Annotated+Bibliography


 * Annotation #1 ~ 2/25/11 **

**MLA Citation: ** Motavalli, Jim. "Once there was a mountain: ravaging West Virginia for 'clean coal.'" //E: The Environmental Magazine // Nov.-Dec. 2007: 34-40. //Expanded Academic ASAP //. Web. 25 Feb. 2011. < [] >.

**__INFORMATION: __** **Author’s credentials **: The author, Jim Motavalli, is a well-known journalist, speaker, book author, and radio personality. He spent 14 years as the editor of //E/The Environmental Magazine //, in which “Once there was a mountain” is published; contributes regularly to the Environmental Defense newsletter; and blogs for //The New York Times //, //Mother Nature Network //, and //The Daily Green //. Motavalli has also contributed to several other noted journals and magazines, including //The Boston Globe // and //Sierra //, and is the author of //<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Feeling the Heat: Dispatches from the Frontlines of Climate Change //. Given his plentiful credentials, Motavalli is highly knowledgeable about current environmental issues, especially the effects of nonrenewable resources on the environment. In this article, Motavalli also cites firsthand accounts from the actual people of Appalachia, adding a new layer to his explanations and providing evidence to back up his facts.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Scope and purpose of the work **: This article serves as an overview of the effects of Mountaintop Removal on surrounding environments and communities in West Virginia, as well as the efforts of community members and activists to limit or prevent MTR. It also describes potential alternatives to Mountaintop Removal. The article is informational in that it is meant to inform readers of the presence and effects of MTR on West Virginian communities. However, it is also somewhat persuasive in that it is intended to reveal the destruction of MTR through the lens of individuals and communities affected in order to prevent its continuance.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Intended Audience: ** Seeing as Motavalli wrote the article for E Magazine, his intended audience is likely subscribers of the magazine: citizens concerned about the environment or curious about current environmental issues. However, the article clearly describes the effects of Mountaintop Removal and the laws that govern it in the U.S.; therefore, it is likely written for an audience that is generally aware of MTR, but not particularly knowledgeable about its specific effects or the opposition movement against it.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">SUMMARY __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Thesis or main idea: **Motavalli describes the effects of MTR from multiple perspectives. Through the lens of various residents of the region, Motavalli explores the effects of the MTR on the aesthetic appeal of a region, the health of the people near mining sites, and the health of the streams and mountaintop ecosystems. Additionally, Motavalli describes the various legislation governing MTR, as well as the response of the communities affected by MTR.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Summary of main arguments: **Motavalli describes the negative effects of MTR on both the environment and the residents of the area. The residue from MTR pollutes local air and water. Valley fills, the toxic materials from mining that are dumped in nearby valleys, poison local drinking water supplies. Additionally, the daily loud blasts destroy the peacefulness of their everyday lives. According to Motavalli, MTR also destroys the aesthetic beauty of West Virginia. Though many believe that MTR benefits residents of West Virginia by creating more jobs, it actually results in fewer jobs. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">After discussing the effects of MTR, Motavalli describes the opposition movement against MTR, as well as the actual legislation currently protecting mountains. Though the 1977 Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act states that mountaintop removal sites must be returned to their original contours, the mountains are not actually restored to their original heights and instead remain as barren plateaus. Those fighting against MTR are hopeful that the passage of the Clean Water Protection Act will prevent dumping mining waste into streams. Though opponents of MTR have achieved some victories, they fear that court decisions in their favor will soon be overturned, following the patterns of the last several cases. However, the Clean Water Act still remains a large check on mining companies’ actions. Though opposition efforts are strong, the state is still entrenched in a dependency on coal – economically, socially, and politically.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">EVIDENCE __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">**Summary of evidence:** Motavalli cites evidence from several nonprofit organization directors. He also focuses, however, on the experiences of various residents of the region. In the first part of the article, Motavalli cites statistics and experiences from many residents of West Virginia, demonstrating the brutal effects of MTR. Motavalli opens the article with quotes from Larry Gibson, a resident of an area affected by MTR. Gibson explains that his property is an island in an area of 12,000 acres of MTR sites, and that less than 2% of MTR sites have been “reclaimed,” or restored. According to Judy Bonds of Coal River Mountain Watch, mining companies used more than three million pounds of explosives per day, disturbing the peace for many community members. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">Motavalli also cites Vernon Haltom, the co-director of Coal River Mountain Watch, who explains that Massey Energy set up a coal sludge dam for MTR residue just 400 yards above Marsh Fork Elementary School. The children of the school exhibit symptoms of black lung disease, indicating that the coal dust in the region is having a negative effect on their health. Brenda Urias of Kentuckians for the Commonwealth explains that the level of arsenic in her water is 2.0 parts per million, far higher than the acceptable levels. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">Motavalli also proves that MTR does not provide more jobs – in the last ten years, mining productions have increased by 32%, but coal employment has dropped by 29%. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">Finally, Motavalli cites Mary Ann Hitt, the executive director of Appalachian Voices. Hitt states that judges normally interpret federal laws very generously for the sake of coal companies, and therefore it is difficult for communities against MTR to win.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">EVALUATION __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**Evaluation of research:** The author is obviously very knowledgeable about the topic, considering his previous experiences in the field of environmental science and energy. Additionally, he cites the founders and directors of various nonprofit mountain protection organizations throughout the article. His research appears to be thorough. However, some of his statistics were not backed up by references to studies or censuses. If I want to use these statistics in a research product, I might want to check them against other sources.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**Evaluation of scope:** The author addresses the topic from many different perspectives, but especially focuses on the experiences of residents of West Virginia. MTR is explored through the its effects on the environment and people of the region; as well as opposition and legislation preventing such surface mining. However, the article does not include any citations from research papers or universities, instead focusing on the experiences of local residents.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**Evaluation of author bias:** Being an environmentalist, the author is somewhat biased against MTR. Though he mainly focuses on the negative effects of mountaintop removal, he does provide some opposing viewpoints from coal companies.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">REFLECTION: __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">This source was an excellent basis for the rest of my research. It provided an overview of the topic and the various entities affected by MTR, and it answered my research question through detailed accounts. I will definitely use this source in my final project. However, I will also need to find some sources focused on the opposing view.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Annotation #2 ~ 3/1/11 **

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">MLA Citation: ** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">House, Silas. "My Polluted Kentucky Home." //<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">New York Times // 20 Feb. 2011, sec. 11L: n. pag. //<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Gale Opposing Viewpoints in Context //. Web. 1 Mar. 2011. < [] >.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">__**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">INFORMATION: **__ <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**Author’s credentials:** Silas House is an environmental activist and the author of several books, including //<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">The Coal Tattoo //. He is currently the NEH Chair in Appalachian Studies at Bearea College. He also created the Mountain Heritage Literary Festival. House’s awards are numerous, including the Kentucky Novel of the Year, and the Appalachian Writer of the Year. In 2008, he was awarded the Helen Lewis Comminty Lewis Award from the Appalachian Studies Association for his environmental activism. Given his plentiful credential and awards, House should be relatively knowledgeable about MTR, and should be especially well-versed in its effects on the everyday lives of the people of Appalachia.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**Scope and purpose of the work:** House seeks to persuade readers of the tolls of mountaintop removal on human lives. After exploring the environmental impacts of MTR, he attempts to persuade people outside of Appalachia to pay attention to the atrocities of MTR instead of ignoring the poverty of Appalachia.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**Intended Audience:** Seeing as the article is published in the New York Times, House’s intended audience is the readers of the newspaper. The language is not hard to understand, indicating that the article was meant for a general audience, not just scientists or environmentalists. However, based on his persuasive speech in the article, he seems to be targeting environmentally-conscious citizens outside of the Appalachian Mountain region, where the news avoids covering Appalachia “as if it were a no man’s land.”

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">SUMMARY __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**Thesis or main idea:** House describes the drastic effects of MTR on the environment and the surrounding community, especially focusing on the health risks of living near mountaintop removal. However, he also details the frustration of being “ignored” and being told repeatedly that coal is more valuable than the lives of Appalachians. Though no clear thesis is stated, the main idea of the article is that coal has deleterious effects on the lives of Appalachians, and that Appalachians are being put second to the coal needs of the country.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**Summary of main arguments:** House states that, aside from destroying mountains and poisoning streams, MTR has caused a human crisis as well. The people of Appalachia feel as if they are less valuable than the coal resources of the state. They are affected by roads destroyed by overloaded trucks and polluted air and water, as well as the loss of the aesthetic beauty of mountains in the region. The sludge waste from coal operations also has the potential to bury parts of the state if it is accidentally released. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">With this information in mind, House states that many Appalachians feel invisible, and that they are taught that the success of coal operations matters over all else because mining creates jobs. Even though mining operations are destroying Appalachians’ lives, coal companies, the news media, and the government still continue to value these lives less than they value removing coal as quickly and inexpensively as possible.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">EVIDENCE __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**Summary of evidence:** House backs up his assertions with a large number of facts. Since it was first used in 1970, MTR has destroyed 500 mountains and polluted 1,200 miles of rivers and streams. However, Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear’s lawyers still refer to public opposition as “an unwanted burden.” People living close to MTR sites have very high arsenic levels in their water, sometimes 130 times the EPA’s safe levels. The author even details deaths that have occurred as a result of coal mining. A three-year-old was crushed to death by a 1,000-pound boulder when a mining company illegally dislodged it. In 2000, 306 million gallons of sludge buried much of Martin County, Kentucky, in 5 feet of refuse. Coal companies are even releasing polyacrylamide, a cancer-causing chemical used to prepare coal for burning, into streams. When one resident, Judy, complained to the state, she received no reply. Judy recently died of brain cancer.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">EVALUATION __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**Evaluation of research:** The article is well-researched, and includes several key facts that support the author’s main ideas. Although there are no citations, House is a resident of the Appalachian region and an environmental activist in the area, so he is highly knowledgeable about the topic.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**Evaluation of scope:** The full effects of MTR, specifically on the lives of the residents of Appalachia, are completely addressed. That being said, House does not offer much information about the environmental effects of MTR. Additionally, House does not provide a strong explanation of opposing viewpoints.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**Evaluation of author bias:** The author is definitely strongly biased against MTR. In many instances, he uses loaded language, especially as he describes the personal toll MTR has had on his life and on the lives of others. That being said, House backs up his assertions with facts.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">REFLECTION: __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">This source provides an excellent perspective from an individual who has experienced the effects of MTR firsthand. Though it is obviously biased, it will very useful to my exploration of the effects of MTR on human lives. It also provides several good facts and pieces of background information. Depending on what stance I decide to take on a thesis-driven research project, this article could nicely support some of my points.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Annotation #3 ~ 3/7/11 **

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">MLA Citation: ** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">McQuaid, John. "Mountaintop Mining Legacy: Destroying Appalachian Streams." //<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Yale Environment 360 //. Yale U, 20 July 2009. Web. 3 Mar. 2011. < [] >.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">INFORMATION __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Author’s credentials: **The author, John McQuaid is a journalist with work published in the //<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Washington Post //, //<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Smithsonian //, //<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Slate //, //<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">U.S. News //, //<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Wired //, and //<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Mother // //<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Jones //. He specializes in science, the environment, and government dysfunction. Mcquaid’s work won a Pulitzer Prize for Public Service in 1997. Therefore, McQuaid seems to be highly knowledgeable in the field of environmental science and public policy. Additionally, the fact that his work is published on Yale’s website indicates that it is scholarly, seeing as Yale has a highly-regarded environmental science department.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Scope and purpose of the work: **The article is an informational piece in that it is intended to inform readers of the effects of MTR on the health of local streams. However, it also takes a somewhat persuasive stance, demonstrating the inadequacy of reclamation efforts and the importance of stopping MTR missions in order to prevent further damage.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Intended Audience: **This article is aimed towards environmentally-aware individuals with a general knowledge of MTR and water quality. Seeing as it is published on Yale’s website, McQuaid’s main intended audience is likely college students with a general understanding of environmental science. However, the article is by no means written for advanced scientists. McQuaid summarizes most studies with easily understandable lingo and provides background information on each point.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">SUMMARY __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Thesis or main idea: ** As the title of the article suggests, McQuaid focuses on the deleterious effects of MTR on mountain streams. Exploring the various “reclamation” efforts by mining companies, McQuaid concludes that there is no way to return a stream to its exact pre-MTR state. Though McQuaid does not clearly state a thesis, the main idea of the article is basically that MTR performs irreversible damage on stream ecosystems, and that the U.S. government needs to take a stronger stance against it.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Summary of main arguments: **Flood begins by describing general statistics concerning mountaintop removal destruction. Using the Hobet 21 mountaintop removal coal operation in Laurel Branch Hollow, West Virginia, as an example, he describes the destruction caused by MTR. However, he asserts that, of all the components of mountaintop removal, scientists believe valley fills are the most harmful because they destroy headwater streams and forests. Streams carry pollutants far from the mining sites. Mining companies are oftentimes not willing to spend the amount of money required to adequately restore an area after MTR, and streams are left to cope with the pollution from mining operations. McQuaid explains that MTR has widespread effects on stream cycles and stream species, even when a mining area is “reclaimed.” MTR alters hydrological cycles that have been established over millions of years. This disruption can also disturb carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus cycles. The pollution and/or changed chemistry of mountaintop streams affect a huge number of species downstream, especially insects, fish, and birds.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">EVIDENCE __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Summary of evidence: **McQuaid cites several experts and studies, mainly from the EPA and the University of Maryland, to support his assertions. Margaret Palmer of the University of Maryland was part of a team of scientists that compiled records of 37,000 river and stream restoration projects. She states that no stream-restoring project after a mining operation can be deemed ecologically successful. Keith Eshleman, a scientist at the University of Maryland’s Center for Environmental Studies Appalachian Laboratory, states that reclaimed MTR sites show large changes in hydrology and ecosystem functioning. Mining companies often use crushed rock to cover mined mountainsides. Crushed rock does a poor job of absorbing water; therefore, these “reclaimed” areas experience a huge amount of runoff and erosion, leading to disruptions in carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus cycles. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">McQuaid also uses evidence to detail the exact effects of MTR on life. Many mining companies use mining drainage ditches as streams across reclaimed regions, which do not support the same type of life as natural streams. EPA scientists also discovered that high levels of ions from dissolved metals and sulfates kill entire populations of mayflies (this species is normally an indicator of stream health). Finally, high levels of selenium in streams results in health and reproductive problems in various species, including humans. A.D. Lemly, a U.S. Forest Service biologist, indicates that high selenium levels have already been associated with fish deformities.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">EVALUATION __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Evaluation of research: ** The article is obviously well-researched. McQuaid cites experts on the topic, and also focuses on the results of several studies. His research seems to have a broad base – he cites both government organizations, such as the EPA, and universities, such as the University of Maryland. The article is scholarly and presented in an organized fashion.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Evaluation of scope: ** McQuaid definitely covered the topic thoroughly – he offered an excellent and comprehensive report of the effects of MTR on hydrological cycles as well as wildlife. He explored the conclusions of several studies and scientists, and even offered opposing viewpoints from the U.S. government and other scientists. Though he did devote some time to the opposing view, however, McQuaid could have devoted a bit more of the article to explaining the government and mining companies’ points of view.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Evaluation of author bias: ** Though McQuaid’s article is not strictly persuasive, it is somewhat persuasive in that it seeks to prove the negative effects of MTR on mountain streams. McQuaid does offer the opposing viewpoint – some scientists do believe that the effects of mountaintop removal are manageable, and that reclamation of mined areas is possible. However, it is evident through the structure and presentation of arguments that McQuaid is against MTR and feels that streams suffer immensely, even when MTR areas are “reclaimed.” McQuaid is also slightly biased against the government’s MTR policies– however, this is not surprising, considering that he specializes in journalism concerning government dysfunction.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">REFLECTION: __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">Overall, this source will be an excellent addition to any of my research products. It offers very specific evidence of the effects of MTR on the environment, especially on streams and bodies of water. McQuaid also mentions several studies that provide foundations for my research – if I can find write-ups of any of the studies, then I could gain an even deeper understanding of MTR’s effects on stream ecosystems. I will definitely use this source in my research products.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Annotation #4 ~ 3/7/11 **

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">MLA Citation: ** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">Barry, Joyce. "Mountaineers Are Always Free?: An Examination of the Effects of Mountaintop Removal in West Virginia." //<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Women's Studies Quarterly // 29.1/2 (2001): 116-130. //<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">JSTOR //. Web. 1 Mar. 2011. < [|http://www.jstor.org] >.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">INFORMATION __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Author’s credentials: **The author, Joyce Barry, holds a Ph.D. in American Culture Studies from Bowling Green State University, and is currently the Visiting Assistant Professor of Women’s Studies at Hamilton College. She has done a large amount of research on the relationship between gender and environmentalism. Her work has been published in //<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Women’s Studies Quarterly, Environmental Ethics, The National Women’s Studies Association Journal ////<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-style: normal;">, and ////<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Environmental Justice ////<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-style: normal;">. Thus, Barry seems highly qualified and knowledgeable, especially about the social effects of MTR. She also uses in-text citation and includes a long list of sources at the end of the article. //

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Scope and purpose of the work: **The scope of this work is quite large – it covers the environmental and social effects of MTR, and also discusses the lack of environmental justice in West Virginia and the reasons that mining companies target the state for MTR operations. Barry’s purpose is to inform readers of the negative effects of MTR on the environment and society, and she especially focuses on its effects on women. The work is partly informational, but it is also somewhat persuasive. She attempts to disprove any notions that MTR is just an environmental problem, and argues that it must be considered a social and economic problem as well.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Intended Audience: **This work is intended for a general audience that is environmentally and/or socially aware. It does use some complicated language and explores comprehensive theories. Therefore, it is easier to understand if the reader has a general knowledge of mountaintop removal. Seeing as Barry published the article in a women’s studies journal, it is likely also aimed towards professors, researchers, or students.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">SUMMARY __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Thesis or main idea: ** Barry does not declare a specific thesis. However, throughout the article, she attempts to prove that mountaintop removal must be viewed through not only an environmental, but also a social and economic lens, especially taking into consideration poor women and their role in West Virginia families and economies. She argues that women, poorer families, and minorities often bear the brunt of the effects of MTR.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Summary of main arguments: **Barry begins by stating that the best way to understand the effects of MTR is through an “environmental justice” perspective, especially exploring the role of women in the economy. The state of West Virginia is particularly impoverished, and Barry states that many consider West Virginia’s social and economic problems as separate from the rest of the country. Though West Virginia is rich in natural resources, the coal industry takes advantage of these resources and gives little political or economic power to the people. Contrary to the claims of coal companies, MTR practices also produce fewer jobs in West Virginia. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">What’s more, Barry continues to explain that MTR destroys the way of life of West Virginians and destroys the environment of the area. Barry states that mainstream environmental organizations tend to focus on only environmental effects of environmental degradation, failing to realize that environmentally harmful operations such as MTR affect various social classes differently. She also explains that low-income women are often leaders in protests against MTR because their lives are direclty affected by such environmental destruction.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">EVIDENCE __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Summary of evidence: **Throughout the article, Barry cites numerous experts and studies to support her arguments. In “Development, Democracy, and Dignity,” John Gaventa, Barbara Ellen Smith, and Alex Willingham note that the economic gaps between rural and urban areas are growing even larger in West Virginia, and that workers, farmers, people of color, and rural communities are especially affected by this widening gap. Economic problems often affect women the most, considering that women are oftentimes the heads of impoverished families and, according to Jeanne Vickers, function as both producers and caregivers. Giovanna Di Chiro, author of “Environmental Justice from the Grassroots,” states that the main members of environmental justice groups are low-income women and women of color, demonstrating that women, bearing the brunt of the negative effects of MTR, offer the most opposition to its continuance. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">Barry also supports her claims about jobs and economic impoverishment by citing several experts. According to Ken Ward of the //<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Charleston Gazette //, in 1950 there were 120,000 miners in the state, and by the end of the 1990s, there were only 19,000 miners, proving that MTR needs fewer miners to operate. Additionally, despite the state’s rich natural resources, West Virginia ranks 49th in household income in the United States. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">Barry describes MTR’s effects on West Virginians’ ways of life and West Virginia’s environment by citing personal testimony as well as local writers. According to Michael Janofsky, many West Virginia residents are forced to decide between weathering dynamite explosions and flying rocks or accepting buyoffs from mining companies and moving. According to Penny Loeb, a //<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">U.S. News and World Report // journalist, MTR sites are susceptible to floods because of topographic and land changes. Loeb also cites a Department of Natural Resources survey that states that 70% of West Virginia streams are polluted because of MTR.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">__**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">EVALUATION **__ <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Evaluation of research: ** Barry’s research is thorough and meticulous. She cites 28 references at the end of the article. Additionally, these sources are extremely varied, and include articles from various magazines and newspapers as well as university presses. Barry organizes the article and presents a wealth of evidence to back up each of her points.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Evaluation of scope: ** The topic has definitely been explored thoroughly – Barry details the effects of MTR on the environment, the economy, the political balance, and the society of West Virginia. Though Barry focuses mainly on women, she also explores the effects of MTR on social classes as well. She even details MTR’s effects on the environment, though she does not explore it as extensively as its social and economic causes and effects. Barry even mentions the opposing viewpoint, though she obviously does not explain it quite as extensively as her own argument.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Evaluation of author bias: ** Barry is definitely biased to a certain extent. She is strongly against MTR, and supports efforts to prevent its continuance. Though she does provide some alternate points of view throughout the article, it is definitely obvious that she is biased against big coal companies and state governments and weak regulations.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">REFLECTION: __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">This source offered an excellent comprehensive explanation of the social, economic, and environmental impacts of MTR. Though some of the lingo in the article was difficult to understand, and a few of the points were irrelevant to my topic, it definitely contains a wealth of information that will be very valuable in my research products. I will certainly use this source as I construct my research products.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Annotation #5 ~ 3/11/11 **

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">MLA Citation: ** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">Mitchell, John G. "When Mountains Move." //<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">National Geographic // Mar. 2006: n. pag. //<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">National Geographic //. Web. 11 Mar. 2011. < [] >.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">INFORMATION __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Author’s credentials: **Mitchell is a retired environment editor at National Geographic, a past editor of Sierra Club Books, and a field editor and writer for Audubon magazine. Mitchell also wrote eight books and articles for several other magazines. He was a Mellon Fellow at Yale University’s School of Environment and Forestry Studies. Therefore, he seems highly qualified to write about virtually any environmental issue. At the end of the article, Mitchell describes his experiences in the field, working on the story. Therefore, it is obvious that he researched the article well and completely immersed himself in the topic. Additionally, a bibliography is included at the end of the article.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Scope and purpose of the work: **This article has a relatively wide scope. It covers the environmental and social effects of MTR, both good and bad. It focuses especially on interviews and personal accounts; however, it also cites the results of studies and the opinions of experts. The article is intended mainly as an informational piece. It explores the various sides of the argument in regards to mountaintop removal, and is not seeking to prove the hideousness of the coal industry nor the silliness of the activists protesting against MTR. If the article contains some persuasive elements, it is only because the author is quoting residents of Appalachia as they explain the awful effects of MTR on their lives. However, in general, Mitchell attempts to portray all sides of the issue.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Intended Audience: **This work is intended for a general audience that is environmentally and/or socially aware. However, it really could be read by a general audience. No prior knowledge is needed to understand the article. All terminology is explained, and someone who had no knowledge of surface mining or MTR would certainly be able to understand the article.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">SUMMARY __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Thesis or main idea: ** Mitchell does not have a specific thesis. However, his main idea in the article is that MTR involves several potentially harmful environmental practices, and that MTR operations may threaten the health and way of life of many Appalachians. He also states that MTR may have a harmful effect on the environment, especially stream life. Nevertheless, he counters these ideas by stating that there are also several benefits, social and economic, to MTR.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Summary of main arguments: **Mitchell begins by describing the process of MTR. Afterwards, he explores the ways that MTR changes the lives of residents in nearby communities for the worse. For instance, Mitchell describes the dangers of impoundments, basins filled with wastewater, to communities and the environment should floods cause them to break loose. Mitchell also contends that MTR can rob families of their land and their heritage as coal companies try to buy land off of residents so that they can utilize it during MTR. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">Mitchell moves on to explore the severity of MTR’s effects on downstream watersheds and flooding. He presents the arguments of several different individuals, which are highly varied and present different perspectives of watersheds and flooding. Mitchell finishes by describing MTR’s potentially beneficial and negative effects on the economy and job market in West Virginia, as well as coal companies’ efforts to restore mountaintops -- in other words, the positive effects of coal companies’ operations.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">EVIDENCE __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Summary of evidence: **Mitchell cites his personal observations of MTR, as well as the testimony of other resident, experts, and scientist. MTR involves clear-cutting the peak of a mountain, using explosives to shatter rocks, then placing rubble and refuse in nearby valleys. Miller cites the testimony of residents of Sylvester, who attest to the presence of coal dust in the town and the gradual migration of people out of the town because of a nearby coal-washing plant. He also describes the risks of impoundments filled with wastewater. 500 such impoundments are present in Appalachia today, and they contain billions of gallons of toxic black water and goo, produced from the process of cleaning coal. Such impoundments have broken before and caused widespread damage. In 1972, a waste structure in Logan County broke, and the resulting flood led to the death of 125 people. In October of 2000, a similar collapse occurred, and slurry flooded creeks, eventually necessitating the shutdown of water systems in 10 counties. Residents fear the effects of similar spills of waste impoundments close to their homes. Miller also explores the various legal battles as residents of Appalachian communities fight for the right to their land and their way of life. In one case, Arch Coal sued the Miller family when they refused to sell their land, stating that they as a coal company could better use the property. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">Mitchell provides the opinions of several individuals about the effects of MTR on watersheds and flooding. William Raney, president of the WV Coal Association, states that filled areas are dry for most of the year and do not have huge purposes in ecosystems. On the other hand, Ben Stout, a biology professor, counters by stating that insects in these valleys provide important nutrients for species farther downstream. In terms of flooding, some individuals contend that MTR does not cause increased flooding, while others state that big coal operations can increase runoff by up to 42%. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">Mitchell ends by exploring the various social and economic benefits of MTR, as well as the efforts of companies to restore mountaintops. Taxes on coal support West Virginia’s economy. However, Mitchell counters this point by stating that in 1948, 125,000 men worked as miners in West Virginia, and by 2005, only 19,000 worked in the mines because of the increasing efficiency of coal extraction. Nevertheless, West Virginia companies have converted the flat tops of mountains into golf courses, jails, airports, and a hardwood flooring plant, increasing jobs in the areas. Many companies are eager to start programs to regrow trees on mountaintops. However, many environmentalists maintain that it will take thousands of years to return a forest to its original state.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">EVALUATION __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Evaluation of research: ** Mitchell’s research is thorough and fully utilized throughout the article. He obviously performed much of the research by speaking to town residents himself. However, he also refers to several expert scientist opinions, and provides a list of references at the end of the article. His complete and far-reaching research is highly evident – he even made the effort to research and cite the positive effects of MTR against the negative effects of MTR.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Evaluation of scope: ** The topic has definitely been thoroughly addressed. Though Mitchell could possibly have explored the effects of MTR on streams a little more thoroughly, overall he does an excellent job of expressing every aspect of the topic, including the opposing viewpoints.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Evaluation of author bias: ** As is evident from his biography, Mitchell is an environmentalist, and therefore likely highly opposed to MTR. This bias, however, is limited in “When Mountains Move.” Though some of his language is slightly loaded in the beginning of the article, he mainly presents information in an objective manner. Additionally, at the end of the article, he even lists and explains the various positive effects of MTR. Any bias in the article comes from the interviewees that he quotes, not from him. Many of the people he interviews are opposed to MTR, and this definitely comes through very strongly in their quotes.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">REFLECTION: __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">I think that this source will be an excellent addition to any of my research products. I think that it is impressive that Mitchell can present both sides of the controversy surrounding MTR, even though he decidedly supports the anti-MTR side. Though this article contains some of the same information that I have found in other articles, it goes into much greater depth about many of these topics – for instance, the ways in which MTR can cause increased flooding. The information that Mitchell presents about the opposing, pro-MTR viewpoint is a good starting point as I try to find more articles that explore this perspective.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Annotation #6 ~ 3/11/11 **

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">MLA Citation: ** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">Kriesky, Jill, Ph.D. "Introduction." //<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Research in Appalachia: What Are the Impacts of Mining the Mountains? // Wheeling: Wheeling Jesuit University, n.d. 1-4. //<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Wheeling Jesuit University //. Web. 11 Mar. 2011. < [] >.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">INFORMATION __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Author’s credentials: **The author, Jill Kriesky, has a Ph.D. and is the executive director of the Clifford M. Lewis, S.J. Appalachian Institute. Therefore, she is highly qualified and knowledgeable in the area of mountaintop removal. Additionally, she is affiliated with Wheeling Jesuit University, which is located in West Virginia, a major site of mountaintop removal. Finally, the article includes a list of references, and Kriesky cites some sources throughout the article.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Scope and purpose of the work: ** The article covers a very wide range of information – it contains overviews of the history of mining through the years, the development of MTR, and the effects of the practice on current day Appalachia. The article is intended as an informative piece about the history of coal mining in Appalachia, as well as the development and effects of mountaintop removal. Essentially, it lays the groundwork for the various studies that are also published in the pamphlet.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Intended Audience: **Kriesky’s piece is intended for a general audience – readers need not have any prior scientific or social knowledge. However, seeing as the article is published in a research report on mountaintop removal, it is likely intended, to a certain extent, for researchers or those with a general interest in mining. Essentially, the article serves as a springboard for individuals who wish to better understand MTR. After reading the article, they will have a much broader and more comprehensive understanding of MTR.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">SUMMARY __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Thesis or main idea: ** Kriesky does not state a specific thesis. However, she seeks to demonstrate the effect of MTR on jobs, as well as explain the various events in the history of mining, specifically mountaintop removal, in West Virginia. She states that MTR has had drastic effects on the environment of the region, as well as the jobs, health, and peace of people, and that it may be leading to further poverty in the state.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Summary of main arguments: **Kriesky begins by describing the development of mining in the state. She states that “King Coal” has controlled many aspects of Appalachian people’s lives. After World War II, because of environmental concerns, mechanization, and miner’s unions, mining employment declined greatly in the region, and several organizations reached out Appalachians with aid and missions. However, in the 1980s, the biggest producers in coal mining set precedents in miner employment, decreasing the quality of life of many miners. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">Kriesky goes on to describe the process of mountaintop removal and its detrimental effects on the environment. Many coal companies were able to skirt laws and regulations and hurting the environment and the health of humans in the process. Additionally, Kriesky states that MTR reduces employment, and has oppressing social effects on the people of Appalachia.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">EVIDENCE __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Summary of evidence: ** Kriesky provides much evidence of the influence of coal companies over Appalachian’s lives. After WWII, when coal mining declined, several people moved out of the area because they no longer had ways to support themselves. Later, Kriesky describes that big coal companies, such as A.T. Massey Coal and the Pittston coal Company, quit industry-wide contract agreements with the United Mine Workers Association. Instead, they operated low-wage, non-union mines, and other smaller countries quickly followed suit. Even after government regulations were put into effect, limited enforcement still ensured that miners’ working conditions were less-than-ideal. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">Kriesky discusses the negative effects of MTR, citing several papers and experts throughout her explanation. During MTR, trees and other vegetation are stripped away and workers blast away rock above the coal seams. This broken rock is dumped into nearby valleys. Additionally, coal is “cleaned” before it is sent to market, and the toxic liquid waste from these cleanings (known as slurry) is placed in ponds dammed with this broken rock. It is sometimes even placed into abandoned underground coal mines, and often contains cancer-causing chemicals. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">Finally, Kriesky explores the economic and social effects of MTR. She states that in the 1980s and 1990s, coal mining jobs fell by 70 percent. Additionally, residents near MTR sites had to deal with daily blasts, respiratory problems, and hopelessness. With this sense of powerlessness, many residents have migrated out of the region. Welfare dependence and drug abuse is increasing.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">EVALUATION __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Evaluation of research: ** The article is well researched and cites sources. However, only a few sources are cited for the whole article, and one source is cited several times. Therefore, Kriesky’s research could have been a bit more complete. That being said, Kriesky is herself an expert in the field. Therefore, she is an expert on the topic; therefore, a huge amount of research was probably not necessary.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Evaluation of scope: ** Kriesky offers a vast examination of mountaintop removal, from the history of mining in the area to the current day status of the practice. She also offers varying perspectives of MTR, widening the scope of the article. Though she could offer a few more bits of evidence concerning MTR’s effects on the environment, the article serves its purpose – it provides a broad overview of the mountain

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Evaluation of author bias: ** The author is somewhat biased against MTR. Though she does not use a huge amount of loaded language, it is obvious that she thinks that the negative effects of MTR far outweigh the positive effects. However, she does provide some explanation of the opposite perspective.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">REFLECTION: __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">I will definitely use this source in my final project. It contains a large amount of valuable information. For instance, the information about the history of coal mining in Appalachia will provide an excellent background as I introduce my topic. The source is very reliable and contains good explanations of the social effects of MTR.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Annotation #7 ~ 3/11/11 **

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">MLA Citation: ** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">George, Robert F., Ph.D. "The Role of Emotional Energy in the Struggle of Southern West Virginians Living Adjacent to Mountaintop Removal Sites." //<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Research in Appalachia: What Are the Impacts of Mining the Mountains? // Wheeling: Wheeling Jesuit University, n.d. 10-12. //<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Wheeling Jesuit University //. Web. 11 Mar. 2011. < [] >.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">INFORMATION __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Author’s credentials: **Robert F. George has a Ph.D. in Nuclear Medicine and is a professor at Wheeling Jesuit University. Being a doctor, he is likely well-versed in psychology. Additionally, his specific branch of medicine relates to scans and tests designed to detect diseases. Therefore, he likely understands the health and psychological effects of MTR on Appalachian residents. Additionally, the fact that his university is located in the heart of U.S. coal country indicates that he is likely knowledgeable about the topic. Finally, George cites several sources throughout the article.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Scope and purpose of the work: ** The article is mainly focused on the psychological effects of MTR. It is persuasive in that George attempts to show the negative effects of MTR. However, its main purpose is informational – George describes how West Virginia residents band together and gain emotional support as they strive to prevent further damages to their lives in the form of MTR. Additionally, the very end of the article describes Wheeling Jesuit University’s programs in Appalachia, and their beneficial effects on both students and West Virginians. This section of the article is intended to serve as somewhat of an advertisement; therefore, I will not include this content of the article in this annotation.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Intended Audience: **George’s audience is likely those that are generally aware of MTR and psychological concepts. He introduces a few psychological concepts throughout the article, but he makes the assumption that the reader has a general understanding of psychology.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">SUMMARY __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Thesis or main idea: ** George does not state a clear thesis. However, he mainly seeks to prove the deleterious effects on MTR on the psychological health of West Virginians, and furthermore to argue that West Virginians’ ability to share their troubles and concerns foments stronger resistance and breeds hope, and can be understood through the concept of “emotional energy.”

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Summary of main arguments: **George begins by arguing that, with the advent of MTR, the people of West Virginia are struggling to protect their traditional way of life, and that this is physically, emotionally, and psychologically trying. George argues that West Virginians’ continued resistance to MTR can be understood through the lens of humanistic psychology and the cultural normalization theory. West Virginians’ constantly struggle with the frustration of the coal industry’s continued advances, as well as the indifference or unawareness of most Americans about MTR. However, as residents share their concerns with one another, they form stronger bonds and gain hope. These friendships and alliances lead to stronger resistance movements.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">EVIDENCE __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Summary of evidence: **George states that West Virginians face a huge amount of psychological stress as they battle MTR to preserve their individual ways of life. Many Appalachian families have lived in the region for generations, and their culture is tied to their families and to the land. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">George goes on to provide evidence for his various explanations of resistance to MTR. According to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, humans seek a sense of belonging in order to “self-actualize.” Additionally, according to “cultural normalization theory,” humans’ emotions, even those of hope for a sense of belonging, drive their actions. Emotional energy, according to Collins, an expert cited at the end of the pamphlet, allows individuals to act on their feelings. Therefore, as Appalachian residents seek belonging as they band together to express their feelings about MTR and protest against it. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">George then provides evidence of the various psychological stresses inflicted on the people of West Virginia. The coal industry seeks to harvest the largest amount of coal in the shortest time, and the coal industry continually tries to force them out of the area. Additionally, the coal companies run aggressive campaigns extolling coal as necessary and “clean” fuel. The residents exist as mere inconveniences, and coal companies dump wastes from the coal extracting and cleaning process throughout the region. Several “political and legal loopholes” allow for the continuance of coal companies’ MTR practices and add to the psychological stress of these people. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">However, George provides evidence of the power of emotional energy in the region, causing these people to band together and oppose MTR. They share their feelings and concerns with others, and their similar ties to their families, the land, and their culture give them strength and emotional energy. By sharing their experiences and hopes with one another, they forge friendships and are able continue to push for social change.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">EVALUATION __** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Evaluation of research: ** The article is obviously scholarly and reliable. Though George does not provide extensive research, it appears that he performed much of the work with the Clifford M. Lewis, S.J. Appalachian Institute. Therefore, he probably did not need to do a huge amount of research because he observed the effects of MTR himself. The psychological theories presented in the article are well-researched and cited at the end of the pamphlet.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Evaluation of scope: ** The article does not have a huge scope – it is mainly focused on a very specific area of interest. The effect of MTR on the emotional energy of the residents, as well as the reasons that resistance has continued, is adequately addressed. However, George does not really offer a differing perspective.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Evaluation of author bias: ** George is most definitely biased against MTR. He uses loaded language throughout the article, and even compares MTR to “genocide in slow motion.” When I quote or use ideas from this article in a research product, I should keep in mind that I need to counter George’s opinions with the opposite perspective. George does not provide any opposite perspective to his explanation of “emotional energy” as the driving force behind protesting individuals. However, it is difficult to find an opposing perspective to this explanation.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">**__<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">REFLECTION __****<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">: ** Overall, this article offers a unique perspective on MTR. In all the articles that I have annotated so far, I have not come across many of the ideas that George presents. This article will be especially helpful as I discuss the social and psychological effects of MTR on the people of Appalachia. I will definitely use it in my research product and final project.

<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">**Annotation #8** <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">**MLA Citation:** <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Walker Machinery Co. "Mountaintop Mining: Viewpoint." //WV Coal//. West Virginia Coal Association, 2009. Web. 21 Mar. 2011. <http://www.wvcoal.com/attachments/909_WALKER%20MMV%20LOW%20RES.pdf>. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> __<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">**INFORMATION** __ **Author’s credentials:** A specific author is not named. However, the pamphlet is published by Walker Machinery Co., a company that supplies much of the machinery to the companies performing mountaintop removal in West Virginia. Therefore, Walker likely has knowledge, to a certain extent, of MTR and reclamation efforts, seeing as its machinery is probably used for both. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> **Scope and purpose of the work:** The article is intended as a response to many of the opponents of MTR. It serves as a persuasive piece, meant to “dispel myths and half truths” of MTR. Walker intends to prove that MTR is vital to the West Virginia economy and is not as detrimental as its opponents state. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> **Intended Audience:** The pamphlet is offered on the Walker-Cat website. Therefore, it is likely aimed towards those purchasing machinery and other products from the company that are possibly concerned about the company’s involvement in MTR. It is also intended as a response to those opponents of MTR that decry its negative environmental and social effects. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> __<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">**SUMMARY** __ **Thesis or main idea:** The main idea of the pamphlet is that MTR is not as harmful environmentally and economically as its opponents proclaim, and that it is actually extremely important to the West Virginia economy and society. It presents explanations of the mining and restoration process to illustrate its true nature and importance. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> **Summary of main arguments:** The Walker Co. argues that MTR is more responsible than several other methods of coal extraction, especially in the long run. The company also states that MTR does not destroy the beauty of the state. Permits have been issued for very little of the total area of land in West Virginia, and by law, mountaintops must be restored to their original contour and replanted with trees and other plants. The liberal and environmental media’s attacks on MTR and big coal companies are unwarranted and inappropriate. MTR does not have as large of an environmental effect as most people believe. The people of West Virginia generally support the coal industry’s actions, and its prohibition would lead to economic disaster. Abolishing MTR would remove the property rights guaranteed in the U.S. Constitution. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> __<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">**EVIDENCE** __ **Summary of evidence:** The company defends its statement that MTR is “responsible” by illustrating that surface mining diminishes the need for more extensive underground mining. Coal extracted from the surface, blended with underground coal, also creates a more complete combustion and lessens air pollutants and CO<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 7pt;">2 <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> emissions. Reclaimed areas have been formed into baseball and soccer parks, an FBI center, golf clubs, and shopping malls. MTR ensures that all coal is removed at the same time, so that further coal mining operations that could possibly halt any reclamation efforts will not be a problem. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">The company continues on to discuss the total effects of MTR in the state overall. In WV, 33 of the state’s 55 counties have approved MTR permits for areas that cover less than 1% of the area; in 4 other counties, only 1-3% of the area’s acreage is approved for MTR operations; and only 3 counties issued permits for higher acreage, at the most 5.5% of the area’s total acreage. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">The prohibition of MTR would lead to an economic disaster. The large areas created by MTR are perfect for economic development, seeing as West Virginia lacks large areas where shopping malls and other businesses can be built. The quest for cleaner methods of using coal is even creating more jobs. Walker states that environmental groups pay too much attention to the well-being of macro-invertebrates, and instead should focus on the potential horrible economic consequences of ceasing MTR on the coal miners of West Virginia. Its prohibition would lead to the loss of thousands of jobs. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Many government agencies ensure that MTR operations conform to the law. The concept of “valley fills” is not only singular to MTR – construction projects create similar fills around construction sites. The debris is placed in gullies or dry branches where water very rarely runs. Walker cites several surveys in which West Virginians expressed their approval for the coal industry and confidence that the industry was caring for the environment. In a similar survey, West Virginians affirmed their belief that the coal industry is vital to the state economy. Coal companies paid for the land, and they have the right to utilize the natural resources on the land. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> __<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">**EVALUATION** __ **Evaluation of research:** The article is not very well researched. It does not cite any outside sources, besides giving credit to the source of a survey conducted in 2008-2009. However, the fact that Walker is highly involved in MTR, seeing as it provides much of the machinery used during the process, suggests that, for some parts of the article, research was not necessary. Walker Co. knows quite a bit about the MTR process and reclamation efforts. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> **Evaluation of scope:** The topic has definitely been completely explored. The company presents all the opposing viewpoints (those against MTR), then slams their criticisms and offers explanations about MTR and its huge benefits, as well as the “myths” of its negative effects on the environment. It explores not only environmental effects of MTR, but also economic and social. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> **Evaluation of author bias:** This article is obviously very biased, and Walker, the author, is strongly in favor of MTR. The Walker Co. argues that MTR is vital to the economy, and its environmental effects are minimal. The company uses a great deal of loaded language, and essentially attacks liberal and environmental media on several instances. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> __<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">**REFLECTION** __**:** I have been trying to find a solid opposing viewpoint, and this is definitely exactly what I am looking for. Though it is obviously biased, it offers a valuable window into the logic of those in favor of MTR. Parts of the pamphlet seemed like a rant against MTR opponents, with little evidence of claims. Nevertheless, I think it is still a very valuable opposing viewpoint source. I will definitely use it in my final projects.

**<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Annotation #9 **

**<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">MLA Citation: ** <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;">Lindsey, Rebecca. "Coal Controversy in Appalachia." //Earth Observatory//. Ed. Paul Przyborski. NASA, 21 Dec. 2007. Web. 15 Mar. 2011. <http://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/Features/MountaintopRemoval>.

**__<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">INFORMATION __** **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Author’s credentials: **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> No specific information about Rebecca Lindsey is provided online; however, she works for the NASA Earth Observatory. Seeing as NASA is a highly respected government organization, it would not post any article that was not well-researched and written by a qualified individual. Additionally, NASA is involved in taking images of Earth from space; therefore, the organization has a unique perspective on MTR because images taken from its satellites can clearly show the effects of MTR on the landscape.

**<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Scope and purpose of the work: **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> The article is intended as an informational exploration of MTR and the controversy surrounding its environmental, social, and economic effects. It is not intended to persuade the reader of the superiority of either side’s argument, but rather is meant as an informational report.

**<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Intended Audience: **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">The article is written for a general audience – it does not contain any advanced language understandable only by experts. It is most likely intended for those who are generally interested in the environment and/or earth science.

**__<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">SUMMARY __** **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Thesis or main idea: **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> Lindsey does not present a clear thesis because her article is informational. She presents a few main ideas: she describes the process of MTR, describes its effects on the streams and mountains of the region, and explores its importance to the economy of the region.

**<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Summary of main arguments: **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Lindsey describes the general process of mountaintop removal and describes the various ways that companies dispose of the waste of MTR. She describes the effects of this waste disposal and forest degradation on the environment, as well as the potential effects of these various processes on the homes and properties in the area. She also details the laws governing the process, and the findings of various federal surveys concerning MTR. Finally, Lindsey presents an explanation of MTR on the economy of West Virginia, and the potential consequences of restricting or banning it.

**__<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">EVIDENCE __** **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Summary of evidence: **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Lindsey begins by providing details about the process of MTR. Dynamite and draglines (earth-moving machines) are used to move the tops of mountains, and waste rock is deposited in nearby hollows. These fills can be 800 feet tall and cover more than a mile of streambed. Water quality and life farther downstream are destroyed by MTR processes. Water, sediment, and fish often contain toxic trace elements such as nickel, lead, cadmium, iron, and selenium (oftentimes past government standards for acceptable levels). Diversity of these areas also declines – the trees that are cut down for MTR make up some of the world’s most biologically diverse forests. Additionally, the aforementioned valley fills increase the severity of flash floods, and floods from the collapse of valley fills or coal sludge can cause huge destruction to watersheds and communities. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Lindsey also provides details concerning the laws governing MTR. The Clean Water Act states that filling streams with waste from mining is illegal. Additionally, the 1977 Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act states that mountaintops must be restored to their original shapes. However, if companies agree to develop schools, houses, or shopping centers on post-MTR sites, the government will grant them a variance to this condition. In many cases, variances were granted, but development was never carried out. A government survey has determined that more than 1,200 miles of streams have been degraded by MTR, and 724 miles have been completely buried by valley fills. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Finally, Lindsey provides evidence of the economic benefits of MTR. MTR is safer for miners and important to obtaining coal lower in sulfur, which is more valuable on the market. MTR mines are also more productive: “[S]urface mines can produce more than two to three times as much coal per miner as underground mines can” (Lindsey). Mining is the foundation of West Virginia’s economy, so its elimination would have drastic effects on the economy.

**__<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">EVALUATION __** **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Evaluation of research: **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> Lindsey’s research is far-reaching. Though she does not provide any in-text citation, she gives a list of 11 sources at the end of the article. She provides a variety of perspectives from both sides of the controversy.

**<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Evaluation of scope: **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> The article clearly provides an overview of the coal controversy in Appalachia without strongly favoring one side over the other. Lindsey does not really touch on the social effects of MTR; however, other than that, she provides clear evidence of the effects of MTR. The article serves its purpose and provides enough information to adequately inform readers of the conflict.

**<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Evaluation of author bias: **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> The author provides varying perspectives of the issue. She describes the environmentalists’ viewpoint, but also explores the economic benefits of MTR. However, though Lindsey does attempt to provide multiple perspectives, she seems to lean more towards the perspective that MTR is detrimental to the environment. That being said, she does not use any loaded language or persuasive methods, so the article is only just slightly biased against MTR – she definitely does not strongly favor one side over the other.

**__<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">REFLECTION __****<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">: **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> This article was an excellent summary of the multiple perspectives of MTR, and is a valuable source because it is objective and not meant as a persuasive piece. Though some of the content is similar to the content in other sources I have found, there are several new pieces of information, and Lindsey provides concise summaries of areas of the issue which I have, in the past, found confusing. I will definitely use it in my projects.

**<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Annotation #10 **

**<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">MLA Citation: ** <span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.5in;">Birchard, Zackary. "The Role of Emotional Energy in the Struggle of Southern West Virginians Living Adjacent to Mountaintop Removal Sites." //Water Quality in Southern West Virginia Communities Adjacent to Mountaintop Removal Sites//. Wheeling: Wheeling Jesuit University, n.d. 4-5. //Wheeling Jesuit University//. Web. 11 Mar. 2011. <https://www.wju.edu/ai/researchinapp.pdf>.

**__<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">INFORMATION __** **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Author’s credentials: **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> Zackary Birchard is biology major at Wheeling Jesuit University. Though he is a student, the pamphlet in which his article is published also contains articles from highly qualified professors. Through the reports of the various students throughout the article, it is evident that these professors were likely involved in the project and oversaw the entire production. Additionally, the pamphlet is published with the support of the Clifford M. Lewis, S.J., Appalachian Institute. Therefore, it is credible and scholarly.

**<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Scope and purpose of the work: **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> The article is a report, in which Birchard intends to illustrate the results of his experiment concerning water quality in areas close to MTR sites. Birchard also aims to provide background of the causes of mining pollution and demonstrate implications of the findings of his experiment.

**<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Intended Audience: **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">The article is likely intended for individuals interested in MTR and its effects on drinking water. It is especially relevant for local Appalachian residents who are obviously most affected by any poor quality water. Birchard’s article is also intended for policy makers or others in positions of power, because these individuals have the potential to restrict mountaintop removal and its effects on the environment.

**__<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">SUMMARY __** **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Thesis or main idea: **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> The hypothesis for Birchard’s experiment is that “chemicals found in the water supply adjacent to underground or surface coal slurry impoundments are similar to that of the slurry.” In other words, he seeks to demonstrate that dangerous chemicals are found in high concentrations in water supplies near MTR sites. He also seeks to describe the negative effects of these chemicals on the health of the individuals in the region.

**<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Summary of main arguments: **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Birchard describes the various ways in which coal can pollute water supplies as its waste is dumped into abandoned mines or impoundments. He continues on to describe the results of his experiment on water pollution. He discovered a large number of the water samples with evidence of primary metals (metals regulated by the EPA with known health impacts) and secondary metals (metals that are thought to, but not proven to, have negative effects on health) that are also found in coal slurry. Birchard continues on to describe the negative health impacts of these various chemicals. He ends by describing the need for concern over water quality, especially as there is often no direct way to tell, by odor or color, if water is contaminated.

**__<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">EVIDENCE __** **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Summary of evidence: **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Using the results of his experiment, EPA guidelines, and several other sources, Birchard provides evidence to support his main arguments. He first describes how chemicals from MTR enter water supplies. When coal is extracted, it is chemically washed, and the waste of this wash, called coal slurry, is injected into abandoned mines or placed in manmade surface impoundments. West Virginians often find blackwater – slurry leaked from these various receptacles – in their wells and streams. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Birchard’s experiment provided evidence of a high level of contamination. He tested samples from four different towns in West Virginia – Ansted, Williamson, Prenter, and Mud River. The samples from Williamson and Prenter immediately showed clear evidence of contamination – they were black to dark orange, viscous, and had a strong odor. After the samples were tested, they showed evidence of contamination, above EPA regulatory standards, of antimony, arsenic, barium, beryllium, cadmium, lead, selenium, aluminum, iron, zinc, and manganese. Overall, of the 200 combined samples from Williamson and Prenter, there were 239 instances of levels of secondary metals higher than EPA regulatory values. 18% and 30% of samples in Prenter and Williamson, respectively, had at least one primary metal exceedance. For Ansted and Mud River samples, 18% and 8%, respectively, of samples had at least one primary metal exceedance. There was also evidence of secondary metal levels exceedance. In Ansted and Mud River in particular, lead and arsenic were discovered in high amounts. The water supply and coal slurry sampled showed very similar chemical compositions. <span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Birchard also provides an extensive list of the negative health effects of ingesting the various aforementioned chemicals through drinking water.

**__<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">EVALUATION __** **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Evaluation of research: **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> The background and discussion sections of the article are well-researched, and Birchard cites four different sources: the EPA, West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, Foster & Rich, and Reece. He also performed his own research for the article. Therefore, the article is well-researched, scholarly, and contains a variety of cited sources. The fact that it appears in an official university publication indicates that it is credible and scholarly.

**<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Evaluation of scope: **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> The article covers the topic thoroughly and fulfills its purpose – it fully reports and discusses the results of Birchard’s experiment. However, Birchard himself admits at the end of the article that more research must be done to understand the full effect of MTR on water quality and the rest of the environment. He does not mention any opposing points of view. However, given the fact that all of Birchard’s claims are supported by facts, it is difficult to find any opposing points of view.

**<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">Evaluation of author bias: **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> In performing his experiment, the author takes an objective stance to MTR. However, it is evident from the blurb in the beginning of the article that Birchard is definitely very biased against MTR. Therefore, though Birchard maintains objectivity, free of bias, throughout the experiment description portion of his article, he is somewhat biased against MTR during the “discussion” section of the article. That being said, Birchard backs up his claims with facts and the evidence from his experiment.

**__<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">REFLECTION __****<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">: **<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"> This article provides a very specific exploration of the effects of MTR on water quality. It gives a clear explanation of the chemicals found in waters close to MTR sites, and gives specific data that will definitely be an excellent addition to any of my research projects. Though many of my previous articles have mentioned chemicals found in water, this article goes into much more depth about the exact chemical found and the health issues surrounding the presence of these chemicals. I will certainly use it in my final products.