Environmental
What is an 'acid mine drainage' (AMD) problem and how does it affect real estate in Pennsylvania's coal regions?
AAcid runoff from fertilizer applications that damages soil productivity on adjacent farms
BWater contaminated with sulfuric acid and heavy metals leaching from abandoned coal mines, polluting streams and sometimes groundwater, affecting property values and development potential✓ Correct
CA PADEP permitting requirement for commercial mining near residential areas
DIndoor air contamination from radon in coal regions of Pennsylvania
Explanation
Acid mine drainage (AMD) is one of Pennsylvania's most significant environmental challenges. When abandoned coal mines are exposed to air and water, iron sulfide oxidizes to produce sulfuric acid and dissolved heavy metals that drain into streams and groundwater. AMD has polluted thousands of miles of Pennsylvania streams (particularly in anthracite coal regions of Luzerne, Schuylkill, and Carbon counties and bituminous regions in western PA). Properties near AMD-affected waterways may have reduced value and limited development potential.
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