Coal Dust Problem
By: LaTonya Stephens
Updated: July 10, 2007
Coal dust is causing quite a controversy in Ireland, Indiana.
The people who live there say its a danger to their health and homes.
More than 30 of them met Monday at the Shamrock cafe to talk with mine officials and the states environmental management agency.
Tony Hoffman was one of those residents who says the coal dust from the nearby Solar Sources mine has caused damage to his home.
Solar Sources Mine Engineer Mike Owen says they will try to keep the ground wet so that dust does not get into the air.
But Owen says they are not paying for any damages claimed by residents.
The Indiana Department of Environmental Management says they are currently trying to bring in equipment to monitor where and how much dust is in the air.
This should help them determine whether or not this is a major health concern.
