What is included in the definition of a surface coal mine's operational area?

The operational area of a surface coal mine encompasses more than just the extraction pit; it includes all areas utilized for the mining process, which specifically covers the transportation and storage of coal. This is crucial as these operations enable the efficient movement of extracted coal and its temporary storage before being processed or transported to market. The transportation routes are vital for connecting the extraction site to processing facilities or shipping points, while storage areas are necessary for managing coal stockpiles.

In contrast, the other aspects mentioned—such as just the extraction pit area, private ways and roads for the public, and break areas for miners—do not constitute the entire operational scope of the mine. They may either happen outside of the core mining operations or serve specific, limited functions that are not comprehensive in outlining the operational area necessary for a surface coal mine. Therefore, the definition inclusive of transportation and storage aligns with the broader understanding of what constitutes a mine's operational area.