Integrated Geophysical Characterization Of Mine-Waste Sites In The Coeur D’Alene Mining District, Idaho

As part of a study aimed at testing and developing effective and thorough<br>characterization procedures, the U.S. Bureau of Mines (USBM) Mine Site<br>Characterization Program is assessing the application of several surface<br>geophysical techniques to characterize heavy-metal mine wastes in northern Idaho.<br>Site characterization is fundamental to conducting accurate risk assessments and<br>for subsequent remediation plans, if proven necessary. Integrating geophysics<br>with the application of geology, metallurgy, physical chemistry, surface and<br>ground water hydrology, environmental science, geostatistics, and other<br>appropriate disciplines produces an interdisciplinary or “holistic” approach which<br>can significantly improve the quality and accuracy of characterization.<br>Furthermore, it is believed that selective application of minimally invasive,<br>integrated geophysical techniques will reduce disturbance of potentially hazardous<br>materials while decreasing the time and cost of the investigation. This paper<br>briefly describes the purpose, scope, and current status of an ongoing project.