Muddy Creek East Reclamation, Pennsylvania
|
|
1998 Appalachian Regional Award: Muddy Creek East Reclamation, Pennsylvania |
| |
Prior to reclamation this abandoned coal mine contained dangerous highwalls, hazardous water bodies, and spoil material. The mining ended in 1952 and since than ten deaths have been recorded at the site.
After reclamation the highwalls have been covered and dangerous water bodies removed. With the land regraded to gentle slopes the grass cover has eliminated any erosion and provides a rich upland wildlife habitat. 
Tree seedlings have been planted on the upland areas to blend in with the surrounding woodland. 
Wetlands were designed to achieve a 1:1 replacement for the loss of open water and still achieve maximum environmental benefits to the site and surrounding areas.