Saving the anthracite industry in the 1950s - The Conowingo Tunnel and anthracite mine flood-control projects
Start Date
27-10-2018 1:30 PM
End Date
27-10-2018 2:30 PM
Description
A Historical Perspective on a “Solution” to the Anthracite Mine-water Problem. In the 1940s, mine-water pumping was recognized as a major factor in the economic condition of the Pennsylvania Anthracite industry. USBM engineers conducted an extensive study of the problem, leading to the recommendation of a fantastic plan to drive a 137-mile tunnel to drain most of the anthracite mines to the Susquehanna Estuary. The (1954) $400-million scheme was not executed, but rather a $17-million Federal-State “interim solution” was initiated. This review of the engineering study, discussion of some of the mine-water conditions we now observe, and examination of the interim project may suggest some potential solutions to alleviate today’s anthracite region minewater problems.
Keywords
Pennsylvania, anthracite industry, anthracite industry, anthracite mine, mine drainage, water management, abandoned mines
Type
Presentation
Session
Climate, Conservation, and Restoration
Language
eng
Saving the anthracite industry in the 1950s - The Conowingo Tunnel and anthracite mine flood-control projects
Elaine Langone, Gallery Theater
A Historical Perspective on a “Solution” to the Anthracite Mine-water Problem. In the 1940s, mine-water pumping was recognized as a major factor in the economic condition of the Pennsylvania Anthracite industry. USBM engineers conducted an extensive study of the problem, leading to the recommendation of a fantastic plan to drive a 137-mile tunnel to drain most of the anthracite mines to the Susquehanna Estuary. The (1954) $400-million scheme was not executed, but rather a $17-million Federal-State “interim solution” was initiated. This review of the engineering study, discussion of some of the mine-water conditions we now observe, and examination of the interim project may suggest some potential solutions to alleviate today’s anthracite region minewater problems.