Restoring Our Lands: Good Samaritans in the Wake of Gold King

摘要

Mining propelled the United States to prosperity and today provides materials that enable our modern society to function. However, one legacy of our early mining history is that abandoned mines now dot the United States. Some hold untapped potential for future development, while others actively harm the environment and surrounding communities. The Gold King Mine spill in August 2015 thrust abandoned mine remediation to the forefront of congressional concern. It showed that current practices are ineffective and new solutions are needed. This article seeks to explore the nuances of abandoned mines, their associated environmental concerns, and one proposed solution for their effective remediation: Good Samaritan (Good Sam) legislation. By shifting the focus of abandoned mine solutions away from super-agency action to industries and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), remediation is not only feasible but readily attainable with today's technology. Good Sam legislation will enable a partnership between government, industry, NGOs, and the public- allowing abandoned mines to be reclaimed at a scale and pace never before seen.