Previously, disposal of excess spoil from coal mining operations has been the concern mainly in eastern Appalachian Coal Region of U.S. Future disposal of excess spoil could become more common in western states as demand for surface and underground mining operations in the West increases. However, review focused on excess spoil regulations since author addresses Appalachian problems. Valley fill was expanded to include 1.1 million cubic yards of material. Dump point is 510 feet from original dump point with minimal settling. Sandy shale and sandstone interburdens were tested for durability.
Results indicate rock is durable and suitable for end-dump valley fill.
Rock level durability eliminated need for select handling of materials. Factors indicate that a stable and environmentally acceptable valley fill is being constructed.