Why Are There Mining and Reclamation Laws?
State and federal laws and regulations have been enacted to ensure coal mining and reclamation operations are conducted in a manner that protects the environment and provides for the safety of the public. These laws and regulations establish standards for the various stages of the mining process such as topsoil removal, sediment control, use of explosives, backfilling and grading of the coal pit and revegetation of the disturbed area. Mining and reclamation laws and regulations also provide guidelines for public participation, inspection, enforcement and bond release after reclamation. For more information about Kentucky’s mining and reclamation laws, visit our Statutes and Regulations page.
