[phs1986]

Coal mining be it underground OR above ground, coal trucks, and coal sales is what is keeping our society HERE as a whole going. WHAT else is there HERE in this area that can provide for families? IMO there are wayyyyyyy tooooo many on checks now that are more than able to work. My dad worked in a underground mine much longer than he should have TO PROVIDE FOR HIS FAMILY!

Granted, damage is done by surface mining AND underground mining BUT if rules are followed and the EPA or MHSA would regulate that each abandoned mine site be reclaimed for future use and inspected yearly on their part, then I say to all coal miners above and underground..... WAY TO GO!!! Support your families, keep food on your tables, insurance on your children, give back to the economy of your area, and support our fine government with all those taxes you have to pay!!! I wouldn't care to bet you that my hubby paid more in taxes last year than many made!

I do think that old mine sites AND current ones do need to keep the enviornment as safe as possible. There are so many nice places that reclaimed sites can be used for: Examples: Stone Crest, Twin ?? (the race track I mentioned in an earlier post), Grants Branch Park.........

Sorry if I sounded as if I were on a rant but I can and DO see both sides to this argument. I do however feel VERY strongly about the jobs of this area and mining IMO is the #1 source of income for many, many families here in our part of the state.