A research effort was initiated to investigate the effect of fibrous material on the flocculation and dewatering of fine wastes from several mining industries including phosphates, kaolin, and bauxite. Several dewatering techniques were investigated, including sedimentation thickening; filtration; centrifugation; dewatering on screens; and seepage-induced dewatering and consolidation. This paper discusses the results obtained in various stages of development of this patented process. Different scenarios are presented for potential uses of this process for reclamation purposes of phosphatic clays in light of the new regulatory and permitting requirements. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.