An analysis of small stream networks located on reclaimed surface coal mines, Morgantown, West Virginia (West Virginia)

Data were gathered at four study areas located approximately 8 km outside of Morgantown, WV in order to assess any impacts to small stream networks due to surface coal mining and reclamation. Two data sets were created using the pre-mining and post-reclamation topography. The pre-mining data set was generated using permit maps of each mined area, and application of Lubowe's (1964) rules for mapping stream channel networks on topographic maps. Data for the second set were gathered through field mapping and measuring of drainage networks at each area. Results differed within a given permit area for individual watersheds. Drainage density decreased by an average of 48.8 percent between pre-mining and post-reclamation drainage networks. Bifurcation ratios at each reclaimed area increased, indicating that disconnectivity of the drainage networks also increased through reclamation. Field observations revealed additional impacts commonly located near channel truncations, including severe drainage development and backfill slumps.