Sustainable reclamation practices for a large surface coal mine in shortgrass prairie, semiarid environment (Wyoming, USA): case study

Abstract

AbstractSustainable reclamation practices for large surface coal mines in USA semiarid environment contribute to the quality of the environmental on a long term basis where environmental resources are protected for future generation. Land, after reclamation, must be suitable for the previous use of greatest economic or social values to the community area. In the semiarid climate of USA, non-developed land is mainly utilized for crops, grazing, and wildlife. Completion of various stages of the reclamation processes includes verification and approval of reclamation criteria and performance standards created by state agencies. The sustainable reclamation practices were investigated at the USA’s largest surface coal mine of the semiarid environment in Wyoming. These practices include building post-mining topography to the approximate original contour and reestablish a stable hydrologic system to drain surface water. All available spoil material is backfilled and graded to achieve the post-mining topography which closely resembles the pre-mining topography. No overburden material or other coal waste material is left in stockpiles at the mine. Detailed planning until the end of mining, the knowledge of available volumes of suitable backfill material and soil is necessary for sustainable management practices. Diverse and permanent vegetation capable of stabilizing soil surfaces and capable of self-regeneration is established. Sustainable management of the reclamation effort is achieved by enforcement processes developed by the state and federal agencies. Monthly inspections of mining and reclamation operations and reviews of annual reports submitted by the operator help determine if the reclamation processes are occurring according to the permit plan.