Simulating Reclamation:
Representing and Interfacing Data in Designing Post-Mining Scenarios

The purpose of reclamation simulation research is to visualize potential outcomes for mining sites based in the reality of mining's economic opportunities and statutory/regulatory lawful limitations. We believe, through simulation, a more substantial public discourse can be created for post-mine land use decision-making, especially in the communities most effected by mining's presence. Ultimately, we can imagine a web-based interface for post-mine land use negotiations.

Simultaneously interfacing data sets, visual systems and formal resolutions, design intentions, evolutionary strategies, and programmatic potential creates a new way to envision reclamation and have a dialogue about its long-term impacts. We believe, if a system such as this is adopted for use by the mining industry it will not only change the way reclamation is designed but also the ways in which mining is perceived.

These simulations are taken from a presentation entitled "Digital Reclamation Simulation" and the usefulness of Representing and Interfacing Data in Designing Post-Mining Scenarios (P-REX, 12/04: Alan Berger and Richard Kennedy). In this lecture we posed the question: How does textual, empirical, and visual information interface in post-mine land use decision making processes? The site is a metals mine in Montana.