During the life of the mine, strict measures are taken to protect wildlife, particularly any endangered species. Wetlands and other natural resources are fully protected. And even before mining has ended, work begins on reclamation - recontouring the land, planting trees and grasses, and reintroducing wildlife. Reclamation of the land has become such an important part of the modern mining process that, when completed, it is often impossible to tell that a mine was ever there. Some reclaimed areas are often left more beautiful than before, with woods, lakes, and abundant wildlife.
Reclamation is the final step in today's gold mining process.