NDPSC receiving federal grant to reclaim abandoned coal mines

(Bismarck, ND) -- North Dakota's Public Service Commission is receiving a grant to help reclaim abandoned coal mines in the state.

The Department of the Interior gave the commission nearly three-million-dollars to be used for three projects planned this summer. Public Service Commissioner Randy Christmann says the effort to reclaim the mines saves lives.

Planned projects include exploratory drilling and grouting near Garrison and filling a surface mine north of New Salem.