Did You Know?
Construction of an average modern home requires 400 tons of aggregates (15-20 ... More »
FAQs
What are the rules regarding reclamation?
Montana law requires gravel pit operators to reclaim mine sites within one year after mining activities have ceased. In addition, owners and operators are required to provide and maintain financial assurance in the form of a surety bond, to ensure that the reclamation activities will be accomplished after mining stops. More »
Oversite
Contrary to popular belief, Montana provides tight permitting procedures and regulatory oversight for sand and gravel operations at both state and local levels.
- Montana open cut mining laws regulate sand and gravel operations (MCA Title 82-Ch 4) and require guidelines for reclamation procedures (ARM Title 17-Ch 24).
- Gravel operations are subject to the Montana Environmental Policy Act, which requires Montana Department of Environmental Quality to conduct environmental assessments on every proposed operation. The MDEQ also issues permits for all gravel operations which specify "conditions" under which they operate.
- Local governments approve and oversee zoning and land use regulations that often result in additional “conditions” on gravel operations.
BEING A GOOD NEIGHBOR
In addition to governmental regulatory oversight, the MCA has developed a Good Neighbor Policy that addresses the concerns most often expressed by local residents. We’re proud that our member companies have been partners in building better communities throughout the state by adopting a Good Neighbor Policy that deals with:
- Dust
- Noise
- Visual impacts
- Traffic safety
- Hours of operation
- Weed management
- Notices to neighboring residents
To download the entire Good Neighbor policy, please visit the Downloads page.