Preliminary hydrodynamic modeling of the steep rock pit lakes, Atikokan, Ontario

Abstract

Pit lakes are often a planned part of an open pit mine closure where the excavations are expected to flood and water quality is not an issue. Common environmental issues regarding pit lakes include their rebound rate, hydrodynamic behaviour and water quality. The water quality of pit lakes can be influenced by their hydrodynamics, for example overturn of a meromictic pit lake can bring stagnant, dissolved metal laden waters to surface that may be toxic to aquatic life.