Groundwater Flow Mechanism at a proposed mining site in South-western Sierra Leone
Journal Title: Advance Research Journal of Multidisciplinary Discoveries - Year 2019, Vol 35, Issue 35
Abstract
Dry mining of titanium group minerals have been introduced in Sierra Leone aimed at replacing dredging, which has been characterized by serious environmental challenges. Considering the importance of keeping the ore dry during the mining process, a baseline study was commissioned in and around the proposed mining site to assess the hydrogeological characteristics of the area. This paper presents the findings of a baseline hydrogeological assessment of the mining site and its immediate environs. Static water levels were measured in boreholes drilled during the mineral exploration phase, which are used in this study to develop a groundwater flow mechanism of the area. Depth to the water table ranges from 1.3m below ground level (bgl) to 11.5m (bgl). A groundwater contour map was developed from the computer code: Surfer8, which is interpreted to show that although flow within the Aquifer is fissure-controlled, lateral flow seems to be rather sluggish compared to the wellestablished vertical gradients. Lateral flow within the shallow aquifer is from east to west with three zones identified to be possible recharge areas. Knowledge of the flow mechanism will enable us to understand the degree to which seasonal variation of the water table will compromise open cast dry mining unless a dewatering protocol is adopted that would ensure the dryness of the ore prior to and during excavation. Monitoring boreholes should be drilled at carefully selected locations to capture time series data that will be used in making informed decisions on the correct timing as well as the most appropriate method of ore excavation.
Authors and Affiliations
Mustapha Olajiday Thomas
Keywords
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