Studies & Publications

Gathered here is a compilation of scientific studies and publications focused on issues regarding surface coal mining and man-made disturbance, in general.  The gathered list of studies is by no means all-encompassing and is to be viewed as an ever-growing and constantly updated representative compilation of the more recent or well-known scientific information as it relates to issues discussed on this website.

Although this website is primarily focused on educational materials pertaining to surface coal mining in the Appalachian region, studies associated only with surface coal mining would limit our scientific understanding of this issue, simply because surface coal mining does not have exclusive impacts, as compared to other human activities.  Therefore, studies related to activities that cause similar impacts to those of surface coal mining are also pertinent in determining what should be considered “Best Available Science” when regulatory standards and enforcements are updated.