03/24/2009: EPA Acts to Reduce Harmful Impacts from Coal Mining EPA Acts to Reduce Harmful Impacts from Coal Mining

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers expressing serious concerns about the need to reduce the potential harmful impacts on water quality caused by certain types of coal mining practices. such as mountaintop mining. The letters specifically addressed two new surface coal mining operations in West Virginia and Kentucky. EPA also intends to review other requests for mining permits. "The two letters refiect EPA's considerable concern regarding the environmental impact these projects would have on fragile habitats and streams. " said Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. "I have directed the agency to review other mining permit requests. EPA will use the best science and follow the letter of the law in ensuring we are protecting our environment. " EPA's letters. sent to the Corps office in Huntington. WVa. • stated that the coal mines would likely cause water quality problems in streams below the mines, would cause significant degradation to streams buried by mining activities, and that proposed steps to offset these impacts are inadequate. EPA has recommended specific actions be taken to further avoid and reduce these harmful impacts and to improve mitigation. The letters were sent to the Corps by EPA senior officials in the agency's Atlanta and Philadelphia offices. Permit applications for such projects are required by the Clean Water Act. EPA also requested the opportunity to meet with the Corps and the mining companies seeking the new permits t