Abandoned Mine Reclamation Program Update

The Abandoned Mine Reclamation Program (AMRP) works to protect the public from hazards associated with abandoned coal and hardrock mines. Historic coal mines have left behind coal refuse, open portals, damaged stream channels, and coal mine fires. Hazards from hardrock mines include dangerous gases, unstable structures, and explosives. AMRP estimates there are approximately 17,000 abandoned mine openings across Utah. Since the program began in 1983, over 1,000 acres have been reclaimed, and 6,000 hazardous mine openings have been closed. The Utah Mined Land Reclamation Act, passed in 1975, made it illegal to abandon mines and established a foundation for responsible mine reclamation in the state.

AMRP’s work is guided by a thorough process designed to ensure reclamation projects address the highest risks while protecting Utah’s natural and cultural resources. The program uses a geographic information system (GIS) model to prioritize areas based on factors such as the number of abandoned mines, proximity to roads and communities, and land use. The program also works closely with BLM and other agencies to determine priorities, often based on transient recreational use. Before work begins, staff conduct extensive planning and environmental analysis to determine the appropriate approach for each site.

The program was established and initially funded through the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA), which established the federal Abandoned Mine Land (AML) program. Funding is also provided through AML grants from BLM, the Department of Energy, and the newly formed Abandoned Hardrock Mine Reclamation (AHMR) Program run by the Department of the Interior. Federally funded projects must comply with requirements including the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the National Historic Preservation Act and the Endangered Species Act. AMRP staff evaluate potential impacts to cultural resources, threatened and endangered species, landowners and the environment before projects can move forward. 

For earthwork, mine fires, and more complex engineering projects, AMRP follows the Division of Purchasing rules for procurement of an engineering firm. For simple hardrock mine closures, once the project inventory is complete, staff use their expertise in geology, wildlife and environmental compliance to determine the best closure method. Depending on site conditions, openings may be secured with bat-compatible gates, steel grates, fencing, backfill or other specialized techniques.

Recent accomplishments include the Kenilworth Mine Fire project in Carbon County, which earned AMRP the 2025 OSM National Abandoned Mine Land Reclamation Award, and Phase II of the Kane Creek Phase 2 Project, which secured 129 hazardous mine openings in Grand County.

In September, the AMRP will host the 2026 National Association of Abandoned Mine Land Programs (NAAMLP) Conference in Park City, bringing together reclamation experts from across the nation to exchange technical insights and professional experience. Program staff is currently coordinating a comprehensive agenda that includes administrative logistics, project presentations, and specialized field tours showcasing Utah's rich mining legacy and modern reclamation achievements.

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