The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) will receive approximately $10.65 million to eliminate hazards left behind by abandoned mine lands (AML) and improve communities impacted by historic coal mining. The grant is provided to Ohio by the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) for the Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization (AMLER) Program.
"This funding provides us with an incredible opportunity to turn the hazards left behind by years of mining into assets that will benefit all Ohioans," ODNR Director Mary Mertz said. "This work is an investment into the health, safety, and economic future of families and communities here in the Buckeye State."
The AMLER Program, formerly known as the AML Pilot Program, was authorized by Congress under the Consolidated Appropriations by OSMRE. AML Pilot funds are to be used "for the reclamation of abandoned mine lands in conjunction with economic and community development and reuse goals." ODNR will be administering the money through grants.
The funding is to the six Appalachian states that have the greatest amount of high priority unfunded abandoned mine land problems as well as three Western Tribes.
ODNR administers both a state and federal AML program. Prior to 1972, Ohio statute did not require restoration of desirable environmental conditions to surface mined areas. ODNR's Division of Mineral Resources Management (MRM) has been investing and working diligently to transform AML sites into safe and enjoyable land for Ohioans to enjoy.
Categories: Ohio, General