In West Virginia, a set of cascading ponds is addressing the environmental damage caused by acid mine drainage from decades of coal mining. This innovative, low-tech solution cleanses water by utilizing limestone to neutralize acidity and facilitates the settling of heavy metals like aluminum and iron. As a result, local wildlife, including fish and amphibians, are returning to previously lifeless waters. Additionally, a higher-tech effort downstream not only restores waterways but also recovers valuable rare earth elements from the pollutants, presenting an economical opportunity alongside environmental restoration.
This low-tech system, built less than 10 years ago, is transforming life along the water. Fish and sensitive species like salamanders and frogs are returning to Deckers Creek.
To mine and extract those elements from scratch is expensive, but here you're getting it for free.
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