Summary

Northwest Colorado mining companies have been doing reclamation since the early-mid 1970’s. The Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA) is the primary federal law that regulates the environmental impacts of coal mining in the United States. With the passage of SMCRA, coal mine operators have been required to minimize the environmental effects of mining and the large-scale land disturbances associated with strip mining operations.

On this field trip, attendees will view 5 decades of reclamation success at several of the most awarded coal mining operations in the country. Attendees will leave Denver and travel on buses to Colorado mines located near Steamboat Springs, Craig and Meeker. Attendees will view Peabody mining operation on day one and Trapper and Colowyo Coal operation on day two.

Recommendations for trip: long pants, long sleeved shirt, winter coat, gloves, sturdy boots, rain gear, hat and water.

Meals & Refreshments: Lunch will be provided on day two. Snacks and water will be available throughout all three days. Attendees are responsible for all other meals.

Detailed Description

The reclamation goals at each mine include the re-establishment of rangelands specifically to benefit grazing and wildlife habitat. Reclamation plans require land grading to mimic the original topography (AOC) and requires topsoil replacement on all disturbed lands. Once topsoil is laid down, native/non-native seed is used to establish plant communities associated with the target post mine land use. Topsoil replacement on native seeded areas may also include the practice of live haul topsoil replacement. Where wildlife habitat is the focus, reclamation efforts include the establishment of a wood plant density criteria. Wood stem densities have been achieved by a combination of live haul topsoil establishment, shrub island creation and potted/bare root shrub plantings. Efforts to minimize erosion on disturbed land is also a primary goal using state-of-the-art erosion and sediment control practices.

Successful reclamation at all of the mine locations is realized by the huge wildlife populations that utilized the reclamation area and the successful re-establishment of “species of concern” such as Sharp-tail and Greater sage-grouse. Overall, mining activity and the successful reclamation of disturbed lands has created a mosaic of landscapes that has significantly favored wildlife selection and use.

Participants are encouraged to bring your camera as you will likely see an abundance of wildlife on the reclaimed areas including elk, Mule deer, Pronghorn, Sharp-tail grouse and Greater sage-grouse, to name a few.