DESCRIPTION

The Reclamation Research Unit is a multidisciplinary staff of teaching and research professionals committed to the reclamation and restoration of drastically disturbed or altered lands. Natural resources and ecosystems are often impaired by human development. In the Western U.S. mining for coal and metals is a frequent cause of ecological impairment including polluted soil and water resources resulting from past mining activity. The staff of the Reclamation Research Unit is dedicated to the development of techniques, methods and procedures to address the repair of damaged landscapes and water resources.

SERVICE AND ACTIVITIES

The Reclamation Research Unit has two primary focuses: Teaching and research. Both undergraduate and graduate level programs (M.S.) are offered for students interested in the focus of the Center for Reclamation Research. Research activities include both pure and applied efforts focused on ecological processes and environmental reclamation. Applied research in partnership with State and Federal Agencies in cooperation with industry.

AREA OF CONCENTRATION

Acid mine drainage, vadose zone water transport, groundwater quality in land adjacent to mining disturbances and reclaimed cyanide heap leach pad water quality.

GEOGRAPHIC SCOPE OF ACTIVITES

Montana and Northern Rockies

TYPE OF ORGANIZATION

University