PINEVILLE — Fourteen Wyoming County property owners are suing surface mining operators, alleging nuisance, trespassing and insufficient measures taken to prevent damages.
Jennifer L. Chambers, Tammy Cline, Justine Cline, Gary Sparks et al filed a complaint April 7 in Wyoming Circuit Court against Dynamic Energy Ic. and Mechel Bluestone Inc.,alleging failure to comply with the West Virginia Surface Coal Mining and Reclamation Act.
According to the complaint, due to the the defendants' mining activities, the plaintiffs have suffered degradation in the quality of water coming from their wells. The suit says they notice discoloration and foul odor emanating from their water.
The plaintiffs say they have suffered personal injuries, real and personal property damages, annoyance and inconvenience. The plaintiffs allege the defendants breached their duty to stabilize and protect all surface areas affected by their mining operations to effectively control erosion and air and water pollution.
The plaintiffs seek trial by jury, a replacement of their water supply, compensatory and punitive damages, interest and all other appropriate relief. They are represented by attorneys Kevin W. Thompson and David R. Barney Jr. of Thompson Barney in Charleston.
Wyoming Circuit Court Case number 17-c-57