| The Interim Reclamation Phase is defined as that period during which both North and South pit lakes fill with water to achieve their final levels. Water diversion structures completed during 2000 and in the first quarter 2001 will ensure that all rainfall falling on the previously disturbed areas will be collected and transferred to both North and South lakes. The diversion structures also allow for flows to be transferred through the wetland areas. |
 View above shows the main diversion channel designed to carry precipitation runoff water from the reclaimed tailings area surface to the North lake. |
A branch from the main channel carries excess water during high flows to the wetland area
that is under construction on the West-side of the site, as shown
below. |
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At the end of the 3000 ft main channel, precipitation runoff water flows through a wetland along the south side of the North lake before discharging into the lake. Development of the wetland will take place during 2001. |
| During 2000, the Ridgeway mine submitted to the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) a Post-Closure Monitoring Plan, an Operating and Maintenance Plan, an Emergency Preparedness Plan, and bonding requirements to cover long-term maintenance of the site through final closure. These documents describe activities that will take place during future reclamation years. |
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During the Interim Reclamation period both lakes will achieve their maximum operating levels. Water quality will be monitored to ensure the development of an environment capable of supporting a balanced biological community. Pictured at left is the South lake in January 2001. |
| No chemical amendments were necessary in the South lake throughout 2000. The water maintained a neutral pH, alkalinity of 70 ppm and the dissolved metals were within permit levels or non-detectable. A program of pit lake monitoring and biological research was initiated focusing on the biological recovery of the pit lakes and the sequestering of metals by algae and plant proteins. This water quality monitoring and research program will continue through 2002. |
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Filling of the North lake commenced in 2000, four years
after the South lake. Mining was completed in November 1999, after which 2.4 million tons,
of waste rock were returned to the bottom of the pit to be submerged by the rising water
level to protect against any acid generation. The picture at left shows the North lake in December 2000. |
| Water of neutral pH is being transferred from the South lake to accelerate submerging the waste rock in the North lake. Alkalinity in the form of slaked lime is added to the water as required to maintain a neutral
pH. Wetland development and diversion channel construction will be completed during the first quarter of 2001. Revegetation activities will continue through the remainder of the year. Ridgeway will continue to partner with the SC Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to maintain a 28-acre public dove field, providing a recreation resource open for community use. Public tours and site visits will continue to keep interested parties well informed and to communicate reclamation and closure progress. |