Coaltech Research Association

Determination of the Impact of Coal Mine Water Irrigation on Groundwater Resources

Groundwater investigation behind mine water irrigation in the Mpumalanga coalfields, with hydraulic testing, leaching studies and site selection and monitoring guidance for mines and regulators.

by P.D. Vermeulen, B.H. Usher and G.J. van Tonder | April 2007

What this report found

Monitoring and geochemical modelling at five pilot sites, on undisturbed soils and on opencast spoils, showed that most soils held a large share of the applied salt in the upper unsaturated zone and that salinity built up slowly. Leachate volumes, leachate quality and aquifer mixing ratios were quantified. Irrigation is recommended on alternating pivots and for no longer than ten years in one area.

Description

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