Press Releases

The Interstate Mining Compact Commission (IMCC) has presented Peabody Energy's Viking Mine with a Kenes C. Bowling National Mine Reclamation Award honoring sustainable practices to restore lands for the long-term benefit of communities.

Peabody earned the award for restoring approximately 850 acres of prime farmland, forest and natural streams in Daviess County, Ind., to a condition that is more productive than native lands. The process was especially challenging given the steep terrain and diverse land use requirements, the IMCC said.

The productivity of restored farmland was maximized and forest that had been heavily harvested was improved to provide wildlife habitat, biodiversity and future timber products. Within the forested areas, natural stream restoration improved aquatic habitat. Mine employees also worked collaboratively with the community to redesign and construct county roads to ensure safer conditions with more moderate grades. Viking Mine also was honored for environmental excellence last year by the Indiana Division of Reclamation.

"Good community and environmental stewardship is core to Peabody's mission and integral in preserving a sustainable cycle that benefits the community long term," said Eric Ford, Peabody's Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. "I applaud our Viking employees for creating a model that is based on best practices and community collaboration."

Last year, Peabody operations restored nearly 6,200 acres, planted more than 250,000 trees and recycled more than 19,000 tons of materials. The company has more than 7,200 employees and injected $14 billion in direct and implied economic benefits into communities around the globe. Peabody has earned nearly 20 awards for stewardship in the past two years.

The Interstate Mining Compact Commission is a multi-state governmental organization representing the natural resource and environmental protection interests of its 24 member states.

Peabody Energy is the world's largest private-sector coal company, with 2008 sales of 256 million tons and $6.6 billion in revenues. Its coal products fuel 10 percent of all U.S. electricity generation and 2 percent of worldwide electricity.

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SOURCE: Peabody Energy