Land Reclamation Program
Bond Forfeiture
In order to receive a permit to mine, each coal company in the state of Missouri is required to post monetary bonding to ensure reclamation of the mine site after coal removal. This financial assurance is held in escrow by the Land Reclamation Program while mining is ongoing. Upon completion of reclamation to applicable standards the coal company receives a release from the Land Reclamation Commission. Should a coal company fail to provide reclamation to applicable standards for whatever reason the bonds are forfeited to the program and the monies are then used to provide for reclamation of the site mined by the coal company.
The Land Reclamation Program oversees the expenditure of these bond funds to reclaim all sites where a coal company has failed to complete reclamation to applicable standards. This reclamation is overseen by the program which utilizes the monies for private earthmoving contractors to perform the reclamation work in place of the coal mining company. The final results provide for the establishment of wildlife habitat, farming and grazing lands and recreational uses that are productive, beneficial and enjoyable for future generations.
