Geochemical data
related to AMD for the West Coast and Southland regions have been collated into
a relational database and GIS system. The types of information include; rock
geochemical data, water chemistry data and aquatic macro-invertebrate abundance
data. This information will be combined with eco-toxicology experiments to
determine impact thresholds on aquatic ecosystems. Ultimately these datasets
will be combined with remediation investigations to produce a Framework to
assist decision making related to mine planning, consent and
compliance.

Current geochemical
research examines the controls on As concentrations downstream of gold mining
areas and the variability of AMD from Brunner Coal Measure rocks. Assessment of
factors that control the chemistry of Brunner Coal Measure AMD such as mine
type, hydrogeology, geology, geochemistry and climate is in progress. Minerals
that control the concentration of aluminium downstream of AMD point sources
include alunite, jurbanite and various forms of
Al(OH)3.