| The Beaver Creek watershed (located in West Virginia) has been severely impacted by Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) from surface mining operations. Water quality was monitored via water quality grab samples, in-situ water quality monitoring devices (YSI Sondes), and fish and macroinvertebrate community sampling. High concentrations of metal ions (Fe, Mn, Al, and SO 4) and acidity along with low pH and alkalinity values were observed from water quality sampling sites. The water quality data collected from the in-situ monitoring devices and fish and macroinvertebrate sampling supported the findings from the water quality grab sampling. Recommendations were made for the remediation, as well as for the minimization of further impacts due to roadway construction, of the waters sampled during this study. For example, the implementation of a "train" of passive treatment processes tailored to meet the specific water quality loading requirements and targeted remediation goals in the Beaver Creek watershed are suggested. |
