The pressure slug test was used for confined bedrock aquifers that did not produce enough discharge to be easily measured. Pumping tests were used for the unconfined reclaimed spoil aquifers. Well water was sampled using three techniques. Samples were collected when the first water flowed or was pumped from the well, when measurements of field water-quality properties were stable, and when three casing volumes of water were removed. Sampling after three casing volumes of water were removed from the well generally was the preferred technique.
Climatic conditions control soil temperature fluctuations during the year.
Freeze-thaw periods in North Dakota are almost equal, resulting in a very limited potential for surface water to recharge groundwater systems. Reclaimed wetland localities, however, can support premining vegetation and biohabitat and provide an effective control of the local surface flow. Detailed site characterization and understanding of the key environmental factors are prerequisite to successful restoration of wetlands to premining conditions and are logical tools to justify the costs associated with reclamation in the wider environmental and economic context.