Description of the Indicator
This indicator measures the number of sites deemed Abandoned Mined Lands (AML). AML are areas of mining that have ceased production but have left behind environmental hazards such as unstable land, contaminated water, and hazardous materials.
The Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization (AMLER) program, formerly known as the AML Pilot Program, provides funds for the reclamation of AMLs in conjunction with economic and community development and reuse goals. The sites could be former mines, coal refuse areas, areas with acid mine drainage, and more.
Why is it important?
Monitoring these indicators helps identify and address environmental and public health risks associated with AML sites and anthracite coal mining. Additionally, monitoring AML revitalization projects aids in progress oversight of the region and state and enhances the potential to reuse the sites for other purposes.
How is the region doing?
Lackawanna County reportedly has 92 AML sites, or 1.8 percent of the Commonwealth’s total. Luzerne County is reported to have 205 AML sites, or 4.1 percent of the Commonwealth’s total, along with ten anthracite coal refuse producing sites (among 37 for Pennsylvania). Wayne County reportedly has 39 AML sites, or 0.8 percent of the Commonwealth’s total. There were no AML revitalization projects in the three counties as of 2022, and data were unavailable for 2023. From 2020 to 2022, the number of AML revitalization projects decreased from 13 to three statewide.