PDF Fossil Energy Study Guide: 300 million years ago
rock, then dig out the coal. Th is is called surface mining. After the coal is mined, they put back the dirt and rock. Th ey plant trees and grass. Th e land can then be used again. Th is is called reclamation. If the coal is deep in the ground, tunnels called mine shafts are dug down to the coal. Machines dig the coal and carry it to the surface.