Reclamation of Abandoned Mine Site

The reclamation of the abandoned underground mine at Nokomis-Coalton, Ill., provided data on the cost of reclaiming certain mined lands using conventional equipment, techniques, and manpower. The project provided for the recycling of a waste product from the Nokomis water-treatment plant that was used for neutralization and general soil improvement of the areas underlying the mine refuse. The primary purpose of the project was to remove the mine refuse, restore vegetation to the site, and improve the environmental quality of the area, making the mined properties suitable for redevelopment and reuse. The reclamation cost for the affected 66 acres (27,00 m²) was $653,650. The project was one of two pilot projects conducted by the Illinois Abandoned Mined Lands Reclamation Council in accordance with Illinois P.L. 78-1293.