Projects to reclaim abandoned mine lands and restore polluted streams in Schuylkill County have been awarded nearly $8.1 million in grant funding, according to a March 13 announcement by Sen. Dave Argall and Representatives JoAnne Stehr, Tim Twardzik, and Jamie Barton.
The funding aims to address environmental damage from historic mining activity, improve water quality, and create safer public spaces for the community. The grants were awarded through the Abandoned Mine Lands and Acid Mine Drainage Grant Program administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.
Wayne Lehman, county natural resource specialist with the Schuylkill Conservation District, said, “The State Game Lands 286 remediation is an excellent project that will remove legacy coal sediment to restore floodplain and wetlands, improving water quality and reducing flooding impacts along the Schuylkill River while reestablishing lost wildlife habitat and hunting opportunities.” Lehman also highlighted benefits of another project: “Additionally, the Tremont Township project is a win-win opportunity to restore recreational opportunities in Sweet Arrow Lake County Park by dredging excessive sediment from the lake and utilizing it to reclaim abandoned mine pits near Tremont.”
Argall said, “Thanks to these awards, there will now be fewer black wastelands and polluted rivers and streams in our area. We’ve made significant progress since I grew up near abandoned coal pits in Tamaqua’s east end, but much work remains ahead.” Stehr added, “This funding is an important investment in Tremont Township and in the health and safety of our community. Reclaiming abandoned mine lands and improving water quality will protect our natural resources while supporting future growth. I appreciate the partnership of Woodlands for Wildlife and the local organizations involved in moving this project forward.”
Twardzik said, “This grant is a major step forward for Schuylkill County, turning abandoned mine lands into safer, usable spaces. By reducing pollution in our waterways, reclaiming damaged land and protecting our natural resources, this project will improve public safety, benefit the environment and create lasting opportunities for our communities to grow and thrive.” Barton commented on local history: “Mining has long been a cornerstone of our local economy, and addressing the impacts left behind ensures that this history continues to benefit the region. Restoring former mine lands and improving water quality not only protect the environment but will also allow hunters and outdoorsmen to continue enjoying all the benefits these state game lands provide.”
Pennsylvania has received more than $700 million in federal funding for abandoned mine land reclamation since 2022 due to having more such sites than any other state.
Argall continued: “I sponsored the original Growing Greener program, the largest investment in conservation in Pennsylvania history because our quality of life is improved substantially when we care for our environment. These dollars mean more green fields, clean streams and healthy communities in Schuylkill County.”
Argall has provided constituent services through offices across Pennsylvania locations assisting with state-agency issues according to his official website. He holds degrees from Lycoming College (bachelor’s) as well as a doctorate from Pennsylvania State University according to his official website. He has supported working-class communities through legislation focused on revitalizing older industrial neighborhoods as noted on his official website. Argall chaired legislative hearings on topics such as education funding during his time leading the Senate Majority Policy Committee according to his official website. He represents Pennsylvania’s 29th District according to his official website.
Argall traces his roots back to families of Cornish, Welsh, and German farmers as well as coal miners and factory workers according to his official website.
