RECLAMATION SUCCESS

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources nominated the Vigo Coal Company in 1998 for the IMCC (Interstate Mining Compact Commission) Reclamation Award.  This company operated a coal mine, called Discovery #2 Mine, out of Buckskin, Indiana.  It was recognized for its creative and excellent reclamation techniques.  Active coal production from this mine occurred for three years, from June 1987 to June 1990.  The mining methods used aided in the complete and effective reclamation of the mine site.   Today, the land has a variety of uses and unique characteristics.
 

Initially, trucks and a hydraulic shovel removed the soils and soft overburden.  Large bulldozers then removed the hard, compact overburden.  The final layer of overburden, directly above the coal, was eliminated by use of the hydraulic shovel and trucks.  The following photograph shows this process.

Leftover materials and soil were built up into grades at different elevations.  This was done to minimize the occurrence of settling.  This crucial step prevented potential drainage problems from happening.  The mining method used here differs from other mining methods.  For instance, the use of a dragline typically forms peaks and valleys.  When these settle at different rates, problems arise for the uniform drainage of water.  The following photograph shows the construction of the graded slopes.

By gently breaking up the soil, the texture was significantly improved.  Lightweight equipment was used to maintain the loose quality of the soil.  This soil, when used in the reclamation process, promoted quick and easy root penetration.  Great care was taken when removing and replacing the soil to prevent its compaction.  The following two photographs demonstrate the process of loosening up the soil.
 

Ultimately, 293 affected acres of this land were reclaimed and returned to a very productive state.  Today it is used for cropland, pasture and hay, forest, wildlife, water impoundments, and roads.   A variety of wildlife sites exist, from wetland to upland.   Several waterfowl nesting islands have been created.  The following photograph shows wildlife vegetation, shallow and deep water, along with a nesting island.

Diverse collections of tree species have been established.  The forest contains a dense population of tree growth.
 

The country road system was improved through the affected area.  The previous road was very difficult to pass in certain seasons.  Cornfields have been planted and back up to the forested area.

The resultant reclamation of this site is a product of the Vigo Coal Company's dedication
to excellent mining practices, soil handling methods, and reclamation techniques.
 

This picture shows how the active coal processing area now looks, with its reclaimed forest and wildlife.