Geophysical investigations of near-surface mine sites in northern West Virginia

The production of acid mine drainage (AMD) from surface and underground coal mine sites in northern West Virginia is a major environmental problem and continues to receive much attention in affected communities. Reclamation efforts at these sites often require extensive and costly treatments and are based on limited subsurface information. Use of geophysical techniques to characterize these sites, monitor remedial efforts, and provide additional subsurface information is evaluated in this study. Terrain conductivity (EM31 and EM34) grids as well as resistivity and magnetic profiles were collected at a mine spoil and two abandoned underground mine sites in northern West Virginia. Data were contoured and modeled using computer software to evaluate various subsurface conditions. Geophysical data were used in conjunction with hydrologic, geochemical, and borehole data previously collected to develop a better understanding of subsurface conditions at each site. Because terrain conductivity data can be collected rapidly and interpreted easily, it is the most promising of the techniques used in this study. Results of this study illustrate the potential benefits of geophysical surveys to mine site evaluation as well as some limitations. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

Name thesis:degree_name

MS

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Geology and Geography

Year dc:date.available

1999

Author dc:creator

• Fahringer, Peter E.

Contributors dc:contributor

• Thomas H. Wilson.

• Geophysics
• Geology
• Environmental science

Identifier

https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/1007

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:researchrepository.wvu.edu:etd-2010