A field study of the leaching of trace elements from the upper soil layer of a spent shale deposit was carried out. The study was conducted by installing a set of samplers in both active and closed parts of the deposit. Leachates were analyzed for pH, conductivity and concentrations of elements by ICP-MS. The results indicated release of metals from both parts of the deposit. Among the elements Mo, Zn, Ni, Cu, Cr and V were most mobile. The highest concentrations of Mo (104 mu g/l), Zn (80 mu g/l) and Ni (76 mu g/l) were found in leachates from the active part of the deposit.