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Project Details

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Project Information Sheet

Evaluation of bench-scale acid mine drainage (AMD) bioremediation tests: Water-quality monitoring and data interpretation

Funding Source:	Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Reclamation
Status:	active — Definition of status type
Project Director:	John B. Comer

Issue

Low-volume flows of highly acidic water seep from abandoned and reclaimed coal mines at many locations in southwestern Indiana. The water contains high concentrations of sulfate and toxic metals. These seeps are a significant source of pollution in surface water of the region.

Objective

This research is designed to treat these seeps so that the concentration of acidity, sulfate, and toxic metals is much reduced or eliminated.

Approach

A series of bench-scale bioreactor cells has been designed that promote the action of microbes to remediate acidic water flowing from these seeps. Biweekly monitoring will determine which bioreactor cell design is best for field application.

Benefits

Eliminating the toxic outflows from acidic seeps in coal-mined lands will significantly reduce pollution in the surface water of southwestern Indiana. Much improved habitats for aquatic life in Indiana's rivers, lakes, and wetlands will result.

Locations Affected:

Clay Daviess Dubois

Gibson Greene Knox

Martin Posey Spencer

Sullivan Vanderburgh Vigo

Warrick

Indiana House Districts Affected:

none

Indiana Senate Districts Affected:

none

Indiana Congressional Districts Affected:

Information Updated January 30, 2007

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