Understanding OSMRE
What is OSMRE?
The Office of Surface Mining, Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) is an agency within the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) responsible for regulating coal mining activities, ensuring environmental protection, and reclaiming abandoned mine lands. Established under the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act (SMCRA) of 1977, OSMRE plays a critical role in balancing energy production with environmental stewardship.
Key Areas of Focus:
- Regulation of Active Coal Mining: Ensuring compliance with environmental laws and minimizing surface mining impacts.
- Abandoned Mine Land (AML) Reclamation: Restoring land and water resources affected by historic coal mining.
- State and Tribal Program Oversight: Supporting and funding state and tribal regulatory programs under SMCRA.
- Technology and Research: Promoting advances in mine land restoration and environmental mitigation.
- Community and Economic Revitalization: Supporting programs that repurpose reclaimed mine lands for sustainable economic development.
- Water Quality Protection: Preventing acid mine drainage and ensuring clean water in mining-affected regions.
Mission and Goals
OSMRE’s mission is:
“To ensure that coal mining operations are conducted in an environmentally responsible manner and that the land is restored to beneficial use following mining.”
OSMRE focuses on:
- Ensuring compliance with federal mining laws
- Restoring damaged landscapes and waterways
- Supporting coalfield communities through reclamation efforts
- Promoting responsible energy production and environmental sustainability
OSMRE Organizational Structure
OSMRE operates through three regional offices that oversee state and tribal programs:
- Appalachian Region (AR) – Pittsburgh, PA: Covers coal mining states in the Eastern U.S.
- Mid-Continent Region (MCR) – Alton, IL: Oversees central U.S. mining activities.
- Western Region (WR) – Denver, CO: Manages mining programs in the Western states and tribal lands.
Key offices within OSMRE:
- Regulatory Support Division – Provides guidance on coal mining regulations and compliance.
- Abandoned Mine Lands (AML) Program – Administers federal funding for mine land reclamation.
- Technology and Training Division – Develops new methods for mine restoration and environmental protection.
OSMRE works in partnership with states, tribes, and local communities to implement mining and reclamation programs effectively.
Advancing Your Career as a Contractor with OSMRE
Helpful Tips for IT Professionals and Consultants:
- Understand OSMRE’s Mission and Priorities: Align services with mine regulation, land reclamation, and environmental compliance.
- Stay Current with Federal Regulations: Contractors must comply with:
- Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act (SMCRA)
- National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
- Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR)
- Clean Water Act (CWA)
- Master OSMRE Procurement and Reporting Systems:
Gain expertise in:- Abandoned Mine Land Inventory System (AMLIS)
- Electronic Permitting System (EPS)
- FedConnect & SAM.gov (for contract opportunities)
- Prioritize Environmental Compliance and Data Security:
Ensure IT solutions meet cybersecurity (FISMA, FedRAMP, NIST standards) and environmental compliance requirements. - Effective Communication and Stakeholder Collaboration:
Work with state regulators, tribal governments, environmental organizations, and energy industry representatives. - Agile and Sustainable Practices:
Implement data analytics, GIS mapping, and AI-driven monitoring to enhance land reclamation efforts. - Continuous Learning:
Stay informed on coal industry trends, environmental policy changes, and reclamation best practices. - Networking and Collaboration:
Attend OSMRE Industry Days, environmental summits, and federal contracting events. - Focus on User-Centered Solutions:
Design accessible, GIS-enabled tools for tracking land restoration progress. - Document and Share Knowledge:
Maintain detailed compliance records, sustainability reports, and project evaluations for future contract opportunities.