Groundwater quality in abandoned underground coal mine aquifers across West Virginia

First posted September 15, 2023 For additional information, contact: Director, Virginia and West Water Science CenterU.S. Geological Survey1730 East Parham RoadRichmond, VA 23228Contact Pubs Warehouse Abandoned underground coal mine aquifers cover a large part of could supply substantial quantities water for agricultural, industrial, residential, public use. Several Federal, State, academic institutions have studied the availability quality stored in abandoned variety applications, such as economic development, geothermal energy, aquaculture, wastewater disposal. However, spatial stratigraphic controls on produced from are still poorly constrained state-wide basis. In response to these knowledge gaps, U.S. Survey initiated study, cooperation with Department Environmental Protection, understand applicability using existing secondary source data understanding across State.Results calculation net alkalinity indicated that Upper Pennsylvanian beds primarily produce acidic waters Lower alkaline waters. Multivariate statistical analysis elemental supports conclusion northern State generally poor southern good quality. These results substantiate potential benefits leveraging multifaceted resource can be used reconnaissance tool managers characterize local scale.