The mines in the Edson Area are relatively young in terms of mining in the area and so the actual results of reclamation are just starting to show. Cardinal River Coals is the oldest, having commenced operations in 1969 and have been the first in my area to ask for and receive, reclamation certificates on disturbed lands. Because the time of mining being done was prior to the year 1976, the certificates were issued on the reclamation standards in effect at that time & these being basic levelling, removal of hazards and a vegetative cover.
The ability to take this land, significantly disturb the landform and return it to a state which is comparable, or in some instances better than what existed prior to mining, is the joint responsibility of both government and industry and the reclamation efforts made to date confirm that this commitment is not taken lightly.