mining · Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement · Published 1997-11-06 · Effective 1997-10-01 · 62 FR 60138
Document
Document number
97-22903
Federal Register citation
62 FR 60138
CFR reference
30 CFR 870
Type
Rule
Action
Final rule.
Category
mining
Sub-agency
Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement
Publication date
1997-11-06
Effective date
1997-10-01
Abstract
The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSM) is amending its regulations governing how the excess moisture allowance is determined for reclamation fee purposes. This action defines terms and phrases related to the collection and testing of coal samples used to determine the inherent and total moisture of coal; identifies acceptable American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standard sampling and testing methods for high and low-rank coals; prescribes frequencies for collecting and testing coal samples; and provides the coal industry with formulas for use in calculating an excess moisture tonnage allowance for the purpose of reducing the weight of coal subject to the abandoned mine land reclamation fee. The regulatory revision clarifies and simplifies technical guidance for all users, and provides the coal industry with standard criteria for calculating an excess moisture allowance on all coals subject to reclamation fee payment. The intended effect of this revision is to enhance compliance with the provisions of section 402 of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA or the Act). The prescribed criteria will ensure that all tonnage reductions for excess moisture are taken on comparable bases.