) and recharge rates, providing crucial data for mine design and assessing potential impacts on regional groundwater resources.
2. Establishment of baseline data: Baseline data is established and used throughout all mining phases for effective water management, monitoring water quality and quantity, and regulating dewatering operations.
3. Design dewatering systems: Designing effective and efficient dewatering systems that meet permit requirements necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the site’s hydrogeological properties (Mine-Dewatering-Mining-Operations-Optimize-Dewatering).
From the first drop of exploration to the last pump at closure, managing water is a constant in mining! 1 What are the typical steps involved in the crucial process of “dewatering” a mine?
References:
Mine-Dewatering-Mining-Operations-Optimize-Dewatering
