Mining & Reclamation

Mining & Reclamation Practices in Texas

The Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act was enacted in 1977 to regulate the negative environmental impacts of coal mining in the United States. This legislation serves to regulate active coal mines and also to reclaim regions that have since been abandoned by coal mining operations. Coal mining operations throughout the United States have a responsibility to compensate for adverse environmental effects caused by strip mining and other harsh mining practices, and a Texas oil and gas law attorney can help commercial mining operations, individual landowners and other agencies to meet their legal obligations in terms of responsible mining and reclamation projects in the case of abandoned mines.

How do mine reclamations work?

Reclamation is a required process which any concluded mining operation must undergo. This process can be costly, and include such steps as stabilizing waste dumps against erosion, covering sulfide-laced ore with protective layers to prevent the production of harmful sulfuric acid, preventing access to dumps or open pits, planting vegetation that contributes to the stability of reclaimed land and more. Above-ground mines are considerably more costly to rehabilitate than underground mines, although both types must undergo reclamation as per United States law.

The Amaro Law Firm has worked for 22 years to assist commercial mining operations and others in the regulation of active mines as well as the rehabilitation and reclamation of mines that have either been abandoned or are at the end of production. Our team of skilled lawyers can provide valuable insight into best practices for adherence to regulations, and can also consult on matters of reclamation. We are dedicated to meeting the needs of our clients throughout Texas and will work hard to see that our efforts prove to be a distinct advantage in your approach to mining and reclamation.

Contact a Texas oil and gas law lawyer if you are interested in mining and reclamation efforts in Texas, and want to speak with a qualified legal professional.