Division of Abandoned Mine Lands
Division of Abandoned Mine Lands Announces Reclamation Project for Pike County

The Department for Natural Resources’ Division of Abandoned Mine Lands (AML) announced today the award of contract and the start of construction for the Log Cabin Slide AML Reclamation Project in Pike County, Kentucky.  PhilMor Contracting, Inc. was awarded the contract with a low bid of $635,441.  On-site construction is scheduled to begin early July.

            The proposed project consists of the elimination of two landslides, the closure of 570 linear feet of auger holes and associated drainage installation.  The project, totaling 5.5 acres, is located in west central Pike County, approximately one mile east of downtown Pikeville, along KY 1426, and adjacent to Ferguson Creek. 

            For approximately 13 years, serious sliding events from two areas located along Old Town Mountain Road have caused a myriad of problems.  Torrential rainstorms have brought mud, mine refuse, trees and other debris onto the foundation of homes, property, driveways, vehicles, as well as the local Log Cabin Restaurant.  Auger holes from past mining in an exposed coal seam that pose a threat to anyone attempting to access them will be closed.  Upon completion of this project, the safety and well-being of residents living in the path of slides, as well as their property, will no longer be jeopardized. 

            “AML remains committed to its responsibility of addressing Kentucky’s abandoned mine land hazards that affect citizens of the Commonwealth and our environment.  This project is one of many that demonstrate the positive result of AML’s work,” said Commissioner Carl Campbell.

            AML is authorized under KRS 350 to abate hazards to public health, safety and the environment from abandoned coal mines.  The AML program is a 100 percent federally funded, state implemented program.  Annually, the Commonwealth of Kentucky receives an Abandoned Mine Land Grant from the U.S. Department of the Interior, Office of Surface Mining.  AML expends funds from the grant to construct reclamation projects and to fund the division’s administrative expenses.

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