ROSPECTS OF DEVELOPMENT OF ORE DEPOSITS DAGESTAN (ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS)

Abstract

The aim of the study is to evaluate the effect of the ore-occurrences, identified during the geological exploration in 1964-1983, on the environment in the Khnov-Borchinsk ore-field and Kizil-Dere copper-pyrite deposit. The study is based on the chemical analysis data of the waters from the study area and the analysis of published materials on the subject. Results of the study indicate contamination of water systems of the area with heavy metals. This is attributed to the fact that after the exploration there were not carried out the liquidation, conservation and reclamation works on the ore occurrences in full scale. Sulphides of iron, copper, lead and zinc, prevailing in the composition of ores, interacting with oxygen in the air and groundwater, convert into sulfate and are discharged into the river systems. Preserving the status quo in the long run can lead to the activation of the redox processes, leaching processes under the surface of the field of Kizil-Dere, progressive chemical contamination of waters and lands of the Samur river basin with salts of heavy metals, deterioration in quality of drinking and irrigation waters, as well as to the permanent depletion of the unique mineral deposit.The above said allows to conclude that in the current situation we consider it necessary to urgently conduct the works on conservation of the Khnov-Borchinsk ore-field occurrences, which can be done under the existing federal target program “The elimination of accumulated environmental damage.” When deciding on the Kizil-Dere field the exploration project, followed by the implementation of environmental impact assessment (EIA) should be developed. It will allow assessing the specific economic benefits of the project, environmental risks and the level of measures to protect the environment.