§ 55-4. Definitions.

As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:

MINING OPERATION

Any operation which involves the breaking of the earth's surface for the purpose of extracting and removing raw natural materials (such as topsoil) from the premises for the purpose of sale or off-premises use.

NEW MINING OPERATION

Any mining operation initiated on the same property as the existing excavation site which is not contiguous to the existing site.

OWNER OF MINING OPERATION

The owner of lands upon which a mining operation is situated and any other person operating said operation and responsible therefor.

RECLAMATION

The process of restoring mined land to make it suitable for any uses or purposes consistent with the provisions of the Environmental Conservation Law.

RECLAMATION PLAN

The description of the operation required by the State of New York to be performed to reclaim land to be mined over the life of the mine. The reclamation plan shall include maps, plans, the schedule of reclamation, written material and other documents as required by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.