Mining Industry Hazardous Waste Disposal

Comprehensive Hazardous Waste Management for Mining Operations

Mining operations generate diverse hazardous waste streams from extraction, processing, and support activities. From equipment maintenance waste and explosives residues to mineral processing chemicals and acid mine drainage treatment, Hazardous Waste Disposal provides specialized waste management services for coal mines, metal mines, industrial mineral operations, and mining support facilities nationwide.

Call (800) 582-4833 for mining industry waste disposal services or email info@hazardouswastedisposal.com

Understanding Mining Industry Hazardous Waste

The mining industry extracts essential raw materials including coal, metals (copper, gold, silver, iron, zinc, lead, uranium), and industrial minerals (limestone, phosphate, potash, salt, trona, sand and gravel). Mining operations generate substantial hazardous waste from mobile equipment maintenance, ore processing, environmental controls, and support facilities.

Why Mining Waste Requires Specialized Management

Mining industry waste differs from other industrial waste due to:

Remote Locations: Many mines operate in rural or isolated areas far from disposal facilities, requiring specialized logistics and transportation planning. The 270-day accumulation extension for Small Quantity Generators is commonly utilized by mining operations due to distances to disposal facilities.

Scale of Operations: Large mining operations are among America's biggest industrial facilities, generating substantial waste quantities. Major copper mines, coal mines, and phosphate operations may be Large Quantity Generators requiring comprehensive RCRA compliance programs.

Mobile Equipment Fleet: Mining uses massive mobile equipment (haul trucks, draglines, shovels, loaders, drills) requiring extensive maintenance generating hydraulic fluids, oils, greases, antifreeze, and petroleum products in large quantities.

Explosives Use: Mining depends on controlled blasting using ANFO (ammonium nitrate/fuel oil), emulsion explosives, and blasting agents creating explosive residues, contaminated materials, and specialized waste requiring expert handling.

Mineral Processing Chemicals: Ore beneficiation and mineral processing use flotation reagents, leaching chemicals, pH modifiers, flocculants, and process chemicals generating chemical waste streams.

Environmental Controls: Modern mining implements extensive environmental protection including acid mine drainage treatment, groundwater remediation, dust suppression, and reclamation creating treatment residues and chemical waste.

Legacy Issues: Historical mining left environmental legacies including abandoned mines, contaminated sites, and ongoing remediation generating cleanup waste and treatment residues requiring long-term management.

Regulatory Complexity: Mining faces EPA RCRA hazardous waste regulations, MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) safety requirements, state mining regulations, water quality standards, air quality requirements, and reclamation obligations creating complex compliance environment.

Mining Industry Waste We Handle

Mobile Equipment Maintenance Waste

Mining's massive mobile equipment fleet generates the largest volume of hazardous waste at most mining operations.

Mining Equipment Types:

Ultra-class haul trucks (400-ton capacity):

  • Caterpillar 797F: 400-ton capacity, 4,000 horsepower, 1,000+ gallon fuel tank

  • Komatsu 980E-4: Electric drive haul truck

  • Liebherr T 282C: World's largest haul truck (400+ tons)

Hydraulic excavators and shovels:

  • Caterpillar 6090 FS: Ultra-high-density mining shovel

  • Komatsu PC8000: 800-ton excavator

  • Liebherr R 9800: Large mining excavator

Draglines (coal mining):

  • Bucyrus-Erie/Caterpillar draglines: Massive stripping equipment

  • Marion draglines (historical)

Wheel loaders and dozers:

  • Caterpillar D11: Largest production dozer

  • Komatsu WA1200: Largest wheel loader

Drill rigs:

  • Pit Viper rotary blasthole drills: Caterpillar/Bucyrus

  • Atlas Copco/Epiroc SmartROC: Down-the-hole drills

Continuous miners and longwall equipment (underground coal):

  • Joy Global/Komatsu continuous miners

  • Longwall shearers and supports

Equipment Maintenance Waste Streams:

Hydraulic fluids:

  • Excavators hold 500-2,000 gallons hydraulic fluid

  • Haul trucks 200-500 gallons

  • Dozers and loaders 100-300 gallons

  • Hydraulic fluid changes, leak cleanup, hose failures

  • Contaminated hydraulic fluids requiring disposal

Engine oils and lubricants:

  • Haul truck engines hold 150-300 gallons oil

  • Oil change intervals generate substantial used oil

  • Transmission fluids (100+ gallons per haul truck)

  • Final drive oils

  • Gear oils for differentials and transmissions

Antifreeze and coolants:

  • Cooling systems holding 200-500 gallons per large haul truck

  • Ethylene glycol antifreeze (toxic)

  • Extended life coolants

  • Contaminated coolant requiring disposal

Diesel fuel waste:

  • Fuel system maintenance and cleaning

  • Contaminated fuel (water, dirt, microbial growth)

  • Fuel filter housings and sumps

  • Tank bottom sludge from fuel storage tanks

  • Spill cleanup materials

Greases and lubricants:

  • Bearing greases

  • Chassis lubrication waste

  • Cable lubricants

  • Specialty greases for extreme conditions

Brake fluids:

  • Hydraulic brake systems on haul trucks

  • Pneumatic brake system waste

Batteries:

  • Large lead-acid batteries (multiple batteries per haul truck, 1,500+ pounds total)

  • Battery acid and lead contamination

  • Universal waste regulations apply

Contaminated shop materials:

  • Oil-soaked rags and absorbents

  • Parts washer fluids and contaminated parts

  • Cleaning solvents and degreasers

  • Spill cleanup materials

  • Used oil filters (can be crushed and recycled or disposed as hazardous waste)

  • Contaminated personal protective equipment

Major Mining Equipment Manufacturers:

  • Caterpillar: Leading mining equipment supplier globally

  • Komatsu: Major equipment manufacturer

  • Liebherr: European manufacturer with U.S. presence

  • Hitachi Construction: Mining excavators and haul trucks

  • Joy Global/Komatsu Mining: Underground equipment specialist

  • Sandvik: Underground mining and rock drilling equipment

  • Atlas Copco/Epiroc: Drilling equipment and rock tools

  • Terex/Unit Rig: Haul trucks (historical)

Explosives and Blasting Waste

Mining depends on controlled blasting for ore and overburden removal, creating explosive-related waste.

Explosives Types Used in Mining:

ANFO (Ammonium Nitrate/Fuel Oil):

  • Most common mining explosive

  • Ammonium nitrate prills mixed with diesel fuel (94% AN / 6% fuel oil)

  • Manufactured on-site at large operations using mobile mixing trucks

  • Loaded directly into blastholes

Emulsion explosives:

  • Water-in-oil emulsion sensitized with microballoons or chemical gassing

  • Pumped into blastholes from mobile mixing trucks

  • More water-resistant than ANFO

  • Higher energy than ANFO

Packaged explosives:

  • Dynamite (declining use)

  • Water gels and slurries

  • Boosters and primers

  • Cartridged products for smaller operations

Blasting accessories:

  • Electric detonators

  • Non-electric shock tube systems (Nonel)

  • Electronic detonators (precise timing)

  • Detonating cord (Primacord)

  • Blasting caps

Explosive Waste Streams:

Misfires and duds:

  • Explosives that failed to detonate during blast

  • Require careful handling and disposal

  • Must be managed by certified blasters

  • Disposal at approved explosive disposal facilities

Explosive residues:

  • Ammonium nitrate contamination from spills

  • Emulsion residues from loading equipment

  • Explosive packaging materials

  • Contaminated materials from blasting operations

Contaminated water:

  • Water from blastholes containing explosive residues

  • Cleaning waste from mixing and loading equipment

  • Stormwater contaminated with explosive materials

Obsolete or deteriorated explosives:

  • Expired dynamite (nitroglycerin sweating)

  • Degraded explosives no longer safe to use

  • Recalled explosive products

Blasting agent storage and mixing waste:

  • Ammonium nitrate spills and contamination

  • Fuel oil contamination

  • Mixing equipment cleaning waste

Regulatory Requirements:

  • ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) regulates explosive storage, use, and disposal

  • Explosive materials licenses required

  • DOT regulations for explosive transportation (Class 1 materials)

  • Disposal only at ATF-approved facilities

  • Open burning/open detonation (OB/OD) at approved sites

  • Closed chamber detonation systems

Major Explosives Suppliers to Mining:

  • Dyno Nobel: Leading mining explosives manufacturer

  • Orica: Global explosives and blasting services

  • AEL Mining Services: Explosives manufacturer

  • MAXAM: International explosives company

  • Austin Powder: North American explosives manufacturer

  • Nelson Brothers: Explosives distribution and services

Mineral Processing and Beneficiation Chemicals

Ore processing uses chemicals for separation, concentration, and preparation creating chemical waste.

Flotation Reagents (for sulfide and oxide ore processing):

Collectors:

  • Xanthates (sodium ethyl xanthate, potassium amyl xanthate): Sulfide mineral flotation

  • Dithiophosphates: Alternative sulfide collectors

  • Fatty acids: Non-sulfide mineral flotation (phosphate, iron ore)

  • Amines: Reverse flotation, silica removal

Frothers:

  • MIBC (methyl isobutyl carbinol): Common frother

  • Pine oil: Traditional frother

  • Polyglycol ethers: Synthetic frothers

Modifiers:

  • Lime (calcium oxide): pH control, pyrite depression

  • Sodium cyanide: Pyrite depression in copper-gold flotation

  • Sodium sulfide: Sulfidization of oxide minerals

  • Copper sulfate: Sphalerite activation

  • Starch: Talc depression

  • Sodium silicate: Gangue depression

Depressants:

  • Sodium cyanide: Pyrite depression (highly toxic)

  • Zinc sulfate: Sphalerite depression

  • Sodium sulfite: Sulfide mineral depression

  • Quebracho: Organic depressant

Flotation Waste Streams:

  • Expired or off-specification reagents

  • Spilled flotation chemicals

  • Equipment cleaning waste

  • Container rinse water

  • Laboratory testing chemicals

Cyanide Heap Leaching (gold and silver mining):

Process:

  • Dilute sodium cyanide solution (200-500 ppm) percolated through crushed ore

  • Gold and silver dissolve as cyanide complexes

  • Pregnant solution recovered from heap base

  • Metals recovered by carbon adsorption or zinc precipitation

Cyanide Waste:

  • Spent cyanide solution (after metal recovery)

  • Barren solution recycled but eventually requires disposal

  • Cyanide-contaminated materials

  • Spill cleanup waste

  • Equipment cleaning and maintenance waste

Cyanide Detoxification:

  • SO2/air oxidation (Inco process)

  • Hydrogen peroxide oxidation

  • Alkaline chlorination

  • Caro's acid treatment

  • Natural degradation in tailings impoundments

Regulatory Requirements:

  • Sodium cyanide extremely toxic (fatal dose <200 mg)

  • RCRA P-listed waste (P030) if pure cyanide compounds

  • Cyanide cannot be mixed with acids (releases hydrogen cyanide gas - fatal)

  • Transportation as hazardous material (UN 1689)

  • Worker safety critical (cyanide antidote kits required)

Acid Leaching (copper oxide, uranium, rare earth ores):

Sulfuric acid leaching:

  • Copper oxide ores: H2SO4 leaching, SX-EW recovery

  • Uranium ores: Acid or alkaline leaching

  • Rare earth elements: Acid digestion

Acid Waste:

  • Spent sulfuric acid

  • Neutralization waste (gypsum, metal hydroxides)

  • Equipment cleaning acids

  • Tank cleaning residues

Other Mineral Processing Chemicals:

Flocculants and coagulants:

  • Polyacrylamide flocculants: Thickening and clarification

  • Ferric sulfate/ferric chloride: Coagulants

  • Alum (aluminum sulfate): Water treatment

pH modifiers:

  • Lime (calcium oxide/hydroxide): Raise pH

  • Sulfuric acid: Lower pH

  • Caustic soda (sodium hydroxide): pH adjustment

Grinding aids:

  • Sodium silicate: Grinding efficiency

  • Glycols: Grinding improvement

Major Mining Chemical Suppliers:

  • Cytec Industries (now Solvay): Flotation reagents

  • BASF: Mining chemicals

  • Clariant: Specialty mining chemicals

  • Kemira: Flocculants and chemicals

  • SNF: Flocculants and polymers

  • Solenis: Water treatment and process chemicals

  • Nalco (Ecolab): Mining chemicals and water treatment

Acid Mine Drainage Treatment Waste

Acid mine drainage (AMD) is major environmental issue requiring ongoing treatment generating waste.

Acid Mine Drainage Formation:

  • Sulfide minerals (pyrite - FeS2) exposed to air and water oxidize

  • Forms sulfuric acid and dissolved metals

  • Continues indefinitely once started (hundreds of years)

  • Major issue at coal mines and metal sulfide mines

AMD Treatment Methods:

Active treatment:

  • Lime/limestone addition: Neutralize acidity, precipitate metals

  • Sodium hydroxide: pH adjustment

  • Anoxic limestone drains: Passive treatment

  • Successive alkalinity producing systems (SAPS)

Treatment Waste Streams:

  • Metal hydroxide sludge (iron, aluminum, manganese hydroxides)

  • Gypsum formation from lime and sulfuric acid

  • Filter press cakes and dewatered sludge

  • Contaminated filter media

Characterization:

  • AMD treatment sludge may be hazardous (heavy metals)

  • Testing required for TCLP metals (lead, cadmium, chromium, etc.)

  • High-volume waste generation at some sites

  • Often managed in permitted sludge disposal facilities

Long-Term AMD Treatment:

  • Abandoned mine sites require perpetual treatment

  • Bond release contingent on water quality compliance

  • Treatment plant operation and maintenance

  • Ongoing waste generation requiring disposal

Water Treatment and Groundwater Remediation Waste

Mining operations implement extensive water management creating waste.

Process Water Treatment:

  • Clarification and thickening chemicals

  • Flocculants and coagulants

  • pH adjustment chemicals

  • Disinfection chemicals (chlorine, chlorine dioxide)

Drinking Water Treatment:

  • Remote mining camps operate water treatment plants

  • Filtration media replacement

  • Reverse osmosis membrane disposal

  • Disinfection chemical waste

Groundwater Remediation:

  • Pump-and-treat systems for contaminated groundwater

  • Ion exchange resins

  • Carbon adsorption systems

  • Chemical precipitation

  • Generated waste includes treatment residues and contaminated materials

Wastewater Treatment:

  • Sewage treatment at mine camps

  • Industrial wastewater treatment

  • Stormwater treatment

  • Treatment chemicals and residues

Mine Dewatering and Pit Water Management

Mines often require continuous dewatering to access ore.

Dewatering Systems:

  • Submersible pumps in pit sumps

  • Well point systems

  • Deep wells around pit perimeter

  • Horizontal drains

Water Treatment Before Discharge:

  • pH adjustment (acid or alkaline water)

  • Suspended solids removal

  • Metals precipitation

  • Selenium removal (Western U.S. mines)

  • Treatment chemical waste

Pit Lake Formation:

  • Open pit mines flood after closure creating pit lakes

  • Water quality management required

  • Long-term monitoring

  • Potential treatment requirements

Laboratory and Analytical Testing Waste

Mine sites operate laboratories for process control and environmental monitoring.

Analytical Laboratories:

  • Assay laboratories (ore grade determination)

  • Process control labs (flotation performance)

  • Environmental labs (water quality, air quality)

  • Geochemical labs (exploration support)

Laboratory Waste:

  • Acids (sulfuric, hydrochloric, nitric, aqua regia for ore digestion)

  • Organic solvents (sample extraction)

  • Heavy metal standards and reagents

  • Quality control materials

  • Contaminated labware

  • Expired chemicals

Sample Preparation:

  • Fire assay for precious metals (lead oxide, borax fluxes)

  • Acid digestion residues

  • Sample pulverizing and splitting waste

Field Testing:

  • Portable XRF (x-ray fluorescence) analyzers

  • Field water testing kits

  • Reagents and consumables

Fuel Storage and Distribution Waste

Large mining operations maintain substantial fuel storage and distribution systems.

Fuel Types:

  • Diesel fuel (primary fuel for mining equipment)

  • Gasoline (light vehicles, small equipment)

  • Propane (forklifts, heating)

  • Jet fuel (at mines with airstrips)

Fuel System Waste:

  • Tank bottom sludge (water, dirt, microbial growth)

  • Contaminated fuel requiring disposal

  • Filter vessel cleaning waste

  • Line flushing and cleaning waste

  • Spill cleanup materials

  • Fuel-soaked soils from leaks

Fuel Storage Tank Issues:

  • Underground storage tanks (UST) leaks and closures

  • Aboveground storage tanks (AST) cleaning and maintenance

  • Spill prevention, control, and countermeasure (SPCC) compliance

  • Tank inspection and testing waste

Mining Camp and Facility Waste

Remote mining operations often include worker housing, offices, and support facilities.

Maintenance Facilities:

  • Heavy equipment repair shops

  • Parts washing solvents

  • Lubricants and hydraulic fluids

  • Paint and coatings

  • Welding waste

  • Battery maintenance

Vehicle Maintenance:

  • Light vehicle maintenance (pickup trucks, SUVs, crew carriers)

  • Oil changes and fluid services

  • Antifreeze and coolant

  • Brake fluid

Power Generation:

  • Diesel generators for remote camps

  • Used oil and filters

  • Coolant and antifreeze

  • Fuel system maintenance

HVAC Systems:

  • Refrigerants from air conditioning (R-410A, other refrigerants)

  • Heating system waste

  • Boiler treatment chemicals

General Facility Waste:

  • Cleaning chemicals and supplies

  • Paint and maintenance materials

  • Universal waste (fluorescent bulbs, batteries, electronics)

  • Pesticides for grounds maintenance

Exploration and Drilling Waste

Mineral exploration generates waste from drilling and testing.

Drilling Fluids:

  • Water-based drilling muds

  • Polymer additives

  • Bentonite and clay muds

  • Drilling fluid additives

Drilling Waste:

  • Spent drilling fluids

  • Drill cuttings (may contain minerals of concern)

  • Equipment cleaning waste

  • Lubricants and greases for drill rigs

Geochemical Sampling:

  • Soil and rock sampling

  • Stream sediment sampling

  • Field chemical testing

  • Reagents and testing supplies

Reclamation and Closure Waste

Mine reclamation generates waste during closure and post-closure activities.

Equipment Decommissioning:

  • Processing plant demolition

  • Equipment removal and disposal

  • Fluid draining from decommissioned equipment

  • Contaminated structural materials

Building Demolition:

  • Hazardous material abatement (asbestos, lead paint)

  • Chemical removal from laboratories

  • Fuel tank removal and cleaning

  • Underground utility removal

Site Remediation:

  • Contaminated soil removal

  • Groundwater treatment

  • Surface water treatment

  • Waste rock and tailings management

Long-Term Monitoring:

  • Water quality monitoring equipment

  • Treatment system maintenance

  • Sampling and testing waste

Types of Mining Operations We Serve

Coal Mining

Coal remains important energy source and metallurgical feedstock with operations nationwide.

Surface Coal Mining:

Mountaintop Removal (Appalachia):

  • Large-scale overburden removal exposing coal seams

  • Massive draglines and shovels

  • Extensive blasting operations

  • Major equipment maintenance waste

Contour Mining:

  • Bench-type mining following coal seam outcrop

  • Common in hilly terrain

  • Dozer and loader operations

Area Mining:

  • Flat-terrain coal extraction

  • Dragline operations removing overburden

  • Widespread in Powder River Basin (Wyoming/Montana), Illinois Basin

Strip Mining:

  • Thin overburden, shallow coal

  • Shovel and truck operations

Major Coal Mining Regions:

  • Powder River Basin (Wyoming/Montana): Largest U.S. coal production, low-sulfur sub-bituminous coal

  • Appalachia (West Virginia, Kentucky, Virginia, Pennsylvania): Bituminous coal, mountaintop removal

  • Illinois Basin (Illinois, Indiana, Western Kentucky): Bituminous coal, area mining

  • Western U.S. (Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, North Dakota): Sub-bituminous and lignite

Underground Coal Mining:

Longwall Mining:

  • Highly mechanized, high-production method

  • Longwall shearer cutting coal from face

  • Hydraulic roof supports

  • Continuous conveying to surface

  • Significant hydraulic fluid use

Continuous Miner/Room and Pillar:

  • Continuous mining machines cutting coal

  • Room and pillar layout

  • Shuttle cars or conveyors for coal transport

  • Roof bolting for support

Underground Equipment:

  • Joy Global/Komatsu continuous miners

  • Sandvik longwall shearers

  • Roof bolters and support equipment

  • Underground haulage (rail, belt conveyors)

  • Ventilation systems

Coal Mining Companies:

  • Peabody Energy: Largest U.S. coal producer

  • Arch Resources: Major coal company

  • Cloud Peak Energy: Powder River Basin (filed bankruptcy 2019)

  • Alliance Resource Partners: Appalachian and Illinois Basin coal

  • Consol Energy: Appalachian coal and gas

  • Alpha Metallurgical Resources: Metallurgical coal

  • Warrior Met Coal: Metallurgical coal (Alabama)

  • Westmoreland Coal (bankruptcy, restructured)

  • Navajo Transitional Energy Company: Western coal

Coal Preparation Plants:

  • Crushing and sizing coal

  • Dense medium separation (magnetite, ferrosilicon)

  • Froth flotation for fine coal recovery

  • Dewatering (screens, centrifuges, filters)

  • Thermal drying

  • Chemical waste from processing

Metal Mining

Metal mining extracts copper, gold, silver, iron, zinc, lead, molybdenum, and other metals.

Copper Mining:

Copper is largest metal mining sector by value in United States.

Porphyry Copper Deposits (open pit):

  • Low-grade ore (0.3-1% copper)

  • Massive scale operations

  • Truck and shovel mining

  • Sulfide ore processing by grinding and flotation

Major Copper Mines:

  • Morenci Mine (Arizona): Freeport-McMoRan, largest U.S. copper mine

  • Bagdad Mine (Arizona): Freeport-McMoRan

  • Sierrita Mine (Arizona): Freeport-McMoRan

  • Bingham Canyon (Utah): Rio Tinto/Kennecott, largest man-made excavation

  • Robinson Mine (Nevada): KGHM

  • Ray Mine (Arizona): ASARCO

  • Mission Mine (Arizona): ASARCO/Americas Mining

  • Safford Mine (Arizona): Freeport-McMoRan

  • Miami/Carlota (Arizona): Capstone Mining/THEMAC

Copper Processing:

  • Grinding to liberate copper minerals

  • Flotation concentrating copper sulfides

  • Concentrate contains 20-30% copper

  • Tailings disposal in impoundments

  • Flotation reagent waste

Copper Oxide Leaching:

  • Heap leaching with sulfuric acid

  • Solvent extraction concentrating copper

  • Electrowinning producing copper cathode

  • Sulfuric acid and process chemical waste

Gold Mining:

Open Pit Gold Mining:

  • Low-grade ore (grams per ton gold)

  • Large-scale operations

  • Truck and shovel mining

Major Gold Mines:

  • Carlin Trend (Nevada): Newmont, Barrick - world's largest gold district

  • Goldstrike/Cortez (Nevada): Barrick Gold

  • Gold Quarry/Leeville (Nevada): Newmont

  • Round Mountain (Nevada): Kinross Gold

  • Fort Knox (Alaska): Kinross Gold

  • Haile Gold Mine (South Carolina): OceanaGold

  • Mesquite Mine (California): Equinox Gold

Gold Processing:

  • Crushing and grinding ore

  • Cyanide heap leaching (most common)

  • Carbon-in-pulp (CIP) or carbon-in-leach (CIL) for higher-grade ores

  • Gold recovery from carbon

  • Cyanide management and detoxification

Silver Mining:

  • Often byproduct of copper, gold, lead-zinc mining

  • Coeur d'Alene district (Idaho) - historic major silver producer

  • Nevada silver mines

Iron Ore Mining:

Taconite Mining (Minnesota, Michigan):

  • Low-grade iron formation (20-30% iron)

  • Magnetic separation concentrating magnetite

  • Pelletizing to produce iron ore pellets

Major Iron Mines:

  • Mesabi Iron Range (Minnesota): Multiple mines, taconite operations

  • Marquette Iron Range (Michigan): Taconite mining

  • Cleveland-Cliffs: Major U.S. iron ore producer

Molybdenum Mining:

  • Often byproduct of copper mining

  • Henderson Mine (Colorado): Freeport-McMoRan underground molybdenum

  • Climax Mine (Colorado): Historical molybdenum, restarting

Lead and Zinc Mining:

  • Missouri Lead Belt: Lead mining district

  • Red Dog Mine (Alaska): Teck Resources, world-class zinc mine

  • Historical lead-zinc districts (Coeur d'Alene Idaho, Tri-State district)

Uranium Mining:

  • Smith Ranch-Highland (Wyoming): Uranium One in-situ recovery

  • Crow Butte (Nebraska): Cameco in-situ recovery

  • Historical underground uranium mines (Colorado Plateau, Grants Mineral Belt NM)

  • In-situ recovery (ISR) leach mining

Rare Earth Elements:

  • Mountain Pass (California): MP Materials, rare earth mine restarted

  • Exploration and development projects

Industrial Minerals Mining

Industrial minerals include materials for construction, chemicals, and manufacturing.

Phosphate Mining (Florida, Idaho, North Carolina, Utah):

Florida Phosphate District:

  • Mosaic Company: Major phosphate producer

  • The Mosaic Company: Four Corners Mine, South Fort Meade, Ona, others

  • Strip mining of phosphate matrix

  • Beneficiation by washing and flotation

  • Phosphoric acid production

  • Fertilizer manufacturing

Phosphate Processing:

  • Matrix mining and washing

  • Flotation concentrating phosphate

  • Phosphoric acid production (sulfuric acid reaction)

  • Fertilizer production (DAP, MAP, other)

  • Gypsum waste (phosphogypsum stacks)

  • Process chemical waste

Idaho Phosphate:

  • J.R. Simplot: Smoky Canyon Mine (recently closed)

  • Bayer/Nutrien: Underground phosphate mines

  • Selenium contamination concerns

Trona Mining (Wyoming):

Green River Basin Trona Deposits:

  • World's largest known trona (sodium sesquicarbonate) deposit

  • Underground room and pillar mining

  • Processing to soda ash (sodium carbonate)

Trona Producers:

  • FMC Corporation: Trona mining and soda ash production

  • Genesis Alkali (Tata Chemicals): Soda ash

  • Solvay Chemicals: Trona and soda ash

  • OCI Chemical: Wyoming soda ash

Potash Mining:

  • Carlsbad, New Mexico: Intrepid Potash, Mosaic

  • Potassium chloride for fertilizer

  • Underground mining and solution mining

Salt Mining:

  • Rock salt (halite) mining

  • Solution mining (brine extraction)

  • Detroit Salt Company (underground)

  • Cargill, Morton Salt operations

Limestone and Aggregates:

  • Crushed stone for construction

  • Cement production (limestone)

  • Lime production (chemical and steel industries)

  • Aggregate operations nationwide

  • Martin Marietta, Vulcan Materials, CRH, others

Gypsum Mining:

  • Wallboard production

  • Cement retardant

  • National Gypsum, USG, Georgia-Pacific

Borates:

  • Boron, California: Rio Tinto borates

  • Borax and boric acid production

Lithium:

  • Silver Peak, Nevada: Albemarle brine lithium

  • Exploration and development for battery materials

Sand and Gravel / Aggregates

Construction aggregates produced at thousands of sites nationwide.

Sand and Gravel Operations:

  • River and glacial deposits

  • Washing and classification

  • Concrete aggregate, road base, fill material

Industrial Sand:

  • Frac sand for oil and gas (silica sand)

  • Glass sand

  • Foundry sand

  • Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, Texas frac sand

Aggregate Companies:

  • Vulcan Materials: Largest U.S. aggregates producer

  • Martin Marietta: Aggregates and cement

  • CRH (Oldcastle): Aggregates and building materials

  • Heidelberg Materials (Lehigh Hanson): Aggregates and cement

  • Summit Materials

  • Thousands of smaller regional producers

Mining Waste Regulations

EPA RCRA Hazardous Waste Regulations

Mining operations must comply with RCRA hazardous waste requirements.

Generator Categories for Mining Operations:

Large Quantity Generators (LQGs): Large mining operations often qualify as LQGs:

  • Generate ≥1,000 kg per month hazardous waste

  • Major copper, coal, gold, phosphate mines

  • 90-day accumulation limit

  • Comprehensive compliance requirements

Small Quantity Generators (SQGs): Medium and smaller mining operations:

  • Generate 100-1,000 kg per month

  • 180-day or 270-day accumulation (distance-based)

  • Most remote mines qualify for 270-day extension

  • Basic training and emergency response requirements

Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQGs): Small operations and exploration projects:

  • Generate <100 kg per month

  • Minimal regulatory requirements

Common Mining Waste Codes:

Spent solvents (F-listed):

  • F001-F005: Degreasing solvents, cleaning solvents from maintenance shops

Characteristic wastes (D-listed):

  • D001: Ignitability (solvents, fuels, oil-soaked materials)

  • D002: Corrosivity (acids, bases, battery acid)

  • D006-D011: Metals in some treatment sludge and contaminated materials

  • D008: Lead (waste oils, lead-acid batteries)

Exemptions and Exclusions:

Mining Waste Exclusions (Bevill Amendment):

  • RCRA Section 3001(b)(3)(A) excludes certain mining wastes from Subtitle C (hazardous waste):

    • Overburden and waste rock

    • Tailings from mineral processing

    • Certain mineral processing wastes

  • These wastes regulated under Subtitle D (solid waste) and state mining regulations

  • Equipment maintenance waste, chemicals, and support facility waste NOT excluded

Universal Waste:

  • Batteries, fluorescent lamps, mercury devices, electronic waste

  • Streamlined regulations for common wastes

  • Mining operations generate large quantities

MSHA Safety Regulations

Mine Safety and Health Administration regulates mining safety.

MSHA Jurisdiction:

  • All mining operations (coal, metal, industrial minerals)

  • Surface and underground operations

  • Mineral processing facilities

Hazardous Materials Safety:

  • Storage and handling requirements

  • Worker training

  • Emergency response

  • Coordinate with RCRA hazardous waste requirements

State Mining Regulations

States regulate mining through environmental and mining agencies.

State Mining Permits:

  • Surface mining permits

  • Underground mining permits

  • Reclamation bonding

  • Water discharge permits

  • Air quality permits

State Hazardous Waste Programs:

  • Most states have EPA-authorized RCRA programs

  • State-specific hazardous waste requirements

  • Some states more stringent than federal regulations

Water Quality Regulations

Clean Water Act:

  • NPDES permits for mine water discharge

  • Stormwater permits

  • Effluent limitations

  • Water quality standards compliance

Groundwater Protection:

  • Underground injection control (UIC) for solution mining

  • Groundwater monitoring

  • Corrective action for contamination

Superfund and Legacy Mining

CERCLA (Superfund):

  • Cleanup of abandoned and contaminated mine sites

  • Potentially responsible party liability

  • Remediation and long-term treatment

Abandoned Mine Lands:

  • Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act (SMCRA) - coal mines

  • AML program funding cleanup

  • Legacy hardrock mining impacts

  • Ongoing remediation generating waste

Our Mining Industry Waste Services

Comprehensive Waste Management Programs

Complete turnkey waste management for mining operations.

Program Components:

  • Remote location service capabilities

  • Waste stream characterization

  • RCRA compliance assistance

  • Container provision (drums, rolloffs, specialized containers)

  • Scheduled pickup service

  • Emergency response

  • Training for mine personnel

  • Regulatory compliance support

  • Waste minimization consulting

Equipment Maintenance Waste Disposal

Management of mining equipment waste streams.

Hydraulic Fluid Disposal:

  • Bulk hydraulic fluid pickup

  • Contaminated hydraulic fluid management

  • Filter and hose disposal

  • Spill cleanup

Used Oil Disposal:

  • Engine oil recycling

  • Transmission fluid disposal

  • Gear oil management

  • Used oil bulk pickup

Antifreeze and Coolant Disposal:

  • Ethylene glycol coolant

  • Extended life coolant

  • Contaminated coolant management

Greases and Lubricants:

  • Waste grease disposal

  • Contaminated lubrication materials

  • Cable lubricant waste

Shop Waste Management:

  • Parts washer fluid disposal

  • Degreasing solvent waste

  • Cleaning chemical waste

  • Contaminated rags and absorbents

  • Oil filter disposal

Explosives Residue Disposal

Management of blasting-related waste.

Explosive Waste Services:

  • Coordination with ATF-approved disposal facilities

  • Ammonium nitrate contaminated materials

  • Explosive packaging waste

  • Contaminated water from blastholes

  • Equipment cleaning waste

Misfire Management:

  • Coordination with certified blasters

  • Safe handling protocols

  • Disposal at approved facilities

Mineral Processing Chemical Waste

Management of ore processing waste.

Flotation Reagent Waste:

  • Expired xanthates and collectors

  • Frother waste disposal

  • Modifier chemical waste

  • Cyanide waste management (detoxification and disposal)

Leaching Chemical Waste:

  • Spent sulfuric acid

  • Cyanide solution management

  • Neutralization waste

  • Process chemical residues

Laboratory Waste:

  • Acids and bases

  • Organic solvents

  • Heavy metal standards

  • Assay waste

Fuel System Waste Management

Fuel storage and distribution waste.

Fuel Waste Services:

  • Contaminated diesel fuel disposal

  • Tank bottom sludge removal

  • Filter vessel cleaning

  • Fuel system cleaning waste

  • Spill cleanup materials

Tank Services:

  • Underground storage tank (UST) closure cleanup

  • Aboveground storage tank (AST) cleaning

  • Tank removal waste management

Water Treatment Waste Disposal

AMD treatment and water management waste.

Treatment Sludge:

  • Metal hydroxide sludge disposal

  • Filter press cake management

  • Clarifier sludge removal

  • Treatment media disposal

Characterization:

  • TCLP testing for sludge

  • Hazardous vs. non-hazardous determination

  • Cost-effective disposal pathways

Reclamation and Closure Waste

Mine closure and reclamation waste management.

Decommissioning Waste:

  • Equipment fluid draining

  • Contaminated materials removal

  • Building demolition waste

  • Asbestos abatement

Site Remediation:

  • Contaminated soil disposal

  • Groundwater treatment waste

  • Environmental cleanup materials

Remote Location Services

Specialized service for isolated mining operations.

Logistics:

  • Service to remote locations

  • Coordination with mine scheduling

  • Weather and access considerations

  • 270-day accumulation extension utilization

Consolidation:

  • Bulk waste consolidation

  • Minimizing service trips

  • Cost-effective remote service

Training and Consulting

Expert training for mining personnel.

Training Topics:

  • Mining hazardous waste identification

  • RCRA compliance for mining

  • Equipment maintenance waste management

  • Explosives waste handling

  • Spill response

  • Safety and environmental protection

Consulting Services:

  • Waste stream assessment

  • Cost reduction strategies

  • Regulatory compliance audits

  • Permit application support

  • Best management practices

Best Practices for Mining Waste Management

Waste Segregation

Proper segregation reduces costs and ensures compliance.

Segregate by Type:

  • Oils and hydraulic fluids separate

  • Antifreeze separate from oils

  • Solvents and degreasers separate

  • Contaminated rags and absorbents separate

  • Batteries as universal waste

Never Mix:

  • Acids and bases

  • Incompatible chemicals

  • Hazardous and non-hazardous (prevents contaminating larger volume)

Benefits:

  • Reduced disposal costs

  • Recycling opportunities (oils, metals)

  • Improved safety

  • Simplified compliance

Container Management

Proper containers ensure safety and compliance.

Container Selection:

  • DOT-specification drums for transportation

  • Appropriate sizes for waste volumes

  • Compatible materials (no rust, good condition)

Labeling:

  • "Hazardous Waste" label

  • Contents description

  • Accumulation start date

  • Generator information

Storage:

  • Closed containers

  • Secondary containment for liquids

  • Protected from weather

  • Accessible for inspections

  • Away from active mining operations

Accumulation Time Tracking

Critical for remote operations utilizing 270-day extension.

270-Day Extension:

  • Most remote mines >200 miles from disposal facilities

  • Qualify for 270-day accumulation period

  • Must document distance justification

Tracking:

  • Mark accumulation start date on containers

  • Centralized tracking system

  • Schedule pickups before deadlines

  • Account for weather and access limitations

Spill Prevention and Response

Mining operations require robust spill prevention.

SPCC Plans:

  • Required for fuel storage >1,320 gallons

  • Spill prevention, control, and countermeasure planning

  • Secondary containment

  • Employee training

Spill Response:

  • Spill kits at fuel storage and equipment maintenance areas

  • Trained personnel

  • Cleanup procedures

  • Disposal of spill materials

Equipment Maintenance:

  • Prevent hydraulic and fuel leaks

  • Regularly inspect hoses and fittings

  • Proper maintenance reduces waste and spills

Waste Minimization

Reducing waste generation saves money.

Preventive Maintenance:

  • Reduce fluid changes through proper maintenance

  • Extend oil change intervals with filtration

  • Fix leaks promptly

Inventory Management:

  • Avoid chemical expiration through proper rotation

  • Order appropriate quantities

  • First-in, first-out management

Recycling:

  • Used oil recycling

  • Antifreeze recycling

  • Metal scrap recycling

  • Battery recycling

Mining Waste Disposal Costs

Cost Factors

Waste Type:

  • Oils and hydraulic fluids (recyclable - lower cost)

  • Solvents and chemical waste (higher cost)

  • Treatment sludge (characterization-dependent)

  • Explosive waste (specialized disposal)

Quantity:

  • Large mining operations generate substantial volumes

  • Volume discounts available

  • Bulk pickup more economical

Location:

  • Remote mines higher transportation costs

  • 270-day accumulation allows consolidation

  • Seasonal access considerations

Service Frequency:

  • Scheduled service more cost-effective

  • Quarterly or semi-annual service typical for remote operations

  • Emergency service premium charges

Typical Cost Ranges

Used Oil and Hydraulic Fluids:

  • $0.50-$3 per gallon (recyclable oils)

  • May generate revenue in some markets

  • Large mining operations: $10,000-$100,000+ annually

Antifreeze:

  • $2-$6 per gallon

  • Recyclable antifreeze lower cost

Solvents and Degreasers:

  • $3-$12 per gallon

  • Halogenated solvents higher cost

Contaminated Absorbents:

  • $0.50-$3 per pound

  • Oil-soaked materials

Batteries:

  • Lead-acid batteries: $5-$20 per battery (recyclable, may generate revenue)

  • Universal waste streamlined regulations

Laboratory Chemicals:

  • Lab pack services: $250-$800 per drum

  • Depends on chemical types

Treatment Sludge:

  • $0.30-$2 per pound

  • Depends on hazardous determination

Explosive Waste:

  • $5-$20 per pound

  • Specialized disposal requirements

  • Transportation and handling costs

Emergency Services:

  • Premium charges for rush service

  • Remote location surcharges

  • Large spill cleanup: $2,000-$50,000+

Cost Reduction Strategies

Recycling:

  • Used oil recycling reducing disposal costs 80%+

  • Antifreeze recycling

  • Metal scrap recycling

Waste Segregation:

  • Prevent mixing hazardous and non-hazardous

  • Separate recyclable from disposable

  • Proper segregation saves 30-50%

Service Optimization:

  • Utilize 270-day extension for remote operations

  • Consolidate shipments

  • Scheduled service vs. on-demand

Preventive Maintenance:

  • Reduce fluid changes

  • Fix leaks preventing waste generation

  • Proper equipment care

Common Mining Waste Questions

Q: Do mining waste rock and tailings qualify as hazardous waste?

A: Generally no. The RCRA Bevill Amendment (Section 3001(b)(3)(A)) excludes most mining waste from Subtitle C (hazardous waste) regulation including overburden, waste rock, tailings, and certain mineral processing wastes. These are regulated under Subtitle D (solid waste) and state mining regulations. However, equipment maintenance waste, fuel, chemicals, and support facility waste are NOT excluded and must be managed as hazardous waste if they meet RCRA characteristics or listings.

Q: Can we recycle used hydraulic fluid and oil from mining equipment?

A: Yes. Used oil and hydraulic fluids that haven't been mixed with hazardous waste can be recycled under used oil regulations (40 CFR 279), which are less stringent than hazardous waste rules. Recycling typically costs $0.50-$3 per gallon compared to $5-$12+ per gallon for hazardous waste disposal, generating significant savings. Large mining operations recycling thousands of gallons annually can save $50,000-$200,000+. However, if oils are mixed with solvents, coolants, or other hazardous wastes, they must be managed as hazardous waste.

Q: How long can remote mines store hazardous waste?

A: Most remote mining operations qualify for the 270-day accumulation period available to Small Quantity Generators (SQGs) whose disposal facility is more than 200 miles away. Given that many mines operate in isolated areas far from disposal facilities, this extension is commonly used. Large Quantity Generators (LQGs) have only 90-day accumulation limits regardless of distance, but can request case-by-case extensions from EPA for extraordinary circumstances. The accumulation clock starts when waste is first added to a container.

Q: What should we do with explosive residues and contaminated materials from blasting?

A: Explosive waste requires specialized handling and disposal through ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) approved facilities. Never attempt to dispose of explosive waste through normal hazardous waste channels. Contact us - we coordinate with ATF-approved explosive disposal facilities. Explosive residues, ammonium nitrate contamination, and blasting-related waste are disposed through controlled detonation, chemical treatment, or other approved methods. Your certified blasters should be involved in managing misfires and significant explosive waste.

Q: How do we manage cyanide waste from gold heap leaching?

A: Cyanide waste is extremely toxic and requires careful management. Spent cyanide solutions should be detoxified using SO2/air oxidation, hydrogen peroxide, alkaline chlorination, or other approved methods before disposal. Detoxification reduces cyanide concentrations to safe levels. CRITICAL: Never mix cyanide waste with acids - this generates hydrogen cyanide gas which is immediately fatal. Cyanide waste containers must be clearly labeled and stored separately from acids. We provide cyanide waste disposal services including coordination with permitted facilities and ensuring proper handling throughout the process.

Q: Are there special requirements for disposing of acid mine drainage (AMD) treatment sludge?

A: AMD treatment sludge must be characterized to determine if it's hazardous waste. Test sludge using TCLP (Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure) for metals including lead, cadmium, chromium, arsenic, selenium, mercury, silver, and barium. If metal concentrations exceed regulatory limits, sludge is hazardous waste (D-codes) requiring manifesting and disposal at permitted hazardous waste facilities. If below limits, sludge can be managed as non-hazardous industrial waste at lower cost. Many AMD treatment operations generate high volumes of sludge requiring cost-effective management strategies.

Q: Can mining operations use the 270-day accumulation extension?

A: Yes, if you're a Small Quantity Generator (100-1,000 kg/month) and your waste disposal facility is more than 200 miles away. Most remote mining operations easily meet the distance requirement. You must document the distance from your mine to the disposal facility. This extension allows mines to consolidate waste shipments reducing transportation costs. However, you must still mark accumulation start dates on containers and ensure waste is shipped before the 270-day deadline.

Q: What documentation do we need for mining hazardous waste disposal?

A: Required documentation includes:

  • Manifests: Signed copies for all hazardous waste shipments (retain 3+ years)

  • Training records: Employee hazardous waste training documentation

  • Inspection logs: Weekly inspections of storage areas

  • Waste characterization: Process knowledge or testing supporting waste classifications

  • Accumulation records: Container start dates and tracking

  • Exception reports: For manifest discrepancies

  • Biennial reports: For Large Quantity Generators

  • Certificates of disposal: Proof of proper final disposition

Maintain organized records readily accessible for EPA, state, or MSHA inspections.

Q: How should we handle equipment decommissioning waste during mine closure?

A: Equipment decommissioning generates substantial hazardous waste. Drain all fluids (hydraulic fluid, engine oil, coolant, fuel) from equipment before scrapping or selling. Manage drained fluids as hazardous waste or used oil for recycling. Remove and properly dispose of batteries. Coordinate timing with reclamation schedules. Large mine closures may generate thousands of gallons of fluids requiring bulk disposal services. Plan ahead - decommissioning waste counts toward your generator category and must be manifested within accumulation time limits.

Q: What are the penalties for violations at mining operations?

A: EPA can assess civil penalties up to $71,433 per day per violation under RCRA. State environmental agencies also have penalty authority. Violations can include:

  • Exceeding accumulation time limits

  • Improper storage (no secondary containment, unlabeled containers)

  • Lack of training or documentation

  • Improper disposal

  • Missing manifests or records

MSHA coordinates with EPA on hazardous materials violations. Criminal penalties apply for knowing violations. Maintaining compliance protects your operation from costly penalties and potential criminal liability.

Q: Can we dispose of waste explosives through normal channels?

A: No. Waste explosives, ammonium nitrate, emulsion residues, and blasting materials require disposal through ATF-approved explosive disposal facilities. Never send explosive waste with regular hazardous waste - this creates extreme safety hazards. Contact us - we work with approved explosive disposal companies coordinating safe, legal disposal through controlled detonation or chemical treatment. Your explosive materials licenses and certifications must be maintained for all explosive waste transactions.

Q: What's the best way to reduce mining hazardous waste disposal costs?

A: Most effective strategies:

  1. Recycle used oil and hydraulic fluids - saves 70-90% vs. hazardous waste disposal

  2. Proper waste segregation - don't contaminate recyclable oils with solvents or hazardous materials

  3. Preventive maintenance - reduce fluid change frequency, fix leaks

  4. Use 270-day extension - consolidate shipments for remote operations

  5. Annual service contracts - volume commitments receive better pricing

  6. Staff training - prevent mixing and contamination

  7. Inventory management - prevent chemical expiration

Large mines implementing comprehensive waste management programs can reduce costs 40-60% while improving compliance.

Getting Started with Mining Waste Services

What to Have Ready

When contacting us for mining waste disposal:

Operation Information:

  • Mine type (coal, copper, gold, phosphate, etc.)

  • Surface or underground operation

  • Production rate and size

  • Location (important for remote operations)

  • Generator category (if known)

Waste Types and Quantities:

  • Equipment maintenance waste (oils, hydraulic fluids, coolant, antifreeze)

  • Shop waste (solvents, degreasers, contaminated materials)

  • Fuel system waste

  • Laboratory chemicals

  • Treatment sludge

  • Other mining-specific waste

  • Estimated monthly or annual quantities

Current Situation:

  • Existing disposal arrangements

  • Current challenges

  • Compliance concerns

  • Remote access considerations

  • Service frequency preferences

Special Needs:

  • Emergency response capabilities

  • Training requirements

  • Compliance assistance

  • Cost reduction goals

Our Process

1. Initial Consultation: Free consultation discussing your mine's needs, waste types, location, and requirements.

2. Site Assessment: For larger operations, on-site assessment evaluating:

  • Waste generation points and volumes

  • Current storage and handling

  • Generator category determination

  • Remote access logistics

  • Compliance status

  • Waste minimization opportunities

3. Customized Proposal: Detailed proposal including:

  • Service description

  • Container recommendations

  • Pickup frequency

  • Pricing (transparent, itemized)

  • Remote location logistics

  • Implementation plan

4. Program Implementation:

  • Container delivery

  • Personnel training

  • Procedure documentation

  • Initial service scheduling

5. Ongoing Service:

  • Scheduled pickups per agreed frequency

  • Remote location coordination

  • Weather and access flexibility

  • Manifesting and documentation

  • Compliance support

6. Continuous Improvement:

  • Periodic program reviews

  • Waste minimization recommendations

  • Cost optimization

  • Regulatory updates

Why Mining Operations Choose Us

Mining Industry Expertise: Decades serving coal mines, metal mines, industrial mineral operations, and aggregate producers. We understand mining operations, equipment, processes, and challenges.

Remote Location Capabilities: Experienced serving isolated mines nationwide. We coordinate logistics for remote access, weather delays, and seasonal considerations. 270-day accumulation expertise maximizes efficiency.

Technical Knowledge: Understanding of mining equipment maintenance, mineral processing, explosives, AMD treatment, and specialized mining waste streams.

Regulatory Compliance: Comprehensive knowledge of RCRA, MSHA coordination, state mining regulations, and Bevill Amendment exemptions. We help navigate complex regulatory environment.

Cost-Effective Solutions: Used oil recycling programs, waste segregation optimization, service schedule optimization, and volume pricing reducing costs for large mining operations.

Responsive Service: Understanding of mining production schedules, maintenance shutdowns, and operational constraints. 24/7 emergency response for spills and urgent situations.

Safety Focus: Mining safety culture alignment. Understanding of MSHA requirements. Safe handling of all mining waste including explosives residues and toxic materials.

Environmental Stewardship: Support for mine environmental management, reclamation programs, and long-term post-closure commitments.

Mining Waste Disposal by State

We provide mining industry hazardous waste disposal services throughout all 50 states. Click your state for specific information on state regulations, major mining operations we serve, and local service details:

Northeast

Southeast

Midwest

Southwest

West

Contact Us for Mining Industry Waste Disposal

Call (800) 582-4833 or email info@hazardouswastedisposal.com

We're ready to help with:

  • Free consultations and quotes

  • Mining waste assessments

  • Remote location service

  • Regulatory compliance guidance

  • Equipment maintenance waste disposal

  • Explosives residue coordination

  • Mineral processing chemical waste

  • AMD treatment sludge disposal

  • Emergency spill response

  • Training and staff education

  • All your mining industry waste needs

Serving mining operations nationwide, since 1992

Operating across all 50 states with expertise in coal mining, metal mining, industrial minerals, aggregates, and all mining operations generating hazardous waste.

Let us handle your mining waste management so you can focus on safe, productive mineral extraction. Contact us today for expert, compliant, cost-effective mining industry waste disposal services.