Gathered here is a compilation of scientific studies focused on water quality issues regarding surface coal mining and man-made disturbance, in general.  The selected list of studies is not comprehensive but is a representative compilation of the more recent or well-known scientific information regarding water quality as it relates to issues discussed on this website.

As stated above, it would not be representative to include water quality studies pertaining only to surface coal mining, simply because surface coal mining does not have exclusive impacts, as compared to other human activities.  Therefore, studies related to activities that cause similar impacts to those of surface coal mining also are pertinent in determining what should be considered “Best Available Science” when regulatory standards and enforcements are updated.  

Find water-quality related scientific studies and publications: