Public needs to be aware of mine safety

Editor,

Recent cases of subsidence have brought attention to the public on the dangers of abandoned mines. Currently, there are more than 600,000 acres of abandoned mines in 37 Ohio counties. It would take an estimated $200 million to fix these mines so that they are safe to the people living near and above them.

We would like to suggest that the problems of abandoned mines in Ohio be considered as an educational issue. There has been a strong interest in increasing environmental literacy and this is one of the areas that can be expanded upon. The more public awareness, the more political activity that can take place because of inspired and educated individuals who write their congressmen and women. We need to let our government officials know that this is a serious topic that needs to be addressed NOW.

There has been limited effort in addressing this topic and by implementing programs geared towards early education and general awareness we hope this problem can be fixed. Seminars, informational pamphlets, televised public service announcements, updated Web sites, and grade school curriculum are just some of the ways we believe information could be dispersed to the public. Although most mines are mapped, still many have not been identified. Athens County has the seventh highest number of mines in the state with 271. If you want to make a difference since this is a local issue, write your congressmen and congresswomen!

Thank you,

Christa Meyer, cm406597,
James Benedict, jb389296,
James Kaufman, jk346597,
David Prohaska, dp606796,
Constance Roberts, cr183992.