The coal economy in Central Appalachia is in an unprecedented freefall. Which isn’t making it easier for workers to move on.

Source: www.washingtonpost.com

West Virginia and ‘coal country’ are in steep economic decline, but that doesn’t mean people are eager to leave.  Leaving for many is a last resort, but when residents feel a familial and emotional connection to a place–to the land–that can create a rationale for staying that is stronger than economic push factors.  This video set in West Virgina captures the strong sense of place and community that can exist in a place even in in the face of tough times economic prospects. 

Tags: economic, place, industry, location, migration, APHG, poverty, socioeconomic.