ABSTRACT
The underground TVX Mineral Hill Mine has been reclaimed in accordance with strict regulatory requirements, and will now provide critical winter range for the northern Yellowstone elk herd and other wildlife.
Portals and raises were plugged and dumps were fully recontoured, reestablishing original slope contours and forming forest clearings. Soil amendment with planer shavings promotes a fungal-based microfauna/flora which promotes long-term Douglas fir re-establishment. Fall plantings of ten-cubic inch Douglas fir tublings achieved 90%+ survival.
Arsenic is removed from mine drainage by zero-valent iron prior to discharge in an infiltration field. A second mine drainage is now a local water supply.
The tailings pile water balance cap controls percolation, enhances revegetation success, and minimizes maintenance by supporting Douglas fir forest. Remaining seepage is biologically treated to protect a zero discharge evapotranspiration bed.
Following full reclamation, the site will be donated to the U.S. Forest Service. Historic mine camp structures and site geological / mining information will be preserved for cultural and educational purposes.
