Abstract
Historically, final landforms for waste rock stockpiles consist of linear (in plan), planar slope surfaces with unvarying gradients and angular slope intersections. Slope drainage structures are generally oriented along contours and are highly engineered, while revegetation efforts follow artificial configurations. By contrast most natural slopes are characterized by a variety of shapes (typically concave), and drainage systems follow natural drop lines with catchment sizes defined by undulating relief on the slope. Vegetation on natural slopes grows in discrete vegetation units that are adjusted to hillside hydrogeology, incident solar radiation, and other microclimate effects. This paper reviews the key elements of natural slopes and proposes methodologies for improved design of final landforms, and in particular, methodologies for the reclaimed slopes of waste rock stockpiles. Two case studies are included to demonstrate that natural slope configurations are more stable than highly engineered landforms over the long term. The design methodologies and supporting discussions presented in this paper are also applicable to any above-ground waste storage facility with topographic relief.
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