EVALUATION OF THE LAND RECLAMATION PROJECT AT THE AS-PONTES-MINE (NW SPAIN) IN RELATION TO THE SUITABILITY OF THE SOIL FOR PLANT-GROWTH

The reclamation and monitoring methodologies implemented at the mining waste dump at the As Pontes Lignite Mine in Galicia (NW Spain) are br iefly described. In addition the factors affecting achievement of recl amation objectives and an evaluation of the factors limiting plant gro wth on the constructed soils are outlined. The most serious limitation s were found in the oldest mine soils constructed from sulphide-bearin g spoils; high acidity, toxicity, nutrient deficiency, seasonal waterl ogging due to their impermeability, and compaction. The youngest soils were constructed using sulphide-free spoils as topsoil substitutes an d had fewer limitations for plant development. The results show that p roper handling of spoils, and paying special attention to selective pl acement of sulphide bearing materials, are the most important factors in providing a suitable medium for plant growth. (C) 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.