Program: applied science programaward purpose: the surface mining control and reclamation act of 1977 (smcra), p.l 95-87, as amended, created the office of surface mining reclamation and enforcement…

The University of Utah has been awarded a $200,000 Cooperative Agreement under the Department of the Interior's Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) Applied Science Program (CFDA 15.255 Science and Technology Projects Related to Coal Mining and Reclamation). This funding supports a partnership between the university and a tribal college to conduct research and develop demonstration projects focused on improving reclamation technologies for surface mining-impacted lands. Key activities include expanding the utility of geochemical models for water quality prediction, producing a tool for discriminating weathering impacts, training and mentoring diverse students in surface mine reclamation, and disseminating research results to the public. The intended beneficiaries are the public, through protection of health, safety, and property, as well as restoration of land and water resources impacted by coal mining practices. The award period is January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2025.

Activities

This cooperative agreement supports a partnership with the university of utah to conduct a series of research activities and studies to develop and demonstrate effective and sustainable reclamation technologies for revegetation and stabilization of areas affected by surface mining. Activities funded by this cooperative agreement must comply with 2 CFR 200 and include all costs approved in the application, incorporated by reference to the award, and as defined by smcra and applicable laws and regulations.expected deliverables or outcomes: 1.expand the utility of geochemical models for water quality prediction and develop applicable controls and parameters FOR2.produce a relatively simple geochemical tool for discriminating bulk solids weathering from dust weathering with a focus on the impact stage of early weathering.3.train and mentor diverse students in the latest technology in surface mine reclamation research to enhance knowledge in the management of mining-impacted lands.4.disseminate results and information to the public through workshops, journal articles, and presentations.

Intended beneficiaries

In accordance with section 403 of smcra (P.L. 95-87), as amended, the applied science program prioritizes efficient, sustainable, cost-effective, and transferable technologies that:1.contribute to the protection of public health, safety, and property from adverse effects of coal mining practices 2.support the restoration of land and water resources, environment, and property from extreme danger of adverse effects of coal mining practices to benefit the public 3.support the restoration of land and water resources and the environment previously degraded by adverse effects of coal mining practices, including measures for the conservation and development of soil, water (excluding channelization), woodland, fish and wildlife, recreation resources, and agricultural productivity.4.provide benefits to the public by supporting partnerships with minority serving institutions in the area of science and technology.subrecipient activities (if known or specified at time of award): n a