I am a lifelong resident of Archbald, Pennsylvania, and like many others in our community, I am deeply concerned about the proposed coal mining project by Stavola on approximately 1400 acres of Archbald Mountain. This area represents 13% of our borough and is home to diverse wildlife as well as recreational areas that we cherish.

Our beautiful Lackawanna River is not just a water body; it's a Class A trout fishery where locals and visitors alike come to enjoy fishing. The project area also feeds into Aylesworth Lake, another popular spot for recreation. The potential contamination from coal mining could severely impact these waters' quality, affecting both human activities and aquatic life.

Furthermore, there are serious concerns about soil contamination which could directly affect my family along with many others who call this place home. We need more information before such an impactful decision can be made.

Coal mining has been proven to have severe environmental impacts on water quality (source: Environmental Protection Agency). It can lead to acid mine drainage which pollutes rivers and streams with heavy metals harmful to humans and wildlife alike (source: US Geological Survey). Our area is just recovering from the scars of mining, and it would be going in the opposite direction to allow this special exception.

We urge the Archbald Borough Zoning Board to either deny or delay the special exception permit for this project until we have all necessary information at hand. We deserve transparency about potential risks associated with this project so we can make informed decisions about our community's future.

Please sign this petition if you believe in protecting our environment and ensuring safe living conditions for current residents as well as future generations in Archbald.