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WATER POLLUTION CAUSED BY INACTIVE ORE AND MINERAL MINES - A NATIONAL ASSESSMENT
Citation:
Martin, H., W. Mills, AND Jr. WATER POLLUTION CAUSED BY INACTIVE ORE AND MINERAL MINES - A NATIONAL ASSESSMENT. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C., EPA/600/2-76/298.
Description:
The report identifies the scope and magnitude of water pollution from inactive ore and mineral mines. Data collected from Federal, State, and local agencies indicates water pollution from acids, heavy metals, and sedimentation occurs at over 100 locations and affects over 1200 kilometres of streams and rivers. The metal mining industry was shown to be the principal source of this pollution. Descriptions of the mineral industry are presented, including a summary of economic geology, production methods, and historic mineral production methods, and historic mineral production. The mechanisms of formation, transportation, and removals of pollutants are detailed. Annual pollutant loading rates for acid and metals from inactive mines are given and a method provided to determine the extent of mine-related sedimentation in Western watersheds. State-by-state summaries of mine related pollution are presented. An assessment of current water pollution abatement procedures used for inactive mines is given and research and development programs for necessary improvements are recommended.