Equilibrium water quality models have been used extensively for regulatory purposes, however, mine operators have tended to see such models as primarily related to permit aquisition. A well constructed and calibrated equilibrium water quality model is, however, invaluable for risk management, both during mining operations and following mine closure. Case historys are presented from mines in Canada and Asia. The methodology of utilizing equilibium water quality modeling for gold, copper, and coal (lignite) mines, for waste rock dumps, tailings storage facilities and pit sump/pit lakes is presented. The initial equilibrium water quality model provides a forward looking estimate of expected water quality at various locations in the miing process. As mining commences, divergence from the predicted water quality may be due to either an inadequate/incomplete model or to unexpected geological or geochemical conditions. Ongoing updating of the water quality model may therefore be invaluable in risk management.
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