Agencies Agree to Joint Regulatory Framework for Processing Applications for Surface Coal Mining Operations

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Four Federal agencies released today a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that offers a joint framework to improve permit application procedures for surface coal mining operations that place dredged or fill material in waters of the United States.

The agencies involved in this agreement are the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and U.S. Office of Surface Mining. Each will encourage states, tribes and agency field offices to develop collaborative processes that emphasize early and close interagency coordination while maintaining their independent jurisdictional roles.

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Surface Coal Mining - MOU