Editor:
I have some questions for Nicholas Pappas: What do you even know about mining (“Mining regulations’ dirty history,” Aug. 28)?
You have successfully used the Tribune and United Mine Workers of America as your sources but lack the knowledge of what retreat mining even is. Did you know that retreat mining has been practiced for decades — since before you were even born? And you have pillaring and barrier pillars confused. Have you read the plans? Were you there for the rescue effort? I already know that the answer to all of these is a resounding no.
I am a student in the mining engineering department who interned for the company. While you spent time sleeping, the men and women of Murray Energy were doing everything to reach those miners — some even giving their lives.
The plans at the Crandall Canyon Mine were approved by the Federal Mine Safety and Health Administration and a lot of research was done before implementation.
Research is an important thing that I found very lacking in your article. You used biased reports — such as those from UMWA, which has resorted to name-calling (in the beginning of the Lila Canyon Mine Project before the collapse they reffered to Murray as the Devil). The UMWA was there from day one — not helping in the rescue effort, but pointing fingers. Nicholas I ask you to retract your uninformed opinions written on this matter.
James NewmanJunior, Mining Engineering