Managed Aquifer Recharge in Mining: A Review

Area of Science:

• Environmental Engineering
• Hydrogeology
• Mining Engineering

Background:

• Managed aquifer recharge (MAR) is gaining traction in the mining sector for managing surplus water and mitigating dewatering effects.
• Mines, particularly in arid regions, utilize MAR for water management, environmental preservation, and regulatory compliance (zero surface discharge).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the application of MAR in the mining industry.
• To inventory current and prospective MAR use in 27 mines.
• To identify key factors, challenges, and strategies for successful MAR implementation in mining.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and case study analysis of MAR in mining operations.
• Inventory of 27 mines employing or considering MAR.
• Analysis of factors influencing MAR feasibility, including water volumes, hydrogeology, and economics.

Main Results:

• MAR is implemented via infiltration basins or bore injection, primarily in arid/semi-arid regions.
• Common challenges include groundwater mounding, well clogging, and inter-mine interactions.
• Successful mitigation involves predictive modeling, monitoring, facility rotation, water treatment, and strategic siting.

Conclusions:

• MAR is a viable and sustainable tool for mine water management, with potential for accelerated post-closure groundwater recovery.
• Strategic upfront planning and improved information sharing are crucial for maximizing MAR benefits and increasing its adoption.
• Mines are expanding MAR capacity, indicating its proven success and growing importance in the industry.