When constructing surface impoundments, what must be adhered to according to regulations?

When constructing surface impoundments, regulations primarily emphasize the prevention of leaching to protect the surrounding environment, particularly groundwater. Leaching refers to the process where contaminants seep through the soil into the groundwater, potentially leading to pollution. Therefore, regulatory frameworks insist on designing impoundments that can effectively contain the waste materials without allowing harmful substances to escape. This includes using appropriate liners, drainage systems, and monitoring measures to ensure that leaching does not occur.

While factors like maximum depth, cost of construction, and types of materials used are important considerations, they are secondary to the fundamental requirement of preventing leaching. Ensuring that contaminants do not leach into the environment is essential for safeguarding public health and maintaining ecological integrity. Thus, adherence to regulations regarding the prevention of leaching is imperative in the construction and operation of surface impoundments.