The population of Giant Canada geese has risen dramatically at this southern Illinois property previously mined by Peabody Coal Company.
Mining causes a temporary disturbance of the land.
The Doe Run Company eliminated all trace of its Indian Creek mining project near Potosi, Missouri, pictured above. The 'after' photo shows the site ready to be reclaimed by the surrounding Ozark forests. Public concern about the quality of the environment has intensified in recent years and has brought some beneficial reforms. Today, for example, detailed reclamation plans must be approved by government officials and local permitting groups even before mining begins. Mining operations, including smelting and refining, can be pursued while meeting necessary standards for the protection of human health.