Surface mining for coal in the Appalachians has a profound effect on wildlife habitat. At the mine site, vegetation is eliminated, soil and rock is displaced, and many times, mountains are actually moved. While mining is taking place, no wildlife can survive on the mine site, but the actual extraction of coal is done relatively quickly. After the coal is extracted, the reclamation process begins almost immediately, and reclamation laws and regulations dictate how mines will be reclaimed. The laws and regulations that dictate how mines will be reclaimed, or the interpretation of them, do not necessarily produce the best wildlife habitat possible. By partnering with the coal industry, mining regulators, wildlife agencies, other conservationists and landowners, we are committed to helping minimize the negative impacts from mining and restoring high quality habitat to mine sites.
When reclaimed properly, surface mines can provide habitat to many wildlife species, some of which are considered to be imperiled. The species list in the Appalachians includes elk, deer, turkeys, bears, quail, grouse, songbirds, raptors, butterflies and honeybees, and many species of small mammals. With some modifications to current mine reclamation efforts, reclaimed surface mines could provide even better habitat, higher wildlife populations, and a haven for people that enjoy wildlife recreation.
The fact of the matter is that a surface mine can be reclaimed to provide habitat for just about any wildlife species desired. Habitat can be created for just about everything from beavers and wood ducks to elk, deer and honeybees. The first part is to decide just what it is we are trying to achieve through the reclamation process. Then, by employing an innovative, scientific approach, habitat can be created and restored in the best manner possible.
Our efforts also benefit one of the poorest areas of the United States by creating high quality wildlife habitat and boosting wildlife populations, thus providing opportunities for local communities to launch and promote wildlife recreation and tourism on reclaimed mine sites. For example, the Kentucky elk herd is thriving on reclaimed mine lands and is having an ever expanding economic impact. Reclaimed mine lands, within the context of the predominately forested landscape of the Appalachians, can provide a unique diversity of habitat types to support many wildlife species. With an innovative approach to the reclamation process, the future of the mine site can include abundant populations of wildlife.
Mission Statement: Seeking opportunities and finding solutions for restoring wildlife and habitat.
The Appalachian Wildlife Foundation, Inc. 1005 South Main, Suite 104
Corbin, KY 40701
606.523.1323 davidawf@windstream.net
