Treating acid mine drainage using passive treatment systems means a minimum of operation and maintenance, right? When compared to conventional chemical treatment systems, the answer is a resounding, “yes.”

However, there is still operation and maintenance work to be done regarding passive systems! Keeping in mind that passive treatment is still a relatively new technology, it is understood that periodic inspections and system maintenance are necessary for the facilities to continually and successfully treat the mine drainage.

The Slippery Rock Creek Watershed Coalition, through a volunteer effort, works to maintain the passive systems, and to help with this effort an Operation and Maintenance Manual for all projects within the Slippery Rock Watershed is being completed.

The Plan consists of the following components, which are available for download from www.Datashed.org :

· An overview of AMD and related chemistry;

· Detailed information regarding different types and components of passive treatment systems;

· Instructions for conducting site inspections and completing maintenance tasks;

· Site location maps; and

· Individualized inspection forms for each reclamation project.

The comprehensive O&M Plan, portions of which were created based on the example from P.J. Shaw of the DEP Bureau of Abandoned Mine Reclamation, outlines and details the work needed to ensure the sustainability of the watershed’s passive systems.

The SRWC’s O&M Manual was completed through a public-private partnership which includes: BioMost, Inc., Jennings Environmental Education Center, DEP’s Bureau of Abandoned Mine Reclamation, DEP’s Grants Center, DEP’s Knox District Mining Office, Quality Aggregates, the Slippery Rock Creek Watershed Coalition, Stream Restoration, Inc. and 241 Computer Service.

Funding for the Manual was provided through a Technical Assistance Grant awarded to Stream Restoration, Inc. through DEP’s Growing Greener Program.

The SRWC is taking an “active” role using “passive” treatment systems to fix the problems caused by AMD. The SRWC is very excited about how this comprehensive O&M Manual will benefit the watershed and those who play a role in caring for its restoration. (Reprinted from The Catalyst, Slippery Rock Creek Watershed Coalition)

2/23/2007