Application of detailed analysis of geologic structure to problems in coal hydrogeology

Conference · Sat Dec 01 04:00:00 EST 1984 · Univ. Ky., Off. Eng. Serv., (Bull.); (United States)

OSTI ID:5473900

Smalley, R C; Zimmerman, W

Detailed analysis of geologic structures may be a useful tool for defining hydrogeology in areas of surface coal mining. This method of investigation was applied to a proposed surface mine site in western Virginia where regional geologic maps indicated that mining might impact a nearby domestic water-supply spring. Contrary to inferences made from regional geologic information, detailed analyses of geologic structures on the site indicated that local structure, not regional, controls the hydrology of the site. Collection of many structural attitudes and examination of nearby highwall exposures revealed that: (1) surface topography reflects geologic structure, and (2) both surface-water and ground-water drainage are controlled by small-scale geologic structures that are coincident with topography. Results of this study showed that the spring is in a small drainage basin to the east of the basin containing the mine. Location of the spring is controlled by a synclinal sedimentary fold structure, a fracture through the axial plane of this fold, and a plastic, low-permeability clay which perches ground water in the fractured coal bed overlying the clay. The synclinal fold acts as a catch basin which funnels recharge into the axial fracture. Water travels along this fracture and eventually discharges at the spring. Projections of this spring's susceptibility to drought based on this catch-basin model indicated that it should dry up after a drought of approximately 3-months. Observations of this spring revealed that its discharge decreased from a steady flow of approximately 1 gallon per minute during the wet seasons to a mere drip discharge during the summers of 1981 and 1982. These observations support the catch-basin model because mining during this 2-year time span had not disturbed either the recharge area or supplying aquifer as defined by the regional drainage model.

• Research Organization: Kentucky Geological Survey, Lexington
• OSTI ID: 5473900
• Report Number(s): CONF-841204-
• Conference Information: Journal Name: Univ. Ky., Off. Eng. Serv., (Bull.); (United States)
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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AQUICLUDES
AQUIFERS
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
FEDERAL REGION III
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WATER SPRINGS