Directional drilling expands traditional highwall depressurization horizontal drilling capabilities by (1) allowing for longer boreholes, (2) steering to intercept water-bearing features at intentional angles that maximize hydraulic connectivity and drainage, and (3) installing sidetracks to increase coverage area. In addition, the increased design capabilities can allow for more alternative drill setup locations in safer highwall areas that are less intrusive of active mining operations. A more novel application includes vertical well intercepts to drain water collected in horizontal laterals to a production well, shifting the burden of water handling to outside the active mining pit and reducing concerns with freezing at the highwall in colder environments.
