Abstract: A method and apparatus for covering drilling mud returns in a drilling mud pit. A soil-projecting apparatus which is attachable to the rear of a conventional farm tractor comprises a plurality of scoop-like members connected to a drive shaft member which is operably associated with the power take-off of the tractor, independently adjustable blade membes placed forward of the scoop-like members for displacing soil toward the scoop-like members, and a protective partial enclosure of the scoop-like members. A method for covering drilling mud returns comprises placing a first, supporting layer of a material adjacent the returns and placing a layer of topsoil adjacent the first, supporting layer.