For the purposes of this article the following terms shall have the following meanings:

1. "Mining" means the extraction or removal of minerals from the ground or the breaking of the surface soil in order to facilitate or accomplish the extraction or removal of such minerals for commercial or industrial use; but shall not include excavation or grading when conducted solely in aid of on-site farming or construction.

2. "Person" means any natural person, corporation, association, partnership, receiver, trustee, executor, administrator, guardian, fiduciary or other representative of any kind, and includes any department, agency or instrumentality of the state or any of its governmental subdivisions.