Front Porch Blog
Updates from Appalachia
Bond-forfeited Virginia Blackjewel mines may finally have a buyer
Three Virginia strip mines, neglected in the wake of the Blackjewel bankruptcy, may finally have a buyer. But it remains to be seen if the new company would be able to reclaim the land.
“Environmentalist” Tom Clarke abandons mines in West Virginia
With the failure of coal operator ERP’s unconventional scheme, West Virginia must contend with the company’s environmental violations and mines in need of cleanup.
Companies play hot potato with unreclaimed Blackjewel mines
Virginia regulators, a surety insurance company, and two coal companies are playing hot potato with 22 of bankrupt Blackjewel’s coal permits — and none of them want to be left with the responsibility of reclaiming the sites.
Utilities must suspend service disconnections and waive late fees
Millions of Americans have lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic. They should not have to worry about having their power or water turned off as a result.
Black lung service providers shift in the face of COVID-19
As coal miners with black lung disease have a heightened risk of complications from coronavirus, black lung healthcare providers work to respond to the global pandemic.
