Geology Reference
In-Depth Information
SUMMARY
The principles that govern regulation of the design of structures that were
promulgated in response to the Buffalo Creek disaster are well understood and
fully documented.
While continued vigilance concerning design, construction,
and operation of impoundments is clearly warranted (
Chapter 6
), the committee
concludes that uncertainties remain in the characterization of the basin area
and, therefore, in the mitigation of risks associated with the breakthrough
potential.
The potential for underground coal mine workings to be in close
proximity to an impoundment is a factor in the design of new and in
modifications to existing coal waste impoundments in Appalachia. The relative
elevation of local drainage and slurry height, with respect to underground
mines, can be critical. Existing impoundments with above-drainage mine
workings, where the outcrop slurry elevation does not exceed the level of the
coal mine workings, can incorporate mitigating measures for these workings in
their design relatively easily (see
Chapter 6
). Above-drainage coal mine
workings in existing impoundments, where the slurry elevation exceeds the
level of the mine workings are the most challenging in the design and operation
of a facility.
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