Granite Construction's Gardner Facility in Buellton, California, has received a Surface Mining and Reclamation Act (SMARA) at 50 Golden Anniversary Reclamation Award from the California Construction and Industrial Materials Association (CalCIMA), recognising its work in agricultural land restoration.
The award was presented in the Agricultural Reclamation category at CalCIMA's 2026 Education Conference on November 5 in Monterey. The recognition coincides with the 50th anniversary of California's SMARA, which establishes requirements for responsible surface mining and land reclamation.
Granite has operated the Gardner surface mine and asphalt production plant since the early 1970s. The facility follows a phased approach to mining, processing, backfilling and reclamation, allowing previously mined sections to be restored while operations continue in other areas.
The site also incorporates water recycling systems, stormwater management practices and operational controls to protect surrounding natural resources.
Under its approved reclamation plan, Granite aims to return mined land to agricultural use consistent with the character of California's Santa Ynez Valley. To date, 75 acres have been reclaimed and leased for growing strawberries, yellow squash, zucchini and cilantro.
The Gardner Facility also played a role in regional disaster recovery following the 2018 mudslides in Montecito, which generated substantial volumes of debris requiring safe management and disposal.
Working with regulatory agencies, Granite arranged for recovery debris to be transported to the facility and incorporated into its reclamation programme. The material helped restore previously mined areas while supporting the community's recovery efforts.
Granite's environmental management team said the project demonstrates how mining operations can balance material production with environmental responsibility and long-term community benefits.
The CalCIMA award recognises the Gardner Facility's long-term approach to responsible mining and agricultural land restoration. Its reclamation work demonstrates how former mining areas can be returned to productive use while supporting regional infrastructure and community needs.
Source: Granite Construction.
