The Division of Mine Reclamation and Enforcement regional offices are located in Madisonville, London, Middlesboro, Pikeville and Prestonsburg. They are staffed  by environmental inspectors with experience in various fields associated with mining and reclamation.

These inspectors, with degrees in engineering, biology, geology and forestry, must examine each mining operation, evaluate the soil and water samples, check the area’s degree of slope and determine if backfill areas, sediment structures, access roads and revegetation are in compliance with state regulations. Mining laws require that at least one inspection of an active site be conducted each month. These mine inspections occur without prior notice to the mine operator.

The typical inspector's work week consists of many duties. Sixty percent of the inspector's time is devoted to inspecting the mine sites. Inspections are made once per month while the natural resource is being extracted. Several inspections may be made in a month during critical phases of construction of silt structures and rock-lined drainage channels.  Excess spoil disposal (hollowfills) and removal and restoration of prime farmland areas are also reasons for more frequent inspections.

Twenty percent of the inspector's time is spent evaluating proposed mine permits. Inspectors meet with company representatives before the first bulldozer blade hits the ground, conducting a preliminary walk of the proposed mine sites. This premining inspection allows the inspector to look for potential problems, such as unmapped cemeteries, toxic strata or plans that would harm the hydrologic balance.

Ten percent of the inspector's time involves completing the necessary inspection reports. Reports must be completed with each inspection. If all standards are in compliance, a one-page form is completed. If a violation is cited, several forms are required.

At least 5 percent of the inspector's time involves responding to citizens' complaints. Anyone who can be impacted by mining has a right to file a Citizen's Request for Inspection. The Division of Mine Reclamation and Enforcement feels that customer service is the most important duty of state government and will respond to each request within 10 working days. The impact of mining on water quality is the number one complaint.

Click link below for inspector photos.

Inspector photo gallery
The photos on this page are examples of the reclamation inspector hard at work.