Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977
Okay kiddo, let me tell you about the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA). SMCRA is a law made by the government that says people who want to mine coal, oil, or gas on land need a permit from the government first. The permit tells them how to mine safely and how to put things back the way they were before they started.
When miners have taken out all the coal or whatever they were looking for, the law says they have to put the land back the way it was before. They might have to plant grass or trees or fix streams that got messed up during mining. This is called "reclamation." The law says miners have to leave the land in a good condition, so that people can use it again for other things like farming, building houses, or hiking.
The Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act also says that if the miners don't follow the rules, the government can stop them from mining anymore or even make them pay a big fine. This makes sure that people who mine cannot harm the land or people who live nearby.
Overall, the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act is a way to make sure our environment and community stays safe and healthy.
When miners have taken out all the coal or whatever they were looking for, the law says they have to put the land back the way it was before. They might have to plant grass or trees or fix streams that got messed up during mining. This is called "reclamation." The law says miners have to leave the land in a good condition, so that people can use it again for other things like farming, building houses, or hiking.
The Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act also says that if the miners don't follow the rules, the government can stop them from mining anymore or even make them pay a big fine. This makes sure that people who mine cannot harm the land or people who live nearby.
Overall, the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act is a way to make sure our environment and community stays safe and healthy.