Landform processes in the post coal mining landscape, Bowen Basin, Australia. A geomorphological approach.

Abstract

This paper is a preliminary analysis of the most important geomorphic structures and processes observed at open-cut minesites throughout the Bowen Basin (Queensland, Australia). A number of different landform types are created during open-cut coal mining operations. These may be modified by both natural geomorphic events and by reshaping processes that occur during rehabilitation. It is of importance in the development of a predictive capability about the long term behaviour of these types of landforms, and in order to design parameters for constructing such landforms, that geomorphic, physical, chemical and biological processes be identified and quantified in relation to the nature of landforms and the materials from which they have been constructed.