Jobs Done Well
Few people would recognize the former Big Horn and Rosebud areas as once active surface coal mining operations. The two mines represent early foundations in coal mining for Kiewit Mining Group.
Big Horn Coal was Kiewit Mining Group’s first active surface mine. Operations began in the early 1940s and continued through 2000. At the end of Big Horn mining, Kiewit Mining Group remained diligent in setting reclamation practices that began prior to government regulations. As part of the reclamation program, a 90-acre lake was constructed to enhance the area for local wildlife.
Rosebud Coal yielded more than 32 million tons during its 40-year history. The operation began with a voluntary revegetation program in 1965, and evolved into the complete reclamation of more than 3,950 acres of disturbed land.
Big Horn and Rosebud were “firsts” in Wyoming to receive final environmental bond releases from the state agencies. The reclamation efforts at these two mines developed innovative methods such as slot dozing and sagebrush reintroduction. From these experiences, Kiewit Mining Group continues to help shape the mining industry’s reclamation standards.
Today, Kiewit Mining Group takes pride in continuing its own tradition of reclamation, as well as that developed at Buckskin Mine. In 1997, Buckskin won an award from the U.S. Department of the Interior for its efforts to restore the “Rawhide Creek Alluvial Valley Floor.” The feat involved replacing topsoil to exacting specifications to restore the alluvial valley floor. The Buckskin Mine has reclaimed 2,500 acres since it opened.
At Walnut Creek Mining Company in Bremond, Texas, the environmental preservation program has been a success. In 1993, the Texas Mining and Reclamation Association recognized the mine for the creation of a wetland area and native grass zone.