Rock Mining Legislation- Not too late to help!

ORIGINALLY posted on ttamurfreesboro.blogspot.com March 31, 2008

The Rock Mining Legislation that went up on the 26th has been deferred and put on the sub-committee's calendar for April 2, Wednesday. If you haven't yet emailed any of the legislators now is your chance. Here is a list of those who are not yet behind the legislation along with a suggested letter you can send.

Representative Bill Harmon, Dunlap rep.bill.harmon@legislature.state.tn.us
Representative Frank Buck, Dowelltown rep.frank.buck@legislature.state.tn.us
Representative John Windle, Livingston rep.john.windle@legislature.state.tn.us
Representative Leslie Winningham, Huntsville rep.leslie.winningham@legislature.state.tn.us

Dear Representative (fill in name):

I am writing this as a member of the Tennessee Trails Association requesting that you give strong consideration to supporting HB4198 under review in the House Environment Committee. This bill is designed to bring the ever-growing industry of rock mining under some measure of regulation and control. Many present on-going mining operations are wreaking devastation upon the landscapes of both private and public lands, destroying natural habitats of flora and fauna. Of special concern is the damage done in a number of sections of the Cumberland Trail State Park, the site of the Cumberland Hiking Trail extending from Chattanooga to Cumberland Gap. This trail is being built with 1000’s of hours of labor from volunteers across the eastern half of the United States. And because of damage to and dangerous operations near, a section of this trail had to be temporarily closed. Although this bill effects numerous people with a variety of complex issues, the need for passage is paramount to protect the landscapes of Tennessee, and your support of this bill will be much appreciated.

Please take a moment to view a slideshow of photos taken by a member of the Murfreesboro Chapter along the trail in September of 2007, they will show you what is at stake. http://picasaweb.google.com/tta.boro/CumberlandTrailStatePark/photo#s5161438035879960402

Respectfully,
(Name and address)