STEPHEN G. CONRAD'S CONTRIBUTION TO THE NORTH CAROLINA MINING PROGRAM

Stephen G. Conrad was the State Geologist leading up to the enactment and through the implementation of the state law requiring mining permits and reclamation and played a pivotal role in ensuring that the program got off to a good start.

In 1969, the North Carolina General Assembly enacted a bill entitled the “Mining Registration Act of 1969.” This bill created the position of State Mining Engineer, required all mining operations in the State to be registered by the State Mining Engineer prior to March 31, 1970, and instructed the North Carolina Mining Council to prepare additional recommendations leading to a state mined land reclamation program for consideration by the 1971 General Assembly. Mr. Conrad hired the first State Mining Engineer and used his many contacts within the mining industry to ensure that the mine registration was accomplished

The 1971 General Assembly enacted the “Mining Act of 1971.” This is a comprehensive mined land reclamation bill that requires every mining operation in the State to obtain a permit after July 1, 1972 and to post a reclamation bond. The Mining Division in the Office of Earth Resources was established for the purpose of implementing and administering the “Mining Act of 1971,” and was placed under Mr. Conrad's direction. Although the Mining Act contained enforcement provisions, the program relied heavily on voluntary compliance in the early years. Mr. Conrad's knowledge of the North Carolina's mining industry, and the mining industry's respect for him helped pave the way for start of the regulatory program. The Mining Program continued to be successful until Mr. Conrad's retirement in 1990.

The Mining Program has undergone changes and reorganizations since Mr. Conrad's retirement. However, the program continues to benefit from the atmosphere of respect that the mining industry had for Mr. Conrad and his reputation for impartiality and fairness.