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?
The Commonwealth recorded 5,017 AML sites as of 2026, 4.1 percent of which are in Luzerne County. Anthracite coal refuse producing sites are on the rise across the state and in Luzerne County. There has been no available data for new AML revitalization projects in the counties since 2023. From 2020 to 2022, the number of AML revitalization projects decreased from 13 to three statewide.
