Abandoned Mine Lands Economic Revitalization Program

The Abandoned Mine Lands Economic Revitalization Program is administered by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection Office of Abandoned Mine Lands and Reclamation. This program is designed to support economic development initiatives in communities that have been adversely affected by historic coal mining activities. Specifically, it targets areas impacted by legacy mining operations that ceased prior to the enactment of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977. Through this initiative, the state leverages federal funding to promote redevelopment, job creation, and long-term economic sustainability in coalfield regions. The program has demonstrated significant investment in regional revitalization, having committed over 268 million dollars in grant funding since its inception in 2016. These funds are directed toward projects that can stimulate economic growth while also addressing environmental challenges associated with abandoned mine lands. Eligible projects must be located on or near qualifying mine sites and must clearly demonstrate their ability to generate economic benefits for the surrounding community. The program emphasizes practical, implementable projects that align environmental remediation with economic opportunity. Funding under this program supports a range of project types, including infrastructure development, site preparation, tourism enhancement, and other community-focused economic initiatives. Applicants are expected to provide a clear and concise project description, including a detailed budget that outlines how grant funds will be used. Additional funding sources, if applicable, should also be identified. While supporting documentation is permitted, the program strongly encourages applicants to focus on concise summaries within the application form itself to streamline the review process. Eligibility is tied to geographic and project-specific criteria rather than specific organizational types. Projects must identify an Abandoned Mine Land Problem Area that is either on or immediately adjacent to the proposed project site. The program is open to entities capable of executing economic development projects in eligible areas, including governmental bodies, nonprofits, and potentially private sector partners, provided the project aligns with program objectives and geographic requirements. The application process requires submission of a completed application form along with essential supporting materials, including a project description, map of the project area, and a detailed budget. Applications may be submitted via email or by mail, with email submission preferred. Applicants are advised to keep file sizes manageable and avoid overly large submissions unless additional documentation is specifically requested. The review process is conducted by an advisory committee composed of representatives from multiple state agencies and the Governor’s Office, who are responsible for evaluating project eligibility and making final funding decisions. For the 2026 funding cycle, the application period is currently open, and completed applications must be submitted by July 10, 2026. There is no mention of a pre-application requirement such as a letter of intent. While the program operates annually, specific timelines for award announcements and project performance periods are not detailed in the provided materials. Applicants are encouraged to follow application guidance closely to ensure clarity, completeness, and alignment with program priorities.

Provide concise summaries within application form; clearly identify AML Problem Area; include detailed budget and funding sources; avoid excessive attachments