The unintended environmental consequences of surface mining and reclamation throughout the Central Appalachian region of the US – a process that is meant to stabilize ground conditions by intense surface grading, heavy soil compaction and fast growing monoculture groundcover – has lead to high tree mortality stunted tree growth, the introduction of invasive, non-native species, flooding due to reduced topsoil and low water infiltration. These reclaimed sites in Appalachia are halted in a state of arrested ecological succession, maintain depleted levels of soil organic carbon, and offer marginal economic value. The aim of Appalachian Renewal Project is to demonstrate approaches to return these sites to sustainable, productive use, which begins with large-scale ecosystem restoration. This effort is expected to improve watershed characteristics, enhance wildlife habitat, and create employment opportunities in an area that suffers of persistent poverty and economic hardship.