MAMMOTH, W.Va. (AP) — A group of aging environmental activists are nearing the end of a 25-mile march to protest surface coal mining practices they believe are destroying Appalachian communities and lives.

Marchers are expected to reach a surface mine owned by Richmond, Va.-based Massey Energy in Mammoth on Monday.

Climate Ground Zero and other environmental groups that organized the event plan a press conference after marchers reach the mine.

Climate Ground Zero has been involved in staging acts of civil disobedience throughout the year aimed at stopping mountaintop removal coal mining.

The practice allows miners to remove multiple thin coal seams, but is despised by environmentalists.

March organizers say at least 28 people from age 50 to 88 have participated in the five-day walk.

Massey Engery operations have been the target of several recent environmental protests.