|
Mining In Ohio Today
Although surface mining in Ohio used to leave acres of unreclaimed land, state and federal laws enacted in the 1970's have brought about tremendous changes. Today the land is reclaimed to its approximate original contour, resoiled, and revegetated.
Before mining in an area begins, a strip mining permit must be obtained. The application for a permit contains information on the water resources, land use and topography, mining operation and reclamation of the site. This mining and reclamation plan is used to protect the environment and landowners.
Once the mining permit is issued, a performance bond of $2500 per acre is retained by the State. The bond is released in three phases. When a designated portion of the area is backfilled and graded, 50% of the bond is released. An additional 35% is released when the area has been resoiled and vegetation established. The final 15% is released after a five year maintenance period which begins upon the completion of the planting. If a company is unable to complete the required reclamation, the State uses the bond to reclaim the area. A company which has forfeited bond cannot obtain further permits.
Site inspections by the Ohio Division of Mineral Resources Management and federal Office of Surface Mining ensure that the mining and reclamation requirements are met. If a problem occurs, these agencies are often able to help resolve it.
|
|
