314 remote sensing, using the Benkovski tailings complex as a representative case study spanning five decades (1975–2025). By harmonizing historical and contemporary imagery from the Landsat and Sentinel-2 missions within a unified analytical framework, the study delivers a consistent and objective evaluation of facility development, reclamation measures, vegetation dynamics, and water management practices. The combined use of spectral indices, particularly NDVI and NDWI, proved highly effective in capturing critical environmental and operational features of the tailings facilities, including surface stabilization, vegetation recovery in rehabilitated areas, and the spatial evolution of decant lakes. Integrating these indices with systematic photo interpretation allowed for the reliable detection of subtle changes in surface conditions and hydrological patterns that may not be apparent through conventional field monitoring alone. The analysis yielded very positive results, demonstrating that the Benkovski facilities have been managed in accordance with environmental protection standards, with progressive reclamation efforts and efficient water management contributing to sustained environmental stability. A significant outcome of this study is the demonstrated feasibility of using exclusively open-access satellite datasets and open-source software for comprehensive monitoring of tailings dams. This approach minimizes financial constraints while providing high-quality data to support informed decision-making and regulatory compliance. Furthermore, the non-invasive nature of remote sensing enables continuous observation of large and complex facilities, enhancing the early identification of potential anomalies related to surface conditions or structural integrity. Overall, the findings emphasize the considerable potential of GIS-supported multispectral remote sensing as a cost-effective, scalable, and reliable tool for long-term monitoring of tailings storage facilities. The Benkovski case study illustrates how modern Earth observation technologies can facilitate sustainable mining practices, strengthen environmental transparency, and support proactive management throughout the full lifecycle of tailings dams.. REFERENCES Bahadur, T. (2018). NDVI, NDBI & NDWI Calculation Using Landsat 7, 8. GeoWorld Volume II Cacciuttolo, C., Cano, D. (2023). Spatial and Temporal Study of Supernatant Process Water Pond in Tailings Storage Facilities: Use of Remote Sensing Techniques for Preventing Mine Tailings Dam Failures. Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 4984. doi:10.3390/su15064984 Khalid, H.W.; Khalil, R.M.Z.; Qureshi, M.A. (2021). Evaluating Spectral Indices for Water Bodies Extraction in Western Tibetan Plateau. Egypt. J. Remote Sens. Space Sci. 2021, 24, 619–634. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejrs.2021.09.003.
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