Αlabama announces $11 million for 2025 abandoned mine land economic revitalization program

The Alabama Department of Workforce’s Abandoned Mine Land Program (ADOW-AML) announced $11 million in federal grant funding for the 2025 Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization (AMLER) Program to support reclamation projects that promote economic growth and community development in counties impacted by historical coal mining activities.

Administered in partnership with the federal Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE), the AMLER Program targets abandoned mine lands from coal mining operations conducted prior to 1977. The program aims to eliminate environmental hazards, improve public safety, and create opportunities for economic revitalization in affected communities. Eligible counties include Bibb, Fayette, Jefferson, Marion, Shelby, Tuscaloosa, Walker, and other areas with documented abandoned mine land inventories.

“This $11 million investment underscores Alabama’s commitment to transforming abandoned mine lands into vibrant, productive spaces that benefit our communities,” said Greg Reed, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Workforce. “These projects not only restore our environment but also create jobs and spur economic development in areas that have long shown the impacts of past mining activities.”

The 2025 AMLER funding will support projects that demonstrate a clear connection between reclamation and economic or community benefits, including the redevelopment of mine sites for commercial, recreational, or industrial use; creation of job opportunities through construction, tourism, or new businesses; and restoration of natural landscapes to enhance community safety and environmental health.

Eligible applicants include local governments, economic development organizations, and nonprofit entities. Proposals to the ADOW-AML Program must describe how reclamation efforts will contribute to economic revitalization and comply with federal AMLER guidelines. The deadline for submitting applications is close of business January 31, 2026.

“Through the AMLER Program, we are turning liabilities into assets for Alabama’s coal-impacted counties,” said Jennifer Holton, Deputy Secretary of Workforce and Acting Director of Mining and Reclamation. “We look forward to partnering with communities to fund innovative projects that create lasting benefits.”

For more information on eligibility and application requirements, visit the Alabama Department of Workforce’s AML Program website, contact the AML Program office at (205) 945-8671, or email [email protected]. The AMLER Program is funded through the Consolidated Appropriations Act and the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act.