Project Profile: Assess Five Blue Ridge Parkway Mines

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law
Revegetation of Hazard Mine Lands | FY 24 $50,000

Hikers at Humpback Rocks in Blue Ridge Parkway.

NPS Photo

The National Park Service will assess five Blue Ridge Parkway mine sites and implement restoration actions, returning the landscape to more natural conditions, while minimizing safety issues for both humans and wildlife. Through an initial assessment, recommendations will be made for restoration actions. Actions could include the adding fill to mine sites, restoring natural contours, adding barriers and signage, and removing access routes. The project goal is to return the mine sites to more natural states.

Why? These mines are visible human disturbances in a natural landscape. They also pose safety hazards to the public. Small surface holes, trash and debris, and social trails that access the site are unsightly and increase risks to the public.

What else? After project completion, the National Park Service will monitor the site to ensure that restoration goals are met.

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law makes critical investments in the resilience and restoration of America’s lands, skies, and waters, and enhances conservation and recreation opportunities. Visitors will see tangible results such as repaired and upgraded trails and campgrounds, removal of invasive species, as well as healthy wetlands, grasslands, and forests.