June 6, 2025 - The U.S. Department of the Interior announced Thursday the availability of $130 million in funding for fiscal year 2025 through the Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization (AMLER) Program.

The initiative is designed to convert former coal mining sites into engines of economic growth, particularly in communities historically linked to the coal industry.

According to the department, this year’s funding will support projects focused on job creation, infrastructure improvements, and energy development. Project selection will be led by individual states and tribes to ensure that investments meet local economic and community development needs.

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“Thanks to the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Burgum, these investments are transforming abandoned mine lands into hubs of economic opportunity, job creation and local innovation,” said Acting Assistant Secretary of Lands and Mineral Management Adam Suess. “We’re proud to support state and tribal partners in putting these lands back to work for the American people.” 

For FY 2025, $28.67 million will go to each of the top three recipients—Kentucky, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Alabama, Ohio, and Virginia will each receive $11 million, while the Crow Tribe, Hopi Tribe, and Navajo Nation are each allocated $3.67 million.

Eligible recipients will work with local and regional partners to identify high-impact redevelopment projects. These may include efforts in energy infrastructure, manufacturing, recreation, and commercial revitalization.

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In addition to supporting economic development, the program targets environmental hazards associated with legacy coal mining—such as unstable high walls, mine fires, and contaminated waterways.

The AMLER Program supports broader federal goals related to American energy development, land restoration, and rural revitalization.

More information about the program and the 2025 funding cycle is available on the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement’s website.