Removal of Mountains: The Restructuring of Communities

Keywords: Extraction, Appalachia Many in Appalachian Kentucky recognize that an unchecked extractive industry can cause social and environmental problems; yet, they live with the problems the industry creates. This attitude comes from a strong sense of pride in one’s work and community. However, it allows mineral extraction to grow uncontested, resulting in economic, social, and environmental devastation (Biggers 2006; Eller 2008; Fitzgerald 2012; Lewis 1998; Scott 2010). This paper addresses the prevalence of Mountaintop Removal (MTR) in Perry County Kentucky and its ability to restructure communities. While MTR may be contested, mineral extraction has encouraged a shift away from traditional urban centers in Perry County, pulling that population to areas that are more rural. This transition can lead to economic, social, and environmental changes in the communities of Perry County. Rural to urban shift was analyzed using the 2000 and 2010 U.S. Census. Using aerial photography of Perry County between 2000 and 2010, increased potential for physical and emotional harm is uncovered. What is found is a shift away from Hazard (the county seat) to more rural areas. In addition, it is found that this change in population is statistically related to MTR sites within Perry County. While MTR can add to the economy of Perry County, the multiple ways to view coal extraction’s impact on the region must be addressed. We must take in to account all the ways energy extraction changes a region. More importantly, how these changes affect local residents