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Because the mine is in their "backyard", the Usibelli family pioneered successful land reclamation before Federal law required it. Since 1971, the mine has reclaimed over 5,500 acres and planted over 250,000 seedlings. On my August 2005 tour I was amazed as we drove by the old mine at Poker Flats. It didn't look anything like an old coal mine. UCM's reclamation efforts are very successful and the area looks like any other Alaskan landscape. all current efforts in planting of vegetation and trees are done in cooperation with the Department of Natural Resources.

UCM must also treat all water discharged from mining areas to meet government standards. To meet these strict standards, a series of carefully designed, constructed and certified settling ponds were built. The water is constantly tested by UCM's laboratory to ensure proper levels. Although no one will ever drink from this runoff, the mine's water discharge permit is based on meeting standards for drinking water. Basically, UCM leaves the water better than they found it!