| The Zortman and Landusky mines in Montana were operated from 1978 to 1996. An Environmental Impact Statement, prepared in 1979, identified environmental risks. Despite the protective legislation, the mine left a legacy of environmental degradation including persistent water quality effects.; Acid mine drainage is the low pH, high heavy metal water that often drains from sulphide ore mines. The acid mine drainage problem occurs at many mines around the world. The environmental impact assessment process is designed to anticipate risks and mitigate impacts but despite this process, acid mine drainage at the Zortman and Landusky mines is significantly affecting the environment.; This study identifies the differences between the risks acknowledged in the original Environmental Impact Statement and the impacts which occurred. Recommendations on how to avoid similar environmental degradation and associated costs are proposed. General principles are developed from the lessons learned at the Zortman and Landusky mines and are used to develop systems which will better protect the environment from acid mine drainage while allowing for mineral development. |
