The surface of the mined mineral (usually coal) is removed. Massive machines such as bucket-wheel excavators are used to remove soil, rocks, and vegetation from the surface of the seam. Open-Pit Mining involves the removal of rock and minerals in an open pit. When they are used to produce dimension stone and building materials, open pits can be called quarries.

Mountaintop Removal Mining is used to extract minerals from the mountain tops. It involves blasting overburden using explosives, above the seam of mineral that will be mined. After the mountaintop has been broken, it is shifted down into valleys to be filled. The more advanced version of gold panning is dredging, whereby a scoop is used to lift richard william warke material on a belt and remove the minerals before the material is returned to the water.

By digging deep into the earth, underground mining can access valuable minerals and ores. Underground mining is used for a variety of hard minerals. These include metals like gold, silver ore, and iron, as well as gems, such as rubies and diamonds. The company must prove they are financially stable and have plans for closing the mine safely and systematically before they can receive a building permit.

Once the deposits are gone, it is time to move to another site. Before they do so, however, the mine must be closed and renovated. Closure and reclamation is the final stage in any mining operation. Before they begin construction, mine companies must have a closure plan in place. Governments need to be assured that the operators are prepared to shut down the mine and have the necessary funds.

Environmental studies are a major part of the plan for mine closure and rehabilitation. The mine rehabilitation program should also address: Many abandoned mines are dangerous, and many are hidden from view. These include horizontal and vertical openings, toxic and explosive chemicals, gasses, and deep water. To make mines safe, mining companies must ensure that they are completely sealed and closed.

Mine companies must remove hazardous wastes and waste materials from their sites during operations and after mine closure.

The reclamation of mining areas involves reestablishing viable soils, and vegetation on the mine site. A simple solution would be to add materials such as lime or neutralize the acidity of soils. Then cover it with topsoil to encourage vegetation. By stabilizing the soil by modifying slopes and using vegetation, you can prevent erosion.

Mine companies must minimize the environmental impact of their mining operations from discovery to closing. The first closure plan is usually focused on the quality of the water and its destination after closure, as well as the amount of water that will be discharged or migrate to the groundwater after flooding.