Navajo Transitional Energy Company (NTEC) proudly announces its receipt of the 2024 OSMRE National Award for Excellence in Surface Coal Mining Reclamation for the Yazzie Watershed, located near Farmington, NM, within the Navajo Nation. The award was presented on September 25 at the annual MINExpo, marking the fourth such honor NTEC has earned for reclamation efforts at Navajo Mine, underscoring the company’s ongoing commitment to safety and environmental stewardship.
The Yazzie Pit, which was mined from the 1970s until 2010, required extensive reclamation due to its challenging landscape characterized by dry terrain, steep slopes, and significant water runoff. Reclamation efforts for the 2.5-mile pit took place from 2018 to 2022, during which NTEC moved 22.5 million cubic yards of material to restore the area to its pre-mined condition, making it suitable for fish, birds, and wildlife. Notably, golden eagles were found nesting in the highwall during the reclamation process. To ensure a successful outcome and the protection of the eagles, NTEC collaborated closely with the Navajo Nation Fish and Wildlife Services Department, OSMRE, and the Navajo Nation Minerals Department.
“We are honored to receive the 2024 OSMRE National Award for Excellence in Surface Coal Mining Reclamation for the Yazzie reclamation at Navajo Mine,” stated Vern Lund, Chief Executive Officer of NTEC. “This project exemplifies our commitment to respecting and preserving our land in alignment with Navajo values. I commend the Navajo Mine teams who worked diligently on this project over six years, showcasing the harmony between governing agencies and NTEC in achieving excellence in mine reclamation.”
NTEC has consistently demonstrated a strong focus on reclamation across its mining operations in New Mexico, Montana, and Wyoming. To date, the company has reclaimed 25,000 acres and received over thirty-five awards for excellence in reclamation, including eleven National Awards from OSMRE for Excellence in Surface Mining Reclamation.
