Who Killed Dunkard Creek? (Part 6)

by: Clem Guttata

Fri Oct 30, 2009 at 05:42:21 AM EDT

Dunkard Creek is dead. Travel back in time with us as we review a long list of suspects. Full series here. (All emphasis in quotes mine.)

Who Killed Dunkard Creek?

June 4, 2009 (PDF)

Letter from Rep. Shelley Moore Capito to Ms. Lisa Jackson, Administrator U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Dear Administrator Jackson,

We are writing to express strong concerns about the coal mining permit applications currently being held up at the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers by the Environmental Protection Agency.

[snip]

While much has been made of the recent approval of 42 long-delayed permits still waiting to be issued, hundreds more remain un-resolved and face further delay. These actions will force mines to idle production and rob us of some of the highest paying jobs in the region.

June 11, 2009

STATEMENT FROM GOV. MANCHIN AND DEP SECRETARY RANDY HUFFMAN: ABOUT OBAMA ADMINISTRATION'S ANNOUNCEMENT TODAY

CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Gov. Joe Manchin and DEP Secretary Randy Huffman released this statement today about the Obama Administration's action to strengthen oversight and regulation for surface mining:

[snip]

Gov. Joe Manchin added, "I have always said that mining is vital to West Virginia's economy, but at the same time, we must constantly look for ways to improve mine safety and operate in an environmentally responsible way. That is why today I asked EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson to examine our Post-Mine Land Use legislation that was recently passed in the special session. I explained how responsible this piece of legislation is and how it will assist us in finding the balance between protecting our environment and protecting our jobs.

"We will continue to work with the federal government to ensure that coal companies comply with environmental regulations every step of the way, so that the environment is protected while the West Virginia economy stays strong and our people stay working. We also ask for the administration to work with us to find the balance between our economy and our environment.

"I truly believe that coal is essential in meeting our nation's energy needs and keeping our economy strong and competitive, while allowing our country to be less dependent on foreign oil and more secure. Rest assured, I will continue to do everything I possibly can to fight for West Virginia families and the jobs that support them."