OSMFinal Rule
General Reclamation Requirements
EnvironmentEnergyAgriculture
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Summary
This regulation from the Office of Surface Mining (OSM) sets federal standards for how companies must restore land after mining operations end. The rules aim to ensure that mined areas are cleaned up properly and returned to safe, productive use so communities aren't left with damaged landscapes and environmental hazards.
Key Points
- 1Mining companies must follow specific requirements to restore (or 'reclaim') land after they finish extracting coal, minerals, or other resources
- 2Reclamation plans must address water quality, soil stability, vegetation regrowth, and wildlife habitat to prevent long-term environmental damage
- 3Companies are responsible for monitoring restored sites for several years after mining ends to ensure the land remains stable and safe
- 4These requirements apply to all surface mining operations on federal and some private lands across the United States
- 5Failure to meet reclamation standards can result in fines and legal action against mining companies
Key Dates
Published
January 27, 2026
This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.
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