MOUNT HOPE – On Tuesday, September 9 at 6:00 p.m., there will be a public meeting at Rock Springs Presbyterian Church at 8646 County Road 23, Mount Hope, Alabama, to discuss recent developments in the oil sands (tar sands) mining issue in our area. 2000 acres of land have been purchased for the purpose of oil sands mining in the Wolf Springs and Flatwoods area in western Lawrence County and more in Colbert and Franklin Counties. Many residents have serious concerns about the proposed surface mining and processing plant, including effects on human health, water quality, noise and air pollution, destruction of the land and the limitations of the reclamation of the land after the mining is finished.
In attendance to offer information and answer questions will be local citizens and experts who are knowledgeable about northwest Alabama geology (Dr. Jim Lacefield, author of Lost Worlds in Alabama Rocks), petroleum mining processes and impacts. The discussion will include a presentation on the cultural assets of our area, such as Native American ancestry and ancient Indian trails, cemeteries and the historic Byler Road.
Light refreshments will be served. Everyone is invited to attend and bring friends and family.
MEDIA RELEASE/Janice Barrett 256-974-6166 or 256-303-3154
