Environmental monitoring is required for most any project which has some type(s) of environmentally-related permits (i.e., under the Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, SMCRA, etc.) Monitoring typically begins well before mine site development in order to establish baseline conditions, and continues throughout the mine's life. Even after a mining operations has been completely closed, monitoring is typically continued to ensure environmental conditions are remaining satisfactory.

Environmental parameters that are often monitored include:

• Air quality
• Groundwater quality
• Surface water quality
• Wildlife habitat
• Plant life
• Biodiversity