Old Abandoned Coal Mines From Decades Ago Start to Grow Into Forests

Old, abandoned coal mines from several decades ago are not wastelands anymore, although at first, it may appear such because nature beginning to reclaim the lands that were once hollowed out for resources.

Old Abandoned Coal Mines

Strip-mining coal involves drastic changes to mountains and their surroundings, converting lush forests into barren landscapes. Gigantic heavy machinery removes vegetation, topsoil, and layers of rock, leaving waste in valleys.

Federal law mandates restoring mined lands, but coal companies often evade this responsibility.

An estimated 633,000 unreclaimed or partially reclaimed acres exist in Appalachia, with up to 100,000 in Virginia alone.

Despite problems like erosion and water pollution, nature is gradually reclaiming some of these areas.

A September manual by Virginia scientists and sustainable development advocates envisions revitalizing these devastated landscapes.

In central Appalachia, flat land is scarce, and former coal strip mines on ridges are targeted for various purposes, from prisons to clean energy projects.

With substantial public and private investments, fueled by the bipartisan infrastructure law, pouring into the region, abandoned sites draw increasing attention. These once-deemed wastelands could become hubs of innovation and rejuvenation, symbolizing hope for Appalachia's future.

Potential for Forest Regrowth in Hallowed Lands

The High Knob Regional Initiative's researchers urge a pause for reflection.

Wally Smith, the leader of the University of Virginia's College at Wise biology team, notes that some mine sites, particularly the older ones, have begun self-restoration.

Forests are returning, and wildlife is reoccupying these areas. Proving that old abandoned mines are no longer lifeless voids.

Over decades, scientists, including those associated with the Initiative, have studied various mine lands, from old strip mines now covered in forest to freshly leveled sites, some overgrown with autumn olives and scraggly grasses.

Nature has reclaimed many, welcoming a variety of flora and fauna, including rare species like the green salamander.

Wetlands, a result of landscape changes, have emerged and can help filter out contaminants from mine drainage.

Smith hopes that during this regional energy and economic transition, local leaders will avoid repeating past land use mistakes.

Poorly planned construction, as seen with the controversial Spearhead Trails network on reforested former mine land, can erase this progress, causing erosion, damage, and flooding.

Slow Down and Reconsider

Smith believes that many view mine lands as lost and expendable. He highlighted a feasibility study supporting a nuclear reactor on a former strip mine, noting the lack of environmental constraints, deeming it a "higher and better use."

Such sites are seen as guilt-free development zones.

Smith's team supports development but advocates sustainable practices involving underserved communities in planning. The coal industry exploited the region and privatized land.

Now, it's an opportunity for ecologically sound, community-centered approaches.

The High Knob Regional Initiative offers best-use recommendations for former mine lands, emphasizing environmental assessment, transparency, and public input, prioritizing local community impacts.

Smith likens the situation to a kaleidoscope, with diverse mining legacies and impacts on wildlife and ecosystems. No one-size-fits-all conclusion exists. The desire is to reclaim these lands for both ecosystems and local communities. Companies profiting from coal's past glory may seek alternative, less destructive uses.

The Abandoned Mine Land Program in Virginia collaborates with developers on permitting, focusing on land stability.

The Inflation Reduction Act provides substantial funding for mine restoration, with Virginia receiving over $22.7 million annually for 15 years. This presents a chance for holistic mineland restoration, community-focused projects, and addressing broader community impacts beyond quick fixes.