ABSTRACT
Mining is a major point source of water pollution in America and in the world. In mining zones containing pyritic ore (sulfur-bearing ore), acid mine drainage (AMD) contributes degraded water quality in general and potentially toxic metals in specific to receiving streams, lakes, and oceans. This chapter explains the production of AMD, summarizes common solutions to the problem, and presents engineered wetlands as a possible new control of this very serious pollutant. Waste minimization is not addressed here, although many possibilities for waste minimization exist within the mining industry.
