Ecological restoration model selection for abandoned mines in the Luo River Basin, Eastern Qinling Mountains

Effective management of mining areas in the Luo River Basin, located in the eastern Qinling Mountains, is vital for the integrated protection and restoration needed to support the high-quality development of the Yellow River Basin. Using the 'cup-ball' model, this study analyzes the limiting factors and restoration characteristics across four mining areas and proposes a conceptual model for selecting appropriate restoration approaches. A second conceptual model is then introduced to address regional development needs, incorporating ecological conservation, safety protection, and people's well-being. The applicability of the integrated model selection framework is demonstrated through a case study on the south bank of the Qinglongjian River. The results indicate that: (1) The key limiting factors are similar across cases, but the degree of ecological degradation varies. (2) Mildly degraded areas are represented by a shallower and narrower 'cup', where natural recovery is the preferred approach, whereas moderately and severely degraded systems call for assisted regeneration and ecological reconstruction, respectively. (3) When the restoration models determined based on limiting factors and development needs are consistent, the model is directly applicable; if they differ, the option involving less artificial intervention is preferred; (4) Monitoring of the restored mining area on the Qinglongjian River's south bank confirms significant improvements in soil erosion control and vegetation coverage. This study provides a transferable methodology for balancing resource extraction with ecosystem conservation, offering practical insights for other ecologically vulnerable mining regions.