Environmental Monitoring at Mining Localities in New South Wales

Abstract

The environmental monitoring programme undertaken by the Department of Nines has comprised regular water sampling since 1971 and stream sediment sampling since 1976. The programme has been able to quantitatively express the degree of pollution which has been directly or indirectly caused by mining. The results of the programme have been used to highlight areas where rehabilitation is required and to demonstrate the effectiveness of rehabilitation undertaken at mining sites. The programme should be continued in those areas where more data is required.