Restoring Legacy Mine Lands

The Endowment believes that developing market-based solutions for reforestation and natural climate initiatives is crucial for a sustainable forestry future. That’s why we support innovative partners like Bosland Growth, who are leading the way in restoring legacy mine lands in Appalachia. 

With funding from the Endowment, the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and the USDA Forest Service, Bosland Growth’s Legacy Mine Land Restoration Initiative leverages ecosystem markets to finance reforestation projects. By selling carbon offset credits and securing Federal grant funds, Bosland Growth covers 100% of reforestation costs and compensates landowners for a conservation easement on their land. This model generates new, high-quality carbon credits that help companies meet their Net Zero goals. 

The pilot project focuses on 2,800 acres in the coal regions of Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, targeting small acreage private landowners whose land is degraded through a history of surface mining. The benefits are manifold: increased property values, reduced sediment runoff, improved water filtration, enhanced recreational opportunities, habitat creation for at-risk birds and other species, and substantial carbon sequestration. Once completed, the project is estimated to sequester the equivalent carbon of removing emissions from 81,000 vehicles annually. 

This initiative is a prime example of how market-based solutions can drive impactful reforestation efforts, fostering healthier ecosystems and communities.