Spatial Data
The three surface mining divisions of the Department for Natural Resources use a geographic information system (GIS) to capture, query, display and store spatial data. GIS technology allows department staff to combine different data resources linked to a specific location and display the information visually, usually on a map.
GIS is employed in many aspects of the daily operations of the department. Laptop computers and customized GIS software enable field staff to display permit locations in relation to other geographic features during mine site visits and complaint investigations. Used in conjunction with global positioning system (GPS) technology, GIS can provide immediate and accurate locational information in the field.
In the office, permit reviewers, engineers and managers can view mine locations, permitted boundaries and related information on desktop computers along with site-specific topographic maps, aerial photographs and satellite imagery.
You may download spatial databases for permit locations, pending permits, explorations, water monitoring wells, and footprints of scanned and georeferenced Mine Reclamation Plans (MRP) maps.
Box site to download spatial databases
Mining & Reclamation Plan Maps
MRP maps are required to be submitted with an application for a permit to conduct surface coal mining and reclamation operations in Kentucky. Many MRP maps have been georeferenced and are available for download, either for standalone viewing as images or for viewing in GIS software.
MRP maps are generally drawn on an enlarged U.S. Geological Survey 7 1/2-minute topographic map at a scale of 400 or 500 feet to the inch. Permitted surface and underground mine boundaries and facilities associated with coal mining operations are shown along with names and locations of streams and other bodies of water, roads, buildings, cemeteries, oil and gas wells, public parks, public property and utility lines.
MRP map files are named with the associated permit number and an extension indicating whether the permit is an original permit (org, nw, new), an amendment (am, amd), revision (rev), mid-term (mt), field revision (frev), minor revision (mi), major revision (ma), succession (su) or a renewal (rn). Some maps contain multiple sheets, in which case a sequential letter is appended to the end of each file name.
All maps are projected in the NAD83 Kentucky Single Zone Coordinate System unless otherwise indicated.
Note: If a permit has been transferred, the MRP map may be available under the old permit number which can be found using the SMIS database. If you still do not see the MRP map you desire, you may complete an open records request and we will scan and place the latest MRP map on the Web for your future needs.
Box site to download MRP maps
Note: These datasets are in Latitude/Longitude Decimal Degree units, NAD 83. Other projections may be available.