§ 74-47. Findings.
§74‑47. Findings.
The General Assembly findsthat the extraction of minerals by mining is a basic and essential activitymaking an important contribution to the economic well‑being of NorthCarolina and the nation. Furthermore, it is not practical to extract mineralsrequired by our society without disturbing the surface of the earth andproducing waste materials, and the very character of certain surface miningoperations precludes complete restoration of the land to its originalcondition. However, it is possible to conduct mining in such a way as tominimize its effects on the surrounding environment. Furthermore, properreclamation of mined land is necessary to prevent undesirable land and waterconditions that would be detrimental to the general welfare, health, safety,beauty, and property rights of the citizens of the State. The General Assemblyfinds that the conduct of mining and reclamation of mined lands as provided bythis Article will allow the mining of valuable minerals and will provide forthe protection of the State's environment and for the subsequent beneficial useof the mined and reclaimed land. (1971, c. 545, s. 2.)