Determination of Flow Paths and Metal Loadings from Mine Waste Using Geophysical and Geochemical Methods at the Waldorf Mine, Clear Creek County, Colorado

Product Type: Report, Pages In

Year: 2008

Author(s): Fey, D.L., R.R. McDougal, and L. Wirt

Pages: 30-35

Suggested Citation: Fey, D.L., R.R. McDougal, and L. Wirt. 2008. Determination of Flow Paths and Metal Loadings from Mine Waste Using Geophysical and Geochemical Methods at the Waldorf Mine, Clear Creek County, Colorado. In: P.L. Verplanck (ed.). Understanding contaminants associated with mineral deposits. Circular 1328. : U.S. Geological Survey. 30-35 p.

Abstract

Mine waste, adit drainage, and mill tailings were studies at the Waldorf mine to determine water-flow paths and their relative contributions to contaminant loadings. Water draining from the adit and infiltrating through and under the waste pile, as well as shallow ground water flowing through the waste pile and through dispersed tailings, have affected nearby Leavenworth Creek with toxic metals, notably copper and zinc. The copper and zinc concentrations in the creek downstream from the mine-related inputs exceed standards for aquatic wildlife…