Coal Mining Development and Reclamation: Definitions

Reclamation:

Reclamation is the process of reconverting disturbed land to its former or other productive uses (equivalent land capability). To reclaim the land, the overburden and subsoil are replaced in their correct order and contoured.The topsoil is replaced and the land is seeded with the right kind of vegetation for the intended land use. Establishing vegetation also helps to prevent erosion.

Without reclamation, the effects of surface mining can be seen for years. The unstable land around the coal pits and the coal spoil piles would be unsuitable for agriculture and would present safety hazards. Wildlife would continue to be affected by the loss of vegetation and habitat like they are during the mining process. Therefore, reclamation is critical.

Reclamation Certification

The Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act (EPEA) requires operators to conserve and reclaim specified land and to obtain a reclamation certificate. Reclamation certificates are issued to operators when their site has been successfully reclaimed.

When a site is no longer productive, the operator applies to Alberta Environment for a reclamation certificate. Each application must include an assessment of how surface issues were addressed. If all reclamation standards are met, Alberta Environment issues the company a reclamation certificate.