On June 27, 2025, the Mountain Watershed Association (MWA) filed a legal appeal challenging the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) approval of a 1,425-acre expansion of the Rustic Ridge #1 coal mine in the Laurel Highlands region. MWA’s appeal raises significant concerns regarding potential impacts on groundwater supplies, acid mine drainage pollution, and possible damage to local streams and wildlife.
The Laurel Highlands attracts millions of visitors annually for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The region generates significant economic benefits from ecosystem services, such as clean water and recreational activities, which could be impacted by environmental changes.
“Our community deserves thorough protection and transparency from DEP,” stated MWA attorney Sarah Thomas. “We have serious concerns that the approved mine expansion could negatively impact the area’s homes, water, and environment. We intend to ensure these concerns are adequately addressed.”
Residents near the existing Rustic Ridge mine have reported issues such as: reduced well water availability, property damage potentially related to subsidence, and concerns about water quality. A hydrogeological report commissioned by MWA suggests there is a high likelihood of reduced stream flow and increased risk of acid mine drainage in the expansion area.
Critical concerns raised in the appeal include:
- Potential Water Depletion & Flow Alterations: Concerns exist that mining activities could change underground water movement, potentially affecting groundwater flow to local streams and water supplies.
- Concerns Regarding Pollution Control Measures: MWA raises questions about the sufficiency of storage pond capacity and plans for sludge removal to effectively manage potential water pollution.
- Risks of Acid Mine Drainage (AMD): Historical evidence indicates the coal seam could generate acid mine drainage, which has significant environmental implications that DEP may not have fully considered.
- Constitutional Considerations: DEP’s approval may raise concerns related to Article I, Section 27 of the Pennsylvania Constitution, which guarantees the right to clean air and pure water.
“We are appalled that DEP would approve the expansion of LCT’s Rustic Ridge coal mine when there are so many unresolved community concerns from the current active mine,” said Barbara McMillan, a resident of Donegal Township. “We believe more protection and accountability are necessary.”
Jim Miller, a Donegal Township resident, added, “After seeing the damage caused by Rustic Ridge #1, we are disappointed DEP approved an expansion into an area heavily dependent on groundwater. This appeal is essential, we cannot let history repeat itself with the Rustic Ridge expansion.”
MWA is represented in the appeal by the Law Firm of Sarah Winner and is committed to safeguarding the community’s water resources, public safety, and ecological health by holding DEP accountable to established regulations.
For more information or to support our appeal, visit www.mtwatershed.com or contact us at (724) 455-4200. To support MWA’s legal action, you can donate at: www.mtwatershed.com/rustic-ridge-coal-mine-fundraising/