Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization (AMLER) Program

previously known as the AML Pilot Program), the U.S. Congress allocates funding on an annual basis since Fiscal Year (FY) 2016. The intent of the program is to explore and implement strategies that return legacy coal mining sites to productive uses through economic and community development. The AMLER Program supports local investment opportunities that provide for sustainable long–term rehabilitation of coalfield economies. The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) administers the AMLER Program and provides eligible states and Tribes with AMLER funds and guidance on project eligibility criteria and reporting requirements. The states then fund the projects in local communities. In Kentucky, the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet, specifically the Division of Abandoned Mine Lands, is the point of contact, as well as the Federal Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE). The Kentucky Division of Abandoned Mine Lands accepts applications for AMLER grants.

Alliance Water Resources 

Founded in 1976, a business that provides professional water and wastewater operations and management services throughout the Midwest and Southeast. Alliance partners with municipalities, water districts, wastewater districts and industrial wastewater treatment facilities by providing adequate professional staffing of certified operators and managers, ensuring regulatory compliance and providing the information and reporting necessary for financial stability. Alliance was hired in 2020 to assist the Martin County Water District achieve compliance with the Public Service Commission’s standards and is under contract to remain through 2029. 

Big Sandy Area Development District (BSADD)

a multi–county organization serving the 5 county area of Floyd, Johnson, Magoffin, Martin, and Pike Counties in Eastern Kentucky whose mission is to plan, promote, and coordinate programs for regional economic and social development. They work closely with elected and appointed officials of member counties, cities, special agencies, and the wider community. For more information on all of Kentucky’s 15 Area Development Districts and more details on their history and purpose, visit the website of the Kentucky Department for Local Government.

Emergency Response Branch (EEB)

a team of the Division of Water, Waste Management and Air Quality of the Department of Environmental Protection, which is trained to respond immediately to environmental emergencies where hazardous materials may have been spilled, during emergency events.

Energy and Environment Cabinet (EEC) of the Commonwealth of Kentucky

serves the public by enforcing laws relating to natural resources and the environment. EEC Secretary Rebecca Goodman was appointed as the state's top environmental officer in December 2019 by Gov. Andy Beshear.

Environmental Integrity Project

a nonprofit organization that advocates for the enforcement of environmental laws and the protection of public health.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

federal agency that protects people and the environment from significant health risks by sponsoring and conducting research, and developing and enforcing environmental regulations.

Kentucky Department of Environmental Protection

leads the state’s effort to protect and enhance Kentucky's environment. It is an agency of Kentucky’s Energy and Environment Cabinet. 

Kentucky Division of Water

an agency of Kentucky’s Energy and Environment Cabinet whose mission is to manage, protect, and enhance the quality and quantity of the Commonwealth's water resources for present and future generations through voluntary, regulatory, and educational programs.

Kentucky Infrastructure Authority (KIA)

under the Office of the Governor and administratively attached to the Department for Local Government (DLG), KIA provides financial help through grant and loan assistance to communities for water and wastewater needs.

Kentucky Public Service Commission (PSC)

a state agency that regulates the rates and services of utility companies, including water utilities, within Kentucky. It ensures that customers receive safe and reliable utility services at fair rates. In rural Kentucky counties, the PSC oversees local (non–municipal) water systems to maintain affordability and reliability, impacting accessibility of clean water for these communities.

Livelihoods Knowledge Exchange Network (LiKEN)

a non–profit organization that serves as a bridge in collaborations with communities, government agencies, and technical experts to build local livelihoods, mutual care, community resilience, and community wealth by meeting basic life needs through stewardship of local life commons.

Martin County Concerned Citizens

A nonprofit organization of people working to achieve safe, affordable drinking water as well as promoting the rights of citizens’ voices to be heard in Martin County, Kentucky.

Martin County Water District 

water utility company based in Inez, Kentucky, providing drinking water to most of Martin County, Kentucky.