SPRINGDALE PIT WATER MONITORING SUMMARY

When analyzing water monitoring data from the Springdale Pit mine reclamation site, DEP compares current sampling results with background water monitoring data collected by the mine operator before the placement of the ash in the pit; data collected up-gradient, or uphill, from the pit; and downgradient or downhill from the ash placement or other activity that may correlate with results seen in the monitoring.  By employing these methods, the Department can assess whether the placement of the ash is degrading the groundwater quality as it previously existed or as it exists in and around the pit site.  DEP can also see if any degradation is occurring in conjunction with activity on the part of the mine operator (for example, if degradation occurs soon after a load of ash is placed at the site, this might indicate a problem with that specific load of ash).

If degradation occurs, DEP can spot this through observing trends in the sampling results.  It’s important to note that many of these trends in the monitoring data are not obvious. In fact, the Department has to consider whether some trends are statistically significant or possibly related to the ash placement at all.  It's important to remember that when looking at groundwater that lies underneath a huge surface area such as the Springdale Pit site, there are many factors that may influence the quality of that groundwater, either individually or in conjunction with other factors.  However, if a trend continues, DEP will question the ash placement and conduct further study to determine the reason for the trend.

To conduct this water monitoring protocol for the LC&N site, four monitoring points - including monitoring wells, a shaft and a mine pool discharge - are used by LC&N and the DEP when required to gather water samples.  DEP requires these tests to analyze for different constituents – 15 in the annual test and 10 for the quarterly test - including arsenic, magnesium, lead and chloride, to name a few.  Quarterly sampling is conducted every three months by LC&N and those samples are analyzed at DEP-approved labs. 

Should a trend be observed that would cause alarm and evidence seen that links that trend to the placement of a specific load of ash, DEP could then take appropriate measures, such as requiring Lehigh Coal and Navigation Co. to remove specific loads of coal ash from the pit or remediate (by adding lime, for example, to adjust a low pH).  DEP has this ability because records are kept of the location in the pit where each load of ash is placed as well as the time and date placement occurs.  The sources of each load of ash are also kept on file. The Department can also require increased or additional sampling if necessary and can also cease placement of an ash source if the quality is called into question by the sample results.

After several years of water sampling, DEP has observed no signs of degradation in the groundwater near the Springdale Pit site.  There have been no trends or changes in water monitoring data as compared to groundwater quality prior to ash placement that would signify degradation or reason for concern.

After the placement of the ash is completed at the site, groundwater quality is expected to improve over the long-term as compared to pre-existing quality.  This may occur due to the fact that with the completion of reclamation at the site, rainwater will be directed away from entering the existing underground mine pool which would cause it to become polluted.  In addition, the alkalinity of the ash placed at the site may help maintain a satisfactory pH level of water that comes into the area, which could help prevent that water from becoming acidic.

To see the complete water and ash monitoring data in the Microsoft Excel format, please contact the Pottsville District Mining Office at 570-621-3118.