Abstract
The aim of the study was to determine the influence of coal mine waters on water quality in the Vistula River. Water samples for laboratory analysis were collected in 2011 and 2012 on one kilometer long section of the river. Basic parameters were measured at the collection spot. The study asseses the dynamics of physicochemical water properties, fulfillment of the quality requirements necessary to introduce contaminated water into the river, water salinity, quality, and utility values. The study indicates that water quality of the Vistula River has been rapidly decreasing as a result of coal mine water introduction. Water becomes degraded, unfavourable for fish communities and unsuitable for use by people. Coal mine water contamination exceeds allowable pollution levels stated by legal regulations. Self-purification of the river is efficient as contamination levels decrease at the length of the examined section of the river.