It is anticipated that many future uranium mines in Australia will be using the in situ leaching mining process. It is fair to say that close to one third of uranium production will be generated by this method, whilst the other two thirds will fall on the uranium generated from hard rock mining and other mining methods, such as traditional open cut mining._x000D_
For other types of deposits the in situ leaching mining method will remain the best technological, commercial and environmental alternative._x000D_
It is important to identify and prevent all risks involved in uranium mining. The expertise in this subject is limited. Over the years there was only one mine using the in situ leaching process for uranium extraction in Australia._x000D_
Computer simulation of propagation of leachate during and after the uranium in situ leaching is a crucial factor, not only for addressing the environmental concerns, but also for the most efficient recovery of the deposit. The decontamination can be modelled for a period of up to 100 years, with the acid neutralisation forecast for a period of up to 400 years._x000D_
The results of the modelling are paramount for definition of the reserves, efficiency of the mining method and the environmental impact statement. The accuracy of the hydrogeological modelling and carefully selected environmental management program enables a mining company to quantify and minimise the impact of the mining activities on the regional aquifer and to prevent environmental disasters._x000D_
In the study, the completed hydrogeological model allowed the client, the authorities and the community to make an informed decision about the environmental impact of the in situ leaching of uranium. In particular, the model proved that neither during the mining, nor during the neutralisation the toxic elements would interact with the local catchment area._x000D_
FORMAL CITATION:Przhedetsky, D and Roshal, A, 2008. Environmental impact modelling for in situ leaching of uranium, in Proceedings First International Future Mining Conference and Exhibition 2008, pp 229-236 (The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy: Melbourne).