Once mining is completed, what happens to the land? What is reclamation?
Category:
Mining
The mined and disturbed lands are returned to a beneficial use by a process known as Reclamation. Reclamation has been mandatory in Florida since 1975. Land reclamation involves pumping sand tailings back into mine pits, recontouring overburden material to recreate uplands, wetlands and lakes, and planting the areas with native vegetation. Reclamation requirements are specified in the Manatee County Phosphate Mining Code (Ordinance No. 04-39). Site specific reclamation requirements may be detailed in the mine permits. Many years of monitoring, site maintenance and habitat management activities occur before an area is determined to be reclaimed and released from permit requirements.
Updated 2/23/2020 2:12 PM