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INDIAN LANDS PROGRAM OSMRE is the Regulatory Authority for coal mining operations that occur on Indian lands in the Western United States. As such, OSMRE WRCC is responsible for the review and decisions on all applications to conduct mining operations and, if a mining permit is issued, OSM is responsible for inspection of the mines to ensure that the public and the environment is protected, and ultimately OSMRE is responsible for ensuring that mining operations are fully reclaimed before the lands are returned to the tribes. The Indian Lands Program in the Western Region currently includes seven active operations and three inactive operations in reclamation on the Navajo, Hopi, Crow and Ute Mountain Ute reservations, in Arizona, New Mexico, Montana and Colorado. These coal operations encompass about 118,000 acres or roughly 185 square miles of surface area and include some of the largest coal mines in the country. Activities for the Indian Lands program are carried out by the Albuquerque and Casper Field Offices and the Program Support Division in Denver. Program activities include:
Further information and assistance regarding the Indian Lands program may be obtained by contacting the Albuquerque or Casper Field Offices or the Program Support Division in Denver. Materials, including guidance, regarding permitting are available elsewhere on this website or from the Program Support Division. Examples include a bonding guidance and procedures for release of bonds, and termination of jurisdiction. See Guidance Page. Management of Coal Mining on Indian Lands - Memorandum of Understanding (PDF - 7.39 MB) |
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