Below is some sample text for a letter to the OSM and DEP demanding they shut down the Edwight Surface Mine above Pettry Bottom.
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And also submit the form below to let us know that you’ve signed on the petition. Thank you for supporting our tree sitters and the community of Pettry Bottom.
To Whom It May Concern:
I am writing to insist that you order an immediate halt to the blasting on the Edwight Surface Mine (DEP Permit S301299) that is impacting the community of Pettry Bottom in Raleigh Co. Since Alex Energy began blasting immediately above the community, residents have complained of numerous problems. Carol Beckner of Pettry Bottom said the water run-off is so bad that they have had to dig a ditch around their yard to keep the water in it from going underneath their house, and they have had a hill in their yard completely washed out This is the case for most of the residents in Pettry Bottom. Carol Beckner also stated that “Me, my husband and both of my children all suffer from respiratory problems, allergies, bronchitis and really bad headaches, from constantly breathing in traces of coal and silica dust and toxic fumes like diesel fuel and ammonium nitrates.” The site has already been issued a violation for a slide coming down into the yard of the Dickens', and all that was done to prevent further sliding was the installation of four straw bales and a filter fence that is already nearly overrun with debris.
This is hardly the first problem this permit has had. The Edwight Surface Mine has been cited by the WV DEP 33 times since 2004, 7 times so far this year. There have been three violations in the last 12 months for sediment control issues as well as three for downslope soil disposal. Both patterns of violations should have prompted Show Cause hearings. Alex Energy has shown it is incapable of operating this mine in a manner consistent with regulations or public safety.
The tree sitters have taken bold action to stop the blasting above the homes in Pettry Bottom. Now I ask you to show the same bold leadership in protecting West Virginia citizens from the dangers of irresponsible mining practices.
Lynn Ledgerwood, 360-570-3392, 98501, yes
Kathleen Flynn, 563-210-1710, 52804, yes
Janice Erickson, , 60805, yes
STOP the destruction of MY land ~ It's NOT yours to destroy! Who do you think you are? How do you sleep at night? I'm SICK of corporate GREED!
Adam Hall, 304-934-5114, 25844, yes
Louis Hillman, 734-323-0054, 48823, yes
This blasting must be stopped immediately.
Jason, , , yes
Barbara Blouin, 902 429 2235, B3H 2M6, yes
Jonathan Mariano, 423-307-9687, 37814, yes
Colin Flood, 802-456-8787, 05650, yes
Do the job you were appointed to do.
Carmen Druke, 7134441561, 77008-4472, yes
