Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement Office March 24, 2005 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

We are approving an amendment to the Colorado regulatory program (the ``Colorado program'') under the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA or the Act). Colorado proposed revisions to its rules concerning prime farmland, revegetation, hydrology, enforcement, topsoil, historic properties, bond release and permit requirements. The State intends to revise its program to be consistent with the corresponding Federal regulations, provide additional safeguards, clarify ambiguities, and improve operational efficiency.