A brief history of the deforestation of Appalachia and efforts now underway to return abandoned mine lands to something approximating their original state. Surface mining in Appalachia has replaced approximately one million acres of eastern deciduous forest, one of the most diverse and valuable forests in the world, with primarily non-native grasses and shrubs. We get the details of legislation now before Congress to renew the Abandoned Mine Lands trust fund to continue financing reforestation. And, there was a time when Kentucky Spring Lamb was sought nationwide. Now, a vision to revive this once thriving mountain industry in concert with the return of forests.
Contact: Tom Martin at es@eku.edu or leave voicemail at 859-622-9358
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