President Joe Biden’s Bipartisan infrastructure investment and jobs act or IIJA is working with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to accept public comment through April 30th about the abandoned mine lands reclamation projects.
The IDNR was awarded $75.7 million for land and water reclamation work at 55 abandoned mines throughout Illinois. IDNR Is eligible to receive $75.7 million per year for a total of 15 years through the IIJA. The abandoned mine land program addresses environmental and safety problems at coal and non-coal mines that were abandoned prior to August 3rd, 1977.
In Montgomery County, Freeman Coal Co. Crown #1 is treating 58 gallons per minute of acid mine drainage and Litchfield Mine is sealing a vertical opening and a former well. These problems are located near a public golf course.
Comments will be accepted until May 22nd, 2023, and can be emailed to Lance.L.Range@illinois.gov or mailed to Lance Range, Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Office of Mines and Minerals, 1 Natural Resources Way, Springfield IL 62702.
