Surface mining and reclamation

Journal Article · Thu May 01 04:00:00 EDT 1975 · Coal Age; (United States)

OSTI ID:6674424

Steepness of slope is a major problem in the surface mining of coal in Appalachia. New federal and state surface mining laws have stimulated improved surface mining methods and reclamation techniques. Controlled placement operations (including haulback, flat-top or mountain top removal) and longwall stripping have largely been developed as a response to new environmental laws. The author defines ''controlled placement'' and examines water retention techniques, haulback methods, and mountain top removal. Longwall stripping and multiple-seam mining are also discussed. The author describes a haulback mining operation in eastern Ohio which is planned to ''return the land to better-than-original condition.'' A modified block-cut method that is used in southwestern Pennsylvania is also examined. Several informative figures diagram a haulback operation, experimental multiple-seam mining, a modified block-cut, a plan view of a longwall stripping system, and a coal reclaiming operation that uses a dredge. The West Virginia strip mining law (amended in 1971) is also highlighted.

• OSTI ID: 6674424
• Journal Information: Coal Age; (United States), Journal Name: Coal Age; (United States); ISSN COAAA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
APPALACHIA
CENTRAL REGION
COAL MINING
GREAT LAKES REGION
LAND RECLAMATION
LAWS
MINING
NORTH AMERICA
OHIO
PENNSYLVANIA
SURFACE MINING
USA
WEST VIRGINIA