OSMRE Honors Pennsylvania for Innovative Mine Reclamation Efforts

The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) has acknowledged the impactful reclamation efforts made by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection by presenting them with the prestigious 2026 Appalachian States Regional Abandoned Mine Land Reclamation Award. This award was given in recognition of the Forest City East project, a significant undertaking which involved the reclamation of 52.3 acres of previously abandoned mine land. Completed in April 2024 at an expenditure exceeding $3.3 million, the project stands as a testament to effective federal-state collaboration in environmental restoration and responsible management of natural resources.

Funded through both the Title IV Abandoned Mine Land (AML) Non-Water Program and the AML Economic Revitalization (AMLER) program, the successful completion of the Forest City East project highlights critical funding pathways available for similar initiatives. According to OSMRE Deputy Director Tom Shope, the ongoing recognition of Pennsylvania’s efforts showcases the state’s leadership in implementing reclamation projects that not only enhance community safety but also improve the overall quality of life for residents. “Alleviating hazardous remnants of past mining operations and putting lands back to productive use are essential for supporting America’s energy dominance,” he stated during the awards presentation.

The Forest City East project specifically addressed several environmental challenges, rehabilitating areas that had long been hindered by unsafe conditions stemming from Dangerous Piles, Embankments, and Gob Piles. These hazards were negatively affecting the nearby Lackawanna River, known to be a naturally reproducing trout stream of high ecological value. Through various restoration initiatives, including the preservation of existing wetlands, the creation of new wetland areas, and extensive revegetation efforts, the project managed to transform a deprived landscape into a safe and appealing space for public enjoyment.

Some of the notable improvements included a newly developed parking area, an access road, and the construction of a non-motorized boat launch aimed at promoting recreational activities such as kayaking and canoeing. Although the land remains privately owned, the owner has permitted public access, and the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission is actively exploring a long-term agreement to ensure ongoing public utilization of the site. As noted by Dr. Katie Zefran, Secretary of Greater Forest City Industries, the project has significantly elevated community engagement with outdoor activities, which has historically been hampered due to lack of access to the river and the presence of environmental hazards.

Awarded for the seventh consecutive year, Pennsylvania's accolades from OSMRE underscore the importance of leveraging federal resources to support local communities. The Abandoned Mine Land Reclamation Awards, established in 1992, aim to highlight exemplary reclamation projects by state and tribal partners. By demonstrating the effectiveness of coordination among various agencies such as environmental departments and commissions, the Forest City East initiative not only serves as an exemplar of successful reclamation but also indicates increasing procurement opportunities in regions dealing with similar legacy mine land challenges.

In summary, the Forest City East project exemplifies a model of reclamation where collaborative efforts thrive to improve land safety and utility, ultimately serving the interests of local communities and the environment. This ongoing recognition reinforces the significance of state-federal partnerships in environmental management and lays a foundation for future public bidding opportunities in restoration projects across the Appalachian region and beyond.