State PSC on Federal Review of Coal Regulatory and Abandoned Mine Lands Program

(KNOX) – The North Dakota Public Service Commission’s Coal Regulatory and Abandoned Mine Lands (AML) Program recently received results from its annual federal evaluation. The evaluation conducted by the federal Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) concluded that no issues or concerns were raised and that the PSC “has effective and efficient coal regulatory and AML programs.”

“The complimentary language in these reviews emphasizes the outstanding work our AML and Reclamation teams do throughout the year,” said Commissioner Randy Christmann who holds the coal mining, reclamation, and abandoned mine lands portfolio. “Their efforts are assuring that North Dakota’s landscape will be safe, productive, and beautiful for future generations.”

The report also noted the “very good working relationship with their customers that include industry, landowners, citizen groups, and other governmental agencies, including the OSMRE. The Reclamation Division carries out its duties using the appropriate technical expertise and with a high level of professionalism.”

The report also noted the “very good working relationship with their customers that include industry, landowners, citizen groups, and other governmental agencies, including the OSMRE. The Reclamation Division carries out its duties using the appropriate technical expertise and with a high level of professionalism,” Christmann said.