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Introduction to Map Explanation

Coal has been mined in 73 counties of Illinois. More than 4,500 coal mines have operated since commercial mining began in Illinois about 1810; fewer than 50 are currently active. To detail the extent and location of coal mining in Illinois, the Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS) has compiled maps and directories of known coal mines. The ISGS offers maps at a scale of 1:100,000 and accompanying directories for each county in which coal mining is known to have occurred. Maps at a scale of 1:24,000 and accompanying directories such as this are available for selected quadrangles. Contact the ISGS for a list of these quadrangles.

These larger scale maps show the approximate positions of mines in relation to surface features such as roads and water bodies, and indicate the mining method used and the accuracy of the mine boundaries. The maps are useful for locating mine boundaries relative to specific properties and for assessing the potential for subsidence in an area. Mine boundaries compiled from final mine surveys are generally shown within 200 feet of their true position. As a result of poor cartographic quality and inaccuracies in the original mine surveys, boundaries of some older mines may be mislocated on the map by 500 feet or more. Original mine maps should be consulted in situations that require precise delineation of mine boundaries or internal workings of mined areas.

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