OSMFinal Rule
Backfilling and Grading
EnergyEnvironmentAgriculture
Ad Space (leaderboard)
Summary
This regulation from the Office of Surface Mining sets rules for how mining companies must fill in and reshape land after they remove coal or other minerals from the ground. The rules ensure that reclaimed land is properly contoured and compacted so it doesn't erode, cause flooding, or create environmental problems for nearby communities.
Key Points
- 1Mining companies must properly backfill excavated areas with suitable material and compact it to prevent settling, erosion, and water runoff problems
- 2Land must be graded to match the natural terrain or be shaped for approved alternative land uses like wildlife habitat or recreation areas
- 3Companies must meet specific compaction standards and slope requirements to ensure long-term stability of reclaimed land
- 4Inspectors will monitor backfilling and grading work to verify compliance before final site approval
- 5These requirements apply to all surface mining operations regulated by the Office of Surface Mining
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.
The Digest Network
Ad Space (rectangle)