Written by Matt Hepler
Matt Hepler
A Bath County, Va., native, Matt uses his backgrounds in geography, GIS mapping and hydrology to help protect Appalachian communities from coal mining pollution as a member of our Central Appalachian / End Mountaintop Removal team. He's also a fantastic square dance caller.
Citizen scientists uncover water quality violations in Kentucky national forest
Citizen scientists discovered that acid mine drainage is causing a creek in Kentucky’s Daniel Boone National Forest to flow a bright orange, and they spurred state regulators to issue citations to the mine operators. But mining company Revelation Energy is in bankruptcy, which leaves big questions about who will clean up the mess — and when.
Westmoreland Coal Allowed to Sever Worker Agreements
In February, a federal judge allowed Westmoreland Coal Company to terminate benefits for current and retired coal miners.
Bankrupt Westmoreland Coal granted permission to sever worker agreements
A federal bankruptcy judge ruled that Westmoreland Coal Company can back out of its collective bargaining agreements with current workers and retirees as soon as Feb. 28, putting pensions and health benefits for thousands of people at risk.
Virginians brace for the fallout from Westmoreland Coal’s bankruptcy
Westmoreland Coal’s bankruptcy puts health benefits for 500 Virginians and pensions for 7,000 former Virginia miners in jeopardy. A bill proposed in the Senate would protect these benefits — and also shore up the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund.
Westmoreland Coal’s Appalachian connection
In October 2018, the oldest coal company in the United States filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. While now largely operating in the western United States, Westmoreland has many ties to Southwest Virginia.
Abandoned coal relics cleaned up with settlement funds
The sites of two abandoned coal tipples in Southwest Virginia were recently reclaimed thanks to settlement funds resulting from a water pollution lawsuit.
Neely’s Creek Mine Permit Up for Renewal
The permit renewal for Neely’s Creek Mine near Somerset, Ky., is being contested by a local environmental group.
Defending community rights to clean water enforcement
After four years of effort, a favorable ruling in Virginia this month confirmed the rights of citizens to participate in coal mine inspections.
