SLIPPERY ROCK TWP, LAWRENCE CO. —The DEP had to pull out extra chairs to accomodate the more than 50 people who attended its public comment meeting Tuesday night at Moraine State Park Office No. 2.

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection held the meeting to take comments on the mining permit application submitted by Allegheny Mineral Corp.

The company's application for a large noncoal mining permit in the township saw zero positive feedback from residents attending the meeting.

Joe Poerschke, a resident of Hines Camp Road, said mining operations have ruined McConnells Mill, especially the area known as Hell's Hollow, which are places he grew up exploring.

“Will there be a quiet spot left in Hell's Hollow,” Poerschke said. “The solitude of the park is ruined.”

This is a preview of a story that will run in Wednesday's Butler Eagle. Subscribe online or in print to read the full story from tonight's meeting.