It's no surprise that the coal industry is in decline, as it's faced with the increasing abundance of cheaper, somewhat cleaner, U.S.-produced natural gas, as well as increasing global environmental awareness and access to renewable sources of energy. The problem that can't be ignored, however, is the unemployment and poverty that has resulted from lost jobs in former coal towns. Many argue that there needs to be new work to replace coal mining for coal industry-dependent workers and their families in places throughout Appalachia, like West Virginia, where coal was once king. Read More: https://www.rodalesorganiclife.com/wellbeing/coal-miner-beekeeping