ABSTRACT

Bioremediation is based on natural biological and physical principles operative for millions of years. These are the same principles which have been responsible for the deposition of ore bodies. The Lambda Bio-Carb Process is an in situ bioremediation system utilizing site-indigenous, mixatrophic cultures hybridized for maximum effectiveness. The Lambda Process has been utilized successfully in the treatment of acid mine drainage since 1984. The PBS Coal site in Somerset County, Pennsylvania was mined from the mid-1930s until 1985, first as a deep mine, then as a surface mine. The graphs indicate the chemical parameters achieved using bioremediation to treat the PBS site. Compliance levels have consistently been achieved since retention time was corrected, and no additional chemical treatment has been used at the PBS site since bioremediation was initiated. A site assessment was performed in order to evaluate the sources and levels of problematic metals, pH, micro- and macroecosystem components, and geological/hydrogeological constraints.