Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet Secretary Len Peters Friday named Robert F. Scott as the new director of the Division of Abandoned Mine Lands (AML). Scott, a civil engineer, most recently created mine and waterline designs for a Lexington engineering firm. Prior to that position, he worked for more than 26 years for AML as a design engineer, a design branch manager and served as the assistant director, according to a press release issued by the state.“The abandoned mine land program ensures that Kentucky’s citizens receive protection from potentially unsafe, pre-law mine sites,” Peters said in the press release. “The AML division is tasked with an important job and I believe Scott will serve the state and its citizen’s well.”
AML is authorized under Kentucky law (KRS.350) to abate hazards to public health, safety, and the environment caused by mining that occurred prior to 1982. The abandoned mine land program is a 100 percent federally funded, state-implemented program.
In addition to expending funds to reclaim safety hazards posed by past mining, AML has expended more than $94.3 million for waterline improvements and has provided more than 13,400 households with a potable water supply in 24 coalfield counties in eastern, southern and western Kentucky.
“Bob’s engineering background, his integrity and his experience at AML gives the department the expertise we need to accomplish our mission,” said Steve Hohmann, commissioner of the Department for Natural Resources. “He will be a great addition to our team of directors.”
Scott replaces Hohmann who was named commissioner in February of this year. His appointment is effective March 16.
