WVDEP accepting applications for abandoned mine lands economic development grants

News Release

May 22, 2026

Community Bulletin

Job seekers in Upshur County can browse local help-wanted ads in one place on My Buckhannon's job listings page, where every opening comes from an established local employer or community partner. Read more →

This story brought to you paywall-free, courtesy of the My Buckhannon team and our community partners

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection’s Office of Abandoned Mine Lands and Reclamation is now accepting applications for 2026 Abandoned Mine Lands Economic Revitalization program funding.

This federal grant program supports economic development projects located on or near mine sites that ceased operations before the Surface Mine Control and Reclamation Act was signed into law on Aug. 3, 1977.

The 2026 grant application, application tips and guidelines, and other helpful resources are available on the WVDEP’s AMLER webpage. Completed applications are due Friday, July 10, 2026.

An advisory committee made up of representatives from the WVDEP, state departments of Commerce, Tourism and Transportation, and the Governor’s Office is responsible for determining project eligibility and final selections.

The WVDEP also provides an AMLER Project Dashboard.

For more information about the AMLER program, contact the WVDEP’s Office of Abandoned Mine Lands at 304-926-0499 or DEPAMLER@wv.gov.

For more WVDEP news and information, visit dep.wv.gov.

Local Businesses

Recent Stories

Monica Zalaznik · June 12, 2026

Upshur County Sheriff shares security tips with local business owners

Upshur County Sheriff Mike Coffman told Buckhannon-Upshur Chamber of Commerce members that workplace security starts with hiring and a safety-first mindset. He also urged businesses to consider cameras, better lighting and even LPRs to deter crime and aid investigations.

News Release · June 12, 2026

WVU Eye Institute clinician-scientist supports new building with $150K gift

WVU Eye Institute clinician-scientist Tony Realini, M.D., M.P.H. has made a $150,000 gift to support the Institute’s new $233.5 million outpatient facility in Morgantown, set to open in fall 2027. The fourth-floor research space will be named the Realini Clinical Research Center.

News Release · June 12, 2026

Secretary of State announces certification of 2026 primary election

West Virginia has completed certification of the 2026 Primary Election, with all 55 counties finalized as of June 10, except races under contest. Turnout was 21.02%, but early voting rose more than 8% over 2022, and a full report is due later this summer.

News Release · June 12, 2026

WVU to induct 4 into Order of Vandalia

WVU will induct David Alvarez, Steve Antoline, David Hendrickson and Bill Wilmoth into the Order of Vandalia on June 19, honoring their loyalty and service through leadership, business and fundraising. The ceremony will also remember five Vandalians who died in the past year.

News Release · June 12, 2026

West Virginia Cancer Registry receives highest recognition level from CDC

West Virginia’s Cancer Registry earned the CDC’s top “Registry of Excellence” honor for meeting rigorous 12- and 24-month data standards, highlighting its commitment to complete, high-quality cancer data.

News Release · June 12, 2026

WVDA announces interstate movement requirements after New World Screwworm detections

West Virginia has issued immediate interstate movement rules for warm-blooded animals entering from New World Screwworm-impacted areas to protect livestock and companion animals.