The primary method used for extracting coal in the U.S. is surface (strip) mining, which is most common in areas with shallow coal deposits.

The most popular technique for obtaining coal in the United States is surface (strip) mining, especially in areas where coal seams are close to the surface of the earth. To reach the coal underneath, this technique entails removing a significant amount of overburden, such as rock and dirt. It enables the extraction of vast amounts of coal and is more economical than underground mining. Surface mining is the primary method of generating coal in the Appalachian and Powder River basins. However, there are issues with this method's sustainability and control because it can have serious negative effects on the environment, including habitat destruction, water pollution, and soil erosion.