Gravel Mining and Land Development Can Go Hand in Hand

by Harold F. Bishop, (F.ASCE), Principal; Tipton & Kalbach, Denver, Col.,
Bruce E. Hanna, (M.ASCE), Reinforced Earth Co., Denver, Col.,


Serial Information: Civil Engineering—ASCE, 1979, Vol. 49, Issue 2, Pg. 65-67


Document Type: Feature article

Abstract:

A gravel mine located adjacent to a natural area of delicate ecology, near Boulder, Colorado, has led to new approaches in mining and land reclamation. A method of progressive reclamation concurrent with the mining operation is being employed. When mining and restoration ends after 10 years, the area will include a varied ecological system and wildlife habitat including cattail marshes, lakes for fish, as well as goose and duck nesting, spawning areas, feeding areas for various shore birds and dry grassland communities. Concurrently with the operation a monitoring program compares actual conditions in the field with plan design parameters. At the end of five years of operation, the planned reclamation activities have been accomplished and vegetation is flourishing.

Subject Headings: Land reclamation | Land use | Gravels | Ecological restoration | Wildlife | Vegetation | Shores

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