Appalachian activists are very upset that the U.S. Humane Society has announced that it will give its “2009 Humane Legislator of the Year” to the greatest congressional defender of mountaintop removal — House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Nick Rahall (D-WV). The Slurry produced by coal mining contains dangerous heavy metals, including: Antimony, Beryllium, Cadmium, Chlorine, Chromium, Cobalt, Lead, Manganese, Nickel, Selenium, Arsenic and Mercury. Published studies also show a high potential for human health impacts. These may result from contact with streams or exposure to airborne toxins and dust. Adult hospitalization for chronic pulmonary disorders and hypertension are elevated as a result of county-level coal production. Rates of mortality, lung cancer, as well as chronic heart, lung and kidney disease are also increased.  But the guy apparently likes cute furry animals, particularly dogs and cats.