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Overburden management and revegetation in the Gulf Coast lignite region: problems and solutions

Conference · · Univ. Ky., Off. Eng. Serv., (Bull.); (United States)
OSTI ID:5408362
Reclamation in the Gulf Coastal Plain, in general, and in Central East Texas and Central-South Arkansas, in particular, can be achieved with relative ease because of such factors as adequate rainfall, flat terrain, and favorable soil and overburden properties. However, certain environmental problems may surface if the proper approach is not used and the factors affecting the entire reclamation process are not managed properly. Available data indicate that the mixed overburden is as good as the topsoil for revegetation in most respects. The higher erosion potential and poor soil structure of the mixed overburden are the most significant differences anticipated. Disturbance of the subsurface, such as surface mining, will generally improve the tilth and available moisture of the soil For this reason, topsoil replacement is of questionable value in these areas. An alternative is to use mixed or selected overburden materials. Soils and overburden characteristics which may be readily altered during mining and which are most critical with respect to revegetation success include soil texture, soil reaction, soil permeability, nutrient content, erodibility, pyritic sulfur content and available root volume.
Research Organization:
Radian Corp., Austin, TX
OSTI ID:
5408362
Report Number(s):
CONF-791262-
Conference Information:
Journal Name: Univ. Ky., Off. Eng. Serv., (Bull.); (United States)
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English