Gov. Mead touts mine reclamation in Wyoming

Gov. Matt Mead says the mining industry in Wyoming sets the highest standard for reclamation. The governor spoke Monday at the Wyoming Reclamation and Restoration Symposium and meeting of the American Society of Mining and Reclamation in Laramie. Mead says the quality of reclamation shown in Wyoming's mining industry sets the global standard. Mead released a state energy strategy last month that emphasizes the connections between energy production, environmental stewardship and the state's economy. Wyoming is the largest coal-producing state and is also a major producer of natural gas and oil. Mead said that development of natural resources isn't synonymous with ruin. He says that through proper reclamation, a net increase in overall natural resource conditions is possible and should be expected.