49-402. Declaration of policy.

49-402

Chapter 49.--MINES AND MINING
Article 4.--MINED-LAND CONSERVATION AND RECLAMATION

      49-402.   Declaration of policy.Where surface mining operations are conducted, it is declared to be thepolicy of this state to provide for the reclamation of affected lands toencourage productive use including but not limited to: The planting offorests; the seeding of grasses and legumes for grazing purposes; theplanting of crops for harvest; the enhancement of wildlife and aquaticresources; the establishment of recreational, home and industrial sites;and for the conservation, development, management and appropriate use ofall the natural resources of such areas for compatible multiplepurposes and protecting the health, safety and general welfare of thepeople, as well as the natural beauty and aesthetic values, in theaffected areas of this state. It is also declared to be the policy ofthis state to authorize the secretary to take such action asmay be necessaryto qualify to administer the regulatory programs adopted by the United Statesdepartment of the interior, office of surface mining reclamation and enforcement,pursuant to the national surface mining control and reclamation act of 1977(public law 95-87).

      History:   L. 1968, ch. 395, § 2; L. 1978, ch. 208, § 1;L. 1988, ch. 192, § 6; July 1.