Abandoned Mine Lands Program

The Abandoned Mine Lands (AML) Program is a federal initiative in the United States aimed at managing and rehabilitating areas affected by past mining activities. Many abandoned mines can pose environmental hazards, like contaminated water and soil, or physical dangers, such as open shafts. The AML program focuses on cleaning up these sites to protect public health and the environment, restoring ecosystems, and often revitalizing land for future use. Funded by fees from active coal mining, it supports community safety, environmental restoration, and economic development by transforming derelict lands into safer, more productive spaces.