301 LONG-TERM SPATIOTEMPORAL MONITORING OF TAILINGS FACILITY DYNAMICS USING GIS AND SATELLITE REMOTE SENSING: A CASE STUDY OF THE BENKOVSKI TAILINGS DAM, BULGARIA (1975–2025) *Elia D. Stoyanova1,2 1University of Architecture, Civil Engineering and Geodesy (UACEG), Faculty of Geodesy, Department of Photogrammetry and Cartography, Sofia, Bulgaria (*Presenting author: stoyanova.elia@gmail.com) 2"Ellatzite-Med" AD, Mirkovo village, Sofia region, Bulgaria ABSTRACT This study presents a comprehensive 50-year spatiotemporal analysis of the development, transformation, and environmental management of the Benkovski tailings facilities in Bulgaria, based on the integrated use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and satellite remote sensing. Covering the period from 1975 to 2025, the research examines the long-term evolution of the facilities and evaluates the effectiveness of applied environmental management practices within an active mining context. Using multi-temporal satellite imagery and GIS-based spatial analysis, the study assesses changes in the spatial extent, surface characteristics, and surrounding land use associated with tailings management over five decades. The applied methodology enables systematic tracking of operational phases, reclamation activities, and landscape transformation, providing both visual and quantitative evidence of environmental performance through time. The results demonstrate that the tailings facilities have been developed and managed in compliance with national and international environmental standards. Reclamation measures implemented at earlier stages have led to the successful stabilization and ecological restoration of decommissioned areas, while ongoing monitoring supports environmentally responsible operation of active facilities. The integration of long-term environmental planning and continuous observation reflects a proactive approach to minimizing ecological impacts and ensuring post-closure land recovery. By combining historical and contemporary remote sensing datasets with GIS analysis, the study delivers a clear and consistent record of the facilities’ lifecycle. This approach highlights the value of geospatial technologies as reliable tools for long-term environmental monitoring, impact assessment, and decision support in the mining sector. Beyond documenting site-specific developments, the Benkovski case illustrates how responsible tailings management, supported by modern monitoring technologies, can contribute to sustainable mining practices. The findings reinforce the role of GIS and remote sensing in promoting transparency, accountability, and alignment with broader sustainability objectives, demonstrating that mining activities, when
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