Environmental Assessment
Volume B-3.8
Mine
Hydrology
Ambatovy Project
92
January 2006
3.8
HYDROLOGY
3.8.1
Introduction
Development of the mine will involve varying degrees of land disturbance, such
as removal of vegetation, excavation and ground compaction. The mine will also
include the construction of roads, buildings, parking and storage areas, waste
dumps and other facilities. These disturbances will result in increased runoff
rates and volumes from the area until reclamation activities and revegetation
activities are complete. All runoff from the development will be collected in
collection and clarification ponds prior to release to the environment.
Regional climate and hydrologic information have been compiled to characterize
baseline conditions in the mine area (Volume I, Appendix 8.1). The available
baseline information is used in the following sections to evaluate potential effects
of the Ambatovy Project (the project) on streamflow and sediment yield.
3.8.2
Study Areas
The mine is located along a drainage divide, at the headwaters of six watersheds.
The hydrology local study area (LSA) includes the mine, Torotorofotsy Wetlands
and buffer areas in all directions. As shown in Volume A, Section 7,
Figure 7.2-1, the LSA also includes the water intake location on the Mangoro
River.
3.8.3
Baseline Summary
3.8.3.1 Introduction
Baseline conditions in the mine area were characterized by analyzing available
climate and hydrologic (streamflow) data. A summary of the climate and
hydrology baseline study is provided in the following sections. Details can be
found in Volume I, Appendix 8.1.
3.8.3.2 Methods
Information on Madagascar’s climate was primarily obtained from Chaperon
et al. (1993). Climate information was also obtained from the World
Meteorological Organization, from rainfall stations at regional railway stations,
and from the Madagascar Ministry of Public Works and Transport, Meteorology
Branch.
