Reclamation of stripmined lands: a multiattribute decision model

摘要

A multiattribute utility function is proposed to model preferences among hydrologic and other outcomes of alternative reclamation schemes typical of stripmined lands in the western USA. A preference model generates the preference function of an assumed group decision-maker and ranks the reclamation schemes on the basis of the preference function. Each of the schemes, which are left unspecified, must restore the area to its premining state or better, and is composed of actions such as mining operations, preparations for postmining land use, and mitigating actions. Grazing and runoff augmentation are examples of postmining land-use goals, and mitigating actions may be measures to protect the environment, in particular, control of pollution in runoff or infiltration. Conflicting objectives are involved, such as meeting coal production targets, alleviating detrimental environmental effects, and minimizing costs. The environmental effects are further uncertain, and the problem is therefore analyzed as a multiattribute decision-making problem under uncertainty.