RECLAMATION SUCCESS

Coteau Properties Co.
Freedom Mine is the largest lignite mine operated in North America.  It is located outside of Bismarck North Dakota and is owned and operated by the Coteau Properties Co.  Lignite is used for the generation of electricity at local power stations in addition to the production of synthetic natural gas and byproducts.  This mine produces more than 16 million tons of lignite coal yearly.  Since mining began at this site in 1983, approximately 200 million tons of lignite have been produced.

The mine is permitted for 23,000 acres.  Over 5,000 acres have been reclaimed to croplands for wheat, grasslands for livestock grazing and hay production, and the creation of wetlands for wildlife.

EPA quality requirements for air and water are met.  Over 60 sediment ponds collect surface water.  After the sediments settle out, water is discharged offsite, as it normally would drain.  To prevent the contamination of dust, roads are regularly watered down.  In addition, dust collectors are located at the primary facility.

RECOGNITION

This mine has been recognized for its outstanding and innovative practices in environmental protection and reclamation.  It has been presented with awards every year since 1993, with the exclusion of 1994.  A summary of the awarded practices along with the issuing agencies is described below.

  • In 1993, the US Department of Interior Office of Surface Mining issued an award for Mining Excellence in Surface Coal Mining and Reclamation.  The placement of the wetlands in an agricultural setting was recognized for its potential to maximize wildlife and agricultural production.

  • In 1995, the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) issued an award for its outstanding achievement in environmental protection and waste minimization through the recycling of byproducts.  This mine was also recognized for reducing the toxicity of materials used on the mine by continually evaluating alternative cleansers and chemicals.
  • In 1996, the North Dakota Public Service Commission recognized the Freedom Mine for its practices involving the use of the lands once they have been reclaimed.  Neighbors are provided with the reclaimed regions for their own use.  In return, local farmers maintain detailed records for the Coteau Properties Co.
  • In 1997, the US Department of Interior Office of Surface Mining issued the Directors Award for Excellence in Surface Coal Mining and Reclamation.  This is the highest award presented by this office.  Coteau was recognized for its cooperative reclaimed lands farming program and the benefits this had on the local community.
  • In 1998, the North Dakota Commission again issued an Excellence award for its management of surface water.  Coteau developed a method for allowing selected sediment ponds to overflow naturally during a storm.  This reduced the impact water had on landowners downstream.
  • In 1999, the International Erosion Control Association presented the Environmental Achievement Award of Distinction for Coteau's commitment to environmental conservation.  The techniques and strategies used set a high standard for erosion and sediment control in the mining industry.

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