Auger holes should be covered before abandonment? (True or False)

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not specified
• D. Only if requested

Answer: (A)

Closing auger holes is a safety and environmental protection requirement in mine abandonment. These vertical openings pose hazards to people and wildlife and can become conduits for water, air, or contaminants if left open. Proper closure typically means backfilling the hole to the surrounding surface, compacting and stabilizing the material, and re-vegetating the area so the surface remains stable and erosion is minimized. This helps prevent collapse, accidental entry, and unwanted drainage or contamination pathways, which is why they should be covered before abandonment.