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The Big Brown Mine, located in
Freestone County, Texas, has been operated by TXU Mining Company
since 1971, producing four to five million tons of lignite coal
annually. Since then,
over 14,000 acres have been mined and reclaimed at the Big Brown.
TXU has received numerous reclamation awards both locally and
nationally for its commitment to the environment and successful mine
reclamation programs. After
mining, the primary goal is to return mined areas to productive
post-mine uses and achieve full reclamation in a timely manner.
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Mining is conducted using three
draglines, a bucket-wheel excavator/cross pit spreader, and
truck-shovel auxiliary equipment.
The operation delivers the lignite to a nearby TXU power
plant. Reclaimed areas
at the Big Brown Mine have been restored to post-mine uses including
pastureland, fish and wildlife habitat, and developed water
resources that support productive commercial cattle operations and
wildlife populations while providing abundant recreational
opportunities. |
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Pastureland was the primary land
use objective for the project area; however the aesthetic,
recreational, and economic value of fish and wildlife resources was
an important part of the overall planning.
Successful mining in the area also required the relocation of
a segment of Pin Oak Creek. Full
compliance with all water quality standards was maintained
throughout the project. The
creek was re-established and is once again a functioning stream
ecosystem, supporting a diverse plant and animal community. |
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Following the backfilling and
final grading of the mined area, the process of revegetation and
enhancement of water resources began.
Coastal Bermudagrass was planted as the primary forage grass
for the pastureland use. To
enhance year-round forage production, crimson clover, arrowleaf
clover, and singletary peas were overseeded as a cool season
compliment to the Bermudagrass cover.
A reforested wildlife corridor provides cover for wildlife
movement. During fall
and winter months, waterfowl are abundant on the wetland and open
water areas. Mallard,
gadwall, widgen, and blue-winged teal can easily find a water
retreat well suited for resting and feeding. |
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This area successfully met all program requirements and was
granted full release of reclamation obligations by the Railroad
Commission of Texas in 1988. The
property was purchased from TXU Mining Company and now supports a
commercial cattle ranching operation and abundant recreational
opportunities. The value and benefits of successful reclamation are evident
today on this area, and will extend to future generations. |
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