OSMFinal Rule
Regulatory Program: West Virginia
EnergyEnvironment
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Summary
This regulation from the Office of Surface Mining (OSM) establishes rules for how coal mining and related surface disturbance activities are regulated in West Virginia. The rules set environmental standards and oversight procedures to minimize damage to the land, water, and community resources affected by mining operations.
Key Points
- 1Sets environmental standards for coal mining operations in West Virginia, including requirements for protecting water quality and managing mining waste
- 2Establishes a permit and inspection system so state and federal regulators can monitor mining companies to ensure they follow environmental rules
- 3Requires mining companies to restore mined land after operations end, such as replanting vegetation and reshaping the terrain
- 4Applies to surface mining, underground mining with surface impacts, and related activities like mountaintop removal
- 5Affects mining companies operating in West Virginia and local communities near mining sites that depend on clean water and stable land
Key Dates
Published
February 20, 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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