EKB News

KENTUCKY....
The Environmental Protection Agency Tuesday defended its decision to block Eastern Kentucky mine permits, saying the action was based on the “best science available” to protect Kentucky waters. The agency released a statement saying, “Despite many efforts by the EPA, state officials have not engaged in a meaningful discussion of sustainable mining practices that will create jobs while protecting the waters that Appalachian communities depend on for drinking, swimming and fishing.” The statement was in response to lawsuits filed in federal court in Pikeville by the state and the Kentucky Coal Association challenging EPA's decision to block 11 water discharge permits sought for surface mining operations in Eastern Kentucky. The lawsuits allege the EPA established a new and tougher standard for which a public notice and comment period is required, and the EPA usurped state authority. The EPA statement said the agency “continues to be willing to work with the industry to reach commonsense agreements allowing them to mine coal while avoiding permanent environmental impacts and protecting water quality.”