Reclaiming Abandoned Mine Lands

Title IV of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act

Restoring the Environment

In general, abandoned mine lands are lands and waters adversely impacted by inadequately reclaimed surface coal mining operations on lands that were not subject to the reclamation requirements of the Surface Mining Law. Environmental problems associated with abandoned mine lands include surface and ground water pollution, entrances to open mines, water-filled pits, unreclaimed or inadequately reclaimed refuse piles and minesites (including some with dangerous highwalls), sediment-clogged streams, damage from landslides, and fumes and surface instability resulting from mine fires and burning coal refuse. Environmental restoration activities under the abandoned mine reclamation program correct or mitigate these problems.

Funding for States and Indian Tribes

Select from the list below:

• Grants
• Federal Assistance Manual (FAM)

 

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Projects and Initiatives

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• Appalachian Coal Country Watershed Team (OSM/VISTA)
• Bat Conservation and Minig
• Mine Fires
• National Fish Habitat Action Plan
• Reforestation
• Underground Mine Map Initiative

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Laws, Regulations, and Guidance

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• Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act (SMCRA)
• SMCRA Amendments of 2006
• Federal Register Documents
• Federal Regulations
• State Programs and Contacts

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Tools and Quick Links

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• Abandoned Mine Land Inventory System (AMLIS)
• Annual Evaluation Reports for States and Tribes
• National Mine Map Repository
• Reclamation Awards

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