Project Profile: Secure Abandoned Mine Features at Gauley River

Entrance to Kaymoor Mine, Gauley River National Recreation Area.

NPS / Dave Bieri

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law
Revegetation of Hazard Mine Lands | FY24 $21,000

The National Park Service will construct physical safety closures on 13 abandoned mine adits and remove old mining equipment and debris on a 3-mile section of mine bench in Gauley River National Recreation Area.

Why? The prevention of human access into park abandoned coal mines is needed to ensure visitor safety and to protect bats and their habitat. Seven bat species have been repeatedly observed in more than 50 abandoned coal mines in the park since 2002. Two of these species are federally listed as endangered: the Indiana bat and the Virginia big-eared bat.

What Else? Since white-nose syndrome was confirmed present in April 2011, fall swarm surveys at mines have shown sharp declines in bat populations. This project would support two NPS objectives: (1) reducing human safety hazards at abandoned mine sites and (2) protecting federally listed threatened and endangered species and other special status wildlife.

About the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law makes critical investments in the resilience and restoration of America’s lands, skies, and waters, and enhances conservation and recreation opportunities. Visitors will see tangible results such as repaired and upgraded trails and campgrounds, removal of invasive species, as well as healthy wetlands, grasslands, and forests.