Assessment of water quality of lakes used for recreational purposes in abandoned mines of Linden, Guyana

Abstract

The open pit method is often the easiest and the most inexpensive form of mining. Bauxite mining, which commenced in 1916 in Linden, Guyana, has left many abandoned pits upon closure of mining activities; subsequently pit lakes have been formed. Globally, Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) is a common water quality problem for pit lakes. However, the pit lakes in Linden are used for recreational activities. In this study, the water quality of three lakes in Linden (NE Kara Kara, Kara Kara and Lucky Spot) were analysed for their physico-chemical characteristics. The morphological and aesthetic features were also examined. The study showed that all three lakes are acidic, with mean pH values of 3.4, 3.1 and 4.7, which are not within the allowable range for recreational waters. Mean concentrations of Al (23.06 mg/l), Fe (10.56 mg/l) and Mn (2.4 mg/l) exceeded acceptable limits; nevertheless, TDS levels measured were within the acceptable limits. In terms of aesthetic quality, NE Kara Kara and Kara Kara pit lakes were free from any form of waste and debris. For the pit lakes to be considered suitable for recreational purposes, treatment of the lakes’ waters is recommended.