Abandoned Mine Landslides
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Photo Library Abandoned Mine Landslides |
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Landslides are hazardous problems associated with abandoned coal mines, especially in steep-terrain, high-rainfall areas of the eastern U.S. When homes or roads lie in the path of a landslide, its destructive force create an extremely dangerous threat. A landslide above this Eastern Kentucky house required emergency work to prevent further damage. Material that slid into the house was removed and a retaining wall constructed to prevent further landslide damage. As the last step in the reclamation of this landslide, the entire site was graded and grass planted. Enlarged Photo (22 KB file)
Surface and subsurface drains at the top of the hill divert water around the house. The large pipe at the base of the wall will be covered with several feet of gravel and will prevent water build-up and keep added pressure off the wall. By keeping the water off the unstable material at the top of the hill and preventing any buildup behind the wall the hillside should be stabilized and not continue to threaten this home during Spring rains each year. Enlarged Photo (16 KB file)
Many years ago rock and soil material was cast down the hillside by a coal mining operation. When the unstable material began sliding it threatened those living above it. This emergency project anchored the slope just below the house and eliminated the danger of future slides impacting this property. Enlarged Photo (21 KB file)