Monitoring the effects on the water balance of the Garzweiler open pit mine: concepts, methods and experience

摘要

In western Germany brown coal is extracted in large open pit mines causing a vast groundwaterndepression. To reduce the negative effects an extensive program of re-infiltration has beennestablished. Based on guidelines for mining at the Garzweiler open pit mine a specific monitoringnprogram of spatial surveillance, control and assessment of relevant hydrological and ecologicalnparameters has been set up. Serving as an early-warning system, monitoring enables promptnrecognition of negative developments and reduces the risk of damage to the water supply, tonthe waters and wetlands. Ten years of experience has shown that such a monitoring programnprovides a suitable and effective means of dealing with complex, long term water managementnissues. The involvement of stable institutions equipped with the necessary expertise, regularnparticipation of all stakeholders and communication with decision makers and the public arenseen as the important criteria for success.