The sediment data required for pond design are the particle size distribution and total sediment

yield
during a runoff event. The design of a pond occurs during the planning stages before actual mining
starts. Therefore, Information on the particle size distribution of the sediment runoff from the disturbed
area is not generally available for the specific site . The following sections discuss the methods of
obtaining sediment size distribution and sediment yield.

Influent Sediment Size Distribution

The most important sediment data required to design a sedimentation pond to meet effluent limitations
is the particle size distribution of the sediment influent. The particle size distribution should represent
the worst condition during the life of the mine. From past and present experience, the worst condition
occurs during the reclamation phase. Two conditions during the reclamation phase must be considered.

The first condition to be considered is before the topsoil or "A" horizon has been replaced. The soil
which is eroded, and hence the influent particle size distribution, will be represented by the graded
overburden. The second condition to beconsidered is after the topsoil or "A" horizon has been replaced.
for this condition, the particle size distribution of the eroded soil will be represented by the topsoil.
Whichever condition results in a particle size distribution with the highest percentage of particle sizes in
the silt range (0.001 to 0.074 m) will be selected for the design influent particle size distribution. The
best way to estimate the particle size distribution is to obtain size distribution Information from
previous and nearby mining operations. When mining operations within the same area or areas with the
same soil texture exist, determination of particle size distributions of sediment runoff from existing
analysis can be used. Before a particle size distribution from a nearby site is used, several considerations
and comparisons must be made so the information does represent the site under consideration.

1. Soil characteristics at both sites should be very similar including soil types below the surface which are
disturbed during mining.

2. Slopes, drainage, and sediment transport characteristics of both sites should be evaluated and
compared.

3. The type of mining and amount of area disturbed at both sites should be evaluated.

4. Data from as many samples and sites should be collected and evaluated to provide a good estimate.

5. The magnitude of the runoff event during which the sample was collected should be considered.