March 9, 2023 - The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement is soliciting nominations for the 2023 Excellence in Surface Coal Mining Reclamation Awards through May 12. These awards are the highest honor given to coal mining companies for exemplary coal mine reclamation in the United States.

Since 1986, OSMRE has presented National and Good Neighbor awards annually to coal mining companies. National awards recognize achievement in a specific aspect of reclamation or for overall performance in meeting goals of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977. Good Neighbor awards are given to mine operators for successfully working with the surrounding landowners and the community while completing mining and reclamation work. This awards program is designed to help state and federal regulators transfer knowledge and information on outstanding reclamation methods and techniques from award-winning operations to other coal mine operators who engage in mining under SMCRA.

Surface coal mining and reclamation operations conducted under a Title V permit (1978-present) may be nominated for an award. In addition, non-permitted mining and reclamation activities that were completed using government financed reclamation contracts under enhanced abandoned mine land regulations are also eligible for nomination. Abandoned mine land reclamation projects are not eligible for a national award unless they are integrated into Title V permitted operations.

Coal companies, regulatory authorities, state or federal mine inspectors, interest groups or landowners may submit nominations. Company officials and employees may nominate their own operations. View previous Excellence in Surface Coal Mining Reclamation Awards winners.

For more information about the awards program and to learn how to submit a nomination application, visit www.osmre.gov/active-awards. Submit nominations or questions about the awards to OSMRE at awards@osmre.gov.