Chapter 7.6State Mining and Minerals Policy

Section § 2650

Explanation

This law emphasizes California's commitment to the wise use and management of its mineral resources. It encourages private industries to explore and develop mineral and metal industries within the state, aiming for economic and environmental benefits. The law also supports research in mining and methods to reduce the environmental impact of mining activities. Additionally, it promotes the reclamation of land after mining to lessen environmental damage.

The state's main goal is to balance mineral resource development with sound conservation practices. The director of this initiative is responsible for implementing these policies.

(a)CA Public Resources Code § 2650(a) It is the continuing policy of the State of California, in the interest of the needs of society for the wise use of mineral resources and for other sound conservation practices, to foster and encourage private enterprise in all of the following activities:
(1)CA Public Resources Code § 2650(a)(1) The development within the state of economically sound and beneficial mineral industries and metal and mineral product reclamation industries.
(2)CA Public Resources Code § 2650(a)(2) The orderly and economic exploration, development, and utilization of the state’s mineral resources and reclamation of metal and mineral products.
(3)CA Public Resources Code § 2650(a)(3) Mining, mineral, and metallurgical research to promote the wise and efficient use of natural and reclaimable mineral resources.
(4)CA Public Resources Code § 2650(a)(4) The study and development of methods for the control, disposal, reclamation, and utilization of mining and mineral processing waste products and the reclamation of mined lands so as to minimize any adverse effects of mineral extraction and processing upon the physical environment.
(b)CA Public Resources Code § 2650(b) The director shall carry out the policy set forth in this section.
mineral resources private enterprise mining industry metal reclamation mineral exploration environmental impact land reclamation natural resources conservation mining waste management economic development sustainable mining practices metallurgical research mineral processing waste resource utilization mined land reclamation
(Amended by Stats. 1992, Ch. 999, Sec. 10. Effective January 1, 1993.)