The Department of Environmental Protection has scheduled a February 17 virtual hearing on a proposed new coal refuse disposal facility in Summit and Elk Lick Townships, Somerset County from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.  (PA Bulletin page 390)

Heritage Coal & Natural Resources, LLC submitted an application for the proposed construction of a new refuse disposal facility on a location that was previously strip mined.

DEP published notice of proposed NPDES permit effluent limitations covering the project on September 19, 2020.

DEP said the receiving stream is impaired for metals and pH and in a watershed that has a TMDL due to impacts from mining (Casselman River TMDL). This facility proposes a new mining related discharge to the impaired stream/ watershed.

The persons requesting the hearing-- Mountain Watershed Association-- believe DEP should be mitigating mining impacts in the area.

Individuals who wish to observe or present testimony at the hearing must contact community relations coordinator Lauren Fraley at lfraley@pa.gov  or call 421-442-4203 a minimum of 24 hours in advance of the event to reserve a time to present testimony.

 Individuals who register for the event will receive the link and instructions on how to join via email.

Read the entire PA Bulletin notice for more information. (PA Bulletin page 390)

[Posted: January 15, 2021]

1/18/2021