Interview with Duane L. Bennett, June 20, 1989

Interview Summary

Duane Bennett discusses his role as coal mine operator in Harlan County. He describes the responsibility of the state and federal government in the regulation of coal mines, and states that he feels that the mines are over-regulated. He discusses the trend toward mechanization, and describes the improvement in equipment over the last twenty-five years, especially in regards to safety.

Bennett talks about the role of the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) in the mines and states that he does not believe that there is a need for a union today. He provides his opinion on the media and the negative image of the mines in the media. Bennett discusses the environment and the role of acid rain. He also mentions the severance tax. He feels that the counties are suffering because of this tax since little money is coming back to them.

Interview Keyword

Coal Operators

Interview LC Subject

Appalachian Region Bennett, Duane L. Bennett, Duane L.--Interviews Coal miners Coal mines and mining--Appalachian Region

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Interview Usage

Interviews may be reproduced with permission from Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, Special Collections, University of Kentucky Libraries.