Runoff from a coal mine that ended operations in 1973 will be diverted from nearby homes in Wise County, officials announced Wednesday.

An Abandoned Mine Land (AML) grant of $218,166.40 will establish erosion controls and install drains to divert water from the site, according to the Virginia Department of Energy. The department oversees the AML program that develops projects to reclaim issues caused by coal mining before 1977.

“Unfortunately water runoff is a common problem associated with Virginia’s historic mining sites,” said Virginia Energy AML Projects Coordinator Lesa Baker. “We evaluate the impact of each and every site to make sure we cover the greatest need first. Diverting water from these homes not only increases safety, it reduces environmental impacts for those living near this site.’

Tru-Line Pipe Line, LLC was awarded the contract. Work is expected to be completed in March.