ABSTRACT
The resultant Bureau of Mines’ “Surface Mining, Extraction and Reclamation” program has as its objectives the development of improved systems and techniques for the removal and handling of overburden, the extraction of coal from single and multiple seams, and the reclamation of the land disturbed by mining. The prevailing goal of major research effort will be the integration of mining and reclamation activities into a total, contemporaneous mining system, while increasing productivity and enhancing reclamation in a cost-effective manner. Two nationwide studies are underway to compile reclamation cost data and determine the current state-of-the-art of overburden handling and reclamation practices. Conceptual mine systems will be developed and analyzed in terms of their technical and economic feasibility. Those concepts showing the most promise will then be subjected to field demonstrations. A key obstacle to development of new surface mining operations is the lengthy process of developing and obtaining the approval of mining and reclamation plans.
