Which agency is responsible for enforcing mining regulations at the federal level?

The Federal Office of Surface Mining (OSM) is the agency responsible for enforcing mining regulations at the federal level. It was established under the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act (SMCRA) to ensure that coal mining operations are conducted in an environmentally sound manner while also managing the restoration of land affected by mining activities.

The OSM plays a crucial role in overseeing state programs as well as directly managing federal regulations for surface coal mining. This includes implementing standards for coal mine operations to minimize environmental impact, ensuring compliance with reclamation requirements, and providing technical assistance to state regulatory authorities. The agency's objective is to ensure responsible mining practices while protecting communities and the environment.

While other agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) have important roles related to environmental protection and health and safety, respectively, they do not specifically enforce surface mining regulations under SMCRA like the OSM does. The U.S. Department of Energy is primarily concerned with energy production and policy, not directly with coal mining regulations. Hence, OSM's specific mandate and authority make it the correct answer for federal enforcement of mining regulations.