Communities across West Virginia continue to transform former coal mining areas into new opportunities for economic growth, recreation, infrastructure, tourism, and workforce development through the Abandoned Mine Lands Economic Revitalization (AMLER) Program.
Administered by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection Office of Abandoned Mine Lands and Reclamation, AMLER funding supports projects that create long-term economic benefits in coal-impacted communities.
Since 2016, the AMLER Program has committed more than $268 million to projects across West Virginia’s coalfields, helping communities redevelop abandoned mine lands (AMLs) into productive assets.
The 2026 application period is now open, with completed applications due by July 10, 2026.
View the WVDEP AMLER Program page here.
For local governments, nonprofits, economic development organizations, utilities, tourism entities, and community groups, preparing a competitive AMLER application can be complex.
Downstream Strategies can help.
Understanding AMLER priorities
AMLER projects must demonstrate a clear connection between AML reclamation and economic or community revitalization. Eligible projects often include:
- Tourism and recreation infrastructure
- Industrial site redevelopment
- Water and sewer infrastructure
- Trail systems and outdoor recreation
- Workforce development facilities
- Broadband and utility improvements
- Community redevelopment projects
Projects must also identify an eligible AML problem area (PAD) located on or immediately adjacent to the proposed development sites.
How Downstream Strategies supports AMLER applicants
Downstream Strategies provides comprehensive grant writing, project development, and technical consulting services that help communities move projects from concept to funding.
Successful applications typically require:
- Strong economic justification
- Detailed project planning
- Clear community benefits
- Realistic budgets and schedules
- Environmental and site eligibility documentation
- Coordination with multiple stakeholders and agencies
Strategic project development
Strong AMLER applications begin long before writing starts. Downstream Strategies works with clients to:
- Identify viable project concepts
- Evaluate AML eligibility requirements
- Assess site conditions and redevelopment potential
- Align projects with state and federal priorities
- Develop realistic implementation strategies
This early-stage planning helps communities avoid costly delays and strengthen project competitiveness.
Grant writing and application support
Preparing an AMLER application requires a compelling narrative supported by technical detail and clear economic outcomes. Downstream Strategies can assist with:
- Full grant application preparation
- Project narratives and scope development
- Budget preparation and cost justification
- Economic impact analysis
- Community needs assessments
- Mapping and supporting documentation
- Coordination of letters of support
- Review and editing of application materials
By combining strategic planning, technical expertise, and grant development support, Downstream Strategies helps communities position projects for long-term success and maximize the impact of AMLER funding investments.
For more information about the AMLER Program and application materials, visit the WVDEP AMLER Program page.
Want to work with Downstream Strategies on your AMLER application?
Contact us!