Presentation of Prof. Neil Korostoff

The bituminous coal basin of the Eastern U. S. has been extensively exploited for over 150 years. Until 1977 extraction and remediation were unregulated. Laissezfaire capitalism created profound environmental destruction and social under-development in the region. Western Pennsylvania, part of this very large coal basin, suffers from an enormous backlog of unreclaimed mined land, polluted streams, and economic depression. A network of small volunteer community organizations are leading the effort to restore these post-mining landscapes. Philanthropies and government grants are providing financial support for this effort.