Few people would guess this area was once home to an active surface coal operation. The 11 pits that made up Rosebud Coal Sales Company yielded 32 million tons of coal during its 40-yr. history. What began as a voluntary revegetation program in 1965, evolved into the complete reclamation of 4,000 acres. The land is now restored to a quality equivalent to or greater than its pre-mined condition. As a result, this project has helped shape current industry and state standards and guidelines for post-mining reclamation.
Rosebud was the first Wyoming mine to receive a complete bond release. As the reclamation efforts evolved, many innovative techniques, such as slot dozing, were developed. In addition, close attention to detail, proper training and rigorous examination of cost controls allowed Rosebud's reclamation efforts to be completed significantly below the original estimate.
Kiewit Corporation is well known for its commitment to safety. Rosebud was the recipient of several safety awards, including the Wyoming Mine Inspector Safety Award (three times) and the Kiewit Mining Safety Award (two times). In 1999, Rosebud was awarded the Wyoming Mining Association Special Safety Award, honoring the crew for a 10-yr. span with no lost-time accidents.