SURFACE MINING

The process of removing mineral deposits that are found close enough to the surface so that the construction of tunnels (underground mining) is not necessary. The soil and strata that cover the deposit are removed to gain access to the mineral deposit. The primary environmental concerns related to this technique are the disposition of spoils removed to gain access to the deposit and the scoring of the landscape that remains following the complete removal of the mineral deposit. Water pollution is also a concern because runoff from the mining area is frequently rich in sediments and minerals. Furthermore, such operations sometimes necessitate the removal of groundwater that infiltrates the mining pit, consequently altering the groundwater flow with potential implications on the water table and aquifer characteristics. Also referred to as Open-Pit Mining or Strip Mining. Also see Dewatering.