Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE)

The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement is a branch of the United States Department of the Interior.

The Office of Surface Mining, Reclamation and Enforcement protects populations and the environment during surface coal mining operations.

Since August 3, 1977, the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE), along with its State and Tribal partners, community organizations and industry, has worked to ensure the cleanup of millions of acres of pre- Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act (SMCRA) abandoned mine lands and the return of post-SMCRA mined lands to productive and beneficial use.

OSMRE established the nationwide program to protect the public and the environment from the adverse effects of surface coal mining operations, while balancing the nation’s need for continued domestic coal production with protection of the environment.

OSMRE upholds SMCRA requirements through the following programs:

Title IV of SMCRA - Reclaiming Abandoned Mine Lands
Title V of SMCRA - Regulating Coal Mines
Technology Development and Transfer
Through these programs, OSMRE has launched innovative efforts, such as the Appalachian Regional Reforestation Initiative, the Watershed Cooperative Agreement Program, and the design of comprehensive training and technical assistance programs for States and Tribes.