Historically and contemporarily, the irresponsible mining practices of coal corporations in this area include the highly destructive method of surface mining called mountain top removal (MTR). The impacts of this kind of mining go far beyond the destruction of local landscapes, waterways and the environment. MTR has been shown to adversely impact economic development, support for the local heritage, and the health of coal mining community members. Additionally, the use of MTR relies on fewer miners and has resulted in an overall reduction in the number of miners employed by the coal companies and increased unemployment in a region already hard hit by the national economy.

SAMS’ successes are measured in more than just the number of permits challenged, the constituent legislators convinced to be more supportive of environmental remediation in the region, or the novel economic solutions supported to progress the area in ways that likewise honor central Appalachian heritage. SAMS’ achievements can be best articulated by its positive impact on the communities it serves and the empowerment of individuals to become leaders in navigating the legacy impacts of extraction within their home communities.

With only 2 full time employees, SAMS is lead by an active board of community leaders who diligently volunteer their time. The organization has more than 100 local members who participate in SAMS’ committees, events, campaigns, fundraising and outreach efforts. SAMS, as an organization, represents the way local communities can empower themselves to fight for environmental progress and equitable social change.