Southwestern Pennsylvania Reclamation Project: Transforming a Hazardous Refuse Site into an Ecological Sanctuary

RES is currently working in Southwestern Pennsylvania on a collaborative effort between the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s Bureau of Abandoned Mine Reclamation (PADEP-BAMR), the Natural Streams Foundation (NSF) to rejuvenate a Refuse Site, transforming approximately 20 acres into an ecological sanctuary.

Why This Project is Important

The site’s history of mining activities has left hazardous coal refuse deposits, leading to a landscape prone to illegal dumping, unsafe ATV riding, and recreational fires, posing safety and environmental risks.

Reclaiming the area will address these issues by stabilizing it and restoring essential wildlife habitats. By removing hazardous materials and managing erosion, the project aims to prevent harmful runoff into nearby streams, which can damage water quality and aquatic life.

Key Components of the Project

Public Park Development

The cornerstone of the project is to develop a site suitable for the potential establishment of a public park featuring:

• ADA-compliant trails and parking
• Multi-use fields and general-use areas
• Improved access roads and new routes using materials sourced from the site

Soil and Water Management

Efforts will include stabilizing the landscape, managing surface and subsurface water with drains and grass-lined channels, and enhancing soil health with limestone and native plants. This will help prevent erosion and create a stable environment for plant growth.

Wildlife Support

The project will use native plants to improve soil health and provide habitats for local wildlife, including birds and mammals. This will help create a diverse ecosystem supporting wildlife and the local community.

Outcome

This reclamation project can potentially transform a hazardous site into a safe, thriving park, enhancing the local environment for a sustainable future.