Jamieson Construction Company, a small family-owned coal company, has been mining in Kentucky since the early 1970’s, and has permitted and/or mined at 46 sites. The Company has received multiple reclamation awards over the years. The Long Branch site is located near the headwaters of Long Branch River, a tributary to the Rockcastle River in Laurel County, Kentucky, near the community of Congo. The Long Branch site was nominated for the 2001 Interstate Mining Compact Commission’s Coal Reclamation Award. Mining was conducted by conventional surface mining methods which required the removal of topsoil, shale, and siltstone overburden. More than 71,000 tons of bituminous coal were removed. The Company closely followed the approved mining and reclamation plans in the permit package.

"Aerial view of permit site"

Drainage control measures utilized on this site were the combination of sediment structures and/or ponds, diversion ditches, berms, dikes, and silt fences. Mining was conducted within 100 feet of Long Branch River. Precautionary measures were required, during and after mining, to avoid or minimize adverse impacts to the watershed. Surface water flow and sediment runoff were diverted and controlled through four sediment structures. These ponds not only serve as water quality devices, but also subsequently provide a water source for livestock, terrestrial and aquatic wildlife.

"Aerial view of diversion ditches, silt fences, and sediment ponds"

Mining was completed on this site in the spring of 2000. Contemporaneous reclamation requirements were complied with by utilization of the conventional contour mining method. The overburden from the next, advancing pit was placed behind the preceding operation. Backfilling and grading to approximate original contour was conducted, final grading ensured that highwalls were eliminated, and proper drainage schematics were fulfilled.

Following the final gradework, the topsoil was redistributed uniformly throughout the permit area. Then the site was seeded with a mixture including red clover, korean lespedeza, perennial rye, orchard grass, timothy, balboa rye, and annual rye. Mulch and small grains were applied on those areas where erosion or stability problems were of concern. All necessary liming and fertilizer amounts were determined through soil tests. Vegetative success has been excellent with a ground cover of approximately 90%.

 "Mining identification sign along Long Branch Road"

Post-mining land use is pasture land. The reclaimed lands have been returned to the approved post-mining configuration and aesthetically blend with the surrounding area. The effective accomplishment of the land use by Jamieson Construction Company has provided the landowner with a productive use, within a short period of time. The establishment of vegetation was quick and very successful, and the reclamation of this site will provide long term benefits.

 "Post-mining land use of pasture land"