Define: Office Of Surface Mining Reclamation And Enforcement

Office Of Surface Mining Reclamation And Enforcement
Office Of Surface Mining Reclamation And Enforcement
Quick Summary of Office Of Surface Mining Reclamation And Enforcement

The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSM) is a division of the U.S. Department of the Interior that ensures coal mining does not have a negative impact on the environment. They enforce regulations that mandate mining companies to rehabilitate the land after mining operations are completed. Additionally, they provide assistance to states and local governments in overseeing safe and responsible mining practices.

Full Definition Of Office Of Surface Mining Reclamation And Enforcement

The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSM) is a division of the U.S. Department of the Interior with the primary task of safeguarding against the adverse impacts of surface coal mining through the enforcement of relevant laws and regulations. OSM also offers assistance to states and local governments, which bear the main responsibility in this area. In cases where a coal mining company is found to be in violation of surface mining and restoration laws, OSM has the authority to take action and ensure accountability. Additionally, OSM provides guidance and support to states and local governments to help them effectively manage surface mining activities and protect the environment.

Office Of Surface Mining Reclamation And Enforcement FAQ'S

The OSMRE is a federal agency responsible for regulating and overseeing the surface mining of coal and the reclamation of mined lands to ensure environmental protection and restoration.

The primary purpose of the OSMRE is to ensure the reclamation and restoration of lands affected by surface coal mining operations, while also enforcing compliance with environmental laws and regulations.

The OSMRE is responsible for issuing permits for surface coal mining operations, conducting inspections to ensure compliance with regulations, enforcing reclamation standards, and providing technical assistance to states and tribes in implementing their own regulatory programs.

The OSMRE conducts regular inspections of mining operations to assess compliance with environmental laws and regulations. If violations are found, the agency can issue citations, impose penalties, and require corrective actions to be taken.

Yes, the OSMRE has the authority to revoke or suspend mining permits if a mining operation fails to comply with reclamation requirements or violates environmental regulations.

To obtain a mining permit, an applicant must submit a detailed application to the OSMRE, including plans for reclamation and environmental protection. The OSMRE reviews the application, conducts an environmental impact assessment, and may hold public hearings before granting or denying the permit.

Yes, individuals or communities affected by mining operations can file complaints with the OSMRE. The agency will investigate the complaint and take appropriate enforcement actions if violations are found.

The OSMRE works in partnership with states and tribes to implement their own regulatory programs for surface mining. These programs must meet or exceed federal standards set by the OSMRE.

The OSMRE administers a program to reclaim and restore abandoned mine lands that were left unreclaimed prior to the enactment of modern environmental regulations. The agency provides funding and technical assistance to states and tribes for the reclamation of these lands.

For more information or to contact the OSMRE, you can visit their official website or reach out to their regional offices located throughout the United States. Contact information can be found on their website.

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This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 16th April 2024.

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