RAPID: Application of Isotopic Hydrology for Detecting Process Changes in Mountaintop-Mined Catchments

West Virginia University Research Corporation, Morgantown WV

Investigators

Abstract

Mountaintop mining with valley fill (MTM/VF) in the Appalachian region of the eastern US represents a significant alteration of the landscape with a multitude of accompanying processes impacting water quality as well as the risk of floods. In spite of its widespread use and its acknowledged impact on water quality and quantity, the changes in the basic stream processes are poorly defined. This project will collect hydrologic and meteorological data, sample and analyze stream and precipitation for O-18 and deuterium beginning August 2010, prior to the start of mining operations. The project will also measure streamflow and chemistry at the outlet of Sycamore Creek and continually track stream stage.