Five Fundamentals for Successful Restoration of Coal Ash Sites outlines a comprehensive framework for reclaiming coal ash impoundments and other disturbed lands. It focuses on developing suitable growing media from “soil poor” substrates using standardized soil testing, then selecting appropriate plant species based on site conditions and regulatory expectations. The guidance explains how to design cost-effective erosion, sediment and dust control systems with tools such as Profile Soil Solutions Software (PS3), and emphasizes correct installation, documentation and supervision. Regular inspection and maintenance after significant weather events, supported by case studies, demonstrate how vegetation can be established even directly on coal ash with proper amendments and erosion control techniques.
Key Points
- Recommends comprehensive soil and substrate testing with defined methodologies and interpretation ranges to guide amendments, including options that can complement or replace imported topsoil.
- Highlights structured species selection based on soils, climate, moisture, land use and maintenance, supported by a PS3 module and regional technical resources.
- Details erosion, sediment and dust control design using RUSLE-based calculations, product performance data, functional longevity, and short-, intermediate- and long-term stabilization strategies.
- Stresses thorough installation guidelines, use of calculators and CAD resources, plus ongoing inspection and maintenance, illustrated by coal ash case studies and direct seeding research.
