Which agency is primarily responsible for overseeing surface mining operations in Kentucky?

The Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet is the primary agency overseeing surface mining operations in Kentucky. This agency is tasked with enforcing state laws and regulations related to mining, ensuring that activities comply with safety, environmental protection, and land reclamation standards. Its role includes issuing permits, conducting inspections, and monitoring mining activities to protect the state's natural resources and public health.

The other options represent different entities with varying levels of involvement. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, while it plays a role in regulating environmental impacts from mining operations at the federal level, does not directly manage state surface mining activities. The Kentucky Department of Natural Resources is involved in resource management, but it is the Energy and Environment Cabinet that has the specific regulatory authority for overseeing surface mining. The Kentucky Mining Association is an industry group representing mining interests, but it does not have regulatory power in managing surface mining operations.