by Beth Gray
 I recently watched a documentary entitled Coal Country that provides a telling look into the modern coal mining industry. Produced in 2009 and focusing on mountain top removal mining, the film explores the process itself, the benefits in the process for the mining industry, and the cost of using such methods for those who live near such mining sites. The film’s producers juxtapose serene images of Appalachian mountaintops brimming with diverse flora and fauna against the aftermath of such mining operations. Few would watch the film and argue that it provides a thoroughly balanced view.Â
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