Methodology for Hydrologic Evaluation of a Potential Surface Mine: Loblolly Branch Basin, Tuscaloosa County, Alabama

摘要

Methodology for evaluation of premining hydrology and postmining effects and reclamation on the hydrology of an area is presented for a potential mine site in northwestern Alabama. Estimation techniques and extrapolation are used to develop data for reconstructed topography, soil-water relations, peak flows, flow volumes, soil losses, and sediment yields. Streamflow response of the basin is described by the variable-source-area concept; nearly all water flows through coarse-textured soils and unconsolidated sand and gravel deposits that are underlain by an impermeable clay zone. The resultant peak discharges are small to moderate, and there is very little erosion of slopes or channels. Susceptibility of the soils to compaction by heavy machines and the effects of compaction on soil-water relations are demonstrated.