The project, led by the nonprofit Woodlands for Wildlife, received a $550,361 state grant in August from the Abandoned Mine Lands and Acid Mine Drainage Grant Program. The funds will support engineering design work for the Branchdale East site in Branch Township.
Officials say the work will address hazards such as strip mine pits, coal refuse piles, embankments, and sheer rock walls as high as 100 feet. The project also aims to improve water quality in West Creek, contributing to the overall health of the Schuylkill River Watershed.
“Seeing the black wastelands and polluted rivers and streams left behind by long-gone coal companies always drives home how important supporting these efforts is,” Argall said, noting progress since his youth near Tamaqua’s coal pits. “Much work remains to restore our land and protect our natural resources for future generations.”
Rep. Twardzik added that the visit underscored the importance of reclamation work, saying the projects “don’t just heal the land, they protect nearby homes, improve water quality and help keep our communities safe.”
The Abandoned Mine Lands and Acid Mine Drainage Grant Program funds projects that address environmental and safety hazards from past mining, including subsidence, sinkholes, and contaminated waterways.
Argall also emphasized that while active mining companies are responsible for reclaiming their own properties, many abandoned sites remain across Pennsylvania. He noted that under the state budget recently approved by the Senate, conservation efforts such as this would continue for another year, pending final approval by the House of Representatives and the governor.