Ecological and biological properties of lithostrats of recultivated dumps in the Kizel coal basin

The impact of coal mining waste dumps on the environment is predominantly negative. Reclaiming these dumps and restoring the soil-plant cover is a critical task in mining complexes. This study was conducted in the central part of the Kizel Coal Basin in Perm Krai. The lithostrats of reclaimed dumps were investigated. Traditional methods of chemical and physical analysis, as well as phytotesting, were used to determine soil properties. The lithostrats are 7 to 10 years old, feature a thin profile, and lack vegetation on most of the dumps. The lithostrats are slightly acidic to acidic, with acidity increasing with depth. The organic matter content is below the background level and increases with depth. The lithostrats are dense, with clayey and loamy granulometric composition. Enzyme activity indicates low biological activity. The height and mass of the test culture suggested satisfactory condition of the lithostrats. Integral geochemical pollution indices indicate an acceptable level of heavy metal content in lithostrats.