KY Coal is critical to the United States economy

Since the US economy is dependent on coal into the future, it is important to stop villifying the members of the coal industry that are playing by the rules and start learning about the positive impact it has on our economy. We can also learn of the positive environmental steps the coal industry has in place to minimize any effects.

I experienced a tour of an eastern Kentucky coal mine operation and was amazed at the attention to detail for safety, the environment and efficiency to get the product to market and power this great nation.

Watch the video and look at the pictures of a real coal experience in Eastern Kentucky. Feel free to pass the link of this message to friends so they can also see the care and attention exercised by the mining company to restore the land to its natural state.

There are two types of mining and the type known as "Surface Mining" receives a great deal of criticism because it can alter the exterior appearance. What I learned is that most coal company's exercise a great amount of care to extract the coal and restore the area to a natural setting. The amazing video above is an example of a restored area. The following pictures are a before and after of an area being surface mined for coal.

This tour was an eye opening experience for me. What I learned is that mining coal is not a question of right or wrong. It must be done. It is absurd for anyone to think the United States could function with out coal. Be it must be done by responsible coal miners that understand the significance of their actions. I am proud of the good men and woman in eastern Kentucky that risk their lives to power this nation.

Stay tuned for more articles and photos from my coal mining tour.

Chris Sturm