SPOTLIGHT

Welcome to the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement new website!

The new site is designed to allow you to find the information you want quickly and easily. We’ve added new features and reorganized existing links to better describe the mission, vision, and programs of the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement. Please continue to check back as we update our website with new features.

Office of Surface Mining Announces Grants Addressing Abandoned Mines

Washington, DC (December 22, 2008) – The U.S. Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSM) today approved a permit revision for the Black Mesa mining complex in northeastern Arizona.

Office of Surface Mining Announces Grants Addressing Abandoned Mines

(Washington, D.C.) – The U.S. Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSM) today announced that $298 million in grants is available in Fiscal Year 2009 for states and tribes to restore abandoned mine lands, treat water quality problems associated with past mining, and, in some cases, to be put to other uses.

OSM Issues Final Rules for the Abandoned Mine Land Program

(Washingto, DC) The U.S. Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSM) announced today publication of a final rule that aligns current regulations with amendments to the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act (SMCRA) enacted in 2006. Signed into law by President George W. Bush on December 20, 2006, the amendments significantly changed the Abandoned Mine Land (AML) program, including dramatically increasing the funds available for reclaiming abandoned coal mines. After an initial phase-in period, about 83 percent of fees collected annually will be allocated for this reclamation.

Office of Surface Mining To Issue New Rule Tightening Restrictions on Excess Spoil, Coal Mine Waste, and Mining Activities in or Near Streams

(Washington, DC) Office of Surface Mining To Issue New Rule Tightening Restrictions on Excess Spoil, Coal Mine Waste, and Mining Activities in or Near Streams (Washington) – The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSM) announced today its plans to publish a new Federal rule that places new restrictions on how coal mine operators can dispose of coal mine waste and the excess spoil created by the mining operation.