It may seem quite elementary, but the actual removal of waste material from an evaporation pond is a relatively simple procedure. What’s left is generally in one of two or three forms: crystaline, sludge or a spongelike consistency, or a thick syrupy liquid. Sometimes it can be a relatively flaky, thin crust that collects on the bottom and sides of the pond liner. It depends on what materials were in the water at the outset, and collection is also dependent on what the ultimate fate of the “waste” material is to be.
If the relatively solid waste that remains after evaporation is to be reclaimed as a useful or valuable commodity such as metallic shavings, or harvestable potash, it must be scrupulously harvested so that its value is preserved. If, on the other hand, it is to be immediately transported to a landfill or alternative disposal site, it can be collected in a way that is more crude. Crystals are sometimes raked or shoveled, while muddy sludge can be gathered by specially-designed machines reminiscent of snow-removal equipment. Care should be taken that the machinery does not damage pond liners or disturb the essential pond structure.
