Sir:… To show that strip mining need not ruin the landscape, you might take a look at Pennsylvania. To my knowledge this is the only state that requires complete restoration of coal-stripping operations. Since the passage of our bituminous strip-mine law in 1963 coal operators have had to restore their operations to original contour concurrent with mining, prevent the discharge of acid water, and successfully plant the restored land. These requirements are being carried out on mountain slopes as well as on rolling farmland. Our experience is that total restoration is both economically and technically feasible. The law is strongly enforced. …
Trusted Writing on History, Travel, and American Culture Since 1949