LETTER: Concerns about mine expansion
In regard to Rick Shrum’s Feb. 18 article on permitting of the underground mine of Maggie Lynn Quarry in Deemston, there is a need to highlight several concerns from local residents about the expansion of this operation.
Those living nearby have long been expressing frustration about the amount of dust produced by mining activities. Of major concern is adequate dust suppression measures at the site. These dust suppression measures are required by law to keep harmful limestone particulates from affecting air quality.
The effects of carcinogenic dust from limestone quarry operations is well-documented for its potential impacts on the environment and on people living nearby. This particulate matter, much of it invisible to the naked eye, can linger in the air for days. Both the World Health Organization and the Environmental Protection Agency have warned about this type of particulate matter because of its association with a range of serious health conditions, including lung conditions.
Dust from the quarry coats nearby roads, buildings, and seeps into neighboring homes. The fact that there is a school campus that serves hundreds of students in close proximity should be cause for concern.
The lack of dust suppression has resulted in violations addressed by the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) over the last several years. There is also concern about possible effects of underground blasting on nearby homes and water sources, noise caused by mine expansion, the potential to decrease property values, increased truck traffic during school bus travel times, and impacts on the water quality of the adjacent Ten Mile Creek.
The area around the quarry is beautiful farmland and recreation area, where people fish, hunt, kayak, and hike. The ability to participate in and enjoy those activities should not be threatened. We urge those living in Deemston and surrounding areas to become more educated about this issue and raise questions and concerns to the DEP or the Clean Air Council. It is up to all of us to protect our local environment and our health.
Joanna Zollars
Clarksville