The campaign began at the Tsumeb Mine, where soil samples were collected together with Namibian PhD student Kamuiua Kamundu. An environmental monitoring station was installed to support ongoing environmental monitoring and the low-cost soil moisture sensors were repaired. Additionally, the boreholes of the mine were again sampled to continue the temporal and spatial scope of the groundwater sampling.

At the Matchless Mine, the team carried out a transect of water sampling to investigate hydrochemical parameters of the acid discharge of the mine. In addition, samples were taken from two soil pits, and a soil moisture monitoring station was installed to track subsurface conditions. Spontaneous vegetation was sampled as well and will be identified to discover which plants can cope with these specific conditions.

The field campaign continued at the lead and zinc mine in Rosh Pinah, where groundwater samples and undisturbed soil samples were collected. Preparations were also made for the installation of an additional environmental monitoring station at the site. Aside from the fieldwork, the team had the chance to visit the underground mine this time and gather information about the water use and storage.

These measurements and samples will contribute to a better understanding of hydrological processes and environmental impacts in former and active mining areas.

We also had the opportunity to analyze selected samples directly in Namibia in collaboration with our partner laboratory ANALAB Windhoek. Conducting parts of the analysis, like filtration and titration, locally allowed us to obtain first insights into water chemistry during the field campaign and strengthened the collaboration with regional research and laboratory partners.

A big thank you to all partners involved for the excellent collaboration and support during the field campaign!