Patriot Coal Corp’s Samples surface mine in the Paint Creek complex has been presented the Valley Fill Construction – Southern Region award for exemplary construction of a valley fill while protecting the environment through innovative engineering and reclamation techniques that minimised sedimentation and quickly established vegetation.  The award was presented by the West Virginia Coal Association in conjunction with the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection.

“Restoring the land to provide long-lasting benefits to our neighboring communities is one of Patriot’s key goals,” stated Patriot Executive Vice President – Operations Michael D. Day.  “We are honored to be recognised for this important reclamation project, and want to thank our employees for their dedication to preserving our environment for future generations.”

Patriot Coal Corporation is a producer and marketer of coal in the eastern United States, with eight active mining complexes in North and Central Appalachia.  Patriot ships to domestic and international electricity generators, industrial users and metallurgical coal customers, and controls some 1,400 Mt tons of proven and probable coal reserves.