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Sunday, February 16, 2025

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Trump administration begins sweeping layoffs with probationary workers, warns of larger cuts to come; NYC music school teachers strike after union negotiations break down; Ohio advocates push for inclusive policies during Black History Month; Health experts recommend sunshine, socializing to cure 'winter blues.'

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Federal workers tasked with securing elections from foreign interference are placed on leave, parents' organizations reject dismantling Dept. of Education, and the Congressional Black Caucus presses discussions on slavery reparations.

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Rural America struggles with opioids and homelessness in unexpected ways, Colorado's Lariat Ditch could help spur local recreation, and book deliveries revive rural communities hit by Hurricane Helene.

Advocates propose solutions to stop zombie mines in Ohio, other states

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Friday, February 16, 2024   

Advocates from coal-mining communities are proposing a roadmap to help address and prevent so-called "zombie mines," - abandoned mine lands on hold indefinitely.

According to the Center for Public Integrity, Ohio and other Appalachian states are littered with hundreds of zombie mines, allowing companies to avoid paying for environmental cleanup.

Erin Savage, senior program manager for Appalachian Voices, explained permit transfers allow companies to shed their responsibilities and the region has seen many go bankrupt in the last decade. Savage said advocates want federal rules limiting the amount of time mine permits can remain in "idle" status.

"This could provide an opportunity to make sure that these other coal companies taking on permits out of bankruptcy are actually capable of doing the reclamation before that transfer is approved," Savage noted.

That's one recommendation in a new platform supported by 52 organizations that would tackle the "zombie" mine crisis, which is currently being investigated by the Government Accountability Office.

According to a report from the Appalachian Citizens Law Center, pollution and debris from inactive mines can seep into drinking water supplies and harm wildlife, as well as putting communities at increased risk for landslides.

Savage added the problem is expected to grow as dependence on coal declines. And she argued stricter policies are needed to hold mining companies accountable for proper reclamation methods called for under federal water protection legislation.

"Ensuring compliance with the Clean Water Act through reclamation; require disturbed areas to be planted with noninvasive species," Savage outlined. "We see a big invasive species problem, both in the east and the west."

Research shows reclaiming zombie mines could also bring economic opportunities to a region plagued by unemployment. A 2021 analysis by Appalachian Voices found reclamation of modern mines in Ohio and six other eastern states could create between 23,000 and 45,000 jobs.

Disclosure: Appalachian Voices contributes to our fund for reporting on Energy Policy, Environment, and Environmental Justice. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.


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