Monitoring Stormwater Quality of Potential ex-Mining Ponds

Ex-mining ponds in Malaysia remain unproductive and improperly used. Thus, they have a potential to be upgraded as storage as well as treatment systems. The aim of this paper is to assess the potential of ex-mining pond in treating some of the effluent from various types of industrial areas. Two ex-mining ponds at Taiping were selected as a case study. Water sampling, in-situ testing and laboratory experimental work were conducted within 6 months monitoring. Results found that four (4) parameters (DO, COD, BOD, and NH3-N) are most significant to the water quality. According to the result, the abandoned ponds in the study area are polluted. However, Pond B has potential to be used for water supply and further treatment required. However, more polluted Pond A compared to Pond B can be used for irrigation purposes. It is recommended to integrate the ponds with other treatment facilities such as infiltration trench or bioswales to enhance their performance.