EPA Vetoes Largest Proposed Mine in West Virginia; Congress Needs to Follow Suit

On January 13, 2011, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency took a historic step for Appalachian mountains and communities by using their veto power to stop the Spruce No. 1 Mine. If allowed, the mine would have been the largest single mountaintop removal coal mine in West Virginia history. This decision has saved 2,200 acres of hardwood forests and over six miles of precious headwater streams.

With the support from concerned citizens like you, the EPA was able to stand up to industry pressure, use the best science available and make the right decision for Appalachian mountains and waterways.

Now we must turn our sights to Congress, encouraging them to follow the EPA’s bold stance.

The Appalachia Restoration Act in the Senate and the Clean Water Protection in the House would go a long way towards providing a permanent fix to the destruction of our Appalachian mountains.

Please use the form below to thank the EPA today for their strong action today, and to ask Congress to follow the EPA’s lead.