The Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration (SME) is delighted to report that on October 26, 2017, President Donald J. Trump announced the nomination of J. Steven Gardner to be the Director of the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) at the U.S. Department of the Interior.
“It is very welcome news to learn that President Trump has nominated Steve Gardner to OSMRE as its next Director,” said SME Executive Director David L. Kanagy. “Steve’s more than 40 years in the mining industry gives him the needed understanding of today’s mining operations and underscores his ability to lead this bureau in a changing industry. Steve has run his own engineering consultancy business where he has worked with a wide range of mining companies and a variety of commodities and fuels. He is very well respected in the industry as evidenced by his election to serve as the SME President in 2015 and his recognition as an SME Distinguished Member.”
J. Steven Gardner
“I am beyond humbled and honored to be nominated by President Trump for the Director of OSMRE,” said Gardner. “My whole life, I have been involved with mining on multiple levels and I understand the importance of these issues to the communities we serve. I pledge to work every day on behalf of the men and women across this country who look to the OSMRE office as a partner in bettering life for all people on mining lands.”
The nomination requires confirmation by the U.S. Senate. U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke hailed Gardner’s nomination. “When confirmed, Steve will be an unbelievable asset to coal country and the entire team at the Department of the Interior,” said Secretary Ryan Zinke in a press release from the Department of the Interior. “Steve is highly regarded in the mining industry for his extensive experience and insight. Steve will help Interior take the proper steps forward to ensure American energy dominance is achieved, while also being a responsible steward of American lands. We very much look forward to a quick confirmation process.”
Read the DOI announcement at www.doi.gov/pressreleases/.