- Click image to download flyer.
On Tuesday, April 12th the public will have an opportunity to speak out to protect clean water from coal pollution. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency will hold a public hearing on the pending renewal of the Industry Mine’s NPDES water discharge permit. Located near Industry in McDonough and Schuyler Counties, the strip mine is one of the most polluting coal mines in the state. The Industry Mine has violated its permit over 300 times by discharging pollution (such as iron, manganese, and sulfates) at levels several times higher than allowed.
Prairie Rivers Network objects to the issuance of this permit renewal because the Illinois EPA has not enforced permit compliance. In December 2009 Prairie Rivers Network and partners launched a lawsuit against the two coal companies that have owned the mine, and in February 2010, Attorney General Lisa Madigan filed a complaint against the mine before the Illinois Pollution Control Board.
Additionally, Prairie Rivers Network is concerned that continued and expanding coal mining and coal ash disposal at the Industry mine will negatively impact local water quality and wildlife.
All are welcome to attend the hearing, and anyone may speak or submit written comments (see attached flyer for details).
When: Tuesday, April 12th at 6:00pm*
Where: Spoon River College Community Outreach Center, MidAmerica National Bank Conference Hall, 2500 E. Jackson St., Macomb, IL
*Concerned citizens are invited to meet to discuss the issues over dinner before the hearing at 4:00pm at Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant, 1319 E. Jackson Street, Macomb.
