By Scout Nelson
Mid-States Materials LLC has received the 2025 Governor’s Mined Land Reclamation Award for its outstanding work in restoring mined land in Kansas. The award was presented by the Kansas Department of Agriculture Division of Conservation on January 8, 2026.
This award highlights companies that show excellence in mined land reclamation while promoting a positive image of mining across the state. Mid-States Materials was recognized for its reclamation work at the Big Springs Quarry near Lecompton. The quarry covers about 2,000 acres in total, with 160 acres restored during the project phase known as the Purple Phase.
The reclamation effort focused strongly on soil stabilization and rebuilding healthy soil systems. Special care was taken to restore soil micro-ecosystems so that plants could grow and survive naturally. Instead of following common practices that create single-species prairies, the project used diverse seeding methods. This approach supports stronger soil health and avoids stressing the land over time.
Through this work, Mid-States Materials developed a stable prairie pasture with high biological diversity. The project also included the creation of a productive wetland area. These improvements allow the land to support wildlife while remaining useful for future agricultural and conservation purposes. The restored land is designed to benefit current and future generations while maintaining environmental balance.
An important part of this project was timing. Reclamation activities were carried out at the same time as mining operations. This allowed restoration work to begin as soon as quarrying was completed, reducing long-term land disturbance and improving efficiency.
Mid-States Materials is based in Topeka, Kansas, and operates several quarry locations across the state. The company employs about 150 people and remains committed to responsible mining and land stewardship. This award reflects the company’s dedication to sustainable practices and environmental responsibility in Kansas.
For additional information about the Governor’s Mined Land Reclamation Award, inquiries can be directed to the Kansas Department of Agriculture Division of Conservation.
Photo Credit: kansas-department-of-agriculture
Categories: Kansas, General, Sustainable Agriculture