Surface Mine Reclamation Project
Agency
Natural Resources, Department of
Title of action
Surface Mine Reclamation Project
Date significant agency action was initiated
Monday, September 30, 2024
Category
Agency-request legislation
Brief description of significant agency actions for which the agency is initiating an environmental justice assessment.
DNR Surface Mine Reclamation Program (SMRP) administers the Surface Mining Act (RCW 78.44), regulating the reclamation of over 850 surface mines across Washington state. Reclamation includes ensuring that when mining is complete, slopes on site are stable, storm water quantity and quality are similar in nature to pre-mining conditions, and the site is well-prepared for its designated subsequent use. SMRP is fully fee-funded and requires a fee increase in order to continue meeting its minimum regulatory legal requirements. The proposal will standardize permit application fees (all will cost $4,500) and will increase annual permit fees for private and some public mines from $2,000 to $3,500. It will increase annual fees for public mines that use their sites for public works projects from $0, $1,000, or $2,000 to $2,500.
Methods for providing public comment for agency consideration as part of the environmental justice assessment.
SMRP convened two meetings of a stakeholder group to solicit feedback and discussion about this fee increase proposal. The stakeholder group comprises a group of small and large mining company representatives and public agency representatives. These are permit holders who operate mines across the state. SMRP has not solicited feedback from people from overburdened communities and vulnerable populations.
DNR will formally invite Tribes to provide feedback on all the Agency Request Legislation for the upcoming legislative session. Comments will be received through an online portal and may be directed to individual DNR staff members, as well.
Link to agency webpage where the action is posted.
Status
Date EJ Assessment was completed
Wednesday, November 6, 2024
Published EJA (If completed, you must include a link to the assessment published on your website)
