The Bureau of Mines is working on new techniques for surface mining and land reclamation. They aim to improve how overburden is removed, coal is extracted, and land is restored after mining. The focus is on creating a more efficient and cost-effective mining system that integrates reclamation from the start. They are studying reclamation costs, overburden handling, and developing mine systems that are both technically and economically feasible. The goal is to demonstrate these new concepts in the field. One challenge they face is the lengthy process of getting approval for mining and reclamation plans.