DEP Public Hearing: Rustic Ridge 2 Mine
June 16 @ 6:00 pm
PA DEP is holding a public hearing regarding the discharge permit (NPDES) for the proposed Rustic Ridge 2 Deep Mine, a 2,300 acre development proposed in Donegal and Mount Pleasant Townships.
DEP wants to hear your concerns!
Gather with your neighbors to ask questions, learn about the mine’s potential impacts, and get your concerns on record with the agency.
What is a NPDES Permit?
A NPDES Permit is required for any “point source” discharge of water pollution (that’s a source from a specific area that can be identified). Coal mines need to have water pumped out, treated, and discharged, which requires a NPDES permit.
Why should I be concerned?
This mine is proposed to have two discharges on tributaries of Jacobs Creek. More than 1700 feet of stream will be destroyed or buried according to the plan. We urge area residents to attend this hearing to help protect our water, property value, and quality of life in the Laurel Highlands.
Those who wish to provide testimony at the hearing are required to register 24 hours in advance by emailing laquiline@pa.gov or by calling 412-442-4311. DEP requests that those providing oral testimony submit a written copy of their comments to lorjenkins@pa.gov following the hearing.
The California District Mining Office will accept additional written comments two weeks after the date of the hearing, putting the deadline for written comments at June 30th. Written comments should be directed via email to lorjenkins@pa.gov and include the permit number (#PA0236641) in the subject line.
DEP MEETING DETAILS:
- DEP Informal Public Conference Rustic Ridge II Coal Mine NPDES Permit: June 16 at 6:00 pm
- St. Raymond of the Mountains Church; 164 School House Ln, Donegal, PA
How can I prepare?
Join Mountain Watershed Association for a Community Prep Meeting on June 10 , 6:30 PM at St. Raymond’s or online via Zoom. Attend to learn how to organize your comments to DEP!
Join the online meeting at this link.
Contact MWA at stacey@mtwatershed.com with questions or concerns.