Project Profile: Develop Removal Design for Blair Creek Mine at Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

View of Big South Fork from Angel Falls Overlook

NPS Photo

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law
Revegetation of Hazard Mine Lands | FY22 $150,000

The National Park Service will assess contaminated drainage from abandoned coal mines affecting Blair Creek at Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. This project will include field surveys, collection of water, soils, and aquatic resources data, and site assessments that will result in engineering and design recommendations for treatment, remediation and restoration.

Why? Water emanating from coal mines or flowing through spoil piles (soil material excavated from a construction site) can become contaminated with sulfuric acid, iron hydroxides, aluminum, and other hazardous substances that adversely impact the water quality and aquatic habitat of the Big South Fork.

What Else? Efforts to amend drainage have the potential to impact cultural resources and landscapes, so funding for cultural surveys of the area are also included in this project. Remains from historic coal mining practices may be culturally significant and can include structures, foundations, tramways, and abandoned mining equipment.

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law – Ecosystem Restoration

This project was made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law – Ecosystem Restoration, signed on November 15, 2021. It is a historic investment in the restoration and protection of the environment.