OWNER PERMISSION
Acquiring permission to operate from its network of abandoned mine owners.
The Sludge Hub network includes private landowners, group owned parcels seeded by The Sludge Hub under an LLC, regional partner organizations, and other entities with ownership of Abandoned Mine Lands (AML) and a desire for restoration.
SITE EVALUATION
Gathering baseline data and assessing site conditions on abandoned mines.
The sites in the Sludge Hub network are evaluated for a wide range of criteria such as existing flora & fauna, soil attributes, and water quality. They are likewise evaluated for Abandoned Mine Land (AML) features created by historical mining such as highwalls, underground chambers, Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) flows, spoils piles, and portals.
PROJECT SUPPORT
Nurturing projects that reutilize and/or restore abandoned mine sites.
The Sludge Hub provides its affiliated projects with what they need to thrive: tailored conditions and a license to operate. Project participants may also receive material support such as habitations, meals, and equipment access.
MATCHMAKING
Matching site criteria to relevant projects.
The Sludge Hub orchestrates matchmaking between restoration projects and AML sites with the appropriate conditions and features needed for the project to flourish.
HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE
Supporting budding environmental professionals.
Programs such as the Earth Island Fellowship and GROW Externships allow The Sludge Hub to provide educational and volunteer opportunities for rising ecological professionals.
COMMUNITY BUILDING
Uniting eco-champions in the coalfields.
The Sludge Hub brings folks together through project collaborations, events, externships, and the seeding of eco-centric communities upon abandoned mines.