Adams said the goal of the effort is to “accelerate AML/AMD projects that will be used for bids” and funded by the $297.9 million DEP expects to receive for projects in federal fiscal year 2022.
“Focus areas for this funding include bigger and more projects. That includes projects that were too expensive previously,” said Adams.
He said priorities would be to--
-- Reclaim mine land hazards or eliminate or reduce AMD sources, coal refuse piles that generate AMD and sources of acidic sediment impacting streams;
-- Funding operation and maintenance of critical passive treatment systems; and
-- Launching a new grant sub-award program for local groups to submit AML and AMD projects for funding.
“DEP is also adding staff and a Bureau of Abandoned Mine Reclamation to support expanded AML and AMD programs,” said Adams.
Adams said this work needs to be done quickly to prepare for submitting the formal application for the additional funding when the federal Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement application period opens by the end of September.
Visit DEP’s Bureau of Abandoned Mine Reclamation webpage for more information on this program.
For more information and available handouts, visit the DEP Citizens Advisory Council webpage. Questions should be directed to Keith Salador, Executive Director, ksalador@pa.gov or 717-787-8171.
(Photo: Little Conemaugh River, Cambria County.)
Related Article This Week:
-- PA AML Campaign: Urge Sen. Toomey To Support Abandoned Mine Remediation STREAM Act [PaEN]
Related Articles:
[Posted: July 20, 2022] PA Environment Digest
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