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Western coal producers have achieved notable success in
returning mined land to productive use, often leaving it better than they found
it. Sparse rainfall, centuries of exposure to harsh climate, and destructive
winds have left much western land scenic but unsuitable for farming. In mining
western coal, companies are required to restore vegetation – an often
difficult task which necessitates the dedication of much time, money and
resources.
Extensive research has preceded the vegetative growth now
being established in the West. For example, before surface mining begins,
operators undertake detailed surveys of flora and fauna at the mine sites to
establish the species which will thrive there. Many companies work closely with
state university laboratories and research departments, as well as state and
federal agencies, all of which can help achieve successful reclamation.
| Water is a critical factor in western reclamation. In the
mid-1980s, Utah International’s Navajo Mine in New Mexico
conducted extensive research into the most effective ways to stretch
limited water supplies. The company investigated drip irrigation –
which funnels water directly onto each plant and uses one-tenth the
water of other methods – as well as the sprinkler system, to determine
their effectiveness. Mulching was discovered as vital in helping
fledgling plants retain valuable moisture. In Wyoming, Arch Mineral
Corp. restores the topsoil on mined land so that it lies in ripples,
thus increasing the soil’s ability to absorb moisture and cutting down
on erosion. |
Navajo Coal Company reclamation expert examines growth on a
reclaimed coal mine in Arizona. |
Plants used for reclamation in the West differ from those in
the eastern states where fescue, clover, timothy, red top and rye grass are
likely to be among the choices. Western choices are more likely to include four
wing saltbrush, wheat grass, Indian ricegrass and shadscale. The successful
growth of these species is providing better than average forage for cattle. On
Wyoming land owned by The Carter Mining Co., it took 41 acres to graze
one "animal unit" (cow and calf) prior to mining. Over the long-term
the company estimates it will take 30 acres or less of the reclaimed land per
animal unit.
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