OSM Fact Sheet
February 21, 2002

        	OSM AWARDS ALABAMA $265,107

	FOR SMALL OPERATORS ASSISTANCE

Alabama has received a $265,107grant from the Interior Department's Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSM) for the state's Small Coal Operator's Assistance Program (SOAP).
The $265,107 grant includes $35,000 in current year money, plus $230,107 in funds carried over from prior year funding.  
SOAP helps coal operators producing less than 300,000 tons annually with the costs of obtaining data for their mining permit applications.  The data include hydrological evaluations and the results of test borings or core sampling.
-DOI-

For additional information about the grant contact Carla D. Lightsey (205) 221-4130.