BASF Receives Georgia Mining Association 2012 Reclamation Award
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BASF Corp., Charlotte, N.C., USA, has been awarded the top environmental honor for reclamation of mining land in the state of Georgia by the Georgia Mining Association (GMA). The award recognizes BASF's efforts to return mined lands to their natural state. This is the third time in four years that the BASF Middle Georgia Kaolin site has received the award.
Mining on the McIntyre, Ga., property was complete prior to the 1968 Surface Mine Act, which meant the company was not required to reclaim the disturbed land. However, BASF enlisted the services of Freeport Corp to reclaim this property in 1981 because it is located adjacent to a state highway with high public visibility. As the result of a process that involved terracing to control run-off and minimize erosion, soil preparation, and fertilization, the site currently gives life to vegetation in various states of maturity up to and including planted pine trees. A total of 52,000 slash pine seedlings were planted on the 153 acres throughout the reclamation process. Incorporating Georgia's Best Management Practices for Mining (BMP) for soil and water conservation as well as stabilization, the site also includes a 10-acre stocked settlement pond.
"BASF believes environmental protection is one of the cornerstones of sustainable development", said Shane Porzio, VP, Global Kaolin Business Management. "The site's 20-yr history includes eight GMA President's Awards and 10 Outstanding Achievement Awards, which is an acknowledgement of our commitment to being a leader in the area of sustainability."
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