Surface Mining and Reclamation Division

James F. Stephens, Chief - (501) 682-0807

The Surface Mining and Reclamation Division (SMRD) of the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is responsible for the development and enforcement of the State's mining and reclamation laws.

The SMRD is divided into two major programs:

The main office of the SMRD is located at the ADEQ's office complex in Little Rock. The SMRD Russellville office is responsible for the field work associated with the Coal program.

The Mining Division now has data files available on-line on our PDS Searchable Database for the following:

  • Open-Cut Mining Data
    • Stream Sand & Gravel Sites
  • Coal Data
  • Quarry Data

Mining Division On-Line Brochures And Handbook

Contact Information

Chief: James F. Stephens, PG (501) 682-0807 stephens@adeq.state.ar.us
Coal: Wayne VanBuren, PG (479) 968-7339 vanburen@adeq.state.ar.us
Non-Coal: Jerry Neill, PG (501) 682-0805 neill@adeq.state.ar.us
Fax: (501) 682-0880
Street Address: 5301 Northshore Drive
North Little Rock, AR 72118-5317
Russellville Office: Wayne VanBuren, PG
Phone:  (479) 968-7339
Fax:  (479) 968-7321
Address:  1220 West Second Street
Russellville, AR 72801

Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Inquiries should be addressed to:

Coal-Related Matters:      
NON-Coal-Related Matters: Jerry Neill, PG (501) 682-0805 neill@adeq.state.ar.us

Mission Statement

To protect and enhance the environment by providing regulatory programs for both coal and non-coal mining operations that advocate the use of creative technology; and encourage, endorse, or promote activities which will foster the reclamation and restoration of the lands and waters of Arkansas that are affected by mining practices.