Surface Mining
SURFACE MINING METHODS Surface mining operations typically involve some sort of strip mining during the lifespan of a given mine. Strip mining, in general is characterized by the removal of overburden to expose the mineral for extraction. Surface mining is typically employed in situations where the overburden is relatively thin, or where underground mining would not be economically feasible. The main types of surface mining nclude: · area mining, · contour mining, · mountaintop mining, and · auger/highwall mining. Area mining is typically conducted on flat or gently rolling terrain, and is used to extract coal over a large area. An area mine starts with an initial cut to expose the coal seam to be removed. The seam may then be removed, creating an open pit. Spoils and overburden are placed in a valley fill or some other disposal site. Materials that may be prone to leaching acid- or toxic-forming materials may be segregated from the re