Mine terrils in Genk

Coal mining in Zwartberg, Waterschei and Winterslag, had a great influence on the people and on the environment. Huge amounts of debris came out during mining and sorting the minerals. That is how mountains of rubble (terrils), basins of sludge and fly ash were created. During the mining of the coal, an enormous amount of rubble came up. 100 kg rough coal that came to the top, comprised 47,5% stone.

After the mining areas were reorganised and were put to another use, it was the terrils' turn. A number of the terrils remained where they were. others were remodelled, because there was a risk of movement, spontaneous combustion or pollution of ground water. Other terrils were redeveloped because they still contained a good amount of coal.

The terrils of Waterschei and of Winterslag are the best preserved terrils. The  terril of Waterschei is included in our day-tours programme.

Terril of Waterschei

Terril of Winterslag