Project Background
The Dinero Mine Tunnel, located in the upper Arkansas River area, has been the focus of restoration efforts since 2009, when a bulkhead was installed to improve water quality by reducing metal concentrations in water leaking from the tunnel. While initial results showed some success, the formation of a mine pool behind the bulkhead led to water-quality degradation in nearby areas, particularly affecting Lake Fork Creek. Despite efforts, aquatic-life water-quality standards for zinc are still not met, impacting the recreational fishery in the area. This project aims to restore water quality and rehabilitate critical brown trout habitat in the region.
Approach
The project seeks to develop an innovative, passive treatment solution that can be applied to the Dinero mine pool and potentially other similar sites. This treatment would be developed through extensive site assessment and research, focusing on creating a technology that could improve water quality and enhance the fishery in Lake Fork Creek. The project will be executed in multiple phases, including geophysical surveys, water-quality analysis, drilling for water samples, and bench-scale testing of treatment methods. These efforts will culminate in a strategy for potential full-scale implementation.
Project Phases
- Geophysical Surveys: Delineate the extent of the mine pool using surface geophysical techniques and water-quality data.
- Water-Quality Analysis: Assess the geochemistry of mine pool outflows to identify effective treatment techniques.
- Drilling Wells: Drill wells into the Dinero tunnel to sample water and create injection points for treatment materials.
- Bench-Scale Testing: Test potential treatment methods in the laboratory using water from the mine pool.
- Treatment Strategy Development: Summarize findings and develop a treatment strategy that could be applied at the Dinero site and other similar locations.
Expected Outcome
The project aims to improve water quality in Lake Fork Creek, leading to healthier fish populations and enhanced recreational opportunities. Additionally, the project will generate a verified treatment technology that could be utilized at other abandoned mine land (AML) sites facing similar challenges.
Why Now?
Starting the investigative work now allows ARWC and its partners to develop a ready-to-implement solution. This proactive approach ensures that the project can move forward swiftly, benefiting both the Dinero site and other AML sites across the region.