Guidelines for Open Pit and Waste Dump Closure

Guidelines for Open Pit and Waste Dump Closure provides a benchmark reference for geotechnical and hydrogeological professionals, and other closure stakeholders, involved in assessing and implementing the closure of open pits and waste dumps. It defines a state-of-best-practice geotechnical and hydrological pathway that reflects current industry-wide experience; considers the perspectives of the operator, regulator and community; and encompasses closure planning, design, implementation and monitoring.

Written by industry experts and practitioners, Guidelines for Open Pit and Waste Dump Closure is the sixth in a series of books developed by the Large Open Pit (LOP) Project. Focused on the technical challenges related to geology, geotechnical engineering, water and geochemistry, it covers the key aspects that relate to closure of open pits and waste dumps, including planning, long-term physical and chemical stability and post mining land use (PMLU). The book also includes workflows that provide clarity on geotechnical and hydrogeological assessments relating to closure planning; definition of pragmatic objectives and measures of success; implementation and monitoring for open pits and waste dumps for closure; and how these may interact with adjacent land uses.

Drawing on global lessons learned on mine closure over a period of more than 30 years, this comprehensive guide uses industry experience to set out a road map to closure and potentially relinquishment of open pits and waste dumps. It will be invaluable for mine closure practitioners, corporate planners, mine management, mining engineers and technical staff, mine stakeholders and regulators.

Phil de Graaf (Giraffe Mining Consultants, previously De Beers/Anglo American)

Geoff Beale (Piteau Associates Engineering)

Trevor Carter (TGC Geoconsultants, previously Golder WSP)