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HYDROLOGY-BASED DESIGN OF GEOMORPHIC EVAPOTRANSPIRATION COVERS FOR RECLAMATION OF MINE LAND
Zhang, Z.F., N. Bugosh, T. Tesfa, M. McDonald, and J. Kretzmann.
35th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Mining and Reclamation, June 3-7, St. Louis, MO: Reclamation. 25 slides, 2018

GeoFluv™, a specific geomorphic grading design method, uses natural analogs for post-mining landscapes and design input values taken from stable natural landscapes to make a reclamation design that provides hydrological function, supports ecosystem integrity, and is cost-effective, sustainable, and more visually attractive. It can produce surface runoff water quality equal to or better than adjacent undisturbed lands and has been used for disturbed lands. To enhance storage capacity, a capillary break can be added beneath the storage layer. A conceptual design study was carried out based on an abandoned mine site near Raton, New Mexico, to demonstrate that superior covers can be designed by integrating geomorphic grading and an evapotranspiration (ET) cover as a geomorphic ET (GET) cover. The overall shape of the GET cover can mimic the natural topography of the surrounding area, while the thickness and layering of the cover can be optimized for best vegetation growth and infiltration control. Watershed groundwater flow is considered during GET cover design so that the post-reclamation groundwater flow is managed to meet the water quality standards.
Longer abstract: https://www.asmr.us/Portals/0/Documents/Meetings/2018/Zhang-WA-ASMR-Abstract.pdf
Slides: https://www.asmr.us/Portals/0/Documents/Meetings/2018/8C-1030-Zhang.pdf



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