Author(s): Helen Locher
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Abstract: The King River power scheme on the west coast of Tasmania, Australia, has reduced peak flows and altered sedimentation patterns in a river subject to extensive mine waste discharge. Aggradation rates in the King River channel increased due to regulated flows, followed by degradation upon cessation of mine waste discharge (post-mine closure). Power station operating patterns caused fluctuations in bed load supply, and pulses in suspended sediment transport. Sediment banks were subject to frequent tailings deposition and scour with water level changes. Bank and bed sediment storages are anticipated to physically stabilise post-mine closure, but chemical leaching of metals will continue into the future.
Year: 1997