| In Nova Scotia, coal mining is an important industry. In Springhill, coal mining waste accumulated for more than 150 years and produced a wasteland of approximately 75 ha in size. Since its closure in 1958, no attempt was done to restore the site. However in 1992, a section was flattened due to a heavy equipment training course. The aim of this Masters research project was to describe the current level of natural revegetation and evaluate the use of some treatments to accelerate its restoration. Vegetation surveys using a grid system, soil samples and soil cores were analyzed to evaluate the current plant community, soil chemical composition and seed bank. The potential for restoration was examined in the field using mixtures of 5 plant species and combinations of lime and compost. Results showed that all five species could germinate and that the compost resulted in the best overall growth. From these results it could be recommended that successful revegetation of the Duff Bank coal mine waste might include the use off native plants with amendments. However, the results suggest that lime should be applied first at least a month prior to seeding. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)... |
