We’ve just won a huge victory for the Middle Fork!
On June 22, 2021, the State of Illinois and Dynegy Midwest Generation reached an interim agreement regarding violations of the Illinois Environmental Protection Act at the Vermilion Power Station. By the agreement, Dynegy will propose plans to remove all three coal ash ponds from the Middle Fork of the Vermilion River.
This agreement is a long awaited victory that sets us on a course to getting the coal ash out of the floodplain. In addition to the State’s lawsuit, Prairie Rivers Network, represented by Earthjustice, still have our federal Clean Water Act and state lawsuit, which can act as guardrails should Dynegy fail to uphold its agreement.
This victory also leverages new coal ash rules, which were hard fought and won over the last year. Dynegy’s proposed removal plan is required to follow those rules, which will allow Prairie Rivers Network and the public more opportunity to advocate for the best solution for the Middle Fork.
What’s next?
Dynegy’s plan for removing the ash must be presented to the public at a meeting on or before December 17, 2021. After that, there will be a permit proposed for the removal with opportunity for public comment and a hearing.
In the meantime, Dynegy is required to monitor the bank erosion, develop a plan for an emergency bank stabilization, dewatering the coal ash, and constructing a groundwater trench to collect seepage. Each of these are going to require permits, which means that Prairie Rivers Network, our partners at Eco-Justice Collaborative and Earthjustice, and members of the public will continue to be vigilant.
It’s important that we celebrate this enormous victory. But this victory should be seen as a catalyst for addressing the coal ash ponds at power plants across the state impacting our water. Prairie Rivers Network won’t stop until our water is protected.
News Coverage
Check out these great pieces on the news by various news outlets around the state:
