Coal mining's impact on surface and ground water can be managed through efficient resource planning and use. Following are some examples of how the mining industry protects water quality while accomplishing extraction activities. Coal mining activities are highly regulated, requiring extensive surface and ground water sampling and monitoring to ensure compliance with the federal Clean Water Act, the surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act, and state and local statutes. Sediment control technologies have developed and advanced in number and sophistication over the last two decades resulting in an impressive record for the coal industry of reducing the quantity of suspended soils in water flowing in and around mining sites. Hydrological impacts must be taken into consideration as a part of the permitting process, therefore, coal company hydrologists study and monitor the quality of surface and underground water resources before, during and after mining activity to ensure minimal hydrological impacts.
Water is an essential part of generating electricity.
In addition to meeting or exceeding all of the provisions of the Clean Water Act, the electric utility industry is committed to maintaining and, where practicable enhancing, water quality and to practicing sound environmental stewardship. By collecting water samples and monitoring water discharges to ensure that facilities meet or exceed the stringent limits set in permits. By operating water pollution control equipment as efficiently as possible to minimize discharges. By using advanced industrial water treatment systems that collect wastewater and runoff and by providing treatment to the water prior to its return to the source. By recycling cooling water to minimize the amount of water used in the process of generating electricity.