The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) recently rejected a permit renewal application for Springfield Coal Company’s Industry Mine. Citing failure of financial obligations, the June 4 permit denial marks a significant step toward stronger enforcement of coal mining regulations in Illinois. “By denying this permit, IDNR is letting Springfield Coal and the mining industry […]
Coal
New CO2 emissions standards will protect water and public health
The Obama administration recently announced a proposed rule to cut carbon dioxide emissions from the nation’s power plants by 30 percent below 2005 levels by 2030. The proposal will be the first of its kind to target existing coal and gas-fired power plants, building upon last year’s proposal that imposed stringent standards on the construction of new […]
Vermilion County leaders speak up for statewide coal ash rules to protect public and environmental health
The Vermilion County Board passed a resolution with unanimous (23-0) support at their May 13 meeting recognizing that “…the County of Vermilion is concerned that the plan for dealing with the fly ash currently on site and elsewhere may not resolve the future needs, both business and recreational, and concerns of citizens…” The resolution called […]
Coal Ash Waste Hearings in Chicago Will Address Pressing Statewide Illinois Water Contamination Issues
Recent Disasters Across the Country Spur Communities Impacted by Coal Ash Contamination to Call for Stronger Protections CHICAGO – Today, community members from across the state of Illinois whose lives have been negatively impacted by coal ash waste contamination joined the Sierra Club, Environmental Law & Policy Center, and Prairie Rivers Network to outline why the […]
Community wants full cleanup of coal ash dumps along Middle Fork River
A number of Vermilion County residents are concerned about the coal ash pits along the Middle Fork of the Vermilion River and have been working with Prairie Rivers Network to protect this beloved river. Dynegy Midwest Generation, L.L.C. is attempting to secure a closure plan with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency in which the ash […]
