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Air pollution persists ....
by Duane330＠aol.com 15 Nov '10

15 Nov '10

Air Pollution: Taking the Sting Out of Acid Rain David Malakoff* .............. Science magazine, November 12, 2010. As many prepare to toast the success of the 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments, the U.S. acid rain program is facing turmoil and uncertainty. Its once high-flying emissions-trading market has collapsed in the wake of a complex court ruling, legislative gridlock—and its own success. Industry analysts say the collapse could create a perverse incentive for utilities to ease up, at least temporarily, on cutting emissions while the government works on new rules. Researchers, meanwhile, warn that the problem isn't going away. Acid deposition continues to threaten many sensitive ecosystems, and analysts say deeper emissions cuts are needed to prevent future pollution from undoing the gains of the past 20 years. * David Malakoff is a writer in Alexandria, Virginia. Full story at _http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/330/6006/910?sa_campaign=Email/… (http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/330/6006/910?sa_campaign=Email/s… mber-2010/10.1126/science.330.6006.910) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> _National Geographic News_ (http://news.nationalgeographic.com/) Marianne Lavelle, Published October 17, 2010 _SPECIAL REPORT: THE GREAT SHALE GAS RUSH_ (http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/energy/2010/10/101022-energy-marcel…) Exploring the promise and challenge of a new energy supply. Chris and Stephanie Hallowich say they tried to choose carefully when they were seeking out their dream home in southwestern Pennsylvania. Thinking of their two young children, the high school history teacher and his wife, an accountant, rejected one property when they learned it had once been the site of a strip mine for coal. They settled instead on 10 acres of long-fallow farmland for $20,000, and began to build. The Hallowiches’ yellow, two-story home in Mount Pleasant Township, about 30 miles southwest of Pittsburgh in Washington County, was completed in November 2007. Nestled on a wooded hill far from the main roadway, it has a swing set and a garden on rolling land where the children could run. But even as they were building, the bucolic view was being replaced by an industrial panorama. Four natural gas wells, a gas processing plant, a compressor station, buried pipelines, a three-acre plastic-lined holding pond, and a gravel road with heavy truck traffic surround them. Instead of the sound of bird calls and the scent of new-mown grass, the Hallowiches listen to the wheeze of tractor-trailer brakes and and breathe diesel fumes—and worse. “It’s ruined our lives. That’s what it comes down to,” says Chris. “It’ s ruined our plans that we had for the kids. It’s ruined what we thought was our perfect ten acres.” Life in the Midst of a Boom Thanks mainly to deals struck by the previous owner of their property—the extent of which they say they did not understand at the time of their purchase—the Hallowiches now live on a hillside hub of the Marcellus shale boom. (See Photos: "_A Changed Environment_ (http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2010/10/photogalleries/101022-energ…) ") Even though they receive some recompense—a monthly royalty check of a few hundred dollars—they say it doesn’t compensate for the money they’ve been spending to have fresh water delivered and stored at their home. They found pollutants in their well water, and although the extent and source are much in dispute, they refuse to drink, cook, or bathe with it. They say they fear that they and their children, now 6 and 9, face health risks from both polluted drinking water and air. And beyond that, they worry that the rural way of life here is being obliterated by an industry that, to them, seems to operate with little oversight or control. It’s hard to dispute that the Hallowich land sits on one of the most active plots in the 95,000-square-mile (246,000-square-kilometer) Marcellus shale, the rock formation extending from West Virginia to New York that the energy industry is tapping, with a combination of technological innovations, to produce huge quantities of natural gas. And it is true that the Hallowiches cope with noisy permanent installations like the compressor station and gas processing plant that have disrupted their lives. But gas producers say the site should be seen as an anomaly, not as a sign of what’s to come. Short-Term Disruptions? “From a nuisance perspective, I will tell you they have a legitimate concern,” says Matt Pitzarella, spokesman for Range Resources, the company that drilled the well that produces gas beneath the Hallowich site. His gas company and others say the bulk of their operations—the well sites themselves— are short-term disruptions and that the land is restored, as the state of Pennsylvania requires, within nine months after drilling is complete. The water impoundments serve many wells and can be around longer—the one behind the Hallowich house has been there since July 2007—but gas producers also say these man-made, plastic-lined lakes are temporary. The land will be restored when the water holding area is no longer needed. “It is an industrial process and we're honest, open, and transparent about that,” says Pitzarella. In most cases, he says, “There are lights, some noises, some road dust, but within a year it's all gone and everything is put back together.” In particular, Range and other companies cite numerous steps they take, such as construction of steel and concrete well casings, to protect groundwater. Still, the Hallowich case is one of a number of bitterly contested water disputes that have erupted since the industry began to spread out across Pennsylvania, one of the few states _without any private well regulation_ (http://www.rural.palegislature.us/drinking_water_quality.pdf) . There is no definitive proof where the pollution in the Hallowich well water came from. A Question of Oversight Oversight of these disputes, along with other regulation of the shale gas industry here, is the responsibility of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), which has more than doubled its staff to handle the job. DEP has conducted more than 3,400 inspections of more than 1,400 well sites so far this year. It requires reams of paperwork for every drill, water site, and waste discharge, and it mandates site restoration and regrading of any hills that are flattened for well pads. With more than 2,100 Marcellus wells drilled in Pennsylvania since 2007, DEP has found more than 500 violations of state environmental regulations and more than 1,000 administrative violations, such as failure to keep drilling logs on site. Although DEP does not have an exact figure for fines paid by the Marcellus industry, the agency says its operations were the target of the majority of $1.8 million in oil and gas industry fines it has levied so far this year. DEP also temporarily curtailed operations of two of the nearly 70 natural gas companies working in the Marcellus. Even industry supporters, who cheer the arrival of a cleaner fuel source to replace coal and oil, say there have been too many accidents and too much mistrust sown by industry secrecy and resistance to further oversight. “This gas industry has a great product, but how they drill it and how they produce it is going to go a long way to deciding whether the American people embrace it or actually reject it,” says Pennsylvania DEP Secretary John Hanger, the state’s chief industry regulator. Safe Process, but Risky Execution? Both Hanger’s office and the gas industry maintain that if the process is done properly, there is no threat to drinking water when chemically treated water and sand are blasted underground to fracture shale to produce gas. (Related: “_Forcing Gas Out of Rock With Water_ (http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2010/10/101022-energy-marcellus-sha… ter/) ”) The hydraulic fracturing (fracking) fluid, about 4 million gallons (15 million liters) per well, is released into the shale layer at a depth of 4,000 to 8,500 feet (1,220 to 2,590 meters). (Related interactive: "_Breaking Fuel From the Rock_ (http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2010/10/101022-breaking-fuel-from-t…) ") That means that there is about a mile or more of rock between the shale and underground water sources used for drinking water. About _1 million Pennsylvania households_ (http://www.dep.state.pa.us/dep/deputate/watermgt/wc/subjects/SrceProt/well/…) , nearly 20 percent of residences in the state, draw their water from private wells that are relatively shallow. Wells in the western half of the state, for instance, would likely be drilled to depths of less than 150 feet (46 meters), according to the Pennsylvania Geological Survey. The potential for contamination of drinking water aquifers is a major concern in the Keystone State, which has more people served by well water than any state but Michigan, according to a 2009 _analysis_ (http://www.rural.palegislature.us/drinking_water_quality.pdf) year prepared for the state legislature. The chief bulwark against water pollution is a separating wall—a casing made of tons of steel and cement—built in each gas well not only to protect the environment, but also to ensure the valuable gas doesn’t escape. Hanger says there hasn’t been a single confirmed case of frack fluid migrating from the shale layer deep underground to the shallow drinking water supplies in Pennsylvania. However, about 20 to 50 percent of the drilling liquid flows back to the surface, most of it right after the well is completed. And that’s when proven trouble can occur. “It’s Not Water of Any Kind” This “produced water,” which includes the frack chemicals, is a super-salty brine, prone to bacterial growth, and potentially contaminated with heavy metals. “It smells like turpentine,” says Conrad Dan Volz, director of the _Center for Healthy Environments and Communities_ (http://www.chec.pitt.edu/) at the University of Pittsburgh’s Graduate School of Public Health, who has been researching the environmental impact. “It’s not water of any kind.” State regulations say the frack fluid has to be collected and disposed of as an industrial waste, or it can be treated and reused to drill more wells, a practice pioneered in Pennsylvania within the past year. (Related: “ _Forcing Gas Out of Rock With Water_ (http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2010/10/101022-energy-marcellus-sha…) ”) Hanger says the water reuse is in no small measure a result of the DEP’s tough stance on wastewater handling. But in at least 130 cases documented since 2008 by the DEP, drilling wastewater has spilled into creeks and tributaries due to holding pond overflows, pump failures, and other errors. There have been at least two small fish kills. One occurred in October 2009, soon after Range started its program to reuse frack fluid: about 10,500 gallons (40,000 liters/250 barrels) leaked from a _broken pipeline joint_ (http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/regional_news/1429…) and killed about 170 creek chubs, blacknose dace, and other small fish, along with some salamanders and frogs in Brush Run, 30 miles southwest of Pittsburgh. Range says the fish killed collectively weighed about a pound. The company suspects vandalism, because bolts had been removed from the pipe connection. But no perpetrators have been tracked down, and the company was fined $140,000 for polluting a high-quality waterway. (Range since has switched to using unbolted high-density polyethylene pipeline to transfer its drilling fluid, Pitzarella says.) In another _case_ (http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/newsroom/14287?id=…) , involving East Resources* in north-central Pennsylvania, the state quarantined cattle exposed to wastewater that leaked from a containment pond and killed grass over 1,200 square feet on a farm. State agriculture officials said they acted to prevent contaminated beef from entering the food chain, since the water contained the heavy metal strontium, a substance especially toxic to children and one that lingers long in an animal’s system. In a case that echoed the BP oil spill, although the results certainly weren’t as severe, an EOG Resources well blew out on June 3, with natural gas and frack fluid spewing for 16 hours from the gas well on hunting club land inside the Moshannon State Forest in central Pennsylvania. (Related: “ _Parks, Forests Eyed for the Fuel Beneath_ (http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2010/10/101022-energy-marcellus-sha…) ”) There should have been at least two pressure barriers or blowout preventers in the underground piping to prevent contaminated fluid from flowing to the surface, but only one barrier was in place, and it was damaged, the DEP’s investigation showed. EOG was hit with the harshest punishment to date by Pennsylvania ’s shale regulators—a fine of $353,000 and temporary suspension from drilling. The Dimock Case But perhaps the most notorious Pennsylvania contamination case was in the northeastern part of the state, in rural Dimock Township, where natural gas was found in early 2009 to have contaminated the drinking water wells of 14 homes. Investigators were able to do a kind of “fingerprinting” to determine the source, and concluded the gas did not come from the Marcellus shale. But the state DEP contends that faulty well casing set into the ground by Cabot Oil & Gas as it drilled into the deep Marcellus allowed gas to migrate from more shallow geological formations into the groundwater. Dimock’s woes were recounted in the award-winning documentary film Gasland, forever linking the image of flammable drinking water to the Marcellus shale (even though the man who memorably set fire to his tap water in the film was in Colorado). Now the dispute in Dimock has escalated, with the state DEP announcing in September that it would seek to recover from Cabot the $11.8 million cost of building a line to hook the affected homes to a public water system, bypassing the natural gas pollution in their aquifer. Cabot, which originally signed consent orders with the state DEP agreeing to plug three of its wells, to pay at least $240,000 in fines and to provide water treatment systems for the affected homes, began to publicly and aggressively fight the state. Cabot contends that the natural gas was naturally occurring in the area’s water, and on a “_Clearing the Air_ (http://www.cabotog.com/comm_susquehanna.html) ” web site the company has posted affidavits of four longtime residents saying the area’s water was always known to be flammable. The truth of the Dimock situation appears destined to be hashed out in the court system; in addition to the state DEP’s legal action, Cabot documents also say there is a pending suit by residents. But the issue of faulty well construction is a concern for the regulators that goes beyond Dimock. In addition to the Cabot case, the DEP has cited companies nearly 50 times since 2008 for faulty well casing that posed a risk to groundwater. And in September, the DEP requested that one of the largest gas producers, Chesapeake Energy_, inspect 171 well casings_ (http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/newsroom/14287?id=… 1) in northeastern Pennsylvania because natural gas had been found in six private water wells. Also, the state is in the final stages of approving more stringent well cementing and casing requirements for all drillers that Hanger says will be “as strong as any in the country.” “They Need to See Every Spill . . . as Unacceptable” To oversee the oil and gas industry, the Pennsylvania DEP has enlarged its staff from 88 people to nearly 200, paid for by a significant hike in the cost of drilling permits that increased fee revenue from $700,000 per year to more than $10 million. But Hanger says that the gas industry has to do its part. “What we’ve been absolutely focused on is trying to build a culture of safety, by enforcing real rules,” he says. “Because at the end of the day, these companies are the only folks who are there pretty much all the time. We will never have an inspector at every well site every minute of every day. “So these companies are creating what I describe as the bed in which they will lie with the public,” Hanger says. “They need to see every spill and every leak as unacceptable. They need to see every blowout as unacceptable, every gas migration case as completely unacceptable.” Public and Private Battles Although the industry maintains that the majority of wells have been drilled safely, and that companies have paid for the damage they’ve done in isolated cases, the industry is clearly on the defensive. No drilling is currently permitted in Pennsylvania’s easternmost counties. That’s by decision of the Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC), a federal-multistate compact agency that governs water use in the environmentally sensitive watershed on Pennsylvania’s border with New Jersey and New York, which provides water to 17 million people. The DRBC decided on June 14 to halt all natural gas drilling _in its region_ (http://www.state.nj.us/drbc/naturalgas.htm) while it writes new environmental rules. In New York, where the Marcellus underlies the Catskill Mountains region that provides New York City with its drinking water—in one of the largest unfiltered water systems in the world—gas drilling has been on _hold_ (http://www.state.nj.us/drbc/newsrel_naturalgas050610.htm) , in effect, since 2008. On September 9, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency asked _nine natural gas service companies_ (http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/d0cf6618525a9efb85257359003fb69d/e…) to submit information on the chemicals they use in hydraulic fracturing— indicating the agency will use its legal authority to compel disclosure of the information if the companies do not comply. EPA is in the midst of a _study of the safety_ (http://water.epa.gov/type/groundwater/uic/class2/hydraulicfracturing/index.…) of fracking, for which it held packed meetings in Pennsylvania and New York. Leading energy industry analysts believe that in whatever energy bill Congress passes next, there will be both a new federal requirement on frack chemical disclosure and an amendment to assure that fracking is regulated by the federal Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). (In its 2005 energy bill, Congress included an exemption from SDWA oversight for the water put into the ground for hydraulic fracturing—a provision that has come to be known as the “Halliburton loophole” after the oil and gas industry service company that is active in the shale industry.) In addition to increasing official scrutiny, the Marcellus gas industry is embroiled in private battles like the one with the Hallowich family. Ironically, because of a lease signed by the previous owner of their property before they purchased it, the Hallowiches get a royalty check from Range Resources every month, typically between $300 and $400, for natural gas produced from under their land. That previous owner would have been due those royalties, and actually tried to back out of the sales agreement with the Hallowiches before closing in 2006. But they took her to court and forced the sale. The Hallowiches said they did not understand the lease was for gas drilling; they say they were told at closing that the lease was for work on a pipeline at the other end of the farm. Tracking the Source of the Pollution Now, the Hallowiches are suing Range and others; they say all the royalty money they earn goes to fighting pollution woes. But how much pollution they face, and where it comes from, are subjects steeped in acrimony; successive rounds of water testing by different parties have only made the matter murkier. Since June 2009, the Hallowiches say, they have spent more than $5,000 to have water for drinking, cooking, and bathing delivered and stored in a 1,500-gallon (5,700-liter) rented tank in their garage, filled every three weeks, and pumped through the house. State DEP testing conducted in May 2009 showed that their well water had levels of the mineral manganese, a potential neurotoxin, more than three times higher than the state water quality standard. The state DEP said in an August 2009 letter to the Hallowiches that the manganese was a common problem in southwestern Pennsylvania, and could be naturally occurring. But the Hallowiches had follow-up tests done by two private labs. One of these detected acrylonitrile, a chemical used to make a wide variety of plastics; it can affect the central nervous system, according to the U.S. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. The same lab’s testing showed trace levels of other toxic chemicals. The state DEP said in its August 2009 letter to the Hallowiches that the only contaminant in the water that consistently exceeded state standards for drinking water was manganese. The DEP noted that the testing by the other private lab hired by the Hallowiches did not detect any acrylonitrile, and the DEP suggested that the compound could have come from the plastic decorative rock the Hallowiches used over their well. The Hallowiches, who obtained a letter from the decorative rock company and material data safety sheets stating there was no acrylonitrile in the plastic fixture, are convinced that the chemicals migrated from the natural gas drilling operations. Because acrylonitrile is in so many plastics, they maintain that a probable source is one of the plastic liners—either in the fresh water impoundment or in one of the drilling waste pits buried on site. But Range, which has publicly disclosed its fracking chemicals since this summer, says acrylonitrile is not used in its processes or in its plastic liners. As in Dimock Township, it appears it will be up to the courts to decide the truth. Complicating matters is the fact that the Hallowiches have no definitive proof on any of the pollution issues. Because they did not test their water for chemicals before drilling began, they have no baseline against which to compare any current readings. In fact, the Hallowiches did not test their water, except for the bacteria, until a year and a half after gas drilling ended. That omission is important, because by Pennsylvania law, an oil or gas company is presumed to be responsible for pollution if a well is drilled within 1,000 feet of a water supply (as is the Range Resources well next door to the Hallowiches) but only if it can be shown that the pollution occurred within six months of drilling. Because of the liability potential, Range and most other companies routinely do a pre-drilling analysis of water wells within 1,000 feet of a planned oil or gas well. But the Hallowich site fell between the cracks in the law. The family didn’t tap their underground water until three months after gas drilling began in July 2007. The Hallowiches said they were never notified or warned to have their water tested, as they believe they should have been. And Stephanie says she was not originally worried about the gas operations. “Just water and sand,” she says, is all she understood to be used in the shale gas process. But as the gas operations encroached, Stephanie contacted groups opposed to natural gas drilling elsewhere in the state, including activists who organized not far from trouble-ridden Dimock. They are the ones, Stephanie says, who urged that the couple do their own water testing for a range of chemicals they say they never would have considered if they had collected a sample before the gas drilling began. After all that she has since learned, from the activists and her own exhaustive research, Stephanie is convinced that drilling is rife with hazards. “It’s just like a big chemistry experiment in the ground,” she says. Worries, Too, About the Air The Hallowiches also have fears about the air, after suffering burning eyes, sore throats and other symptoms when gas was released several times during apparent equipment malfunctions. A windsock now tells the Hallowiches when air is blowing from the direction of the gas facilities, so they can keep the children indoors. University of Pittsburgh environmental researcher Conrad Dan Volz, whose center, along with the University of Washington, Seattle, is researching the Hallowiches’ case as part of a larger study on the industry impact, believes the Marcellus air pollution risk is largely being overlooked. Air pollution is one of Volz’s areas of focus in a $1.8 million, three-year project funded by the Heinz Endowments, which includes the launch of a web site called _FracTracker_ (http://www.fractracker.org/) , to be used by citizens, community groups, government agencies, and public health officials. Information, he says, has been as dispersed as the industry. “If any new industry moved into an area and essentially wanted to build a factory, they would have to submit all these environmental plans,” he says. “This industry, because it’s more diffuse over such a large geographic area, has avoided getting that kind of scrutiny. The [federal] Clean Air Act is very much devised to regulate the largest industrial processors, not necessarily an industrial process spread through an entire region.” Although the individual gas plants do have to obtain Clean Air Act permits, and their emissions are regulated, it is the cumulative impact of numerous facilities that has caused a problem for the Hallowiches. The Dispute Goes to Court Pitzarella says that Range has offered to buy the Hallowich property, while leaving them the mineral rights, for around $200,000. Pitzarella says the offer—which was made verbally, not in writing—was based on a real estate agent’s assessment of the fair market value of the property. But the Hallowiches, who have put their house on the market for close to $500,000, say they never received either a verbal or written offer from Range, although the company invited them to talk. They say that Range asked what they wanted; t hey replied that they wanted the company to buy their house, reimburse them for water, pay their legal fees, and create an escrow account for medical monitoring for the family. The two sides disagree on exactly when negotiations broke down, but the Hallowiches say they did not want to sign away their right to sue because their problems, they say, are bigger than polluted well water and go beyond their issues with Range. Stephanie Hallowich points out that their lives also have been disrupted by two big facilities built by other companies the year after they moved into their home: a gas compressor station 580 yards (530 meters) away, operated by MarkWest Energy Partners of Denver and a gas conditioning facility 340 yards (310 meters) away operated by a subsidiary of Tulsa, Oklahoma’s Williams Company. “Would you want to buy my house?” asks Stephanie. “Our house and property are worth nothing. Even if we found somebody who’d be willing to buy it, there’s probably not a bank that would finance it.” So the Hallowiches have filed a notice of intent to sue Range, MarkWest, and Williams Company, as well as the Pennsylvania DEP, which they blame for failing to enforce the law. DEP spokesman John Repetz says that the agency’ s investigation into the Hallowich situation is continuing. But he said the agency could say little more about the case while it was in litigation. MarkWest and Williams also said they did not comment on matters in litigation. Range’s Pitzarella says that because Pennsylvania never has required homeowners to test their private drinking water wells, the potential is great for clashes between residents and the new gas industry. In regions where chemicals and minerals entered aquifers long ago from both farming and coal mining, Pitzarella says, the gas industry is being blamed unfairly for pollutants that were in the groundwater long before its arrival. “Oftentimes, when we do our pre-drilling analysis, we’ll find there are people that have bacteria, agricultural runoff, and sediment in their water supplies,” he says. “We’ve had some landowners that have water wells drilled into old mine pools that they’ve been drinking out of for years. It’s a problem in Pennsylvania.” ‘An Absolutely Unique Situation’ As for the Hallowich property, Pitzarella says, the conflict escalated because it involved one of the first sites ever drilled in the Marcellus shale— three of the wells there were experimental. He says in both the siting of facilities and communication with residents, his company has worked harder since then to be a good neighbor. “They are in an absolutely unique situation,” he says. “Not only will you not see it in the future, you won’t see it now, and you won’t see it since then.” He points to the more than 2,100 Marcellus wells drilled in Pennsylvania so far and the thousands of landowners across the state who have signed leases allowing gas companies to produce on or under their properties. “ If this were the norm, there would be tens of thousands of people saying, ‘ It’s happening everywhere. I can’t get away from it.’” Pitzarella says he can show many Range sites in southwestern Pennsylvania where there is little remaining sign of any drilling operation—just a low, green pipe and valve structure, commonly called a “Christmas tree,” fenced off from surrounding land. There also are numerous happy landowners among the hundreds of Range leaseholders in Washington County. Some Embrace the Industry Typical is Beverly Romanetti, whose family lives just over a mile from the Hallowich place. “We have not had a problem at all,” she says about the gas well, which takes up three to five acres of their approximately 150-acre cattle farm. “They are very polite, and try to please,” she says of the gas company. "It definitely has changed our way of living in this county,” Romanetti concedes. “We're used to no traffic, and now you have the big trucks.” But, she says, “what they have given back to every inch of this county is amazing." Romanetti mentions the lease money that has allowed farmers to stay on their land and not sell or subdivide, the donations that the companies have made to local charities and the student agricultural group, 4-H, and the road repairs that Range has made to make up for the damage done by its trucks. “People should embrace them,” she says. (Related: “_A Drive for Jobs Through Energy_ (http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2010/10/101022-energy-marcellus-sha…) ”) In July, Range, which was the first company to drill in the Marcellus, also became the first shale company to voluntarily _disclose the chemicals_ (http://www.rangeresources.com/Operations/Marcellus-Division.aspx) it uses at each frack site, and as of late last year it has aimed to reuse 100 percent of its drilling wastewater. “This is far too important and too great of an opportunity to not get it right,” Pitzarella says. “I'll be the first to tell you that we're not perfect and we may make some mistakes—poor communication with a landowner, choosing a bad location for an access road, things like that. But if we make a mistake we own up to it and make it right.” Evidence on the dispute with the Hallowiches is now being gathered in Washington County court. The Hallowiches are giving up their dream of ten acres and a home in the country for now. They are planning to rent a place in the Pittsburgh suburbs. * Most of East Resources assets have since been acquired by Royal Dutch Shell, which is sponsor of the National Geographic initiative _The Great Energy Challenge_ (http://www.greatenergychallenge.com/) . This report is produced as a part of that initiative, in which National Geographic maintains autonomy over content. Read the entire special report, with photos, interactive map and illustration of the process, at _THE GREAT SHALE GAS RUSH_ (http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/energy/2010/10/101022-energy-marcel…) .

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70 megawatt Italian solar plant for $330 million
by Duane330＠aol.com 04 Nov '10

04 Nov '10

First Reserve Corporation reaches financial close for euro 276 million funding for Rovigo solar PV plant in Italy First Reserve Corporation (Greenwich, Connecticut, US) , a world leading private equity firm in the energy industry, on November 2, 2010 announced that it has entered into a euro 276 million project financing facilities agreement for the Rovigo solar plant in Northeast Italy. First Reserve acquired the 70 megawatt (MW) photovoltaic (PV) power plant from Sun Edison LLC, a division of MEMC Electronic Materials, Inc. in September 2010, which when completed later this year is expected to be the largest operating solar power plant in Europe. The lenders participating with First Reserve on the financing agreement include Banco Santander, Unicredit Corporate Banking, Crédit Agricole, Dexia Crediop, Natixis and Société Générale. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> UTILITY-SCALE PROJECTS OPERATING IN U.S.: Concentrating Solar Power Total (MW) = 433, Photovoltaics Total (MW) = 168, Total Projects in Operation (MW) = 601 Utility-Scale Projects Under Construction: Concentrating Solar Power Total (MW) = 77, Photovoltaics Total (MW) = 115, Total Under Construction (MW) = 192 Utility-Scale Projects Under Development: Concentrating Solar Power Total (MW) = 10,261; Photovoltaics Total (MW) = 13,199; Total Under Development (MW) = 23,460.

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11,000 solar panels for 3 megawatts in York, PA
by Duane330＠aol.com 03 Nov '10

03 Nov '10

3 MW Solar Installation Begins in PA October 28, 2010. Installation on the largest rooftop solar array in North America. York, Pennsylvania, USA – One segment of the US solar market that hasn't been growing as fast as the residential and utility-scale markets is the commercial market, that is, installations ranging from 1 MW to 10 MW in size that are usually installed on commercial businesses. A groundbreaking today is bucking that trend. Today, Pennsylvania-based GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare (GSK) will begin installing what it says is North America’s largest rooftop solar array at its Northeast Regional Distribution Center (RDC) in York, Pa. At its completion, the 3-MW installation will consist of nearly 11,000 solar panels that will cover an area on the roof about the size of seven American football fields. Nearly 100 workers will spend the next two months hoisting the panels to the roof with a crane, securing them into place and networking them into the power system. _American Capital Energy_ (http://www.americancapitalenergy.com/) , the company responsible for the project, plans to install about 500 panels per day. GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare received government funding and solar incentives to help finance the project. A $1 million grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Commonwealth Financing Authority and $4.1 million in federal tax credits will help pay for the project. GSK will also utilize energy savings and Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SREC) to offset costs.

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<GASP> Air pollution from Marcellus operations
by Duane330＠aol.com 01 Nov '10

01 Nov '10

GASPalerts Action and News from Group Against Smog and Pollution (http://visitor.constantcontact.com/email.jsp?m=1102402694952) (mip://03689f58/default.html#LETTER.BLOCK30) (mip://03689f58/default.html#LETTER.BLOCK32) (http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=izlefwcab&et=1103857027392&s=244&e=0010CtDcvO… r6g52EJB1E3PuCpLCGkV9iQvVKXugpZYU194dk80fZjL09FIB4mjnkqGQbLZ43X4NrrMyTeA==) (http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=izlefwcab&et=1103857027392&s=244&e=0010CtDcvO… NRcOrKthk1ALaCFOgHxWBTCA_m43zRC7h7JA==) November 1, 2010 Will Marcellus Shale Coalition Trick or Treat Us? Southwestern Pennsylvania continues to be carefully observed by environmentalists and energy industries around the world as Marcellus gas drilling continues. Our region's gas is "wet," which means along with the methane gas, it holds high levels of valuable liquid hydrocarbons, such as butane and propane. Even if low gas prices slow down drilling elsewhere, our region should continue to see increased operations because of these other products. (Click _here_ (http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=izlefwcab&et=1103857027392&s=244&e=0010CtDcvO… yLGuEjmwSWZukEEOzFEsooq1dNtE8q-oEP304iDbFWFh3vy04-77DQ6q1FTqYUWc-qPA2I2Hgc6h x6jlw8wZeO01XyieiASPZtnlWyQv2BnPnHWqHSnw==) to read how one company is selling properties in Texas so they can buy more here.) These operations will have an impact on our air quality. Click _here_ (http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=izlefwcab&et=1103857027392&s=244&e=0010CtDcvO… l0FklvOu31fBmI-0fckzS-gXyKISgHs1ATmPSAOGKW7r4TQLw72kOiJFz_UlV6mr_FeyiGhyj627 l9uF0Rxec3VvAdQ0l3mwOsZuMx45WIZtZbLlwmajjiCt9JDwu8dXvtIMKIy7YuROHErVsVdLL) to read GASP's article in today's Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. It explains how the gas industry can mitigate the damage done to our air--and make more money at the same time. Get a ground-level perspective on the controversy as a new wave of resource extraction blows through the Commonwealth by joining Marcellus Protest on November 3rd, when concerned citizens march from the North Shore to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center where the gas industry is holding a large 3-day conference. The marchers should arrive at the Convention Center just as Karl Rove is speaking. Maybe he'll step out and say a few words to the crowd? Click _here_ (http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=izlefwcab&et=1103857027392&s=244&e=0010CtDcvO… qKTFhI9eYdoKyc0_ys19dukgIn_5YnVzr4qs6Gu4_nD7PusRwxJfjZdKiDw==) for more information. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Shale gas can pollute the air, too .................... But Marcellus companies might even profit from preventive measures. Monday, November 01, 2010, Pittsburgh Post Gazette, By Joe Osborne The Marcellus Shale Coalition says it's committed to protecting our communities and our environment. Here's how it can prove it. Earlier this month, the coalition -- a business association representing many of the natural gas companies operating in the Marcellus Shale region -- released a document titled "Guiding Principles: Our Commitment to the Community." It consists of a list of promises, including promises to provide safe work sites, operate transparently, "implement state-of-the-art environmental protection" and be "responsible members of the communities in which we work." Drilling opponents and supporters can all agree that if Marcellus Shale development proceeds, it should happen in a manner that protects workers, the environment and communities. Another belief we all share is a healthy skepticism for vaguely worded, feel-good public relations campaigns like the coalition's "Guiding Principles." If the coalition's commitment is genuine, and I'd like very much to think that it is, the coalition can begin to demonstrate its sincerity by reducing air pollution emissions from Marcellus Shale operations. We hear a lot about the threat this industry poses to our water. Though it receives less attention, the threat to our air quality is just as significant. Compressor engine exhaust, offgassing from storage tanks and raw natural gas emissions during well completions are just a few of the many sources of air pollution associated with natural-gas production. The total air pollution created by this industry is astounding: • In the Dallas-Fort Worth area, located in the Barnett Shale gas play, annual emissions of smog-forming pollutants from the oil and gas sector exceed emissions from motor vehicles. • A 2008 analysis by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment concluded that smog-forming emissions from Colorado's oil and gas operations exceed motor vehicle emissions for the entire state. • Wyoming recently failed to meet federal health-based standards for air pollution for the first time in the state's history. According to the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality, emissions from the state's growing oil and gas sector are to blame. Natural-gas operations in the Marcellus Shale are expanding at a breakneck pace. Texas, Wyoming and Colorado offer a preview of what's to come if we don't address this problem now. Fortunately, effective control technologies exist to reduce air pollution from natural-gas operations. Better yet, because most of them reduce emissions by increasing the amount of methane and other hydrocarbons that are captured rather than entering the atmosphere, they are not just cheap, they actually can pay for themselves in short order -- often a year or less. Utilizing these technologies makes so much sense from both an environmental and economic standpoint that the federal Environmental Protection Agency has partnered with industry to create the Natural Gas STAR program, which promotes voluntary adoption of these cost-effective pollution-control technologies. While several of the Marcellus Shale Coalition members are members of the Gas STAR program, most aren't. If the Marcellus Shale Coalition wants to show its "Guiding Principles" are more than just words, it should require coalition members to participate in Gas STAR. Every year, program participants must document their emission reduction activities in a report to the EPA. Consistent with the coalition's commitment to operate transparently, the coalition could make these annual reports available to the public. This would allow Pennsylvanians to draw their own conclusions about whether the industry is minimizing its impact on human health and the environment and generally living up to its "Guiding Principles." These recommendations would dramatically reduce air pollution while increasing industry profits. If the Marcellus Shale Coalition members implement them, we'd give them due credit and recognition. If they don't, how could the public expect this industry to live up to the coalition's "Guiding Principles" when what's good for the industry's bottom line and what's good for the rest of us don't match up so conveniently? Joe Osborne is legal director of the Group Against Smog and Pollution (_www.gasp-pgh.org_ (http://www.gasp-pgh.org/) ). First published on November 1, 2010 at 12:00 am Read more: _http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/10305/1099670-109.stm#ixzz143cDSbad_ (http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/10305/1099670-109.stm#ixzz143cDSbad)

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<GASP> Group Against Smog and Pollution
by Duane330＠aol.com 22 Oct '10

22 Oct '10

_www.gasp-pgh.org_ (http://www.gasp-pgh.org) October 21, 2010 GASP Drills Down on Marcellus Shale As Marcellus Shale drilling operations spread all around us, GASP's work spreads as well. We are busy dealing with these new challenges and are fighting on many fronts. * Last Tuesday, GASP appealed a West Virginia DEP permit for a large, and growing, Marcellus Shale operation in Wetzel County (The Intelligencer article _here_ (http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=izlefwcab&et=1103806677180&s=244&e=001Tdl8k_f… uR2d3ykibIvwXu7JSbcPatr1uvsDwQ2Zc-Xi8SR0tyc38TDWgnaSrEh54ktOfff5AnqlgQg11XEO mjj-g85j0omVdViyo4plBGzoSTQSvycso9SmCVzkkxbTBQgXsYomS4fVu0AZv9BYdd_O6ohXrJW8 Lzbded) ) in hopes of getting more stringent air pollution controls applied. * The PA DEP recently asked for comments on new well casing regulations that they were proposing. Casing failures are one of the primary causes of groundwater contamination from natural gas drilling. GASP is pleased to announce that many of our comments were incorporated into the new regulations. Well design requirements have been strengthened by adding provisions demanding use of higher quality cement and centralizers to ensure proper casing placement, among other provisions. * GASP asked the Allegheny County Air Pollution Control Advisory Committee Tuesday night to develop better county regulations to rein in the air pollution from natural gas operations (Pgh Tribune-Review article _here_ (http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=izlefwcab&et=1103806677180&s=244&e=001Tdl8k_f kEvQlVpjg-h1uT1oSc9qzQee2Do-1pIM19-V7MHxWIn5ZXVHUBiOVlRtHKvWnguaPeZ0mIQLVau_ MeqIb86Yzu6LD2V41hd9gDSu8UYFxtO0PvOGYUGsEd1aQ5Eu8CyPDrMgd80ixpeC7gyBLmyrjMQ_ Tolz5NNNt8lIucj5SoOg9MA==) ). GASP will continue to monitor Marcellus news, speak out about the dangers that drilling poses to our air, and push for strong regulations and effective enforcement of the regulations we have already. To jump right into the fight, join Marcellus Protest on November 3rd as they march from the North Shore to the David L. Lawrence Center where the gas industry is holding a 2-day conference. Click _here_ (http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=izlefwcab&et=1103806677180&s=244&e=001Tdl8k_f… NbOVzgT4fxYFMVy2cXrF2KpYXELWd-rewlHl8OInqnUP4RbIhzXu3OK4JK_RHJf8j47YdNNNNUrN CtCDFQHvekmGbA==) for more information. www.gasp-pgh.org

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Prof. Tony Ingraffea does research on Fracture in Rock Mechanics
by Duane330＠aol.com 21 Oct '10

21 Oct '10

Prof. Ingraffea’s 9-Point Letter from the Marcellus Shale Industry If the Marcellus gas industry did everything it should to make sure natural gas development is "done right," that still would not be good enough for Cornell Professor Dr. Anthony Ingraffea. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> The Letter I Wish Had Been Written July 1, 2007 To: The Citizens of States Over the Marcellus From: The Natural Gas Industry We are writing to ask your permission to develop shale gas in your states using high-volume, slickwater, hydraulic fracturing from long horizontal well legs (HVSHF). Although you have allowed us to produce oil and gas from thousands of wells over many years, we recognize that we are now asking you to allow us to do much more intense development than ever before, using a technology never before used in your area. We acknowledge our development plan for your states might eventually involve over 400,000 Marcellus wells alone, with thousands more in other shales, and be valued in the trillions of dollars, over decades to come. We have seen how such intense development with this technology has caused problems where we are using it already in gas shales. We have listened closely to your concerns about these problems, and others on the horizon, so we are writing you now to make a compact with you. We understand that you are granting us a privilege, that, collectively, all of you have to give us the right to develop your gas, because, quite honestly, our plans will significantly affect all of you, not just landowners with whom we might have a business relationship. Therefore, if you give us the permission we seek, here are our promises to you: 1. Since we will not be developing in your area for another 2-3 years, we have time to help you prepare for our arrival: * We will immediately fund appropriate training programs in your community colleges to produce homegrown workers for our industry. We will subsidize tuition for the students who commit to work in our industry. Those workers will get right-of-first-refusal on our job openings. * We will immediately fund appropriate training programs for your emergency response teams--fire, police, medical, and spill hazards--and we will equip them at our expense. * We recognize that our heavy equipment will damage many of your roads and bridges. We will start now to pay to upgrade these so that they all remain usable not just by our equipment, but by you, too, throughout the development process. This will be a "stimulus" to help your unemployment situation now. When development is complete in an area, we will pay for final repairs necessary to leave all impacted roads and bridges in state-of-the-art condition. This will be a legacy gift to you from our industry. * We will fund the construction or upgrading of regional industrial waste treatment and disposal facilities with adequate capacity to process safely all of the solid and liquid wastes we produce. We will not truck your wastes to other states. 2. We will be transparent about our entire plan for development: * We will tell you as soon as practicable, but no later than 1 year before start of activity, where and when we will drill, and what pipelines and compressor stations will be needed where and by when. * We will publish gas and waste production figures from every well, accurately, and on-time. * We will tell you where your gas is going to market. We will not sell your gas to a foreign market. * We will disclose, completely, all chemicals and other substances we use. 3. We will accept, without debate, all new regulations that might be proposed by your regulatory agencies: your existing regulations are inadequate to cover the new technologies and cumulative impact of HVSHF. We will offer your agencies suggestions for continuous evolution of the regulations as a result of lessons we are learning. 4. With respect to your natural environment legacy: * For every tree we uproot, we will plant at least 1 replacement. We will reforest all access roads as quickly as we can, and minimize the width of all forest cuts. * We will pay a fair price for the water we extract from your lakes and rivers, which will average several million gallons per gas well. * Whatever we break, despoil, or pollute, we will repair, replace, or remediate, at our expense. 5. We will safely dispose of all liquid and solid wastes from our development: * We will never store any flowback fluids or produced water in open pits. All such fluids will be recycled to the highest extent possible by existing technologies, regardless of increase in cost to us. * All liquid and solid wastes remaining from recycling will be treated at the above-mentioned industrial waste treatment plants. We will provide radiation monitoring equipment on every well pad: any materials, including drill cuttings, leaving a well pad that trigger an alarm will be sent to a licensed radioactive waste disposal facility. 6. We will not cause an increase in any tax levy on your citizens. * We will agree to a substantial increase in permit fees to reflect the expected 4-fold increase in person-time we expect you to spend on review of permits for HVSHF. * We will agree to a state severance tax, the level of which will be floating, according to an accurate accounting of all costs to the state and municipalities. 7. We will practice what we preach about clean fuels and emissions: * Every truck, every generator, every pump, every compressor will run on natural gas--no diesel, no gasoline engines. * We will not allow uncaptured gaseous emissions from any of our processes: no evaporation from open pits, no pressure releases from compressor stations or condensate tanks. 8. We will be sensitive to noise and light pollution, even if a community does not have zoning restrictions in place to regulate such: * All of our pads and compressor stations will have sound/light suppression measures in place before startup. * Site drill pads, compressor stations, and pipelines in collaboration with the community. 9. We will not unduly stress any of your communities: * We will never experiment with drilling many wells in a small area over a brief period of time. * We will abide by all area and time restrictions on permitting. * We will never contest loss of well water use by any citizen. If a well is lost, we will replace it with whatever type of supply is requested by its owner at our expense. * We will never require a citizen harmed by our development to promise silence in return for remediation. * Finally, and humbly, we note that even our best plans and efforts will come up short, sometime, someplace, somehow. Therefore, in addition to all the contributions noted above, we also pledge to establish an escrow account which will receive 1% of the value of all gas produced from shale gas wells using HVSHF each year. This account will be administered by an independent 3rd party, advised by an independent panel you select, and will be used as an emergency fund to compensate those financially or physically harmed by our development in your state. Thank you for your attention to our request. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> The Letter I Hope Will Be Written July 1, 2011 To: The Natural Gas Industry From: The Citizens of States Over the Marcellus We have observed, calculated, thought, done the science, and we have concluded that even “doing it right” is wrong. No thanks. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Presented at the 2010 Rachel Carson Legacy Conference in Pittsburgh, PA on September 24, 2010 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

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GASLAND movie screenings: Oct 3, 11 & 12
by Duane330＠aol.com 30 Sep '10

30 Sep '10

GASLAND Movie Showings: No admission charges at any of the three locations below. Sunday, October 3rd, Uniontown State Theater, 37 East Main Street, Uniontown, PA. Two showings: 1 pm and 3 pm. Monday, October 11th, Ohio County Public Library, 5 16th St, Wheeling, WV 26003. (304) 232-0244. One Showing: Noon. Tuesday, October 12th, College of Law, WVU, off University Ave., Morgantown, WV. Time: 6:30 pm. "Green Tables" for information distribution. [Questions: _justpeace(a)yahoo.com_ (mailto:justpeace@yahoo.com) ] >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> For Background Information See: _http://gaslandthemovie.com/_ (http://gaslandthemovie.com/) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> GasLands-- The Documentary. 1 hour and 43 minutes. GasLand Exposes The Dangers Of Natural Gas Drilling Called Hydraulic Fracturing - The largest domestic natural gas drilling boom in history has swept across the United States. The Halliburton-developed drilling technology of “fracking” or hydraulic fracturing has unlocked a “Saudia Arabia of natural gas” just beneath us. But is fracking safe? When filmmaker Josh Fox is asked to lease his land for drilling, he embarks on a cross-country odyssey uncovering a trail of secrets, lies and contamination. A recently drilled nearby Pennsylvania town reports that residents are able to light their drinking water on fire. This is just one of the many absurd and astonishing revelations of a new country called GASLAND. Part verite travelogue, part expose, part mystery, part bluegrass banjo meltdown, part showdown. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> NOTE: While not every detail reported in the movie is portrayed accurately, the issues covered and the information presented are much more than thought provoking and challenging. And, in my opinion, the alternative explanations that have been offered for some details also represent problems for our region, that is for the exploration, development, production and transmission of natural gas from the Marcellus shale formation. Duane G. Nichols, Co-Chair, WV/PA Monongahela Area Watersheds Compact.

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FW: National Solar Tour in Morgantown!
by Wonderlin, William 30 Sep '10

30 Sep '10

(from Megan Nedzinski) Please see the follow message regarding an event this weekend that might be of potential interest. Hope to see you there! American Solar Energy Society (ASES) National Solar Tour nationalsolartour.org<http://nationalsolartour.org/ is coming to Morgantown! Saturday, October 2nd from 12 until 4pm. (and it's FREE!) Saturday, October 2, 2010, will be Morgantown’s second participation in the national solar tour. Any people interested can find out more information at www.morgantowngreenteam.org/iebg.html,<http://www.morgantowngreenteam.org/iebg.html,> www.eco-mod-structure.com<http://www.eco-mod-structure.com/>, or by calling John Garlow at 304-276-3655. Most locations will be open from noon until 4 pm, but look for yard signs that say OPEN HOUSE for the Solar Tour. Please help us spread the word by sharing this notice with potentially interested parties (please forward responsibly). Or by posting the attached flyer and informational brochure at your workplace, on community bulletin boards, or at other places to encourage interest and participation. A version appropriate for web posting is also attached for your use with web postings. Thanks so much and we look forward to seeing you Saturday! -- Megan M. Nedzinski, Architect, LEED AP NEDZINSKI DESIGN COLLABORATIVE, LLC collaborative | responsible | appropriate | DESIGN megannedzinski.com Sometimes you have to act as if acting will make a difference, even when you can't prove that it will. -Michael Pollan

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VIRTUAL MARCH: Stop Global Warming
by Duane330＠aol.com 23 Sep '10

23 Sep '10

_Stop Global Warming Virtual March_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=u6kvatAlQZquRLIhZg4x…) 09/23/10 (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=jjlENdeY2UuANIYGVSNO…) WAITING FOR SUPERMAN OPENS FRIDAY Developing critical thinking skills and an understanding of science are keys to solving the planet's future problems, including global warming, yet the United States continues to fall behind the rest of the world in the quality of public education. Oscar-winning filmmaker Davis Guggenheim, director of "An Inconvenient Truth," takes on the task of dissecting the public education system in his film "_Waiting For Superman_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=Gw+jLZyEATOr4c9ae2S3…) ," opening this Friday in select cities. The film will inspire Americans to take action, and you can help kick off the movement by seeing the film. Visit _waitingforsuperman.com_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=u5O0VsKrBJ2hn/TwmBMs…) to watch the trailer and learn more about what you can do. WORST SUMMER EVER? The summer of 2010 set temperature records across the country. Our partner _NRDC_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=tA8CUTZ67mrh96KGD0fR…) has published an analysis using data from the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration. Nearly one in three U.S. weather stations recorded average temperatures among their five hottest on record. Even more telling is that nighttime lows were the hottest ever recorded at nearly one in four stations. Nighttime temperatures are more sensitive to the buildup of heat-trapping pollution in the atmosphere. More compelling evidence that things are getting worse. _Click here for the full report_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=ueQtYsOjsQcF5hBNCOLW…) (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=pA3GfV5old5Oqb4ALlUT…) RECOMMENDED READING Since 1970, Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) has grown into an international powerhouse with 1.2 million members and a staff of scientists and lawyers whose mission is to safeguard the planet. NRDC founder (and SGW marcher) John H. Adams, a pioneer of environmental action, has written a new book entitled "_A Force for Nature_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction. org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=ahheDzJ4ypGjjJyloDAhzvSQ8dGSzsx+) ." This inspiring memoir, written with with Patricia Adams and George Black, tells the story of the NRDC and the environmental movement it sparked. _Click here_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=YpnHAc6KwJTF+LsTLQU5…) to buy the book. Also highly recommended is "_Going Blue: A Teen Guide to Saving Our Oceans, Lakes, Rivers, & Wetlands_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=piXLg87wVMh0+WUBCuih…) ," written by Cathryn Berger Kaye and Philippe Cousteau, grandson of the legendary Jacques Cousteau. The book educates young people about the earth's water crisis and gives them tools and inspiration to transform their ideas into action. _Click here to buy_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=mozPoHeadyzBrNCmobXi…) . CIRCLE THE DATE: 10/10/10 On 10/10/10, people all around the world will gather in their communities to do something to help deal with global warming. Politicians are invited to come and take notes. Author and activist Bill McKibben and 350.org are organizing a _Global Work Party_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=XFgLrpCqXrv+KIDBtNa5…) for the day, with emphasis on both 'work' and 'party'. In Idaho, people are getting together for a home weatherization raffle. In the Maldives, they're putting up solar panels on the President's office. Find out what's going on in your neck of the woods, or organize a work event yourself. With the might of our combined efforts, we'll be sending a message to our leaders: We're doing our part. Now get to work and do yours. Learn more and sign up at _350.org_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=3bGT7SsBCzAujNiLeuGy…) . Keep Marching, Laurie David Founder _StopGlobalWarming.org_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=ocGPhEqClE93ICobPhIw…)

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IPCC Climate Change Challenge
by Duane330＠aol.com 08 Sep '10

08 Sep '10

Climate Change: Panel Faults IPCC Leadership But Praises Its Conclusions, Science, September 3, 2010 <NOBR>Eli Ki The world's most authoritative climate science body has performed well enough so far, says a new independent review of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). But the report, from a panel convened by a coalition of national science academies, says the increased public scrutiny IPCC is facing and the growing importance of its work mean that it must do better than that. Full story at _http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/329/5996/1135?sa_campaign=Email… (http://www.info-aaas.org/l.jsp?d=5815.642330.654.9KE4V0Cwm6P73j0r502zg6A..A)

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EPA Region 3 activities.........
by Duane330＠aol.com 24 Aug '10

24 Aug '10

EPA ANNOUNCES PUBLIC HEARINGS ON PROPOSED COAL ASH REGULATIONS (TWO IN REGION 3) EPA is hosting seven public hearings - one in Virginia and one in Pennsylvania - on a proposal to regulate the safe disposal of coal ash waste and its residues of mercury, arsenic, lead and other toxic metals from coal-fired power plants. EPA has proposed two approaches to manage safe disposal: one approach phases out surface impoundments and moves all coal ash to landfills; the other allows coal ash disposal in surface impoundments, but with stricter safety criteria. The agency will consider the public comments in its final decision. Meetings in Region 3 will take place on Aug. 30 at the Hyatt Regency, Arlington, Va. and Sept. 21 at the Omni Hotel, Pittsburgh, Pa. For information on the hearings and the proposed regulation, go to _http://www.epa.gov/coalashrule_ (http://www.epa.gov/coalashrule) To pre-register to speak, please call (703) 308-8429 or sign up online at _http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/nonhaz/industrial/special/fossil/ccr-rule/ccr-… (http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/nonhaz/industrial/special/fossil/ccr-rule/ccr-f… m) See charts comparing the two approaches at _http://www.epa.gov/coalashrule/ccr-table.htm_ (http://www.epa.gov/coalashrule/ccr-table.htm) CEMENT MAKERS ORDERED TO LIMIT AIR POLLUTION, INCLUDING A FIRST FOR MERCURY EMISSIONS EPA is setting limits on toxic air emissions from cement plants to meet more stringent Clean Air Act standards by 2013. Cement plants will be required to upgrade their pollution control equipment, increase their reporting requirements, and reduce their yearly emissions of mercury, hydrocarbons, particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, acid gases and nitrous oxide. EPA estimates these reductions will cut more than 16,000 pounds of mercury annually from the nation's cement kilns and prevent illnesses and up to 2,500 premature deaths per year. For information on cement plant pollution, go to _http://www.epa.gov/oecaerth/civil/caa/cement/index.html_ (http://www.epa.gov/oecaerth/civil/caa/cement/index.html) For information on mercury pollution's health effects go to _http://www.epa.gov/mercury/effects.htm_ (http://www.epa.gov/mercury/effects.htm) PROPOSED RULE WILL IMPROVE CHEMICAL REPORTING OF TOXIC CHEMICALS, PROVIDE GREATER PUBLIC ACCESS, PROTECTION EPA is proposing to improve the chemical reporting that manufacturers must make public under the Toxic Substances Control Act's chemical inventory reporting rule so that the agency can use the information to better identify, disclose and prevent the serious potential risks commercial chemicals may pose to human health and the environment. This proposal will undergo public comment in time for the next reporting period, scheduled for June 1 - Sept. 30, 2011. To submit comments, see docket EPA–HQ–OPPT–2009-0187 at _http://www.regulations.gov_ (http://www.regulations.gov/) . For information about the proposed rule, go to _http://www.epa.gov/iur_ (http://www.epa.gov/iur) COMMENTS NEEDED ON EPA'S DRAFT STRATEGY FOR CLEAN WATER EPA is inviting the public to provide comments on the approaches outlined in the new draft strategy "Coming Together for Clean Water: EPA's Strategy for Achieving Clean Water." The public's input is needed to protect and restore America's lakes, streams and coastal waters in light of national trends in water quality and recent environmental disasters. Public comments on the draft strategy should be submitted by Sept. 17. EPA will review all comments and post a final strategy later in the year. For more information and to comment, go to _http://blog.epa.gov/waterforum/_ (http://blog.epa.gov/waterforum/)

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<Longview> Interconnection Service Agreement
by duane330＠aol.com 22 Aug '10

22 Aug '10

Longview Power LLC has now submitted their "Interconnection Service Agreement" to the WV Public Service Commission, as shown below and available at the PSC web site under Case No. 03-1860-E-CS-CN. Source:: http://www.psc.state.wv.us/scripts/WebDocket/ViewDocument.cfm?CaseActivityI…'WebDocket' ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 101 South Queen Street Martinsburg, West Virginia 25401 7000 Hampton Center Morgantown, West Virginia 26505 5th Floor, United Square 501 Avery Street Parkersburg, West Virginia 26101 (304) 263-0836 (304) 285-2500 (304) 485-8500 Leonard Knee Telephone - (304) 347-1 726 - (304) 347-1 726 Facsimile - (304) 347-2196 - (304) 347-2196 (540) 723-8877 2400 Cranberry Square Morgantown, West Virginia 26508-9209 (304) 594-1000 (540) 723-8877 2400 Cranberry Square Morgantown, West Virginia 26508-9209 (304) 594-1000 August 19, 20 1 0 E-Mail Address: Iknee(a)bowlesrice.com E-Mail Address: Iknee(a)bowlesrice.com Sandra Squire, Executive Secretary Public Service Commission of West Virginia 201 Brooks Street Charleston, West Virginia 25323 HAND DELIVERY Re: Case No. 03-1 860-E-CS-CN LONGVIEW POWER, LLC Dear Ms. Squire: No. 03-1 860-E-CS-CN LONGVIEW POWER, LLC Dear Ms. Squire: Ms. Squire: This letter is submitted on behalf of Longview Power, LLC (“Longview”). Attached are copies of the Interconnection Service Agreement By and Among PJM Interconnection, L. L. C. and Longview Power, LLC and West Penn Power Company dba Allegheny Power; the PJM Generator Interconnection Request System Impact Study Report and a Notice of Self-CertiJication of Exempt Wholesale Generator Status. This letter is submitted on behalf of Longview Power, LLC (“Longview”). Attached are copies of the Interconnection Service Agreement By and Among PJM Interconnection, L. L. C. and Longview Power, LLC and West Penn Power Company dba Allegheny Power; the PJM Generator Interconnection Request System Impact Study Report and a Notice of Self-CertiJication of Exempt Wholesale Generator Status. are copies of the Interconnection Service Agreement By and Among PJM Interconnection, L. L. C. and Longview Power, LLC and West Penn Power Company dba Allegheny Power; the PJM Generator Interconnection Request System Impact Study Report and a Notice of Self-CertiJication of Exempt Wholesale Generator Status. and Longview Power, LLC and West Penn Power Company dba Allegheny Power; the PJM Generator Interconnection Request System Impact Study Report and a Notice of Self-CertiJication of Exempt Wholesale Generator Status. the PJM Generator Interconnection Request System Impact Study Report and a Notice of Self-CertiJication of Exempt Wholesale Generator Status. and a Notice of Self-CertiJication of Exempt Wholesale Generator Status. The Order of the Public Service Commission of West Virginia (“Commission”) dated August 27,2004, in the above-referenced proceeding, ordered in part: The general operational conditions are as follows: III, a Longview must file copies of the final Interconnection Agreements between Longview and PJMprior to commencing operation; of the final Interconnection Agreements between Longview and PJMprior to commencing operation; The attached Interconnection Service Agreement By and Among PJM Interconnection, L.L.C. and Longview Power, LLC and West Penn Power Company dba Allegheny Power satisfies condition 1II.a of the August 27, 2004 Order. Interconnection Service Agreement By and Among PJM Interconnection, L.L.C. and Longview Power, LLC and West Penn Power Company dba Allegheny Power satisfies condition 1II.a of the August 27, 2004 Order. satisfies condition 1II.a of the August 27, 2004 Order. The Order of the Commission dated February 16, 2007, in the above-referenced proceeding, ordered in part: The Order of the Commission dated February 16, 2007, in the above-referenced proceeding, ordered in part: 10. The Commission’s finding that the proposed changes are not a material modification is contingent upon the receipt of the revised System Impact Study from PJM with no uncorrectable adverse system impacts identified. The Commission’s finding that the proposed changes are not a material modification is contingent upon the receipt of the revised System Impact Study from PJM with no uncorrectable adverse system impacts identified. of the revised System Impact Study from PJM with no uncorrectable adverse system impacts identified. The attached PJM Generator Interconnection Request System Impact Study Report, PJM Generator Interconnection Request System Impact Study Report, of September 2008 satisfies this requirement of the February 16, 2007 Order. Sandra Squire, Executive Secretary August 19,2010 ========================================================================== Condition 1II.c. of the Commission’s August 27,2004 Order also ordered in part: of the Commission’s August 27,2004 Order also ordered in part: III.c. Longview must file evidence of its EWG status to the FERC prior to of its EWG status to the FERC prior to commencing operation. operation. Longview submitted its notice of filing for‘ exempt wholesale generator status with the Federal Regulatory Commission (“FERC”) on June 7, 2010. Pursuant to 18 C.F.R. 366.7 if FERC takes no action within 60 days from the date of filing of the notice of self-certification, the self-certification shall be deemed to have been granted. The attached Notice of Filing, of June 7, 2010 satisfies this requirement of the August 27, 2004 Order. In Case No. 08-1521-E-C Barbara Born, et al. vs. Longview Power, LLC, Mr. Duane Nichols stated that Mr. Gaujot has withdrawn as counsel for the Born Intervenors. He requested that he (Mr. Nichols) be the contact person, Accordingly, a copy of this letter and its attachments have been served upon Duane Nichols as well as upon counsel of record. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Very truly yours, Leonard Knee Enclosures cc: Leslie Anderson, Esquire Vincent Trivelli, Esquire Edward G. Kennedy, Esquire Mr. Duane Nichols 366.7 if FERC takes no action within 60 days from the date of filing of the notice of self-certification, the self-certification shall be deemed to have been granted. The attached Notice of Filing, of June 7, 2010 satisfies this requirement of the August 27, 2004 Order. In Case No. 08-1521-E-C Barbara Born, et al. vs. Longview Power, LLC, Mr. Duane Nichols stated that Mr. Gaujot has withdrawn as counsel for the Born Intervenors. He requested that he (Mr. Nichols) be the contact person, Accordingly, a copy of this letter and its attachments have been served upon Duane Nichols as well as upon counsel of record. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Very truly yours, Leonard Knee Enclosures cc: Leslie Anderson, Esquire Vincent Trivelli, Esquire Edward G. Kennedy, Esquire Mr. Duane Nichols 60 days from the date of filing of the notice of self-certification, the self-certification shall be deemed to have been granted. The attached Notice of Filing, of June 7, 2010 satisfies this requirement of the August 27, 2004 Order. In Case No. 08-1521-E-C Barbara Born, et al. vs. Longview Power, LLC, Mr. Duane Nichols stated that Mr. Gaujot has withdrawn as counsel for the Born Intervenors. He requested that he (Mr. Nichols) be the contact person, Accordingly, a copy of this letter and its attachments have been served upon Duane Nichols as well as upon counsel of record. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Very truly yours, Leonard Knee Enclosures cc: Leslie Anderson, Esquire Vincent Trivelli, Esquire Edward G. Kennedy, Esquire Mr. Duane Nichols Notice of Filing, of June 7, 2010 satisfies this requirement of the August 27, 2004 Order. In Case No. 08-1521-E-C Barbara Born, et al. vs. Longview Power, LLC, Mr. Duane Nichols stated that Mr. Gaujot has withdrawn as counsel for the Born Intervenors. He requested that he (Mr. Nichols) be the contact person, Accordingly, a copy of this letter and its attachments have been served upon Duane Nichols as well as upon counsel of record. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Very truly yours, Leonard Knee Enclosures cc: Leslie Anderson, Esquire Vincent Trivelli, Esquire Edward G. Kennedy, Esquire Mr. Duane Nichols No. 08-1521-E-C Barbara Born, et al. vs. Longview Power, LLC, Mr. Duane Nichols stated that Mr. Gaujot has withdrawn as counsel for the Born Intervenors. He requested that he (Mr. Nichols) be the contact person, Accordingly, a copy of this letter and its attachments have been served upon Duane Nichols as well as upon counsel of record. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Very truly yours, Leonard Knee Enclosures cc: Leslie Anderson, Esquire Vincent Trivelli, Esquire Edward G. Kennedy, Esquire Mr. Duane Nichols Born Intervenors. He requested that he (Mr. Nichols) be the contact person, Accordingly, a copy of this letter and its attachments have been served upon Duane Nichols as well as upon counsel of record. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Very truly yours, Leonard Knee Enclosures cc: Leslie Anderson, Esquire Vincent Trivelli, Esquire Edward G. Kennedy, Esquire Mr. Duane Nichols of this letter and its attachments have been served upon Duane Nichols as well as upon counsel of record. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Very truly yours, Leonard Knee Enclosures cc: Leslie Anderson, Esquire Vincent Trivelli, Esquire Edward G. Kennedy, Esquire Mr. Duane Nichols of record. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Very truly yours, Leonard Knee Enclosures cc: Leslie Anderson, Esquire Vincent Trivelli, Esquire Edward G. Kennedy, Esquire Mr. Duane Nichols

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coal combustion waste hearing (Pittsburgh: Sept 21)
by duane330＠aol.com 21 Aug '10

21 Aug '10

Make Your Voice Heard - Tell the EPA You Want Strong Regulations for Coal Combustion Waste Coal contains toxic heavy metals such as selenium, chromium, mercury, and lead. These heavy metals are concentrated in coal ash--ash that is often dumped in landfills or unlined ponds where it threatens water supplies. The EPA's new, more accurate testing procedure estimates that many of these metals will leach from the waste, at levels that far exceed thresholds for hazardous waste. The EPA is asking for your comments on proposed new regulations concerning coal ash. Come with many others in this region to speak out in support of requiring strong federal laws regulating its disposal or further use. Register to speak at the EPA hearing on September 21 at the Omni Hotel in Pittsburgh by clicking here

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<coal tattoo blog> ..climate update ..
by Duane330＠aol.com 16 Aug '10

16 Aug '10

To: Members and friends of the Mon Valley Clean Air Coalition... Have you see the Coal Tattoo blog of Ken Ward (Charleston Gazette newspaper)? The web-site below is incredibly concise and informative, on the global climate change situation. The evidence is on hand and the time to be concerned in now, if you weren't already! Duane THE COAL TATTOO BLOG.................... _http://blogs.wvgazette.com/coaltattoo/2010/08/13/climate-change-update-embr acing-science/_ (http://blogs.wvgazette.com/coaltattoo/2010/08/13/climate-change-update-embr…)

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We are in EPA's Region 3
by Duane330＠aol.com 15 Aug '10

15 Aug '10

SEVERAL REGIONAL ORGANIZATIONS MAKE THE TOP 20 GREEN POWER PURCHASERS LIST On Aug. 2, EPA announced the green power organizations that made the Top 20 list of green power purchasers. Washington, D.C. clinched the No. 3 spot on EPA's Top 20 Local Government Green Power partnership purchasers list by switching from traditional sources of electricity generation to greener, cleaner renewable energy alternatives and purchasing enough green power annually to meet 50 percent of its electricity use. Local governments in region 3 that made the Top 20 list are: No. 3. _District of Columbia _ (http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/partners/partners/districtofcolumbia.htm) , No. 5. _Montgomery County Clean Energy Buyers Group _ (http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/partners/partners/montgomerycountycleanenergy…) , Rockville, Md., No. 8. _Washington (DC) Suburban Sanitary Commission _ (http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/partners/partners/washingtonsuburbansanitaryc…) , No. 15. _Montgomery County, PA _ (http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/partners/partners/montgomerycountypa.htm) , and No. 17. _City of Philadelphia, PA _ (http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/partners/partners/cityofphiladelphiapa.htm) . A growing number of colleges and universities in Region 3 are joining the Green Power Partnership and reducing their environmental footprint by supporting green power and increasing their purchases of renewable energy alternatives. Five colleges/universities in Region 3 made the Top 20 Colleges and Universities green power purchasers list. The Top 20 winners include: No. 1. _University of Pennsylvania _ (http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/partners/partners/universityofpennsylvania.htm) , No. 2. _Carnegie Mellon University _ (http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/partners/partners/carnegiemellonuniversity.htm) , No. 3. _Pennsylvania State University _ (http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/partners/partners/pennsylvaniastateuniversity…) , No. 6. _American University _ (http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/partners/partners/americanuniversity.htm) , and No. 20. _Dickinson College _ (http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/partners/partners/dickinsoncollege.htm) , Carlisle, PA. Five K-12 schools in Region 3 made the Top 20 K-12 Green Power Partnership list of schools purchasing green energy. The combined green power purchasers among all K-12 school partners nationwide amounts to nearly 219 million kilowatt-hours of green power annually, or the equivalent amount of electricity needed to power more than 19,000 average American homes each year. The five Top 20 winners in Region 3 include: No. 4. The _Bullis School _ (http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/partners/partners/bullisschool.htm) , D.C., No.11. _Sidwell Friends School_ (http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/partners/partners/sidwellfriendsschool.htm) , D.C., No. 12. _Norwood School _ (http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/partners/partners/norwoodschool.htm) , MD, No. 15. _Maret School _ (http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/partners/partners/maretschool.htm) , D.C., and No. 20. _Sheridan School _ (http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/partners/partners/sheridanschool.htm) , D.C. For more information on EPA’s Green Power Partnership, go to _http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/_ (http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/)

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US-DOE 2010 CO2 Capture Technology R & D Meeting, Sept 13-17, Pittsburgh
by Duane330＠aol.com 10 Aug '10

10 Aug '10

The Sheraton Station Square Hotel is currently holding a block of rooms for this meeting until Friday, August 20, 2010 at the government rate of $119.00 plus tax. For reservations, contact the hotel directly at (412)261-2000. You must reference the U.S. Department of Energy to receive the group rate listed above. For further information regarding the agenda, hotel, transportation/directions and registration visit our website at: http://www.netl.doe.gov/events/10conferences/co2capture/ Dear Colleague: You are cordially invited to attend the U.S. Department of Energy, National Energy Technology Laboratory's 2010 CO2 Capture Technology R&D Meeting on September 13-17, 2010 at the Sheraton Station Square Hotel in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The 2010 CO2 Capture Technology R&D Meeting will provide a public forum to present carbon dioxide (CO2) capture technology development status and a ccomplishments made under NETL's Existing Plants, Emissions and Capture Technology and Carbon Sequestration Programs. This year's meeting will cover post-combustion, oxy-combustion, and pre-combustion carbon capture technologies including post-combustion solvent, sorbent and membrane technologies along with chemical looping. CO2 compression technologies will also be included. The meeting will have open registration so that in addition to researchers, participants may include employees of other government agencies, electric utilities, research organizations, and state regulatory agencies. For further information regarding the program content please contact Andrew O'Palko at: U.S. Department of Energy National Energy Technology Laboratory P.O. Box 880 Morgantown, West Virginia 26507-0880 Phone: (304) 285-4715 E-mail: Andrew.opalko(a)netl.doe.gov For questions regarding conference logistics, please contact Karen Lockhart at: NETL Event Management P.O. Box 10940 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15236 Telephone: (412) 386-4763 Fax: (412) 386-6486 E-mail: karen.lockhart(a)pr.netl.doe.gov

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air quality concerns
by Dee/Deb 08 Aug '10

08 Aug '10

http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/as-water-worries-mount-researcher-says-mar… Deborah Fulton

2 2

Group Against Smog & Pollution
by Duane330＠aol.com 04 Aug '10

04 Aug '10

The U.S. EPA will hold a public hearing on the proposed _Clean Air Transport Rule _ (http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103595446016&s=244&e=001NNjHSwpzBqptTTbgq_H23… 78M8ACRqPIooWsEEoIgXjScdX6Yznrw50CChkQTDRyJz1d63DgutaZg_7kSI5yw==) in Philadelphia on Thursday, August 26, 2010. This is our single best opportunity this year to get fossil-fuel burning power plants to clean up. August 26 Radisson Plaza - Warwick Hotel Philadelphia 1701 Locust St Philadelphia, PA 9am -- 8pm This is a critical regulation for protecting public health, but it needs to be stronger. As a reminder, this rule requires the cleanup of emissions from coal-fired power plants, emissions that are transported across state boundaries. The rule focuses on nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur dioxide (SO2), with impacts on ozone and fine particle pollution, and even has the potential to be helpful in fighting mercury pollution in concert with another rule expected out in February. GASP will be organizing a road trip to Philadelphia to testify at the hearing and prior to that we'll send out talking points to assist interested individuals in formulating their comments. Even with the Clean Air Transport Rule in place, Allegheny County is projected by EPA to be the only county to continue to violate both the old 1997 PM2.5 standard and the 2006 PM2.5 standard. Allegheny County has the most to gain by calling for a STRONG Clean Air Transport Rule. Let us know at _gasp(a)gasp-pgh.org_ (mailto:gasp@gasp-pgh.org) if you are interested in traveling with GASP and speaking at the hearing.

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Proposals for air pollution control
by Duane330＠aol.com 26 Jul '10

26 Jul '10

EPA PROPOSES RULE TO FURTHER REDUCE FINE PARTICLE AND OZONE POLLUTION FROM 31 EASTERN STATES AND D.C. EPA's newly announced Transport Rule proposes to significantly reduce emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) from power plants in the eastern U.S. that cross state lines and are linked to illnesses and premature deaths. By 2014, the rule would help reduce power plant SO2 emissions by 71 percent, and power plant NOx emissions by 52 percent. EPA will take public comment on the proposal for 60 days after the rule is published in the Federal Register. Public hearings will be announced shortly. The proposed rulemaking, planned to be finalized in June 2011, is available at _www.epa.gov/airtransport_ (http://www.epa.gov/airtransport) .

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First Reserve owns Longview Power
by Duane330＠aol.com 23 Jul '10

23 Jul '10

Jul 22, 2010 17:21 ET Quicksilver Gas Services Announces Sale of Its General Partner to Crestwood Midstream Partners II, a First Reserve Portfolio Company FORT WORTH, TX--(Marketwire - July 22, 2010) - Quicksilver Gas Services LP (NYSE: _KGS_ (http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/stock.jsp?Ticker=KGS) ) announced today that Quicksilver Resources Inc. (NYSE: _KWK_ (http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/stock.jsp?Ticker=KWK) ), the owner of 100% of the partnership's general partner Quicksilver Gas Services GP, has entered into a definitive agreement to sell all of its interests in Quicksilver Gas Services to Crestwood Midstream Partners II, LLC, a portfolio company of First Reserve Corporation. Quicksilver Resources will receive $701 million in cash at closing, with up to an additional $72 million in earn-out payments in the future, for its 469,944 general partner units representing 100% of the general partner membership interest, 5,696,752 common units, 11,513,625 subordinated units and the note payable by Quicksilver Gas Services LP, which had a balance of approximately $57 million as of June 30, 2010. The transaction is not subject to financing contingencies and is expected to close in October 2010, subject to customary closing conditions. "We believe that the sale of the general partner to Crestwood will facilitate greater and more diversified growth for the partnership and its unitholders," said Toby Darden, Quicksilver Gas Services president and chief executive officer. "The partnership will retain the dedication of nearly all volumes from Quicksilver Resources' Fort Worth Basin development and be better structured to expand outside of this basin." "We are excited to announce this transaction which marks a new beginning for Quicksilver Gas Services and provides the Crestwood team with a strategic platform to develop the partnership's midstream franchise in other shale plays with a broader range of midstream services," said Bob Phillips, Crestwood president and chief executive officer. "By acquiring both the general partner and a substantial percentage of the outstanding limited partnership units we are aligning our interests with the partnership's public unitholders to form a strategic growth partnership for the future. We salute Quicksilver Resources for the tremendous job they have done in building a high-quality set of midstream assets in the Barnett Shale area and we look forward to partnering with them in the future as their midstream service provider." Timothy H. Day, Managing Director for First Reserve Corporation in its Houston office added, "Crestwood's world-class management team combined with the Quicksilver Gas Services platform is an ideal combination to build a leading and diversified midstream infrastructure solutions provider for producers. We look forward to playing a key role in the growth of Quicksilver Gas Services by providing additional financial resources and midstream acquisition opportunities to build substantial value in the years ahead." Additional important highlights of the transaction include: subject to closing, the Crestwood management team will assume the day-to-day management of Quicksilver Gas Services; more than 100 experienced midstream employees will transfer to Crestwood from the Quicksilver organization; it is expected that the partnership's current independent directors and a board representative from Quicksilver Resources will remain on the board of directors; and Quicksilver Resources has agreed to extend the terms of the Alliance, Lake Arlington and Cowtown gas gathering and processing agreements through 2020. Conference Call Quicksilver Resources will host a conference call for investors and analysts on Friday, July 23, 2010 at 8:00 a.m. eastern time to discuss the transaction. The company invites interested parties to listen to the call via the company's website at _www.kgslp.com_ (http://www.kgslp.com/) or by calling 1-877-313-7932, using the conference ID number 90107101, approximately 10 minutes prior to the call. A digital replay of the conference call will be available at 1:00 p.m. eastern time the same day and will remain available for 30 days. The replay can be accessed at 1-800-642-1687 and reference should be made to the conference ID number 90107101. The replay will also be archived for 30 days on the company's website. About Quicksilver Gas Services Fort Worth, Texas-based Quicksilver Gas Services is a growth-oriented limited partnership in the business of gathering and processing natural gas produced from the Barnett Shale geologic formation in the Fort Worth Basin of north Texas. The company began operation in 2004 to provide these services to Quicksilver Resources Inc., which owns our general partner. For more information about Quicksilver Gas Services, visit _www.kgslp.com_ (http://www.qrinc.com/) . About Crestwood Midstream Partners II, LLC Crestwood Midstream Partners II, LLC, headquartered in Houston, Texas, is a private energy company formed to pursue the acquisition and development of North American midstream assets and businesses. The company will utilize management's extensive industry experience and relationships to enable its growth through the acquisition of strategic assets, the recruitment of experienced midstream personnel and investment in organic infrastructure projects. For more information, please contact Bill Manias at 832-519-2200 or visit _www.crestwoodlp.com_ (http://www.crestwoodlp.com/) . About First Reserve Corporation First Reserve is the world's leading private equity firm in the energy industry, making both private equity and infrastructure investments throughout the energy value chain. For more than 25 years, it has invested solely in the global energy industry, and has developed an unparalleled franchise, utilizing its broad base of specialized energy industry knowledge as a competitive advantage. The firm is currently investing its most recent fund, which closed in 2009 at approximately $9 billion. First Reserve invests strategically across a wide range of energy industry sectors, developing a portfolio that is diversified across the energy value chain, backing talented management teams and building value by building companies. Further information is available at _www.firstreserve.com_ (http://www.firstreserve.com/) .

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FW: New West Virginia Asthma Fact Sheets now available
by Peggy Filios 19 Jul '10

19 Jul '10

From: Keely, Cynthia A [mailto:Cynthia.A.Keely@wv.gov] Sent: Monday, July 12, 2010 5:10 PM To: Keely, Cynthia A Cc: Respiratory Care Subject: New West Virginia Asthma Fact Sheets now available Importance: High Hello All: The attached fact sheets are on specific populations in West Virginia who are adversely affected by Asthma along with “care tips for managing asthma” for each group. These items are made possible through the WV Asthma Education and Prevention Program and the WV Health Statistics Center. They can be viewed on the program’s website at www.wvasthma.org under the Statistics and Surveillance tab. Please forward these items to those who may be interested. Thank You, Cynthia Cynthia Keely Wilson, BA, RRT West Virginia Asthma Education and Prevention Program Program Manager 350 Capitol St., Rm 206 Charleston, WV 25301 Office:304-558-0016 Fax:304-558-1553 cynthia.a.keely(a)wv.gov website: www.wvasthma.org P Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail. 2-sided printing can cut paper use up to 50%.

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current EPA activities...........
by Duane330＠aol.com 28 Jun '10

28 Jun '10

EPA STRENGTHENS COMMITMENT TO REDUCE LEAD IN THE ENVIRONMENT EPA will notify the states by October 2010 whether they are attaining or not attaining the revised 2008 national air quality standards for lead. Once nonattainment designations take effect, the state and local governments will outline how they plan to attain and maintain the new, more rigorous lead emissions standards. Lead exposure can cause a range of adverse health effects, especially in children. EPA is seeking comment through Aug.16. For more information, go to _http://www.epa.gov/leaddesignations/_ (http://www.epa.gov/leaddesignations/) . EPA SEEKS PUBLIC COMMENT TO ADVANCE ADMINISTRATOR JACKSON'S SEVEN PRIORITIES TO PROTECT HUMAN HEALTH AND THE ENVIRONMENT EPA is seeking public comment on a draft plan to protect human health and the environment through the seven priorities: "taking action on climate change, improving air quality, protecting America's waters, cleaning up our communities, assuring the safety of chemicals, expanding the conversation on environmentalism and working for environmental justice, and building strong state and tribal partnerships." The public comment period closes July 30. Please submit comments at _http://www.regulations.gov_ (http://www.regulations.gov/) . (Docket ID number EPA-HQ-OA-2010-0486). For the draft plan, go to _http://www.epa.gov/ocfo/plan/plan.htm_ (http://www.epa.gov/ocfo/plan/plan.htm) .

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Fw: Article on Environmental health metrics
by Peggy Filios 23 Jun '10

23 Jun '10

I hope you can open this .pdf to see the article " Environmental Metrics for Community Health Improvement" in Prev Chronic Dis 2010;7(4). by Benjamin Jakubowski and Howard Frumkin, MD, DrPH , and check out the table. Peggy Filios http://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2010/jul/pdf/09_0242.pdf

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.......hot.news............
by Duane330＠aol.com 19 Jun '10

19 Jun '10

EPA PROGRAM IMPROVES ASTHMA SUFFERERS' QUALITY OF LIFE Asthma affects the quality of life of 23 million Americans (including 7 million children). In summer, ground-level ozone (smog) rise can aggravate asthma attacks. Not only does outside air affect the health of those with asthma, but indoor air pollutants can also be serious. Although there is no cure, medical treatment and management of _environmental asthma triggers_ (http://www.epa.gov/asthma/triggers.html) such as _secondhand smoke_ (http://www.epa.gov/asthma/shs.html) , _dust mites_ (http://www.epa.gov/asthma/dustmites.html) , _mold_ (http://www.epa.gov/asthma/molds.html) and _nitrogen dioxide_ (http://www.epa.gov/asthma/no2.html) can help. For more information, go to _http://www.epa.gov/asthma/programs.html_ (http://www.epa.gov/asthma/programs.html) .

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US EPA revisits SO2 and AC
by Duane330＠aol.com 14 Jun '10

14 Jun '10

EPA STRENGTHENS AIR QUALITY STANDARD FOR SO2 TO PROTECT PUBLIC HEALTH EPA is issuing a final 1-hour SO2 standard rule to better protect public health from the adverse effects of sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions from power plants. This standard is more protective against short-term exposures ranging from five minutes to 24 hours and will replace the old standard. It is estimated that the new standard will prevent 2,300 to 5,900 premature deaths and 54,000 asthma attacks a year. EPA is also improving the monitoring requirements for SO2 and will identify/designate areas not meeting the new standard by June 2012. For more information, go to _http://www.epa.gov/air/sulfurdioxide_ (http://www.epa.gov/air/sulfurdioxide) EPA OFFERS COOLING TIPS FOR EVERY BUDGET THIS SUMMER EPA's Energy Star program is offering low- to no-cost energy-efficient cooling tips to beat the heat. A typical household spends almost 20 percent of its utility bill on cooling, and by taking steps this summer to improve energy efficiency, you can save energy, save money and help fight climate change. For example: if your central air conditioning unit is more than 12 years old, replacing it with an Energy Star model could cut your cooling costs by 30 percent. Get information about keeping cool and comfortable while saving money this season at _http://www.energystar.gov_ (http://www.energystar.gov/)

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US Senate activities (for your consideration)
by Duane330＠aol.com 08 Jun '10

08 Jun '10

Oppose Senator Murkowski’s Big Oil Bailout The Senate is poised to vote on June 10 on another bailout that protects Big Oil and other polluters. We strongly urge you to contact your Senators to defeat this Big Oil Bailout to reduce America’s oil dependence and protect air quality. Please contact the following Senators and tell them to VOTE NO to the Murkowski Resolution _Senator Herb Kohl (D- WI)_ (http://www.visi.com/juan/congress/cgi-bin/newmemberbio.cgi?lang=&member=WIS… four=) 202-224-5653 _Senator Carl Levin (D- MI)_ (http://www.visi.com/juan/congress/cgi-bin/newmemberbio.cgi?lang=&member=MIS… sfour=) 202-224-6221 _Senator Arlen Specter (D- PA)_ (http://www.visi.com/juan/congress/cgi-bin/newmemberbio.cgi?lang=&member=PAS… plusfour=) 202-224-4254 _Senator Robert C. Byrd (D- WV)_ (http://www.visi.com/juan/congress/cgi-bin/newmemberbio.cgi?lang=&member=WVS… &plusfour=) 202-224-3954 _Senator Mark Pryor (D- AR)_ (http://www.visi.com/juan/congress/cgi-bin/newmemberbio.cgi?lang=&member=ARJ… sfour=) 202-224-2353 _Senator Olympia J. Snowe (R- ME)_ (http://www.visi.com/juan/congress/cgi-bin/newmemberbio.cgi?lang=&member=MES… de=&plusfour=) 202-224-5344 _Senator Susan Collins (R- ME)_ (http://www.visi.com/juan/congress/cgi-bin/newmemberbio.cgi?lang=&member=MEJ… plusfour=) 202-224-2523 _Senator Kent Conrad (D- ND)_ (http://www.visi.com/juan/congress/cgi-bin/newmemberbio.cgi?lang=&member=NDS… usfour=) 202-224-2043 _Senator Byron Dorgan (D- ND)_ (http://www.visi.com/juan/congress/cgi-bin/newmemberbio.cgi?lang=&member=NDJ… lusfour=) 202-224-2551 _Senator Evan Bayh (D- IN)_ (http://www.visi.com/juan/congress/cgi-bin/newmemberbio.cgi?lang=&member=INJ… four=) 202-224-5623 _Brown, Scott P. _ (http://scottbrown.senate.gov/) - (R - MA) 202- 224-4543 _Senator Jim Webb (D- VA)_ (http://www.visi.com/juan/congress/cgi-bin/newmemberbio.cgi?lang=&member=VAS… our=) 202-224-4024 Gutting the Clean Air Act Senator Murkowski’s resolution guts the Clean Air Act, a law with a proven 40-year history of cost-effectively cutting dangerous pollution, protecting human health and the environment, and spurring innovation. Tell Your Senators Since 1990 when the Clean Air Act became law: · Emissions of six common air pollutants have declined by 41 percent, while gross domestic product has grown by 64 percent, according to the EPA. · From 1997-2007 benefits outweighed the costs by a range of 3 to 1 to as much as 22 to 1. · Lead levels in the ambient air have dropped by 91 percent since 1980, greatly reducing the number of children with IQs below 70 as a result of lead exposure according to the EPA. The EPA has made absolutely clear that it does not intend to regulate small sources. EPA’s new rule, which begins to take effect in 2011, requires coal-fired power plants (by far the nation’s largest source of the pollution), oil refineries, and other large polluters to use available technology to cut pollution when new facilities are constructed or existing facilities are upgraded in ways that increase pollution. Senator Murkowski’s resolution would halt clean vehicles initiative. America would use at least 450 million more barrels of oil as a result of blocking the new clean cars standards according to the Environmental Protection Agency. All told, the impact on our oil dependence would be substantial because the Clean Air Act is the country’s most powerful policy tool to cut oil use through emission standards for vehicles. Senator Murkowski is the # 3 recipient in Congress of money from Big Oil and the #2 recipient of money from electric utilities so far this election cycle.------------------------------------- Samuel E. Flenner III Outreach Associate Environmental Integrity Project _samf.environmentalintegrity(a)gmail.com_ (mailto:samf.environmentalintegrity@gmail.com) 317.352.2339 c-317.850.0436

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EPA offers information to the public
by Duane330＠aol.com 01 Jun '10

01 Jun '10

EPA WEB SITE OFFERS MORE TOXIC CHEMICAL INFORMATION EPA is increasing the chemical information that certain industries and federal facilities must submit under the Toxic Substances Control Act _(TSCA)_ (http://www.epa.gov/tri/) . More than 6,300 chemicals and 3,800 chemical facilities are now available for analysis on how they affect our air, water and land. In the months ahead, EPA intends to increase the information and to make the public portion of the TSCA inventory free of charge to the public. For the agency's Envirofacts Web site, go to _http://www.epa.gov/enviro/facts/tsca/index.html_ (http://www.epa.gov/enviro/facts/tsca/index.html) For more information, go to _http://www.epa.gov/oppt/existingchemicals/pubs/enhanchems.html_ (http://www.epa.gov/oppt/existingchemicals/pubs/enhanchems.html) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> ELECTRIC UTILITIES RELEASE PLANS TO IMPROVE SAFETY OF THEIR COAL ASH IMPOUNDMENTS EPA is releasing action plans from 16 electric utility facilities with 40 coal ash impoundments, to keep the public informed on the safety of these impoundments and facilities. The plans explain how the facilities will prevent coal ash impoundment spills such the one that occurred in Kingston, Tn. in 2008. EPA has also proposed regulations for the safe disposal and management of coal ash from coal-fired power plants to protect human health and the environment. For more information, go to _http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/nonhaz/industrial/special/fossil/surveys2/index .htm_ (http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/nonhaz/industrial/special/fossil/surveys2/index…)

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Fwd: FW: West Virginia air pollution
by James Kotcon 28 May '10

28 May '10

Anyone want to prepare comments to EPA? JBK ______________________________________________ From: David Baron Sent: Friday, May 28, 2010 10:39 AM To: Steve Roady; Jennifer Chavez; Emma Cheuse Subject: West Virginia air pollution All, EPA has proposed to approve a West Virginia SIP that is supposed to provide for general implementation of PM2.5 standards in the state. This is not a SIP to bring nonattainment areas into attainment -- those are done separately -- but this SIP is supposed to set up the infrastructure for implementing the PM2.5 standards throughout the state, including monitoring requirements, adequate enforcement authority, adequate resources to administer and enforce permitting and other requirements, and miscellaneous other provisions. We contend that states are also required to ensure through these SIPs that they have in place adequate PSD programs for PM2.5: EPA disagrees, claiming that the states can address PSD requirements in a separate SIP. I have not followed the West Virginia air program, but thought you might want to pass this along to Joe, Derek and other interested folks in WV, in case they want to comment. This is a good opportunity for folks to raise any concerns they have about the adequacy of the state's air pollution control program, whether it's inadequate monitoring, deficient legal authority, inadequate resources for oversight, weak enforcement authority, or other matters. I'm planning to put together some short comments addressing some basic legal issues, but don't know enough about the state of things there to do much more than that. Relevant documents are attached. Comments are due June 16. David ______________________________________ David Baron Managing Attorney Earthjustice 1625 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Suite 702 Washington, DC 20036 (202) 667-4500 Ext. 203 (phone) (202) 667-2356 (fax) dbaron(a)earthjustice.org <mailto:dbaron@earthjustice.org>

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(no subject)
by duane330＠aol.com 27 May '10

27 May '10

Science 28 May 2010: Vol. 328. no. 5982, p. 1085 DOI: 10.1126/science.328.5982.1085 News of the Week - - - Climate Change: NRC Reports Strongly Advocate Action on Global Warming Richard A. Kerr and Eli Kintisch The three reports released last week by the National Academies' National Research Council (NRC) had a familiar theme—the human-induced warming of the planet—but the tone, especially as presented to the public, was less familiar. The 2-year effort involving 90 scientists "emphasizes why the United States should act now," Ralph Cicerone, president of the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), said at a public briefing. The reports also have a few words about how the nation should act, which might influence a lively debate on a proposed Senate climate bill. The science supporting the why of action on climate change recalled the 2007 report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). "Climate change is occurring, Earth is warming," said environmental scientist Pamela Matson of Stanford University in Palo Alto, California, chair of the NRC panel on advancing the science of climate change, one of three separate panels that produced the trio of reports. "These climate changes are largely caused by human activities." But this was no rehashing of the IPCC report, which has taken considerable flak of late. The new NRC reports draw on the past 5 years of peer-reviewed literature, which was published too late for inclusion in the IPCC analysis, Matson emphasized. They also reflect findings from more than a score of reports from the U.S. Global Change Research Program and earlier efforts from NAS. The membership of the three NRC panels also had little overlap with that of the IPCC's working groups, says economist Gary Yohe of Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut, an IPCC veteran who was on the NRC panel on adapting to climate change. Yohe says he was surprised to find at the panel's inaugural meeting that three-quarters of his fellow members were unfamiliar to him. Call to action. Ralph Cicerone introduced climate reports detailing why the nation should act now. [Larger version of this image] Although NRC tasked the panel on limiting the magnitude of future climate change with providing "policy-relevant (but not policy-prescriptive) input," the panel did recommend that "the United States set a future greenhouse gas emissions target in the form of an emissions budget," said panel chair Robert Fri of Resources for the Future in Washington, D.C. And the NAS press release said a "reasonable goal" would be emissions of 170 to 200 gigatons of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2012 through 2050. In recommending a carbon budget and a target range, the panels "did go farther than IPCC could," says climate scientist Stephen Schneider of Stanford University, who was not involved in the NRC reports. "There were more words like ‘should’ than you normally have with IPCC." And the press release takes the emission budget goal a step further, noting that it is "a goal that is roughly in line with the range of emission reduction targets proposed recently by the Obama Administration and members of Congress." But can the report help bolster the proposals' chances of becoming law? "That's the $64,000 question," says ecologist Peter Frumhoff of the Union of Concerned Scientists in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The House of Representatives passed a bill that would probably keep the United States under the emissions budget, but action has been slow in the Senate. There, senators John Kerry (D–MA) and Joe Lieberman (ID–CT) have introduced a package with the same goals as the House version's but more flexibility and with subsidies for nuclear and fossil fuel industries. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D–NV) recently announced a go-slow approach, which might see votes as late as July. But elections loom in the fall, and climate lobbyists worry that the closer elections get, the more hyperpartisan the atmosphere will be. It's unclear whether science can change that. Myron Ebell of the Competitive Enterprise Institute in Washington, D.C., rattles off a number of Democrats in the House who supported last year's bill but have either publicly repudiated their vote or retired. "Cap-and-trade is dead," he says. Said a Senate staffer: "I'm hoping this will help push the issue, but I don't think we are at a place where scientific reports can find that influence."

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Pittsburgh's GASP report ..............
by duane330＠aol.com 27 May '10

27 May '10

Having trouble viewing this email? www.gasp-pgh.org GASPalerts Action and News from Group Against Smog and Pollution JOIN OUR LIST IN THIS ISSUE Upcoming Events Become a member of GASP today May 27, 2010 Take Action Join GASP, Pittsburgh United, Clean Water Action, and the Sierra Club for the introduction of important Clean Water and Clean Air Legislation in Pittsburgh. Councilman Bill Peduto, lead sponsor of the legislation, will introduce two bills, one related to storm water run-off in major economic development projects and one related to reducing diesel emissions during construction of major projects on Tuesday, June 1st, 2010. We need you there to show support for these important pieces of legislation. Press Conference 9:30am, Tuesday, June 1st 5th Floor, City County Building 414 Grant St., Pittsburgh, 15219 Let us know if you are able to attend by emailing gasp(a)gasp-pgh.org The Issues: Reducing Diesel Emissions Let us know if you are able to attend by emailing gasp(a)gasp-pgh.org The Issues: Reducing Diesel Emissions Diesel emissions harm our health, our environment and our economy. Publicly-funded development should be a partner in protecting our health and environment. Diesel soot cancer risk in Pittsburgh area is 408 times greater than EPA's acceptable cancer level of 1 in a million. Our risk is 1 in 2,449. Pittsburgh area workers are projected to miss 13,558 days of work in 2010 because of unnecessary exposure to diesel fine particles Kids' emergency room visits for asthma-like symptoms are 400% higher in Pittsburgh than other cities Black carbon, emitted by diesels, is one of the largest contributing pollutants to global warming This clean construction legislation will require that contracts for publicly-funded development in the City of Pittsburgh must ensure that all diesel vehicles on site have the Best Available Diesel Control Technology installed and that ultra low sulfur diesel fuel is used in construction vehicles. Mitigating Storm Water Run-off During heavy rainstorms, storm water run-off forces un-treated sewage into our rivers. Publicly funded development should lead the way in innovative techniques to control and drastically reduce this problem. During nearly two thirds of the days of our city's boating season, the water is not safe to touch. The current estimate for ALCOSAN's portion of the EPA mandated repairs to its system is estimated to be from $3 billion to as much as $20 billion. Most of us get our drinking water from the three rivers The Clean Water bill will require developments that receive our tax dollars to drastically reduce their storm water run-off. Upcoming Event GASLAND When: Saturday, June 5th 7:00pm-10:00pm, doors open at 6:15pm Where: Byham Theater, 101 Sixth St., Pittsburgh, PA 15222 What: Award-winning documentary on the impacts of drilling for natural gas Panel Discussion following movie featuring: Myron Arnowitt (Clean Water Action), Representative Dave Levdansky, Ned Mulcahy (Three Rivers Waterkeeper), John Stolz (Duquesne University), Conrad Dan Volz (CHEC) Moderated by Josh Fox, GASLAND filmmaker Admission is FREE For more information call 412-624-9379 or 412-765-3053 www.gaslandthemovie.com Thank you to everyone who attended, Before You Flip That Switch: The Hidden Costs of Energy. If you missed the event, the presentation by Dr. Jared Cohon, President of Carnegie Mellon University, can be found on the GASP website. Thanks to our event sponsors: AJ Stones - Master Green Remodeler, West Penn Energy Solutions & Vox Energy Solutions. Help us be as effective as possible by becoming a member or renewing your membership today. Over the last forty years, through education, advocacy, helping to set regional and local environmental policy, and at times entering into litigation, GASP has made a positive impact on our region's air quality and environment. Help us to continue this important work in 2010. Gift memberships also available! Membership details and instructions for donating can be found here. We appreciate your participation on the GASPalerts email list. Working together, we can make a difference in our region's environment. We won't trade or sell your address with other organizations or inundate you with mailings. Thank you. Sincerely, Group Against Smog and Pollution and Mon Valley Clean Air Coalition

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Fwd: [PSC Docket] Activity on PSC Case 08-1521-E-C(Barbara Born, et al. v. Longview Power, LLC)
by duane330＠aol.com 27 May '10

27 May '10

TO: Members and friends of MVCAC. Email me your mailing address if you need a copy of the CD described below. Duane Nichols >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> -----Original Message----- From: WV Public Service Commission <docketnotify(a)psc.state.wv.us> To: duane330(a)aol.com Sent: Tue, May 25, 2010 5:10 pm Subject: [PSC Docket] Activity on PSC Case 08-1521-E-C(Barbara Born, et al. v. Longview Power, LLC) The case 08-1521-E-C (Barbara Born, et al. v. Longview Power, LLC) has had the following activity : Activity Date: 05/25/2010 Activity Description: Pursuant to March 18, 2010, Order- Copies of PA Permits- (on CD), filed by Counsel for Longview Power, LLC (closed entry) Click here to view associated document.

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Public Coal Mine Waste Disposal Meeting
by Jonathan Rosenbaum 26 May '10

26 May '10

Meeting today with the DEP! A friend posted this on FaceBook: Public Coal Mine Waste Disposal Meeting The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection has scheduled a public meeting for this coming Wednesday, May 26th. This will be an informal conference to discuss the proposed disposal of coal ash, starting at 6:00 pm at the Scott's Run Volunteer Fire Dept in Cassville. The purpose is to hear public comments and concerns about a new 225 acre surface mine and modifications to an associated National Pollution Discharge Elimination System permit. Translation: Two enormous fly ash disposal sites are being proposed right here in our very own county. The industry intends to stockpile an unfathomable quantity of toxic coal waste here for years and years to come. Residents need to demand that the impact of this be evaluated using the most recent testing criteria (not the much-less-stringent old standards): that containment be provided to keep the toxins out of groundwater; and more. You don't need to be an expert. (Who was it who said that there are experts in small things, but, "In morality, there are no experts.") Many warm bodies are needed at this 'conference' to indicate that yes, we are paying attention. Industry wants to classify these landfills as "beneficial use" of land, rather than as the hazardous waste dumps that they are, thus bypassing regulations to require safety measures for our protection. And this is happening now, when the national focus on cancer prevention has taken a dramatic turn toward the dangers of environmental toxins. How history will remember US depends on what we do about this, now. You CAN attend this meeting and learn what is going on right under your nose. We have a chance this time.

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Informal Conference Announced for Cassville
by Duane330＠aol.com 22 May '10

22 May '10

Public Coal Mine Waste Disposal Meeting The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection has scheduled a public meeting for this coming Wednesday, May 26th. The will be an informational meeting to discuss the proposed disposal of coal ash, starting at 6:00 pm at the Scott's Run Volunteer Fire Dept in Cassville. The purpose is to hear public comments and concerns about a new 225 acre surface mine and modifications to an associated National Pollution Discharge Elimination System permit. The State government released the following information on May 21st: "The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection's Division of Mining and Reclamation is facilitating an Informal Conference on Patriot Mining Company's applications for an Article 3 surface mining permit (no. S200909) and Article 11 permit WV1017535, Modification # 9, located northeast of Cassville in Clay District of Monongalia County. For more information, contact the permit supervisor at 304-457-3219 in the Philippi Office." This meeting is open to the public; and, citizen participation is encouraged by the Mon Valley Clean Air Coalition, Duane Nichols (spokesperson), 304-216-5535. Submitted by: Duane G. Nichols, Ph.D. Mon Valley Clean Air Coalition 330 Dream Catcher Circle Morgantown, WV 26508 _duane330(a)aol.com_ (mailto:duane330@aol.com) (304) 599-8040

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Interactive power plant mapping.....
by Duane330＠aol.com 01 May '10

01 May '10

From: Carrie Traud <_carrie(a)theclean.org_ (mailto:carrie@theclean.org) > Date: Thu, Apr 29, 2010 at 2:48 PM Subject: CLEAN unveils new interactive map of coal and nuclear plants To: mvcac Hello CLEAN friends! CLEAN is proud to unveil a great new tool - an interactive, detailed map of coal and nuclear plants in the US: _http://www.theclean.org/mapping.html_ (http://www.theclean.org/mapping.html) . I encourage you and your members to explore the map and see what's operating near you! The mapping project is ongoing, with layers on coal and nuclear waste and others in the works. Since even the EPA doesn't have all the data on these waste dumps, we need alert citizen activists to point us in the right direction. If you know of a waste dump that's off the radar, please report it here (for coal): _http://web.theclean.org/coal_plant.html_ (http://web.theclean.org/coal_plant.html) and here (for nuclear): _http://web.theclean.org/nuke_plant.html_ (http://web.theclean.org/nuke_plant.html) . As always, please contact me with any questions, comments or concerns. for a clean energy future, Carrie -- Carrie Traud Southern Coordinator, CLEAN Call to Action Kentuckians for the Commonwealth 859-801-2871 _http://theclean.ning.com_ (http://theclean.ning.com/) Twitter: kycarrie

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Happy Earth Day 2010
by Duane330＠aol.com 22 Apr '10

22 Apr '10

(http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=Tb/IgrfiviKMkh2Roi9X…) _Stop Global Warming Virtual March_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=1c+GSXABhO50spUAcTcY…) 04/22/10 (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=tOwXcp23SbNForRzgmLQ…) HAPPY EARTH DAY 2010 Today marks the 40th Anniversary of the first _Earth Day_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=c4GtHL4XPCy8oEpNODcF…) . Help make Earth Day 2010 a turning point to advance climate policy, energy efficiency, renewable energy and green jobs. Visit _Earth Day Network_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=QK0ZBrvBCh1sfWfviRjP… bLVLoxEv2) , and join the more than one billion people in 190 countries that are taking action today. You can add your voice by signing the _Earth Day 2010 Climate Declaration_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=20sgaf9buRahsqr3FQC6 3jQbLVLoxEv2) . Please join supporters this Sunday April 25 on the National Mall in Washington D.C. for a massive _climate rally_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=zkUyLfpwLHsDYQoP8jN7…) , featuring notable speakers and live music from Sting, The Roots, Jimmy Cliff and more. _Click here_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=PZYQ2k9aCIbMy5qRMevo…) for more info. (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=0/abQfGN7TNbBInwUH+O…) IN THEATERS Our friends at Participant Media ("An Inconvenient Truth") have a number of upcoming film projects. Opening today is the Disneynature documentary _Oceans_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=m+DzYud3QFMIPcIXNmZ2…) , a powerful film featuring spectacular never-before-seen imagery captured by the latest underwater technologies. To learn about the film and make a pledge to ensure healthy, clean oceans, visit _savemyoceans.com_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=CpIAkjXEUp4oIYLy7R7u…) . Also, check out the documentary _Climate of Change_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=QE//O7HyJ6ZN4dDPLQuP…) which highlights the efforts of everyday people in the fight against global warming. The film, narrated by actress Tilda Swinton, will be premiering at the Tribeca Film Festival and is also available via Video on Demand on most major cable systems. _Click here_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=MFf7RXSRf+ffSdiONuSc…) for more info. We also encourage you to see the new live action family comedy _Furry Vengeance_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=zi6WC2hXVmK2c95+xrk6…) , opening April 30th. Participant's Social Action Campaign for the movie will focus on endangered species and habitat preservation, and they have created a teachers curriculum and family activity booklet to help young people explore the issues. _Click here_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=vx5Hu8KY6Dq3J4BkrAvH…) for more on the campaign. MISSING HEAT Two recent news stories from _Time Magazine_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=Srslml4DQjc294f+qTws…) and _US News and World Report_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=re5DHyi04PbPmeMPewiQ…) point to a troubling discovery that may affect future climate change. Over the past few years, while global CO2 emissions have continued to grow, the global temperature rise hasn't kept pace, suggesting that excess heat energy is getting trapped somehow. Scientists at the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) warn that this "missing" heat may be building up in the deep oceans or elsewhere in the climate system, and will come back to haunt us in the future. _Click here_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=IGwL1meEIlfKmddHbZ0z…) for more on the story. Keep Marching, Laurie David Founder _StopGlobalWarming.org_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=QDnfegIgD8vpRA8zI5pc…) _Privacy Policy_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=Hl0ufqp0Zgks03rfoA/T…) | _Unsubscribe_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=0UI3tD0qu7B3U53j/8cx…) Stop Global Warming Virtual March, 15332 Antioch Street #168, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272

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Group Against Smog & Pollution progress
by Duane330＠aol.com 21 Apr '10

21 Apr '10

April 19, 2010 GASP and RRI Energy Reach Agreement on Lead Emissions from Cheswick Power Station This week GASP and RRI Energy finalized an agreement to address lead emissions from RRI's coal-fired Cheswick Power Station in Springdale, Pennsylvania. The negotiations were prompted after GASP, a number of residents living near the Cheswick Power Station, and students at Springdale High School expressed concern that a proposed permit amendment could result in increased lead emissions from the plant. Under the terms of the agreement, RRI will ask the Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD) to make several changes to RRI's permit to install a scrubber at the Cheswick facility. These changes will include a lower limit on permissible lead emissions, an increase in the frequency of stack testing for lead from every 5 years to every 2 years, and a requirement that RRI provide the monthly average lead content of coal combusted at the facility to ACHD. "We're pleased with the agreement," said Joe Osborne, GASP legal director. "We approached RRI with our concerns, and, to their credit, they worked with us to find a solution we could all be satisfied with. This agreement provides assurance that emissions of toxic lead will not increase as a result of the scrubber project." In addition to providing for no increase in lead emissions, the scrubber project should significantly reduce the Cheswick Plant's emissions of several pollutants, most notably sulfur dioxide and particulate matter. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Read more: Valley News Dispatch: _Springdale power plant owner RRI Energy agrees to cap lead emissions _ (http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1 103314712994&s=244&e=0017cpqG4_hvmjBui6DdhzEiANW4ZfzTeWA1aZ-1DmbyvWWqd8Xg8lz4AywSxDpaExpefIwFKFGSKQ2aO xt4wukLGCDvz7xERJ_pR1KhM4-I162-lMIzVLLWTxkIrXT7MyuWrRcO049GmWyyCvxo0pq-bZC-T ObJH39gY-Hl10QZSk=) Pittsburgh Post Gazette: _Power plant to cap output of lead_ (http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1103314712994&s=244&e=0017cpqG4_hvmgZPLJ1Dl4dy… ZXMuWOOceownaMDVlGQw499mkbyuqszA8-pdzGlJvjMl9JyVYStLXofXzuMIYWOrc3K5WgcWcRew NBDupViUrfPJBGwhfU2FFJqIIMgxnOq6KDr4SF1OJ2HDqV4pi) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> The Group Against Smog and Pollution (GASP) is a non-profit citizens’ group in Southwestern Pennsylvania working for a healthy, sustainable environment. Founded in 1969, GASP has been a diligent watchdog, educator, litigator, and policy-maker on many environmental issues, with a focus on air quality in the Pittsburgh region. _Learn more about GASP_ (http://www.gasp-pgh.org/about-gasp) . Web-site: www.gasp-pgh.org

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Recent Announcements
by Duane330＠aol.com 15 Apr '10

15 Apr '10

EPA LAUNCHES ACID RAIN BLOGS Although the pollutants that form acid rain, mainly sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions have each been cut by more than 60 percent since 1995, acid rain continues to negatively affect our environment. Acid rain pollutants can cause respiratory illnesses and premature death in people, damage lakes, streams, and forests and the plants and animals in these ecosystems. EPA has launched some daily blogs to help the public keep abreast of the issue in an interactive way: _Whatever happened to Acid Rain?_ (http://blog.epa.gov/blog/) and _Acid Rain and Cap and Trade_ (http://blog.epa.gov/acidrain/) To follow the series on Facebook and Twitter, go to _www.facebook.com/EPAairmarkets_ (http://www.facebook.com/EPAairmarkets) and _www.twitter.com/EPAairmarkets_ (http://www.twitter.com/EPAairmarkets) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> EPA TO ADD 16 CHEMICALS TO ITS TOXIC CHEMICAL LIST TO PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT AND PUBLIC HEALTH EPA is proposing to add 16 additional toxic chemicals to its Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) list to which industries and federal facilities must contribute when reporting their chemical releases and waste management activities. This will add to the database of nearly 650 chemicals and chemical groups from about 22,000 industrial facilities nationwide. EPA will accept public comments on the proposal for 60 days after it appears in the Federal Register. For a list of the 16 chemicals, go to _http://www.epa.gov/tri/lawsandregs/ntp_chemicals/index.html_ (http://www.epa.gov/tri/lawsandregs/ntp_chemicals/index.html) For information on TRI, go to _http://www.epa.gov/tri_ (http://www.epa.gov/tri) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> OUTDOOR BURNING BANNED IN WEST VIRGINIA Number of fires has almost tripled since April 1 Gov. Joe Manchin has issued a ban on all outdoor burning that will take effect at 6 p.m. on Saturday, April 10, 2010. This proclamation will be in effect until the governor rescinds the order. The ban includes fires built for camping, the burning of debris or for warming purposes; however, the following items are excluded from the restrictions: •Fires for the purpose of chemical production, where fire is essential to operation. •Fires for commercial land-clearing, such as mining, highway construction, and development: Provided that a permit is obtained from the Division of Forestry prior to burning. •Training fires conducted under the direct control and supervision of qualified instructors at a training facility operated by a fire department or government entity: Provided that a permit for such training fires is obtained from the Division of Forestry prior to burning. •Fires for outdoor cooking conducted for fundraising events and charitable organizations: Provided that a water source capable of extinguishing the fire must be present and a permit is obtained from the Division of Forestry prior to the operation. •Grills, lanterns or liquid-fueled gas fire stoves. Since April 1, the number of fires has increased from 108 to 283. The number of burned acres has escalated from 773 to almost 8,500. Warm, dry weather and windy conditions, plus an abundance of vegetative material like downed trees, limbs and leaves have led to these increases. Forty-two percent of these fires have resulted from escaped debris fires. --------------------------------------------------------------

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Ozone formed by VOC's & NOx
by Duane330＠aol.com 13 Apr '10

13 Apr '10

OZONE SEASON BEGAN OFFICIALLY ON APRIL 1 As the weather warms, exposure to unhealthy ground-level ozone conditions becomes more likely and especially harmful to asthmatics and those with respiratory conditions. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and Nitrous Oxides (NOx) react with hot temperatures in the air to form ground-level ozone. To alert and protect the public, EPA's AIRNow website at (_http://airnow.gov/_ (http://airnow.gov/) ) provides information about air quality conditions to prevent dangerous over-exposure to ozone pollution. For more information, go to _http://www.epa.gov/air/ozonepollution/index.html_ (http://www.epa.gov/air/ozonepollution/index.html)

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coal ash
by Dee/Deb 05 Apr '10

05 Apr '10

This subject requires study. Certainly the concern relating to leaching of trace metals into the aquifer should be explored. Deb Deborah Fulton

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EPA's climate change web site
by Duane330＠aol.com 02 Apr '10

02 Apr '10

EPA WEBSITE PROVIDES UNLIMITED INFO ON CLIMATE CHANGE The EPA mid-Atlantic region's new climate change website is a central source of climate change information on a variety of local, regional and national websites. The site provides a description of the various impacts climate change is having/may have on the region, especially sea-level rise on estuaries, barrier islands and coastal cities as well as related information linked to local, state and national sites. Tables and charts show total, per capita and percentage CO2 emissions for sectors and states within the region as well as emissions for the region and nation as a whole. For more information, go to _http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/_ (http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/)

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Re: [MVCAC] PROPOSED ACTION ON COAL ASH TOXIC WASTE
by Jonathan Rosenbaum 02 Apr '10

02 Apr '10

I am fairly sure if this is a reference to the Coresco site. Here are some notes from the (unapproved) minutes I took for another organization when scientists Petra and John Wood came and spoke to us: Coresco Landfill - (Petra) - The strip mining occurring close to our home has a high acidic coal that in the past wouldn't have been mined, but now it is being performed with the justification that the alkaline substitutes from coal combustion waste (fly ash - fluidized bed and scrubber waste) that are being added, neutralizes the site. However, this has been shown to have associated problems like heavy metal leaching. We have become cognizant about how bad coal combustion waste issues can be, and EPA is slowly establishing regulations. Meanwhile, the Coresco site may be one of the largest in the Nation. This is a time bomb waiting to happen because of the leaching of heavy metals. (Jim Kotcon) ... Coresco would receive fly ash from a coalition of powerplants (Hatfield, Longview, etc). Coresco argues that they are exempt from certain landfill laws. Their landfill would be 500 feet tall on a 300 acre plot without any liner. Our argument is that DEP should wait until there are new landfill rules; DEP hasn't been very helpful and they are intent on allowing a permit to Coresco. ... Yes, I support this, and I am glad that MVCAC is on top of this. I suggest we invite the Woods to a public informational meeting. -Jonathan Reger-Nash, Bill wrote: > Duane et al, > > I support this proposed action. > > Be well and have a nice holiday weekend. > > Bill > Bill Reger-Nash, EdD > > Walk 30 minutes or more daily. > Feel the Power of Half an Hour. > > WVU Department of Community Medicine > Room 3812 E, Health Sciences South > One Medical Center Drive > Morgantown, WV 26506-9190 > 304-293-0763 > wreger <mailto:wreger@hsc.wvu.edu>@hsc.wvu. <mailto:wreger@hsc.wvu.edu>edu > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > *From:* mvcac-bounces(a)cheat.org [mvcac-bounces(a)cheat.org] On Behalf Of > Paula Hunt [pjhunt(a)xemaps.com] > *Sent:* Wednesday, March 31, 2010 9:43 PM > *To:* mvcac(a)cheat.org > *Subject:* Re: [MVCAC] PROPOSED ACTION ON COAL ASH TOXIC WASTE > > Let's do it! > > - paula huntAt 3/31/2010 07:58 PM, you wrote: >> IT IS HEREWITH PROPOSED THAT THE MON VALLEY CLEAN AIR COALITION JOIN >> OTHERS REGARDING >> THE PROTECTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT FROM THE SPREADING OF COAL ASH >> WITHOUT ADEQUATE >> SAFEGUARDS. COAL ASH FROM BOTH THE FORT MARTIN POWER PLANT AND THE >> LONGVIEW POWER >> PLANT ARE BEING CONSIDERED FOR "BENEFICIAL USE" DISPOSAL IN NORTH >> WESTERN MONONGALIA >> COUNTY. THIS PLAN INVOLVES SPREADING THE ASH ON THE SOIL, CLAIMING >> TO NEUTRALIZE ACIDIC >> COMPONENTS IN THE SOIL, WITHOUT FULL CONSIDERATION OF THE DEPTH OF >> APPLICATION OR THE >> TOXIC ELEMENTS THAT WILL LEACH THEREFROM. >> >> PLEASE INDICATE BY APRIL 5TH WHETHER YOU SUPPORT THIS PROPOSED ACTION >> BY THE "MVCAC". >> >> THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION, DUANE NICHOLS (DUANE NICHOLS, >> 304-216-5535) >> >> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >> >> *From:* Emily Enderle [ mailto:eenderle@earthjustice.org] >> *Sent:* Wednesday, March 31, 2010 2:10 PM >> >> *Subject:* Organizational CEO-level Sign on Letter to President Obama >> - Protect People from Toxic Coal Ash >> >> Dear Friends and Colleagues, >> >> Thank you all for your continued support on the coal ash issue. We >> hope your organizations will again join us in supporting another >> effort to protect people from this toxic waste. >> >> EPA committed to releasing a rule regulating the disposal of toxic >> coal ash, the second largest industrial waste in the U.S., by the end >> of 2009. EPA did its part by submitting the rule to the White House >> Office of Management and Budget (OMB) in mid-October. OMB has taken >> more than five months to review the rule—an extraordinary length of >> time. Durring this time, OMB has had more than 30 meetings with >> industry groups, providing industry with unprecedented closed-door >> access. Additionally, the White House itself has met with industry >> groups on this topic. The longer this rule drags out, the more time >> industry has to instill fear in lawmakers and the public by wildly >> exaggerating the costs and impacts of the regulation. In the >> meantime, as the Administration delays, our communities and >> environment are put at risk from the devastating impacts of unsafe >> coal ash disposal. >> >> In this letter, the CEOs of Earthjustice, NRDC, Environmental Justice >> Resource Center at Clark-Atlanta University, Physicians for Social >> Responsibility, Southern Environmental Law Center, Environmental >> Integrity Project and Sierra Club, are asking President Obama to >> stand by his Administration's principles - to allow science not >> industry to decide, provide a transparent process that enables the >> public to participate in a meaningful way, and protect people and >> their environment from toxic waste. >> >> Please have your organizations join us in signing on to the attached >> CEO-level letter (also pasted below). A fact sheet on the issue is >> attached. >> >> *To sign on, please email your* *CEO-level sign on information to >> Jeremy Graham at Earthjustice (jgraham(a)earthjustice.org >> <UrlBlockedError.aspx>) by Tuesday, April 6, 2010. Also, it'd be much >> appreciated if you'd circulate this to your networks. >> * >> CEO Name >> Title >> Organization >> City, State >> >> Thank you in advance for your help on this critical issue. >> Emily >> >> _____________________________________ >> Emily Ederle >> Legislative Associate >> Earthjustice >> 1625 Massachusetts Ave., NW >> Suite 702 >> Washington, DC 20036 >> T: 202-667-4500 ext. 201 >> C: 202-253-2397 >> F: 202-667-2356 >> www.earthjustice.org <UrlBlockedError.aspx> >> >> >> April ____, 2010 >> >> >> President Barack Obama >> The White House >> 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW >> Washington, DC 20500 >> >> Dear Mr. President: >> >> On behalf of our millions of members and supporters, we urge you to >> protect communities across this nation from the widespread >> mismanagement of coal combustion waste that endangers public health >> and the environment – and for which there are no current federall >> regulations. >> >> Following the disastrous spill of more than 1 billion gallons of coal >> ash from the Tennessee Valley Authorityâ€™s Kingston Fossil Plant in >> December 2008, 109 directors of environmental groups called upon EPA >> Administrator Lisa Jackson to develop federally enforceable standards >> for regulating coal combustion waste. Shortly thereafter, >> Administrator Jackson pledged to publish a regulatory proposal by >> December 2009. In keeping with her commitment, Administrator Jackson >> submitted a draft coal ash rule to the White House Office of >> Management and Budget (OMB) in October 2009—but over five months >> later, this rule remaiins under review at OMB. The undersigned >> [number of] public interest groups ask you to side with the public >> and sound science to ensure a rule that protects people and the >> environment is released in April. >> >> Continued delay in the issuance of federal regulations for the >> disposal of the 136 million tons of toxic coal combustion waste >> generated annually is dangerous and unacceptable. Unmitigated harm, >> often to poor and minority communities, continues to threaten the >> lives and environment of millions of Americans. Communities near >> Americaâ€™s thousands of coal ash dumps are threatened with poisoned >> drinking water, polluted waterways, and life-threatening failures of >> decades-old dams. The failure to act makes another catastrophic >> failure, like the disaster in Kingston, ever more likely, and it >> makes the poisoning of additional water sources a near certainty. >> >> Releasing the draft rule would trigger the public process of >> rulemaking, thereby ensuring a fair and open process in which all >> stakeholders have an equal opportunity to address the complexities of >> the proposed rule. Until the draft rule is released for public >> comment, the debate occurs almost entirely behind closed doors. >> Industry groups that oppose mandatory federal standards have had more >> than 30 meetings with OMB on this rule – more than ever before on any >> single topic. These groups continue to present unfounded claims of >> power plant closures and exaggerated cost estimates as â€œfact,â€? >> thereby fomenting widespread but unwarranted fear of EPA regulations. >> >> One of the issues industry is using to slow down the rulemaking >> process is the argument that the regulation of coal combustion waste >> will place a stigma on the recycling of fly ash. We believe this >> argument is overstated. Our groups support the beneficial use of fly >> ash. We do not expect the reuse of fly ash to decrease if the >> disposal of ash is regulated as hazardous waste. On the contrary, >> companies will be able to avoid the hazardous waste requirements by >> using coal ash beneficially. Therefore, we think coal ash regulation >> will promote more beneficial use. However, if the coal ash is not >> going to be reused or recycled, then it needs to be disposed of >> following tailored hazardous waste rules. >> >> The EPAâ€™s latest scientific findings lend urgency to the >> promulgation of federally enforceable standards. New EPA leach tests, >> specifically designed for coal ash, reveal that toxic chemicals such >> as arsenic, chromium and selenium, can leak from coal combustion >> waste in concentrations far exceeding the threshold that the EPA uses >> to identify hazardous waste. The EPA also found that the cancer risk >> for children exposed to arsenic in drinking water from unlined ash >> ponds is as high as 1 in 50, which is 2,000 times the EPA's goal of >> reducing cancer risk to 1 in 100,000 individuals. >> >> Further, leading coal combustion waste (CCW) scientists, with more >> than 100 years of combined research experience on the environmental >> fate and toxic impacts of coal ash, recommend federally enforceable >> standards. Drs. E. Dennis Lemly and Christopher Rowe, among others, >> recently submitted a letter to OMB stating â€œMake no mistake about >> it, CCW is a deadly poison to fish and wildlife, and a threat to >> human health when improperly managed.â€? They conclude: >> >> Some of the most destructive and pressing environmental problems with >> CCW are not â€˜in the distant pastâ€™ but are taking place NOW using >> â€˜state approvedâ€™ disposal practices. Threats and impacts are not >> being addressed by the coal power industry and they will not go >> away. They will be a recurring, escalating problem unless adequate >> regulatory controls are put in place. State efforts are >> inadequate….federall regulatory oversight is necessary. Experience >> shows that CCWâ€™s will need to carry a hazardous waste â€˜Câ€™ >> designation if they are to be regulated and disposed in a manner that >> will afford adequate protection to fish and wildlife, as well as >> humankind. >> >> We urge you to consider the EPAâ€™s latest scientific findings and >> the recommendations of scientific experts and put an end to further >> delay. >> >> Thus the undersigned [number] public interest organizations, >> representing several million citizens, respectfully ask the >> Administration to release the proposed coal ash rule for public >> comment this month and to ensure that the rule proposes federally >> enforceable standards that will protect all United States citizens >> and their environment from a truly toxic substance. >> >> Signed: >> >> >> Trip Van Noppen >> President >> Earthjustice >> Oakland, CA >> >> Eric Schaeffer >> Executive Director >> Environmental Integrity Project >> Washington, D.C. >> >> Dr. Robert Bullard >> Director >> Environmental Justice Resource Center at Clark Atlanta University >> Atlantic, GA >> >> Frances Beinecke >> President >> Natural Resources Defense Council >> New York, NY >> >> Peter Wilk >> Executive Director >> Physicians for Social Responsibility >> Washington, D.C. >> >> Michael Brune >> Executive Director >> Sierra Club >> San Francisco, CA >> >> -- >> Ryan Rittenhouse >> Public Citizen Texas >> 1303 San Antonio St. >> Austin, TX 78701 >> 512-477-1155 >> www.CoalBlock.org <UrlBlockedError.aspx> >> >> "If we use fuel to get our power, we are living on our capital and >> exhausting it rapidly. >> This method is barbarous and wantonly wasteful, and will have to be >> stopped in the interest of coming generations." >> - Nikola Tesla, 1915 >> >> _______________________________________________ >> MVCAC mailing list >> MVCAC(a)cheat.org >> http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/mvcac > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > > _______________________________________________ > MVCAC mailing list > MVCAC(a)cheat.org > http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/mvcac

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PROPOSED ACTION ON COAL ASH TOXIC WASTE
by duane330＠aol.com 31 Mar '10

31 Mar '10

IT IS HEREWITH PROPOSED THAT THE MON VALLEY CLEAN AIR COALITION JOIN OTHERS REGARDING THE PROTECTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT FROM THE SPREADING OF COAL ASH WITHOUT ADEQUATE SAFEGUARDS. COAL ASH FROM BOTH THE FORT MARTIN POWER PLANT AND THE LONGVIEW POWER PLANT ARE BEING CONSIDERED FOR "BENEFICIAL USE" DISPOSAL IN NORTH WESTERN MONONGALIA COUNTY. THIS PLAN INVOLVES SPREADING THE ASH ON THE SOIL, CLAIMING TO NEUTRALIZE ACIDIC COMPONENTS IN THE SOIL, WITHOUT FULL CONSIDERATION OF THE DEPTH OF APPLICATION OR THE TOXIC ELEMENTS THAT WILL LEACH THEREFROM. PLEASE INDICATE BY APRIL 5TH WHETHER YOU SUPPORT THIS PROPOSED ACTION BY THE "MVCAC". THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION, DUANE NICHOLS (DUANE NICHOLS, 304-216-5535) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> From: Emily Enderle [mailto:eenderle@earthjustice.org] Sent: Wednesday, March 31, 2010 2:10 PM Subject: Organizational CEO-level Sign on Letter to President Obama - Protect People from Toxic Coal Ash Dear Friends and Colleagues, Thank you all for your continued support on the coal ash issue. We hope your organizations will again join us in supporting another effort to protect people from this toxic waste. EPA committed to releasing a rule regulating the disposal of toxic coal ash, the second largest industrial waste in the U.S., by the end of 2009. EPA did its part by submitting the rule to the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) in mid-October. OMB has taken more than five months to review the rule—an extraordinary length of time. During this time, OMB has had more than 30 meetings with industry groups, providing industry with unprecedented closed-door access. Additionally, the White House itself has met with industry groups on this topic. The longer this rule drags out, the more time industry has to instill fear in lawmakers and the public by wildly exaggerating the costs and impacts of the regulation. In the meantime, as the Administration delays, our communities and environment are put at risk from the devastating impacts of unsafe coal ash disposal. In this letter, the CEOs of Earthjustice, NRDC, Environmental Justice Resource Center at Clark-Atlanta University, Physicians for Social Responsibility, Southern Environmental Law Center, Environmental Integrity Project and Sierra Club, are asking President Obama to stand by his Administration's principles - to allow science not industry to decide, provide a transparent process that enables the public to participate in a meaningful way, and protect people and their environment from toxic waste. Please have your organizations join us in signing on to the attached CEO-level letter (also pasted below). A fact sheet on the issue is attached. To sign on, please email your CEO-level sign on information to Jeremy Graham at Earthjustice (jgraham(a)earthjustice.org) by Tuesday, April 6, 2010. Also, it'd be much appreciated if you'd circulate this to your networks. CEO Name Title Organization City, State Thank you in advance for your help on this critical issue. Emily _____________________________________ Emily Ederle Legislative Associate Earthjustice 1625 Massachusetts Ave., NW Suite 702 Washington, DC 20036 T: 202-667-4500 ext. 201 C: 202-253-2397 F: 202-667-2356 www.earthjustice.org April ____, 2010 President Barack Obama The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, DC 20500 Dear Mr. President: On behalf of our millions of members and supporters, we urge you to protect communities across this nation from the widespread mismanagement of coal combustion waste that endangers public health and the environment – and for which there are no current federal regulations. Following the disastrous spill of more than 1 billion gallons of coal ash from the Tennessee Valley Authority’s Kingston Fossil Plant in December 2008, 109 directors of environmental groups called upon EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson to develop federally enforceable standards for regulating coal combustion waste. Shortly thereafter, Administrator Jackson pledged to publish a regulatory proposal by December 2009. In keeping with her commitment, Administrator Jackson submitted a draft coal ash rule to the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) in October 2009—but over five months later, this rule remains under review at OMB. The undersigned [number of] public interest groups ask you to side with the public and sound science to ensure a rule that protects people and the environment is released in April. Continued delay in the issuance of federal regulations for the disposal of the 136 million tons of toxic coal combustion waste generated annually is dangerous and unacceptable. Unmitigated harm, often to poor and minority communities, continues to threaten the lives and environment of millions of Americans. Communities near America’s thousands of coal ash dumps are threatened with poisoned drinking water, polluted waterways, and life-threatening failures of decades-old dams. The failure to act makes another catastrophic failure, like the disaster in Kingston, ever more likely, and it makes the poisoning of additional water sources a near certainty. Releasing the draft rule would trigger the public process of rulemaking, thereby ensuring a fair and open process in which all stakeholders have an equal opportunity to address the complexities of the proposed rule. Until the draft rule is released for public comment, the debate occurs almost entirely behind closed doors. Industry groups that oppose mandatory federal standards have had more than 30 meetings with OMB on this rule – more than ever before on any single topic. These groups continue to present unfounded claims of power plant closures and exaggerated cost estimates as “fact,” thereby fomenting widespread but unwarranted fear of EPA regulations. One of the issues industry is using to slow down the rulemaking process is the argument that the regulation of coal combustion waste will place a stigma on the recycling of fly ash. We believe this argument is overstated. Our groups support the beneficial use of fly ash. We do not expect the reuse of fly ash to decrease if the disposal of ash is regulated as hazardous waste. On the contrary, companies will be able to avoid the hazardous waste requirements by using coal ash beneficially. Therefore, we think coal ash regulation will promote more beneficial use. However, if the coal ash is not going to be reused or recycled, then it needs to be disposed of following tailored hazardous waste rules. The EPA’s latest scientific findings lend urgency to the promulgation of federally enforceable standards. New EPA leach tests, specifically designed for coal ash, reveal that toxic chemicals such as arsenic, chromium and selenium, can leak from coal combustion waste in concentrations far exceeding the threshold that the EPA uses to identify hazardous waste. The EPA also found that the cancer risk for children exposed to arsenic in drinking water from unlined ash ponds is as high as 1 in 50, which is 2,000 times the EPA's goal of reducing cancer risk to 1 in 100,000 individuals. Further, leading coal combustion waste (CCW) scientists, with more than 100 years of combined research experience on the environmental fate and toxic impacts of coal ash, recommend federally enforceable standards. Drs. E. Dennis Lemly and Christopher Rowe, among others, recently submitted a letter to OMB stating “Make no mistake about it, CCW is a deadly poison to fish and wildlife, and a threat to human health when improperly managed.” They conclude: Some of the most destructive and pressing environmental problems with CCW are not ‘in the distant past’ but are taking place NOW using ‘state approved’ disposal practices. Threats and impacts are not being addressed by the coal power industry and they will not go away. They will be a recurring, escalating problem unless adequate regulatory controls are put in place. State efforts are inadequate….federal regulatory oversight is necessary. Experience shows that CCW’s will need to carry a hazardous waste ‘C’ designation if they are to be regulated and disposed in a manner that will afford adequate protection to fish and wildlife, as well as humankind. We urge you to consider the EPA’s latest scientific findings and the recommendations of scientific experts and put an end to further delay. Thus the undersigned [number] public interest organizations, representing several million citizens, respectfully ask the Administration to release the proposed coal ash rule for public comment this month and to ensure that the rule proposes federally enforceable standards that will protect all United States citizens and their environment from a truly toxic substance. Signed: Trip Van Noppen President Earthjustice Oakland, CA Eric Schaeffer Executive Director Environmental Integrity Project Washington, D.C. Dr. Robert Bullard Director Environmental Justice Resource Center at Clark Atlanta University Atlantic, GA Frances Beinecke President Natural Resources Defense Council New York, NY Peter Wilk Executive Director Physicians for Social Responsibility Washington, D.C. Michael Brune Executive Director Sierra Club San Francisco, CA -- Ryan Rittenhouse Public Citizen Texas 1303 San Antonio St. Austin, TX 78701 512-477-1155 www.CoalBlock.org "If we use fuel to get our power, we are living on our capital and exhausting it rapidly. This method is barbarous and wantonly wasteful, and will have to be stopped in the interest of coming generations." - Nikola Tesla, 1915

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US EPA priorities
by Duane330＠aol.com 22 Mar '10

22 Mar '10

MESSAGES FROM THE EPA ADMINISTRATOR: WHY ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND ECONOMIC PROSPERITY GO HAND IN HAND AND WHAT EPA'S SEVEN PRIORITIES ARE EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson spoke at the National Press Club on March 8 on how environmental protection and economic prosperity go hand in hand to build a healthier, more prosperous nation, that "…economic opportunity is not possible without sustainability," and that "Without clean energy, the global economy will be running on empty within our lifetimes." _Full text of her remarks_ (http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/8d49f7ad4bbcf4ef852573590040b7f6/7…) . She also spoke earlier to EPA employees about EPA's seven priorities for EPA's future: * Taking Action on Climate Change * Improving Air Quality * Assuring the Safety of Chemicals * Cleaning Up Our Communities * Protecting America's Waters * Expanding the Conversation on Environmentalism and Working for Environmental Justice * Building Strong State and Tribal Partnerships _Read Administrator Jackson's memo_ (http://blog.epa.gov/administrator/2010/01/12/seven-priorities-for-epas-futu…) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

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[PSC Docket] ORDER on PSC Case 08-1521-E-C(Barbara Born, et al. v. Longv...
by Duane330＠aol.com 18 Mar '10

18 Mar '10

____________________________________ From: docketnotify(a)psc.state.wv.us To: duane330(a)aol.com Sent: 3/18/2010 3:11:00 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time Subj: [PSC Docket] ORDER on PSC Case 08-1521-E-C(Barbara Born, et al. v. Longview P The case 08-1521-E-C (Barbara Born, et al. v. Longview Power, LLC) has had the following activity : Activity Date: 03/18/2010 Activity Description: Commission Final Order dismissing the complaint as it did not show non-compliance by Longview; directing Longview to file copies of all PA permits obtained as part of this project; etc. Case Final. Removing from open docket. _Click here to view associated document._ (http://www.psc.state.wv.us/scripts/WebDocket/ViewDocument.cfm?CaseActivityI…'servicelist'&Ca seServiceListID=31397) This is an automated message. Do not respond to this message. The Public Service Commission of West Virginia does not accept electronic filings, you will receive a hard copy in the mail. If you wish to respond to the enclosed document, you may do so in writing. Please send your response to the Executive Secretary at the address below. Please add docketnotify(a)psc.state.wv.us to your address book to ensure delivery of this notice. About this Notice: You are receiving this notice at duane330(a)aol.com as part of the PSC Service List for this case. If you have received this notice in error, please contact the _Docket Officer_ (mailto:caseinfo@psc.state.wv.us) at: Public Service Commission Of West Virginia P.O. Box 812 Charleston, WV 25323 304-340-0384 or Toll Free 1-800-344-5113 ext 384 Fax: 304-340-0325

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The Globe is Warming
by Duane330＠aol.com 07 Mar '10

07 Mar '10

Proof of Man-Made Global Warming Grows 'Stronger' LONDON (March 5) -- Climate scientists have hit back at skeptics with the publication of a new paper that says the case for man-made global warming is now "stronger than ever." An international team of scientists led by Britain's Met Office -- the country's national weather service -- has spent the past year reviewing 110 studies published since 2007 that tracked changes in the earth's climate. Their paper, _published in the journal Wiley Interdisciplinary Reviews: Climate Change_ (http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/journal/123310513/abstract) , concluded that the possibility the world is warming because of natural variations in climate (such as increased volcanic or solar activity) is "increasingly remote." Instead, they firmly pin the blame on man's burning of fossil fuels. "The science reveals a consistent picture of global change that clearly bears the fingerprint of man-made greenhouse gas emissions," said Peter Stott, head of climate monitoring at the Met Office Hadley Centre for climate research. "Our climate is changing now, and it's very likely human activity is to blame." Public confidence in climate science has been knocked by a succession of scandals over the past six months. Revelations that the 2007 report from the _U.N. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change_ (http://www.aolnews.com/science/article/un-admits-error-in-overstating-himal…) contained several unverifiable claims, and that the influential climate unit at the University of East Anglia apparently withheld data from skeptics, have led many people to doubt the theory of man-made climate change. Stott says the new Met Office report isn't an attempt to counter this growing wave of skepticism, as the team started work a year ago, long before those so-called Climategate scandals broke. But it is an unashamed attempt to refocus the public debate on the actual science of climate change, rather than claims made about individual scientists in the media. "I hope people will look at that evidence and make up their minds informed by the scientific evidence," _he told the Guardian_ (http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2010/mar/05/met-office-analysis-clima…) . His team put together the new set of evidence by comparing computer models of possible causes of climate change, both human and natural, to actual measured changes in air and sea temperature, Arctic sea ice cover, global rainfall patterns and other factors. This forensic technique, known as "optimal detection," reveals how much an observation can be explained by natural changes, such as volcanoes or El Niño, and how much it's attributable to atmospheric increases in carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. The study found that the climate system had changed in ways that closely followed the pattern of man-made climate change predicted by computer models. Human activity, it states, is almost certainly the only explanation for climatic variations recorded across the world -- such as the increase of rain in the northern countries and the decrease in the south, or the retreat of Arctic sea ice. Stott dismissed a popular idea put forward by many skeptics that changes in the solar radiation (or "global brightening") could be behind the shifts. "There hasn't been an increase in solar output for the last 50 years," he said, "and solar output would not have caused cooling of the higher atmosphere and the warming of the lower atmosphere that we have seen." _http://www.aolnews.com/world/article/evidence-of-man-made-global-warming-gr ows-stronger/19384663?icid=main|htmlws-main-n|dl2|link3|http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aol news.com%2Fworld%2Farticle%2Fevidence-of-man-made-global-warming-grows-stron ger%2F19384663_ (http://www.aolnews.com/world/article/evidence-of-man-made-global-warming-gr… ://www.aolnews.com/world/article/evidence-of-man-made-global-warming-grows-s tronger/19384663)

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Latest news ...........
by Duane330＠aol.com 05 Mar '10

05 Mar '10

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> The EIA has a monthly report on electricity usage in the US at _http://www.eia.doe.gov/cneaf/electricity/epm/epm_sum.html_ (http://www.eia.doe.gov/cneaf/electricity/epm/epm_sum.html) The latest one shows electrical usage dropping 4.6% in 2009 vs. 2008 and coal-generated electricity decreasing a whooping 12.4%. Factor in a recession, but this is still very good news.

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Science March 5th Issue--This is huge
by Duane330＠aol.com 04 Mar '10

04 Mar '10

Little Things Do Matter Gas-phase sulfuric acid is important during atmospheric particle formation, but the mechanisms by which it forms new particles are unclear. Laboratory studies of the binary nucleation of sulfuric acid with water produce particles at rates that are many orders of magnitude too small to explain the concentration of sulfuric acid particles found in the atmosphere. Sipilä et al. (p. _1243_ (http://www.info-aaas.org/l.jsp?d=3901.451668.654.0r2V29Nui) ) now show that gas-phase sulfuric acid does, in fact, undergo nucleation in the presence of water at a rate fast enough to account for the observed abundance of sulfuric acid particles in the atmosphere. These particles, which contain 1 to 2 sulfuric acid molecules each, were not detectable previously, owing to their small size, with diameters as small as 1.5 nanometers. ____________________________________

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New web-site at dep.wv.gov
by Duane330＠aol.com 03 Mar '10

03 Mar '10

To: MVCAC. Try the new WV-DEP web-site at _www.dep.wv.gov_ (http://www.dep.wv.gov) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Air _Division of Air Quality Home_ (http://www.dep.wv.gov/daq/Pages/default.aspx) _Air Quality Index_ (http://www.dep.wv.gov/daq/air-monitoring/Pages/AirQualityIndex.aspx) _Open Burning Regulations_ (http://www.dep.wv.gov/daq/CandE/Pages/OpenBurning.aspx) _Air Monitoring Data_ (http://www.dep.wv.gov/daq/air-monitoring/Pages/dataprocessing.aspx) _Permit Application Forms_ (http://www.dep.wv.gov/daq/permitting/Pages/default.aspx) _Policies_ (http://www.dep.wv.gov/daq/General/Pages/Policies.aspx)

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Secondhand Smoke & public health
by Duane330＠aol.com 25 Feb '10

25 Feb '10

Noted Secondhand Smoke Expert to visit WVU Tuesday March 2 Stanton Glantz, Ph.D., Professor of Cardiology from the University of California San Francisco, will present a public health grand round entitled “ Secondhand Smoke and Cardiovascular Health – It’s Even Worse than you Think” at noon in room 1905, HSC Learning Center. Dr. Glantz is considered an international authority on secondhand smoke and has authored over 200 scientific publications. Glantz’s recent analyses confirming reductions in heart attacks among non-smokers were published in Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association and Journal of the American College of Cardiology in September of 2009. Glantz has appeared in film and television programs including the PBS Series, Frontline. He is one of the founders of Americans for Nonsmokers’ Rights. His visit is sponsored by the Department of Community Medicine and the Translational Tobacco Reduction Research Program as part of the Current Clinical Concepts in Tobacco Treatment Series and Public Health Grand Rounds. For information on Continuing Education and webcast access, visit: _http://www.hsc.wvu.edu/som/cmed/ophp/grandRounds.asp_ (http://www.hsc.wvu.edu/som/cmed/ophp/grandRounds.asp) Lunch will be provided for those who RSVP by February 26th to _ophp(a)hsc.wvu.edu_ (mailto:ophp@hsc.wvu.edu) For additional dates and topics in the Current Clinical Concepts in Tobacco Treatment Series, please view the attached “Save the Date” flyer.

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<CRU> Climate Change Data Sets Are Huge
by duane330＠aol.com 18 Feb '10

18 Feb '10

Science 19 February 2010: Vol. 327. no. 5968, p. 934. [DOI: 10.1126/science.327.5968.934] News of the Week, Newsmaker Interview by Eli Kintisch Embattled U.K. Scientist Defends Track Record of Climate Center Phil Jones is at the center of a swirling controversy over e-mails stolen or leaked from the Climatic Research Unit (CRU) at the University of East Anglia in the United Kingdom, which he has directed since 2004. In the 3 months since those messages came to light, Jones has been battered by criticism that the e-mails reveal a failure to share climate data publicly and an effort to prevent certain papers from being cited in international climate change reports. He's stepped down temporarily from his job to allow for an independent inquiry, and he's been treated for depression. But Jones hasn't walked away from the battlefield. "I've got no agenda here. I'm not a politician. I'm just a scientist," he told Science during an interview last week from the University of East Anglia. Jones declined to talk about allegations concerning the hacked e-mails, citing the ongoing investigation. But he forcefully defended the quality of the center's efforts to create a global temperature database, which points to an average 0.1°C warming of Earth's land areas per decade since 1900. That work earned him a 2002 medal from the European Geosciences Union, among other acclaim. Here are some highlights from the interview. Q: If the CRU data set were set aside, are there other data that corroborate your findings about rising temperatures? P.J.: There's the two other data sets produced in the U.S. [at NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration]. But there's also a lot of other evidence showing that the world's warming, by just looking outside and seeing glaciers retreating, the reduction of sea ice ... overall, the reduction of snow areas in the Northern Hemisphere, the earlier [annual] breakup of sea ice and some land ice, and river ice around the world, and the fact that spring seems to be coming earlier in many parts of the world. Q: Critics say that your producing the same trends as the NASA and NOAA data sets is insignificant given that you start with the same raw data. CREDIT: UEA P.J.: There are differences. The two American sets use a larger number of [temperature] stations than we do. They both use about 7200 stations, and we use about 5000 stations. But we look at that data in different ways and have different techniques for deciding whether the stations are used or not. Q: One of the real challenges is going from the available raw data to the final temperature sets that you release. Do you feel that you have released enough information that someone could repeat that exercise? P.J.: Yes, I feel they have. [Our papers] have been peer-reviewed; we've been doing this work for almost 30 years now. [NOAA] has something called the Global Historical Climatology Network, and people can download the station data—it's essentially the same data, it may not be exactly the same—they could go and take that data, make their own choices about what stations to use, ... they could reproduce their own gridded temperature data. A lot of the people at the moment criticize what we do but [are not doing] anything constructive and new. Q: A sticking point with some of your critics has been how much of the data isn't available. P.J.: We've been putting up more of the data online on the U.K. Met Office site [covering] 80% of the stations we use. You can download the data and you can download the program we use to produce the data sets. Q: One concern is whether there are adequate procedures in place to assure the quality of this data. P.J.: That's the sort of work we've done in the past and published in the papers. Q: You've emphasized that you have a small staff. Would more people checking these data be a useful thing? P.J.: It could be useful, but then we've got to bring them up to speed in terms of what we're looking for. ... The national meteorological services [which provide the raw numbers] are doing quality control on this data before it even reaches us. Q: When during your career has pressure from outsiders to criticize or, as you would put it, "distort" your work become significant? P.J.: In 2007, [as] the blog sites started then. I had responded to some of these people in years earlier but had given up. ... I just didn't have the time to respond. They didn't seem to want to understand. Q: One of the skeptics who wanted station data was Warwick Hughes. What did you mean when you wrote in an e-mail to him that "even if WMO [World Meteorological Organization] agrees, I will still not pass on the data. We have 25 or so years invested in the work." P.J.: I'd rather not go there. It was an e-mail written in haste. Q: When did the pressure become severe? P.J.: In July 2009, we received 60 Freedom of Information requests in a few days—each request was for five countries' worth of data. We probably should've responded to these requests in a different way. We stand by the science that we were doing. Maybe we need to be more proactive and open about releasing data. But the 60 requests were just too much to deal with at that one time. Q: Do you have any regrets about how you handled the chapter you've co-authored in the 2007 IPCC report? P.J.: No regrets, but I don't really want to go talking about IPCC. I stand by that chapter. Q: Why are you speaking out now? P.J.: It just seems like the right time. It was too difficult back in November and December. Science. ISSN 0036-8075 (print), 1095-9203 (online) "that's my story and I'm sticking to it"

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EPA active in air quality
by duane330＠aol.com 16 Feb '10

16 Feb '10

EPA'S NEW NATIONAL AMBIENT AIR QUALITY STANDARD FOR NITROGEN DIOXIDE WILL BETTER PROTECT PUBLIC HEALTH EPA has strengthened the health-based National Ambient Air Quality Standard for nitrogen dioxide (NO2) to better protect public health. "We're updating these standards to build on the latest scientific data and meet changing health protection needs," said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. "In addition to limiting annual average concentrations, we're preventing high NO2 levels for shorter periods of time and adding stronger monitoring in areas near roadways, where the highest levels of NO2 are often found. This will fill current standard gaps and provide important additional protections where they are needed most." Details about the proposal: http://www.epa.gov/air/nitrogenoxides EPA UPDATES DATA TO ITS SCHOOL AIR TOXICS WEBSITE On Jan. 22, EPA posted additional school air toxics data to the www.epa.gov/schoolair website reflecting data collected through Dec. 21, 2009 for all 9 schools in Region 3. EPA is analyzing the data to determine the health effects, if any, from long term exposure to these air toxics and is writing the reports for schools that have completed monitoring. To date, most of the school air toxics monitors in Region 3 have not shown any toxics above the levels of concern for long term level of exposure. There have been some elevated levels of manganese at Follansbee Elementary School in Follansbee, W. Va. and elevated levels of benzene at South Allegheny Middle/High School in Allegheny County, Pa.

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AE value = $4.7 (stock) + $3.8 (debt)..???
by Duane330＠aol.com 11 Feb '10

11 Feb '10

FirstEnergy, owner of Jersey Central Power & Light, agrees to buy Allegheny Energy for $4.7B By _The Associated Press_ (http://connect.nj.com/user/njoapnews/index.html) , February 11, 2010, 8:13AM Utility company FirstEnergy said today it is buying rival Allegheny Energy for about $4.7 billion in stock in a deal that will create one of the nation's largest power companies with customers from Ohio to New York. The combined company will have about $16 billion in annual revenue and $1.4 billion in profit and serve more than 6 million customers in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Virginia and West Virginia. "The combination of our companies is a natural fit that will accelerate our efforts to strengthen the operating performance of our generating fleet while building on our long-standing dedication to customers, shareholders and employees," Anthony J. Alexander, CEO of FirstEnergy, said in a statement. Alexander will remain the top executive of the combined company, which will be based at FirstEnergy's headquarters in Akron, Ohio. The deal is expected to close within 14 months. Shareholders of Allegheny, based in Greensburg, Pa., will receive 0.667 shares of FirstEnergy common stock in exchange for each share they own. Based on Tuesday's closing price, those shares will be valued at $27.65 and represent a 32 percent premium over Allegheny's closing price of $21.02 on Wednesday. Allegheny shares rose 19 percent to $25 in premarket trading. The deal will also include FirstEnergy's assumption of $3.8 billion in debt.

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"the mother of all verticals"
by Duane330＠aol.com 30 Jan '10

30 Jan '10

____________________________________ January 29, 2010, 9:47 am Private Equity Is Bullish on Clean Energy By _CEZARY PODKUL_ (http://greeninc.blogs.nytimes.com/author/cezary-podkul/) With strong interest from corporations eyeing the clean energy sector, 2010 could turn out to be a good time for private equity and venture capital firms to pursue investments. “One of the most exciting things about the space now – this applies all the way down the bottom to the early-stage technology firms – is that there is a tremendous amount of strategic interest in this space,” said Hovey Kemp, a private equity lawyer at the law firm _Goodwin Procter_ (http://www.goodwinprocter.com/) , said at the _Dow Jones Private Equity Analyst Outlook 2010_ (http://peaoutlook.dowjones.com/) meeting in New York earlier this week. He added that one could easily put together a long list of “very large corporations” that are paying “very close attention” to the sector, among them networking equipment maker _Cisco_ (http://www.cisco.com/) and electronics manufacturer _Samsung_ (http://www.samsung.com/us/) . “There are buyers out there that are going to emerge here,” he said. For private equity and venture capital firms, which collectively _invested $6 billion into the clean energy sector in 2009_ (http://www.newenergymatters.com/download.php?n=NEF_Q4_Fact_Pack_07_01_2010.… ses) , according to the consulting firm Bloomberg New Energy Finance, this could translate to a variety of selling opportunities as a way of exiting their investments. Investors at the event also saw good reasons to be buyers in the sector. Chris Hearn of the private equity firm _First Reserve Corporation_ (http://www.firstreserve.com/go.asp?Go=!SiteStation&x=TPLGen&ResType=Folder&… PL=HomePage.htm) said long-term electricity needs in the United States would continue to rise, thanks in part to greater use of electric vehicles. Tucker Twitmyer of the clean-energy private equity firm _EnerTech Capital_ (http://www.enertechcapital.com/) , pointed to smart gird technology as an area where investors can get a quick return on their capital. It may take a few years for private equity and venture capital firms to figure it out, Mr. Hovey said, but the clean energy sector could become “the mother of all verticals” for private investors.

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<action item> Coal ash dump sites are huge and toxic
by duane330＠aol.com 28 Jan '10

28 Jan '10

We have waited far too long for comprehensive protections against the toxic coal ash threat. Please take a moment to stand up for public health! Take action today! Dear colleague, People living near coal ash dump sites often tell similar stories of illness, poisoned drinking water supplies and environmental destruction. For decades, these massive toxic dumps, sometimes millions of gallons deep and hundreds of acres wide, have been unregulated, unmonitored and ignored. But on Dec. 22, 2008, everything changed. That night, more than 1 billion gallons of toxic coal ash burst through a dam and flooded 300 acres in rural Tennessee. Dozens of homes were damaged or destroyed, and the Environmental Protection Agency vowed to act. Citizens just like you sent letters and made phone calls to the EPA, pleading for swift action to guarantee the safety and environment for millions of Americans living near these dangerous sites. But, one year later, we still wait for federal oversight. The EPA has a plan to regulate coal ash as hazardous waste, but well-funded lobbyists for the coal and power industries are blocking EPA's attempt to protect public health and the environment. They are meeting with White House officials, spreading false information about coal ash and obscuring the need for strong federal oversight. Please take a moment to stand up for public health by calling, faxing or emailing the White House to tell them that coal ash must be immediately regulated as hazardous waste: http://action.earthjustice.org/campaign/coalash_0110/7unw7g407j37ddm?#start… America has waited far too long for comprehensive protections against this toxic coal ash threat. Industry should not be allowed to flex its lobbyist muscle and stand in the way of better health and a cleaner environment. — Earthjustice

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Fwd: EPA proposes to stiffen ozone standard
by duane330＠aol.com 11 Jan '10

11 Jan '10

-----Original Message----- From: John Gever <jgever(a)gmail.com> To: Duane330(a)aol.com <Duane330(a)aol.com>; James Kotcon <jkotcon(a)wvu.edu> Sent: Thu, Jan 7, 2010 12:56 pm Subject: EPA proposes to stiffen ozone standard http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/0/D70B9C433C46FAA3852576A40058B1D4 The agency is proposing to set the “primary” standard, which protects ublic health, at a level between 0.060 and 0.070 parts per million ppm) measured over eight hours. Children are at the greatest risk rom ozone, because their lungs are still developing, they are most ikely to be active outdoors, and they are more likely than adults to ave asthma. Adults with asthma or other lung diseases, and older dults are also sensitive to ozone. EPA is also proposing to set a separate “secondary” standard to rotect the environment, especially plants and trees. This seasonal tandard is designed to protect plants and trees from damage occurring rom repeated ozone exposure, which can reduce tree growth, damage eaves, and increase susceptibility to disease. - ohn Gever edPage Today el. 1-304-243-0826 ell 1-304-780-9772 kype 1-412-567-2949 (pre-arranged interviews only) .gever(a)medpagetoday.com or jgever(a)gmail.com ttp://www.medpagetoday.com =

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Fwd: PennFuture Appeals AMDRI permit for Dunkard Creek
by James Kotcon 05 Jan '10

05 Jan '10

The actual appeal (filed Dec. 30) mentioned below is available at the link at the end of this article. It appears to be a very well-documented case and ties together Dunkard Creek, Longview, ConSol (Himphrey Mine), Dana Mining, PA-DEP, and AMD Reclamation, Inc. This is some important reading. JBK >>> Betty Wiley betty.w304(a)gmail.com> 1/4/2010 11:27 PM >> ( mailto:betty.w304@gmail.com> ) http://www.businesswire.com/portal/site/home/permalink/?ndmViewId=news_view… Business Wire January 04, 2010 05:12 PM Eastern Time PennFuture, Friends of Dunkard Creek File Appeal on Mine Water Treatment Permit Allowing Dirty Water to Be Released into Creek Permit Changed without Public Notice HARRISBURG, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Attorneys with Citizens for Pennsylvania's Future (PennFuture) last week filed an appeal before the Environmental Hearing Board challenging an amendment to the permit for the Shannopin Mine Dewatering Project. The appeal was filed on behalf of Friends of Dunkard Creek, as well as PennFuture. "The relaxed standards do not apply to the water being pumped from Consol's permitted Humphrey No. 7 Mine, which is not being done to avert a disaster, but to allow mining of the coal reserves above the Humphrey Mine." The Shannopin Mine Dewatering Project, which was designed to prevent a catastrophic breakout of acid mine water from the abandoned Shannopin Mine into Dunkard Creek, was originally granted a permit allowing less stringent cleanup of the dangerous water. The challenged permit amendment, for which no public notice was given, would allow the project to collect water from Consolidation Coal Company's (Consol) permitted Humphrey No. 7 Mine, where no breakout risk exists, and to treat that water to the less than optimal cleanup allowed in the original emergency situation. The permit amendment was granted by the Department of Environmental Protection's (DEP) Mining Program despite a finding nine months before by a DEP biologist that the Shannopin Project's discharge into Dunkard Creek contained high levels of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) and other pollutants, which were causing harm to aquatic life in the creek. The permit amendment was issued two months after a massive kill of fish, mussels, and salamanders occurred in more than 40 miles of Dunkard Creek. "The lax water cleanup standards were allowed originally to avert an emergency - an impending breakout of acid mine pollution from the abandoned Shannopin Mine that would have severely polluted miles of Dunkard Creek and the Monongahela River," said PennFuture Senior Attorney Kurt Weist. "The relaxed standards do not apply to the water being pumped from Consol's permitted Humphrey No. 7 Mine, which is not being done to avert a disaster, but to allow mining of the coal reserves above the Humphrey Mine. "In March, DEP's water quality experts recommended that more stringent water quality limits be included in the renewal of the discharge permit for the Shannopin Project, which is now nearly sixteen months overdue," continued Weist. "It obviously is unreasonable to issue an amendment allowing another source of mine drainage to be connected to the Shannopin Project's treatment system before DEP renews the existing permit and puts the more protective limits into effect." Jim O'Connell of Friends of Dunkard Creek agreed, "How anyone could have granted this permit revision after the destruction we experienced last summer is beyond me. And you can bet that if there had been any public notice, DEP would have heard our objections loud and clear. It's time to reverse this backroom deal and clean up the water." A copy of the appeal filed by PennFuture is online at http://www.pennfuture.org/userfiles10/CalvinRunNOAwithoutattachments.pdf Contacts Citizens for Pennsylvania's Future Jeanne K. Clark, 412-258-6683 or 412-736-6092 info(a)pennfuture.org www.pennfuture.org ( http://www.pennfuture.org/ ) At A Glance Citizens for Pennsylvania's Future (PennFuture) Headquarters: Harrisburg, PA Website: http://www.pennfuture.org ( http://www.pennfuture.org/ ) CEO: Jan Jarrett Employees: 21 Organization: Non-profit Source: via Business Wire Updated 03/24/2009 by company Permalink: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20100104006386/en/PennFuture%2C-Frien…

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Longview is back at the PSC
by James Kotcon 22 Dec '09

22 Dec '09

In a filing on Nov. 11, Longview opened a new proceeding by asking the PSC to approve that Industrial Revenue Bonds to be issued by the WV EDA "do not offend the public interest", and further asked that this not be considered a "material modification" of the 2006 certificate. Staff filed a response on Dec. 14 indicating they had no objection, but asked the PSC to order Longview to file a notice to all parties in the earlier proceedings and allow time for public comment. Longview on Dec. 21 filed a one-paragraph letter indicating they had no response to Staff's recommendation. The IRB's would be used to finance "solid waste facilities" such as scrubbers, and other air pollution control equipment, including "solid waste disposal and recycling facilities" and "solid waste landfills". Although Longview claims that the footprint of the facility has not changed, I would point out that a MepCo subsidiary, Coresco, LLC. has pending an application for surface mine permit modification to expand a flyash disposal landfill to serve Longview on property immediately west of the current Longview site. In that application, Coresco indicates that they are exempt from solid waste landfill regulations because the disposal constitutes a "beneficial use". The IRBs would also be used to finance wastewater systems including discharge process water, storm water runoff, and sanitary sewage. Longview included a map indicating to location of the water treatment plant and pipelines running from the Mon River to the plant. In a separate matter, Longview filed a request on Dec. 16 asking that the 2008 complaint about the alternate water source be dismissed because the various regulatory agencies have all granted the appropriate permits to approve their new water treatment plant and pipeline to the plant. Does anyone else think that these changes, if approved, would constitute the PSC's blessings for al that Longview wants to do, as well as the dismissal of the 2008 complaint. Merry Christmas. JBK

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Re: [MVCAC] Diesel Resolution
by James Kotcon 05 Dec '09

05 Dec '09

As a general rule, I tend to be leery of anti-diesel stuff, but this one is from the Clean Air Task Force (which has loads of good stuff) and appears to be a very credible proposal. My only concern is that "Plans" are overly vague, but this would be a good start and I recommend that WVEC and MVCAC consider it. Diesel smoke is substantially more toxic than the particulates from power plants, so cleaning these up is a good start. I especially like the part about retro-fitting old diesels. JBK --- On Thu, 12/3/09, Ryan Bodanyi <rbodanyi(a)catf.us> wrote: From: Ryan Bodanyi <rbodanyi(a)catf.us> Subject: Re: Jim, the Sierra Club, and Diesel Date: Thursday, December 3, 2009, 3:37 AM Hi Jim, My name is Ryan Bodanyi, and I work with the Clean Air Task Force. I’m writing to ask for your chapter's support for the attached “Diesel Clean-up Platform,” which has already been endorsed by five chapters of the Sierra Club nationwide – Connecticut, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island. Why clean up diesel emissions? Here’s a few reasons: 1. Health.Fine particle pollution produced by diesel engines causes 21,000 deaths a year – on a par with drunk driving (17,000), HIV/AIDS (14,000) and firearm homicide (12,000). (1) Diesel engines are known for their durability, but older engines emit a toxic mixture of particles, metals, and gases, including over 40 “hazardous air pollutants” as classified by EPA. On average, the US cancer risk posed by diesel pollution is 7 times greater than the cancer risk from all other 133 air toxics tracked by EPA combined. 2. Climate Change. As a warming pollutant, black carbon in diesel pollution is about 2000 times more potent than CO2. Diesels account for over half of the US black carbon emissions. The lifetime of soot in the air (weeks to months) is much less than carbon dioxide (50 to 200 years). As such, removing soot emissions may have a faster effect on slowing global warming than removing carbon dioxide emissions. (2) 3. West Virginia. In West Virginia alone, diesel emissions contribute to 73 premature deaths, 79 non-fatal heart attacks, and 6,616 lost work days each year (see http://www.catf.us/projects/diesel/dieselhealth/state.php?site=0&s=54 ), with the monetized value of health impacts estimated at $580 million. 4. Children. Children breathe 50% more air per pound than adults, and therefore consume more airborne pollution. Additionally, particles are known to pose a host of health risks to children such as lung growth retardation and asthma. 5. Worker Safety. Workers are exposed to unnecessary levels of diesel pollution on the job from construction equipment, transit buses, long-haul trucks and other diesel sources. For example, a study of diesel mechanics, train crewmen, and electricians working in a closed space near diesel generators suggested that diesel exposure may have caused both airway obstruction and serious impairment to the central nervous system. The report concluded that “impaired crews may be unable to operate trains safely.” (3) Studies have documented a 50% higher chance of heart disease in truckers and have found heartbeat irregularities in otherwise healthy, young North Carolina state troopers. (4) (5) (6) 6. Environmental Justice. EJ communities are often most impacted due to proximity to polluting sources. 7. Economic. Using accepted valuation methodology employed by the EPA in recent regulatory impact analyses, Abt Associates finds that the total monetized cost of the U.S. diesel fleet’s fine particle pollution will be a staggering $139 billion in 2010. (7) However an analysis by Keybridge Associates estimates that a $1B investment in clean diesel technology would yield 19,000 jobs. About the Platform Your support for the platform does not include support for any legislation. Instead it is a broad call to action which has already been endorsed by 320 groups nationwide, including the American Lung Association, Environmental Defense, Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, and others. A complete list can be found in the attached platform. How to Endorse Simply email me – Ryan Bodanyi – at rbodanyi(a)catf.us ( about:/mc/compose?to=rbodanyi@catf.us ), and I’ll be sure to add you! Questions? If you’d like more information about any of the points I’ve mentioned above, or more information in general, simply email me at rbodanyi(a)catf.us ( about:/mc/compose?to=rbodanyi@catf.us ) and I’ll respond to your request straightaway! In the meanwhile I hope you’ll look over the platform and consider giving it your endorsement! Yours sincerely, Ryan B. Citations (1) Diesel and Health in America: The Lingering Threat by Conrad G. Schneider and L. Bruce Hill, Ph.D. Published by the Clean Air Task Force, February 2005. Available online at http://www.catf.us/publications/view/83. (2) See http://news.stanford.edu/pr/02/jacobsonJGR1023.html. (3) Kilburn, K.H., Effects of Diesel Exhaust on Neurobehavioral and Pulmonary Functions, Archives of Environmental Health, Vol. 55, No. 1, (2000), pp. 11-17. (4) Riediker, M., Cascia, W., Griggs, T., Herbst, M.m Bromberg, P., Neas, L., Williams, R., and Devlin, R. (2004). Particulate matter exposure in cars is associated with cardiovascular effects in healthy young men. American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, v. 169, p. 934-940. (5) Riediker, M, Williams, R., Devlin, R., Griggs, T., and Bromberg, P. (2003). Exposure to particulate matter, volatile organic compounds and other air pollutants inside patrol cars. Environmental Science and Technology, v. 37, p. 2084-2093. (6) Laden, F., Hart, J., Smith, T., Davis, M., and Garshick, E. (2007) Cause-specific mortality in the trucking industry. Environmental Health Perspectives, v. 115, no. 8. p. 1192-1196. (7) Diesel and Health in America: The Lingering Threat by Conrad G. Schneider and L. Bruce Hill, Ph.D. Published by the Clean Air Task Force, February 2005. Available online at http://www.catf.us/publications/view/83. *************** Ryan Bodanyi Special Projects Coordinator, Diesel Campaign Clean Air Task Force http://www.catf.us/ rbodanyi(a)catf.us Cell: (401) 829-6192

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Fwd: GASPalert: Let PA DEP know you want strong Coal Combustion Waste regulat...
by Duane330＠aol.com 04 Dec '09

04 Dec '09

For your information. Duane

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PUBLIC CAN TRACK SO2 AND NOx EMISSIONS
by Duane330＠aol.com 30 Nov '09

30 Nov '09

PUBLIC CAN TRACK SO2 AND NOx EMISSIONS AT COAL-FIRED POWER PLANTS VIA WEBSITE EPA has improved its interactive tracking tools on EPA's website to help the public track sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions from coal-fired power plants and other indicators at individual coal-fired power plants subject to the _Acid Rain Program_ (http://www.epa.gov/airmarkets/progsregs/arp/index.html) . The Acid Rain Program requires power plants to reduce emissions of SO2 and nitrogen oxides (NOx) - the primary causes of acid rain - and since 1995 has achieved significant environmental and public health benefits. In 2008, electric generating units (subject to the market-based cap and trade SO2 program) emitted 7.6 million tons of SO2, a level well below the current annual emission cap of 9.5 million tons. The interactive tracking tool and quarterly updates of emissions data from coal-fired plants is available at _http://www.epa.gov/airmarkets/quarterlytracking.html_ (http://www.epa.gov/airmarkets/quarterlytracking.html) Note: If a link above doesn't work, please copy and paste the URL into a browser.

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Health Effects of Global Warming Report
by Duane330＠aol.com 26 Nov '09

26 Nov '09

Saving the planet does a body good By Jim Snyder - 11/25/09 02:39 PM ET THE HILL'S Energy and Environment Blog Efforts to reduce greenhouse gases may not just head off catastrophic climate change. They could improve your health too. The medical journal The Lancet has published a _series of articles_ (http://www.thelancet.com/series/health-and-climate-change) on the health benefits associated with activities designed to address global warming. Global warming itself is seen as a threat to human health. It could reduce water supplies and lead to more severe weather patterns like hurricanes, drought and heat waves. But “appropriate mitigation strategies” will themselves have “additional and independent effects on health,” a summary of the series states. For example, replacing inefficient cook stoves in India would reduce indoor air pollution and decrease the incidence of respiratory infections in children younger than 5 years old and chronic respiratory and heart disease in adults 30 years and older. Walking more and driving less, meanwhile, could cut the rates of heart disease, stroke, cancer, dementia and depression. Daniel Carucci, vice president for Global Health of the United Nations Foundation, said the studies, “highlight the importance of the co-benefits of climate change mitigation on health and importantly suggest that the health outcomes of these strategies could be immediate and long lasting.”

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the pace and scale of climate change
by Duane330＠aol.com 12 Nov '09

12 Nov '09

Climate Change: Amid Worrisome Signs of Warming, 'Climate Fatigue' Sets In <NOBR>Richard A This September, the United Nations Environment Programme issued a report that, according to a UNEP press release, showed that "the pace and scale of climate change may now be outstripping even the most sobering predictions of the last report of the ... IPCC [Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change]." In the foreword of the UNEP report, U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon delivered the intended take-home message: The report "is a wake-up call. The time for hesitation is over." In the run-up to next month's climate summit in Copenhagen, some researchers have argued that the worsening prospects for Earth's climate system make the negotiations all the more urgent. Others, however, say the picture since the IPCC report is more complicated than that—though no brighter. And some anticipated climate changes are actually behind schedule, at least for the time being, notes the U.K. Meteorological Office. Full story at _http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/326/5955/926?sa_campaign=Email/… (http://www.info-aaas.org/l.jsp?d=3028.349080.654.0r2V29Nui) ____________________________________

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Complexity compounded
by duane330＠aol.com 05 Nov '09

05 Nov '09

Science 30 October 2009: Vol. 326. no. 5953, pp. 672 - 673 DOI: 10.1126/science.1181568 Perspectives Atmospheric Science: Clean the Air, Heat the Planet? Almut Arneth,1,2,* Nadine Unger,3 Markku Kulmala,2 Meinrat O. Andreae4 The push toward cleaner air in Beijing before the 2008 Olympic Games was a vivid reminder of the need to control air pollution, not only in Asia but in many regions of the world (1). There is mounting evidence for particle- and ozone-related health effects (2, 3). Furthermore, ozone and aerosol particles affect Earth's radiation balance (4, 5): Many aerosols cool the atmosphere (a negative forcing), whereas ozone and black carbon aerosol have a warming effect (a positive forcing). There is thus a strong motivation for treating air pollution control and climate change in common policy frameworks (5, 6). However, recent model studies (7–9) have shown that changes in pollutant and precursor emissions, atmospheric burden, and radiative forcing are not necessarily proportional. Furthermore, as Shindell et al. report on page 716 of this issue, current models do not capture many of the complex atmospheric processes involving aerosols and reactive trace gases (10). 1 Department of Physical Geography and Ecosystem Analysis, Lund University, 22362 Lund, Sweden. 2 Department of Physics, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland. 3 NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies, Center for Climate Systems Research, Columbia University, New York, NY 10025, USA. 4 Max Planck Institute for Chemistry, Biogeochemistry Department, 55020 Mainz, Germany. * To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail: almut.arneth(a)nateko.lu.se

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Hatsfield Ferry power plant -- Masontown, PA
by Duane330＠aol.com 17 Oct '09

17 Oct '09

Allegheny Energy's effort fails to satisfy all (http://buzz.yahoo.com/buzz?publisherurn=pittsburgh_tribu&guid=http://www.pi…) By _Rick Stouffer_ (mailto:rstouffer@tribweb.com) , PITTSBURGH TRIBUNE-REVIEW, Wednesday, October 14, 2009 Since 2006, Allegheny Energy Inc. has spent nearly $900 million on installation of emissions-control equipment at a single power plant — Hatfield's Ferry in Cumberland, Greene County. As installation of equipment known as scrubbers wraps up at the plant, environmental groups and the federal government are saying the Greensburg-based power company has made progress, but more challenges and costs are ahead. The scrubbers will remove 150,000 tons of acid rain-causing sulphur dioxide from the three-unit, 1,710 megawatt power plant, or about 95 percent of the pollutant it makes annually. In addition, the scrubbers will cleanse about 840 pounds of mercury, or 40 percent to 70 percent of the plant's annual discharge. Allegheny Energy is one of many power plant owners installing scrubbers. The U.S. Energy Information Administration estimates that scrubber additions nationwide are planned for power plants producing 139 million megawatts of electricity at an estimated cost of more than $30 billion. One megawatt of generating capacity powers about 800 homes. Even so, environmentalists are concerned that the new scrubbers at Hatfield's Ferry are merely transferring emissions from the air to the 1.7 million gallons of water returned daily by the plant to the Monongahela River. About 500,000 gallons of the water is scrubbers-related. "Our concern now is the permit that the state granted to treat wastewater at Hatfield's Ferry. They are discharging some heavy metals and other pollutants that previously would go up the stacks," said Phil Coleman, a board member with the Washington, Pa.-based environmental group Center for Coalfield Justice. This year, Coleman was party to an appeal filed by environmental groups Citizens Coal Council of Washington County and the Environmental Integrity Project, Washington, D.C., with the state Environmental Hearing Board. The appeal contests a wastewater discharge permit issued by the state Department of Environmental Protection that allows scrubber-related water to go back into the river. The groups claims the permit — which is being contested by Allegheny Energy as being too strict — is too lenient because it allows the company to discharge wastewater into the river with alleged high levels of pollutants. Allegheny Energy disagrees, pointing to a new $25 million wastewater treatment system at the plant that "removes suspended solids and heavy metals from the scrubber stream" and meets limits under federal rules, spokesman Doug Colafella said. The state Department of Environmental Protection issued the discharge permit in December. The agency included more restrictive limits on solids and sulfate well after Allegheny Energy began construction, Colafella said. The wastewater retreatment system installed at the plant along with the scrubber project cannot meet the limits in the state permit, Colafella said. Last month, the Environmental Protection Agency announced plans to revise for the first time since 1982 existing wastewater discharge standards for coal-fired power plants. The EPA this year completed a multi-year study of power plant wastewater discharge and concluded the existing 27-year-old rules haven't kept pace with changes in the power industry. Utilities like Allegheny Energy that generate power at coal-fired plants will face more emission-control challenges. Late last month, the EPA proposed lowering limits on greenhouse gas emissions, including carbon dioxide under the auspices of the national Clean Air Act and amendments, laws dating back decades. The major emissions control expense that all coal-fired power plant owners are grappling with is handling carbon dioxide. Hatfield's Ferry in 2008 released about 44 million tons of carbon dioxide into the air from burning coal. Large industrial facilities, including coal-fired power plants, factories and refineries that emit at least 25,000 tons of greenhouse gases annually would be required to obtain permits covering the emissions. "This is a common sense rule that is carefully tailored to apply to only the largest sources — those from sectors responsible for nearly 70 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions sources," EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson said in announcing the proposed rule. Environmentalists acknowledge it's very early regarding the proposed EPA regulations. "The EPA rule means that Hatfield's Ferry would have to meet 'best available technology' criteria for carbon dioxide if the plant was physically modified in a way that increased emissions," said Eric Schaeffer, executive director of the Environmental Integrity Project. Schaeffer said the EPA is still years away from determining what the best available technology will be. The most widely discussed method for dealing with carbon dioxide is known as carbon capture and sequestration, or burying carbon emissions, which is extremely expensive. "To liquify the carbon dioxide and pump it into the ground is very costly. Plus it would take 15 percent of a plant's power output to do so," Scaccia said. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> > See also: From The New York Times: Cleansing the Air at the Expense of Waterways Coal plants are moving to scrub pollutants from their smokestacks, but the contaminants are increasingly finding their way into water instead. (A very good video is included at this web-site.) _http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/13/us/13water.html_ (http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/13/us/13water.html) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> > NOTE: Similar conditions and issues apply to the Ft. Martin Power Plant in northern Monongalia County, at about 1170 MW and a new stack gas scrubber system to go on-line in a few months. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

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Turkey Dinner at Ft. Martin Church
by Duane330＠aol.com 06 Oct '09

06 Oct '09

NOTE: The Annual Turkey Dinner fund raiser for the Ft. Martin United Methodist Church is set for Saturday, October 10th, from 4 pm to 7 pm at the Church, opposite the site of the construction for the Longview 690 MW power plant. Take out dinners between 3 pm and 4 pm only. Come out to the idyllic church location in scenic West Virginia and enjoy the peace and quiet, before the Longview power plant is completed. This power plant will have 14 noisy (forced convection) cooling units exhausting huge plumes into the air. See the site now so you can remember the good ol' days. Remember to ask Jarrett Jameson to see his latest pictures, of the huge generator being transported from river barge and up the Ft. Martin hill. The claim is that the plant is now approximately 60% complete, with 1700 workers on two shifts. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Date: Sun, 4 Oct 2009, From: doris(a)CELLARIUS.ORG Subject: [GW-ACT-LEADERS] FW: 1st Cement Plant CO2 Sequestration Project To: CONS-SPST-GLOBALWARM-CHAIRS(a)LISTS.SIERRACLUB.ORG .. Secretary Chu on Carbon Capture .Public support of CCS R&D is essential, and for this reason, $3.4 billion of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act money is being invested by the US Department of Energy (DOE) in CCS R&D...There are many hurdles to making CCS a reality, but none appear insurmountable. The DOE goal is to support R&D, as well as pilot CCS projects so that widespread deployment of CCS can begin in 8 to 10 years. This is an aggressive goal, but the climate problem compels us to act with fierce urgency. “ DOE Makes First Awards from $1.4B for Industrial Carbon Capture and Storage Projects 3 October 2009 The US Department of Energy (DOE) has _selected_ (http://www.energy.gov/news2009/8102.htm) 12 projects for the first round of funding from $1.4 billion from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for the capture carbon dioxide from industrial sources for storage or beneficial use. The first phase of these projects will include $21.6 million in Recovery Act funding and $22.5 million in private funding for a total initial investment of $44.1 million. The remaining Recovery Act funding will be awarded to the most promising projects during a competitive phase two selection process. Projects selected include large-scale industrial carbon capture and storage projects that capture carbon dioxide emissions from industrial sources— such as cement plants, chemical plants, refineries, paper mills, and manufacturing facilities—and store the carbon dioxide in deep saline formations=2 0and other geologic systems. -- The initial duration of each project selected is approximately seven months. Projects will be subject to further competitive evaluation in 2010 after successful comp letion of their Phase 1 activities. Projects that best demonstrate the ability to address their mission needs will be in the final portfolio that will receive additional funding for design, construction, and operation. Secretary Chu on Carbon Capture Energy Secretary Steven Chu wrote an _editorial_ (http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/sci;325/5948/1599?maxtoshow=&HIT… &fulltext=chu&searchid=1&FIRSTINDEX=0&sortspec=date&resourcetype=HWCIT) for the 25 September 2009 special issue of the journal Science on carbon capture, in which he addressed the magnitude of the challenge. Noting that coal accounts for roughly 25% of the world energy supply and 40% of the carbon emissions. Chu said that it was highly unlikely that the US, Russia , China and India , which account for two-thirds of the coal reserves, “will turn their back on coal anytime soon .” ...for this reason, the capture and storage of CO2 emissions from fossil fuel power plants must be aggressively pursued. ...The scale of CCS needed to make a sign ificant dent in worldwide carbon emissions is staggering. Roughly 6 billion metric tons of coal are used each year, producing 18 billion tons of CO2. In contrast, we now sequester a few million metric tons of CO2 per year. At geological storage densities of CO2 (0.6 kg/m3), underground sequestration will require a storage volume of 30,000 km3/year. This may be sufficient storage capacity, but more testing is required to demonstrate such capacity and integrity. ...We should pursue a range of options for new coal-fired power plants (such as coal gasification, burning coal in an oxygen atmosphere, or post-combustion capture) to determine the most cost-effective approach to burn fuel and reduce the total amount of CO2 emitted. No matter which technology ultimately proves best for new plants, we will still need to retrofit existing plants and new plants that will be built before CCS is routinely deployed. Each new 1-gigawatt coal plant is a billion-dollar investment and, once built, will be used for decades. ...Public support of CCS R&D is essential, and for this reason, $3.4 billion of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act money is being invested by the US Department of Energy (DOE) in CCS R&D...There are many hurdles to making CCS a reality, but none appear insurmountable. The DOE goal is to support R&D, as well as pilot CCS projects so that widespread deployment of CCS can begin in 8 to 10 years. This is an aggressive goal, but the climate problem compels us to act with fierce urgency. —Dr. Steven Chu, Science Large-scale industrial carbon capture and storage selections (by amount of DOE award) include: * ConocoPhillips. ConocoPhillips will demonstrate new advancements that improve conversion efficiency and economies of scale for carbon capture systems at a petcoke-based 683-megawatt integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) power plant adjacent to its existing refinery in Sweeny , Texas . About 85% of the CO2 from the process stream will be captured and over 5 million tons sequestered into a depleted oil or gas field. (DOE Share: $3,014,666) * C6 Resources. Objective is to capture and transport by pipeline approximately 1 million tons per year of CO2 streams from facilities located in the Bay Area, Calif. , to be injected more than 2 miles underground into a saline formation. C6 Resources, an affiliate of Shell Oil Company, will conduct the project in collaboration with Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. (DOE Share: $3,000,000) * Shell Chemical Capital Company. The objective of this project is to capture, condition, and transport by pipeline approximately 1 million tons per year of by-product and off-gas CO2 streams from facilities located along the Mississippi River between Baton Rouge and New Orleans for geologic storage. (DOE Share: $3,000,000) * Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative Inc. Investigators will demonstrate advanced amines and additives supplied by Hitachi and Dow to capture 300,000 tons of CO2 per year. Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative will be building a 600-megawatt circulating fluidized bed power plant near Rogers City, Mich. (DOE Share: $2,723,512) * University of Utah. More than 1 million tons of CO2 per year will be captured from various industrial sources, compressed, and transported via two new intra-state pipelines for CO2 enhanced oil recovery and deep saline sequestration research in Kansas . Beneath each enhanced oil recovery target, a major saline aquifer spanning most of the State of Kansas will be used for CO2 injection. (DOE Share: $2,696,556) * Praxair Inc. Praxair will partner with BP Products North America, Denbury Resources, and Gulf Coast Carbon Center to demonstrate capture and sequestration of CO2 emissions from an existing hydrogen-production facility in an oil refinery into underground formations for CO2 enhanced oil recovery. This demonstration will be performed at the BP refinery, and a lateral pipeline will be built to connect to Denbury’s Green Pipeline to transport 1 million tons of CO2 per year. (DOE Share: $1,719,464) * Archer Daniels Midland Corporation. Archer Daniels Midland Company, a member of DOE’s Midwes t Geological Sequestration Consortium, will partner with other research organizations to demonstrate Dow ALSTOM’s advanced amine process to capture CO2 from industrial flue gases and sequester the CO2 in the Mt. Simon Sandstone reservoir. (DOE Share: $1,480,656) * CEMEX Inc. CEMEX USA will partner with RTI International to demonstrate a dry sorbent CO2 capture technology at one of its cement plants in the United States . CEMEX will design and construct a dry sorbent CO2 capture and compression system, pipeline (if necessary), and injection station. This commercial-scale carbon capture and sequestration demonstration project will remove up to 1 million tons of CO2. (DOE Share: $1,137,885) * Air Products and Chemicals Inc. A system to concentrate CO2 from two steam methane reformer waste streams will be designed, constructed, and demonstrated at Port Arthur , Texas . More than 1 million tons of CO2 will be delivered per year via pipeline for sequestration into the Oyster Bayou oilfield for enhanced oil recovery by Denbury Onshore LLC. (DOE Share: $961,499) * Leucadia Energy LLC. Leucadia Energy and Denbury Onshore will demonstrate advanced technologies that capture and sequester CO2 emissions from an industrial source. Mississippi Gasification LLC, a Leucadia affiliate, is building a petcoke-to-substitute natural gas plant in Moss Point , Miss. , to demo nstrate large-scale recovery, purification and compression of 4 million tons per year of CO2. (DOE Share: $840,000) * Leucadia Energy LLC. Partnered with Denbury Onshore, Leucadia Energy will demonstrate advanced technologies that capture and sequester more than 4 million tons of CO2 emissions at the Lake Charles co-generation petroleum coke-to-chemicals (methanol) project to be located near Lake Charles , La. The project will transport compressed CO2 through a 12-mile pipeline that connects to Denbury’s Green Line pipeline system in Louisiana so that it can be used for enhanced oil recovery in the Hastings and Oyster Bayou oilfields in Texas . (DOE Share: $540,000) * Battelle Memorial Institute, Pacific Northwest Division. Battelle researchers will partner with Boise White Paper LLC and Fluor Corporation to demonstrate geologic CO2 storage in deep flood basalt formations in the State of Washington . Fluor Corporation will design a customized version of its Econamine Plus carbon capture technology for operation with the specialized chemical composition of exhaust gases produced from combustion of black liquor fuels. (DOE Share: $500,00 0) Additionally, the Department has also made conditional selections of 16 projects that demonstrate innovative concepts for beneficial carbon dioxide use. These conditional selections are subject to additional merit reviews and technical evaluation. Resources * Science _special issue_ (http://www.sciencemag.org/content/vol325/issue5948/index.dtl) on carbon capture

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Science magazine on the ozone hole
by duane330＠aol.com 03 Oct '09

03 Oct '09

Unwelcome Dominance Stratospheric ozone is depleted by many different chemicals; most prominently, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) responsible for causing the Antarctic ozone hole. Nitrous oxide is also an ozone-depleting substance that has natural sources in addition to anthropogenic ones. Moreover, unlike CFCs, its use and emission are not regulated by the Montreal Protocol, which has helped to reverse the rate of growth of the ozone hole. Surprisingly, Ravishankara et al. (p. 123, published online 27 August; see the Perspective by Wuebbles) now show that nitrous oxide is the single greatest ozone-depleting substance that, if its emissions are not controlled, is expected to remain the dominant ozone-depleting substance throughout the 21st century. Reducing nitrous oxide emissions would thus enhance the rate of recovery of the ozone hole and reduce the anthropogenic forcing of climate.

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grassroots solar home OPEN HOUSE on Sat.
by Duane330＠aol.com 30 Sep '09

30 Sep '09

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US EPA REGION 3 EnviroBytes.............9-18-09
by Duane330＠aol.com 28 Sep '09

28 Sep '09

EPA PLANS TO REVISE 2008 NATIONAL OZONE STANDARDS EPA announced the agency is considering revising the 2008 national ozone standards (both the primary and secondary ozone standards) to ensure they are scientifically sound and protective of human health and to cut healthcare costs and make cities healthier and safer places. The primary air quality standards protect public health (including the health of sensitive groups such as asthmatics, children and the elderly), and the secondary standards protect public welfare and the environment, (including against visibility impairment, damage to animals, crops, vegetation, and buildings). The Clean Air Act requires EPA to review the national standards for ozone and scientific information every five years. The Agency will propose any revisions to the ozone standards by December 2009 and will issue a final decision by August 2010. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> EPA REVISES RULES FOR WASTEWATER DISCHARGES FROM POWER PLANTS EPA plans to revise the existing standards for water discharges from coal-fired power plants to reduce pollution and better protect the nation's water. Wastewater discharged from coal ash ponds, air pollution control equipment, and other equipment at power plants can contaminate drinking water sources, cause fish and other wildlife to die and cause other detrimental environmental effects. Once the new rule for electric power plants is finalized, EPA and states would incorporate the new standards into wastewater discharge permits. More information about EPA's study is provided in an interim report published in August 2008 with a final study to be published later this year. For more information on wastewater discharges from power plants, go to _http://www.epa.gov/waterscience/guide/steam/_ (http://www.epa.gov/waterscience/guide/steam/) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> EPA ANNOUNCED NEW STANDARDS FOR AIR TOXICS EMISSIONS FROM MEDICAL WASTE INCINERATORS NATIONWIDE About 50 medical waste incinerators nationwide will have to reduce their air pollution under new regulations announced by EPA's Office of Air and Radiation. The new rules require better monitoring and tighter emissions limits to reduce toxic pollution from burning medical waste by 390,000 pounds annually. Medical waste incinerator emissions is a particularly toxic mix of dioxins/furans, heavy metals (lead, cadmium, and mercury), acid gases and other contaminants from the burning of biological waste, needles, plastic gloves, batteries and many other items. Based on Region 3's current source inventory, 13 facilities located in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia will be affected by the new rules, expected to be published in the Federal Register within the next two weeks. Details on the new rules can be found at the following EPA website _http://www.epa.gov/ttn/atw/129/hmiwi/rihmiwi.html_ (http://www.epa.gov/ttn/atw/129/hmiwi/rihmiwi.html)

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Morgantown Solar Tour - October 3
by Jonathan Rosenbaum 26 Sep '09

26 Sep '09

Here is a press release that I received for a tour of Solar houses in and around Morgantown sponsored by American Solar Energy Society and Eco-Structures, LLC (John Garlow) on Saturday October 3 between 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. -Jonathan

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The Age of Stupid... movie in Morgantown
by Duane330＠aol.com 18 Sep '09

18 Sep '09

On Monday, September 21, in the Morgantown area a special opportunity exists to watch the one-night-only premiere of an important new film called The Age of Stupid. The film is a powerful "docudrama" set in the year 2055, after global warming has done massive damage to humanity. Oscar-nominated actor Pete Postlethwaite stars as a historian who "looks back" on real footage from 2008 to try to answer the question, "why didn't we stop climate change while we had the chance?" In addition to the movie, the theater will simulcast a Hollywood-style premiere event from New York City. You can purchase advance tickets by clicking here: _http://www.moveon.org/r?r=56749_ (http://www.moveon.org/r?r=56749) You'll get so much more than just a great movie. The premiere event, simulcast live from a solar-powered tent in New York City to over 700 theaters in the U.S. and 50 other countries, will feature such celebrities as Gillian Anderson, Heather Graham, and Moby. Also, MTV's Gideon Yago will interview Nobel Peace Prize recipient Kofi Annan, environmental scientist James Hansen, and The Age of Stupid director Franny Armstrong. Ending the night will be a special, acoustic performance by Radiohead's Thom Yorke. The Age of Stupid was number one at the box office in the U.K. this spring, and this one-night event is poised to break the Guinness World Record for biggest simultaneous film screening. You can watch the trailer here: (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m0xtPKjmnaA) _http://www.moveon.org/r?r=51921&id=17229-1764041-LC7ppKx&t=1_ (http://www.moveon.org/r?r=51921&id=17229-1764041-LC7ppKx&t=1) Check out what critics are saying about this film: * "A captivating and constantly surprising film."—George Monbiot, The Guardian1 * "Think An Inconvenient Truth but with a personality."—Gary Goldstein, Los Angeles Times2 * "Political incompetence and inaction can usher in disaster... Rome is burning, and Franny Armstrong is fiddling the right tune."—Peter Bradshaw, The Guardian3 The Age of Stupid looks us right in the eye and asks what kind of future we want for our kids. Be one of the first to see this important film and help spread the word so that as many Americans as possible hear its message. We hope to see you at the theater. Thank you for all you do. –Anna, Laura, Steven, Ilyse, and the rest of the team at _www.moveon.org_ (http://www.moveon.org) P.S. When you see this movie, you're really going to be inspired to act. The cool thing is that our friends at Avaaz, an international MoveOn-like organization, are putting together a "Global Wake-Up Call" day of action on September 21, the same day as the premiere of The Age of Stupid. Check out _http://www.avaaz.org/tcktcktck/_ (http://www.avaaz.org/tcktcktck/) to get plugged in locally. Sources: 1. "What are we not talking about now that we will be—or should be—in 2009?," The Guardian, December 27, 2008 _http://www.moveon.org/r?r=51923&id=17229-1764041-LC7ppKx&t=2_ (http://www.moveon.org/r?r=51923&id=17229-1764041-LC7ppKx&t=2) 2. "The Age of Stupid," Los Angeles Times, July 17, 2009 _http://www.moveon.org/r?r=51922&id=17229-1764041-LC7ppKx&t=3_ (http://www.moveon.org/r?r=51922&id=17229-1764041-LC7ppKx&t=3) 3. "The Age of Stupid," The Guardian, March 20, 2009 _http://www.moveon.org/r?r=51926&id=17229-1764041-LC7ppKx&t=4_ (http://www.moveon.org/r?r=51926&id=17229-1764041-LC7ppKx&t=4) For more information go to: _http://www.ageofstupid.net/_ (http://www.ageofstupid.net/)

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Upcoming Events Statewide: WVEC etc.....
by Duane330＠aol.com 18 Sep '09

18 Sep '09

Upcoming Events! September 25 – 27: 20th WVEC Fall Conference Holly Gray Park, Sutton WV 20th Anniversary of WVEC Celebration & Program, setting 2010 legislative priorities, workshops on enviro issues, silent auction, live music, booths, nature outings & recreation Key-note address- by Jim Hightower, nationally known progressive commentator and co-editor of America's hottest newsletter, the Hightower Lowdown. There will be a Friday evening reception for Jim and he will give Saturday morning keynote address. Please visit _www.wvecouncil.org_ (http://www.wvecouncil.org/) , for complete agenda and updates! September 26 – ACLU Civil Rights Dinner Enjoy yourself with friends and like minded people at the Clay Center in Charleston. Jim Hightower, a funny, irreverent, intelligent populist, is the speaker. He is a New York Times bestselling author and America's funniest activist who gives the lowdown on how to put up-not shut up-in the fight for our future. Get a taste of Jim and a review of his new book Swim Against the Current; Even a Dead Fish Can Go with the Flow. For tickets or more information, please call the WV-ACLU at 304-345-9246. October 2 and 3 – Trail Design Workshop Coonskin Park, Charleston, WV Free but please register by September 20—class is limited to 30 participants Each session combines interactive learning, hands-on trail work, and topnotch instructors to develop skilled trail workers and crew leaders. The workshop will focus on the art and science of trail building through topics such as: Sustainable trail design, Basic construction and much more. For registration information, contact Betty Michael at _betty.michael(a)canaanvi.org_ (mailto:betty.michael@canaanvi.org) or 800-922-3601 ext. 252, or visit _www.canaanvi.org/events_ (http://www.canaanvi.org/events) October 18: Good Jobs, Green Jobs Workshop 1:00-4:00 PM, Big Sandy Arena, Huntington, WV. Sponsored by the WV Center on Budget and Policy. What are “green jobs,” and how can they help shape a vibrant future for West Virginia? Join us for a stimulating afternoon of ideas and discussion about green strategies for economic growth and jobs that support families. For more information, visit _www.wvpolicy.org_ (http://www.wvpolicy.org/) or call 304-720-8682. October 20: An Evening with Gloria Steinem WV Cultural Center, 7:00 PM. Produced by WV FREE. Tickets are $25 and available by calling 304-342-9188 or visit _www.wvfree.org_ (http://www.wvfree.org/) .

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EPA Questions Mountaintop Removal Permits
by Duane330＠aol.com 11 Sep '09

11 Sep '09

EPA questions mountaintop removal permits Permits for new mountaintop removal mines (such as the one pictured above in southern West Virginia) could be in jeopardy. _Joe Lovett explains new EPA announcement_ (http://www.wvpbmedia.com/news/2009/joelovett.mp3) By Erica Peterson, Jessica Lilly and Scott Finn _Download MP3 _ (http://www.wvpbmedia.com/news/2009/0914epapermits.mp3) September 11, 2009 · The Obama Administration said Friday it has serious concerns with dozens of pending permits for mountaintop removal mines in Appalachia. The federal Environmental Protection Agency released a list of 79 permits which it says poses environmental problems and won’t comply with the Clean Water Act. The 79 permits on _the list_ (http://www.epa.gov/owow/wetlands/guidance/mining-screening.html) are scattered throughout Appalachia, and 23 are in West Virginia. The announcement is part of an EPA campaign to subject mountaintop removal permits to greater scrutiny. These tentative steps towards cracking down on surface mines have made environmentalists cautiously optimistic, and the coal industry increasingly nervous. One of the EPA’s primary concerns is valley fills, where waste rock is dumped from mountaintop removal mines. That’s because selenium and other heavy metals have been found at high levels running off the mines. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers issues the permits which allow coal companies to fill streams and valleys. After fighting mountaintop removal for more than a decade, Joe Lovett of the _Appalachian Center for the Economy and Environment_ (http://www.appalachian-center.org/) says Friday’s announcement signifies a real shift. “We hope this is the beginning of the end of mountaintop removal and valley fills,” he said. “I don’t think modifications will work. I think the permits are so destructive that even with modifications they won’t comply with the Clean Water Act.” But for an already-beleaguered coal industry worried about climate change legislation, this is further proof that the Obama Administration will take steps to curtail mountaintop removal. Roger Horton, a surface miner and founder of _Citizens for Coal_ (http://www.wvpubcast.org/newsarticle.aspx?id=10862) , says curtailing mountaintop removal in America will force the U.S. to import coal from other countries. “They’re going to look elsewhere. Coal is going to be a big part of the energy mix in this country for some time to come,” Horton said. “And if they don’t mine it locally, they’re sure as heck going to import it from some other source, perhaps an unfriendly source to our country,” he said. Next, the EPA will meet with the Army Corps to discuss each permit. Lovett says they will look at possible water quality problems, whether the mitigation is actually making up for the impacts of the mining, and the cumulative impacts this mining is having on watersheds. Some of the EPA’s concerns may be resolved by discussions with the Army Corps of Engineers, which has the final say over permits. Some permits might require changes in order to be approved, and others may not be approved at all. Coal industry officials say the new review process isn’t transparent, and it’s hard for mining companies to submit permits when they aren’t sure by what criteria they’ll be judged. Bill Raney is the president of the _West Virginia Coal Association_ (http://www.wvcoal.com/) . He’s calling for compromise. “Let’s sit down and work out whatever those concerns are. The answer is not to stop it, so that you punish people in that process,” Raney said. “And if there are concerns, let’s address them in a very timely way, and let’s address them in a way that allows the companies and people to continue to work to meet the market demands of today,” he said. This is the third announcement about stricter mountaintop removal regulations since Obama’s taken office, and comes after a decade of court decisions regarding mountaintop removal. So far, little has changed. But Lovett says it may be different this time. “One thing that encourages me is, not only does the EPA have new leadership, but the _Corps does as well_ (http://www.nan.usace.army.mil/blog/pdf/NR_CoC09.pdf) ,” Lovett said. “So I expect that the Corps will be looking at these permits differntly in the future from the way they looked at them in the past,” he said. Horton says that coal supporters plan to be vocal in their opposition to the EPA’s policies. “Without giving away my tactics at this point in time, there are going to be direct actions, that are lawful, to let the administration know we aren’t going to be taking this lying down,” Horton said. Friday’s announcement regards permits which had not yet been approved by the Corps. But it comes after news that the EPA is also opposing a 2,300 acre mountaintop removal permit in Logan County the Corps already approved. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Thanks goes out to John Gever for providing the web site to the above article: EPA Questions Mountaintop Removal Permits _http://www.wvpubcast.org/newsarticle.aspx?id=11237_ (http://www.wvpubcast.org/newsarticle.aspx?id=11237) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> John Gever, MedPage Today, tel. 1-304-243-0826 cell 1-304-780-9772, Skype 1-412-567-2949 (pre-arranged interviews only) _j.gever(a)medpagetoday.com_ (mailto:j.gever@medpagetoday.com) or _jgever(a)gmail.com_ (mailto:jgever@gmail.com) _http://www.medpagetoday.com_ (http://www.medpagetoday.com/)

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Articles in SCIENCE, September 11, 2009.
by Duane330＠aol.com 11 Sep '09

11 Sep '09

Assessing the Arctic The Arctic is experiencing some of the most rapid climate change currently under way across the globe, but consequent ecological responses have not been widely reported. At the close of the Fourth International Polar Year, Post et al. (p. _1355_ (http://www.info-aaas.org/l.jsp?d=2455.289855.654.4uN8ldid5) ) review observations on ecological impacts in this sensitive region. The widespread changes occurring in terrestrial, freshwater, and marine systems, presage changes at lower latitudes that will affect natural resources, food production, and future climate buffering. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>> Blowing Away Coal China is the world's largest carbon dioxide producer and the world's second-largest producer of electrical power, 80% of which it generates by burning coal. An affordable, carbon-free source of electrical power generation would thus constitute an important way for China to reduce its CO2 emissions and other environmental impacts of fossil-fuel burning. McElroy et al. (p. _1378_ (http://www.info-aaas.org/l.jsp?d=2455.289849.654.4uN8ldid5) , see the cover) show that there is enough wind in China to generate electricity to supply the nation's entire projected demand for 2030 (about twice what is used now) at reasonable prices per kilowatt-hour. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>> Cycling Around Water vapor is the most important greenhouse gas, and clouds are one of the most important components of climate, but the global hydrological cycle is still poorly-enough understood that the atmospheric cycling of water and cloud formation are inadequately represented in global climate models. As the transformation from liquid into vapor tends to deplete water of the isotope deuterium, Frankenberg et al. (p. _1374_ (http://www.info-aaas.org/l.jsp?d=2455.289846.654.4uN8ldid5) ) were able to use satellite measurements of global "heavy" water abundances to provide a deeper understanding of atmospheric water dynamics. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Note: Electric generating stations having an overall thermal efficiency of less than 37% are very good cloud makers, because the waste heat is mostly used to evaporate "cooling" water. When the Longview power plant comes on-stream with its 14 cooling tower units, we will see plenty more clouds in the Morgantown area, and slick roads in winter........... Duane Nichols

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clear the air & your conscience .....
by Duane330＠aol.com 06 Sep '09

06 Sep '09

Economic View.............. Carbon Offsets: A Small Price to Pay for Efficiency By ROBERT H. FRANK Published: May 30, 2009 in the New York Times ARE carbon offsets a good thing? They are intended to reduce the environmental impact of consumption. Traveling by plane, for example, causes carbon dioxide to be emitted into the atmosphere, so travelers can pay a specialist to offset those emissions some other way — perhaps by planting vegetation or installing renewable-energy technologies. It all sounds reasonable. Yet carbon offsets have drawn sharp criticism, even ridicule. A British Web site called Cheat Neutral (_www.cheatneutral.com_ (http://www.cheatneutral.com/) ) parodies the concept — by offering a service under which someone who wants to cheat on his partner can pay someone else who will refrain from committing an act of infidelity. The site’s founders say they wanted to use humor to demonstrate why the market for carbon offsets is a moral travesty. But the criticism is misguided. If our goal is to reduce carbon emissions as efficiently as possible, offsets make perfect economic sense. Consider the decision of whether to buy a hybrid car. Because of the expensive batteries and other complex equipment in such cars, they can cost much more than similar vehicles powered by standard combustion engines. Many people drive so little that they wouldn’t save enough on gasoline to recoup the higher cost. Yet many such people buy hybrids anyway, because they think they are helping the environment. Well and good, but they could help even more by buying a standard car and using the savings to buy carbon offsets. The same goes for someone who wonders whether it’s O.K. to eat foods grown far from home. A New Yorker may worry, for example, that the diesel fuel burned to ship California-grown tomatoes to him in winter will accelerate _global warming_ (http://topics.nytimes.com/top/ne ws/science/topics/globalwarming/index.html?inline=nyt-classifier) . But suppose he would be happy to pay $10 more than the cost of shipping those tomatoes rather than eat locally grown root vegetables nine months a year. That would buy more than enough carbon offsets to neutralize the greenhouse gases emitted by shipping the tomatoes. So it would be much better, for him and the planet, if he bought offsets and ate winter tomatoes. Of course, carbon offsets alone won’t eliminate global warming. People also need stronger incentives to take into account the environmental consequences of their actions. _President Obama_ (http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/o/barack_obama/i…) has proposed attacking the problem with a carbon cap-and-trade system. The government would first set a limit on annual carbon emissions, then auction emissions permits to the highest bidders. Companies could still use processes or sell products that emit carbon, but only by first buying a permit for each unit of carbon released. If the government wanted to limit carbon emissions to five billion tons a year, for example, it would auction that many tons of annual carbon permits. This approach was first used in the United States to address acid rain, when the _Clean Air Act_ (http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/subjects/c/clean_air_ac…) established a market for permits to emit sulfur dioxide. Compared with more traditional regulatory measures, the auction method substantially reduced the cost of achieving the law’s air-quality target. As people learn more about such an approach, they seem less likely to oppose it. Although several environmental groups once bitterly opposed pollution permit auctions, they now endorse them enthusiastically. A carbon cap-and-trade system is functionally similar to a carbon tax. Both approaches would raise the cost of activities that generate carbon dioxide emissions, giving people a powerful incentive to reduce their carbon footprints. Carbon offsets are no substitute for the stronger incentives inherent in carbon taxes or cap-and-trade, but they can reinforce their effects. Both carbon taxes and permit auctions would also generate revenue that could be used to buy additional carbon offsets. Dozens of companies, nonprofit and for-profit, sell carbon offsets, and some critics question how their work can be verified. But with various certification programs now in place — including the Gold Standard and Green-e Climate, to name two — there is no reason that fraud should be harder to curb in carbon-offset markets than in other domains. At last count, Cheat Neutral, the British infidelity neutralization Web site, said it had offset 65,768 cheats, and had recruited a roster of “9,002 faithful people ready to neutralize your misdemeanors.” The Web site draws out the parallel this way: “When you cheat on your partner you add to the heartbreak, pain, and jealousy in the atmosphere.” Cheat Neutral claims that its plan “neutralizes the pain and unhappy emotion and leaves you with a clear conscience.” Actually, no. Only you will know whether your conscience is clear, but it is certain that higher rates of marital fidelity in London do nothing to eliminate the anguish caused by straying spouses in Manchester. In contrast, one person’s reduction in carbon dioxide emissions anywhere on the planet fully offsets anyone else’s contribution to the total. Carbon offsets, though much maligned, are an excellent idea. If you want to help reduce carbon emissions, consider buying some. Robert H. Frank, a Cornell University economist, is a visiting faculty member at the Stern School of Business at New York University. He is the author of “The Economic Naturalist’s Field Guide: Common Sense Principles for Troubled Times,” which will be published on Monday. (That's Monday June 1st).

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The Earth Is Warming
by Duane330＠aol.com 04 Sep '09

04 Sep '09

Climate Reversal [Science, September 4, 2009] CREDIT: KAUFMAN ET AL. The climate and environment of the Arctic have changed drastically over the short course of modern observation. Kaufman et al. (p. _1236_ (http://www.info-aaas.org/l.jsp?d=2403.285504.654.2bqZKHifm) ) synthesized 2000 years of proxy data from lakes above 60° N latitude with complementary ice core and tree ring records, to create a paleoclimate reconstruction for the Arctic with a 10-year resolution. A gradual cooling trend at the start of the record had reversed by the beginning of the 20th century, when temperatures began to increase rapidly. The long-term cooling of the Arctic is consistent with a reduction in summer solar insolation caused by changes in Earth's orbit, while the rapid and large warming of the past century is consistent with the human-caused warming.

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Pittsburgh's diesel exhausts
by duane330＠aol.com 24 Aug '09

24 Aug '09

$3.49 MILLION WILL REDUCE DIESEL POLLUTION AND CREATE JOBS IN THE PITTSBURGH AREA EPA announced that Allegheny County, Pa. will receive $3.49 million in Recovery Act funding to help the Pittsburgh area reduce diesel pollution, respiratory illnesses such as asthma, and create jobs. The funds to the Allegheny County Health Department (http://www.achd.net/) will finance four projects to replace and retrofit engines and equipment in four types of diesel fleets used in the area. • Port Authority Transit: $1 million to replace two 1996 buses with 2010 hybrid electric buses and repower nine 2003 buses with engines that meet current emission standards. • Constructors Association of Western Pa.: $929,000 to upgrade 23 pieces of non-road construction equipment so they pollute less. • US Steel Mon Valley Works: Diamond Head Trucking and MultiServ Corp.: $603,000 to install diesel particulate filters on 35 dump trucks operating in and around U.S. Steel Corp.'s Clairton Coke Works. • CSX Transportation: $875,000 to replace a vintage diesel switcher locomotive in the McKeesport rail yard with one that has the latest in pollution-control technology. For information about EPA's clean diesel initiatives, visit: http://www.epa.gov/cleandiesel.

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Comment on EPA standard for NO2.
by Duane330＠aol.com 10 Aug '09

10 Aug '09

EPA IS PROPOSING TO REVISE ITS AIR QUALITY STANDARDS FOR NITROGEN DIOXIDE EPA is proposing to strengthen the nation's nitrogen dioxide (NO2) standards. The proposed revisions would retain the current annual standard of 53 ppb., reflecting the latest health effects of exposure to NO2 and establish a one-hour NO2 standard at a level between 80 and 100 parts per billion (ppb). NO2 is formed by emissions from cars, trucks, buses, power plants, and industrial facilities, contributes to smoggy, unhealthy air from ozone pollution and to acid rain and particulate pollution. Two hearings took place, one on August 3, in Arlington, Va. and one on August 6 in Los Angeles, Ca. EPA will accept written comments on the proposed rule until Sept. 14 and faces a Jan. 22 judicial consent decree deadline to have the NO2 standard in place. For more detailed information on the proposed rule and instructions for submitting written comments, go to _http://www.epa.gov/air/nitrogenoxides/actions.html_ (http://www.epa.gov/air/nitrogenoxides/actions.html) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> NOTE: In addition to direct contributions to our local ozone and acid rain, the nitrogen oxides are interacting with other chemical species to form smog and very fine particulate matter...... this region is in or near "non-attainment" status for very fine particulate matter, i.e. PM-2.5. D.G.N.

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"The Cove" movie, not Virginia Woolf
by Duane330＠aol.com 31 Jul '09

31 Jul '09

_Stop Global Warming Virtual March_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=Dgw13y12HruwNPwK0wnF…) 07/31/09 (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=M7z bCShGF/3qZHeYnJhUeeVSSMjDQdj0) "THE COVE" A very important documentary film is opening today in LA and NY and you can be part of the movement to let the secret out of the bag. _"The Cove,"_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=HegunlQ0XfybgsALhofH…) is a must see for anyone who cares about the planet. Winner of audience awards across the world, including Sundance, "The Cove" follows a team of activists and filmmakers as they infiltrate a heavily-guarded cove in Taiji, Japan. The movie is about a small town with a big secret and you can be one of the many people who are going to be moved by this film and pushed to action. The single most powerful thing everyone who sees "The Cove" can do is to spread the word. "The Cove" opens in NY and LA on July 31st, and select cities on August 7th. _Click here_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=qtNoUBYvz8ti4m5mtOvW…) to see where "The Cove" is playing near you. To learn more about the film and how to take action, please visit _TakePart.com_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=D00qZYz3yHgtbJQwHMTO…) Keep Marching, Laurie David Founder _StopGlobalWarming.org_ (http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=4kUVuWrg0+vTeIqD4tya…) **************A bad credit score is 600 & below. Checking won't affect your score. See now! (http://pr.atwola.com/promoclk/100126575x1222846709x1201493018/aol?redir=htt… D=62&bcd=JulyBadfooterNO62)

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Air pollution in schools
by duane330＠aol.com 28 Jul '09

28 Jul '09

THREE WEST VIRGINIA SCHOOLS TO BE MONITORED FOR UNSAFE LEVELS OF INDUSTRIAL POLLUTION The outdoor air around three West Virginia schools will be monitored for unsafe levels of toxic air pollutants as part of EPA's initiative to protect children's health in about 60 schools nationwide. EPA's air monitoring devices will be installed at Follansbee Middle School, Neale Elementary School in Vienna and the Cabell County Career Technology Center in Huntington to monitor for toxics of concern. If high levels are discovered, EPA will ensure that nearby industries are in compliance with clean air regulations and will set out to reduce high pollutant levels. All monitoring data will be posted to the EPA's new Web site on Assessing Outdoor Air Near Schools at http://www.epa.gov/schoolair/

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Do Not Weaken the Clean Air Act
by duane330＠aol.com 20 Jul '09

20 Jul '09

Dear Friends,? Under the House Energy Bill, the Clean Air Act will be weakened.? We need the U.S. Senate to stop this.......? So, please contact Senator Rockefeller and tell him your position. Thanks,? Duane Nichols http://rockefeller.senate.gov/contact/email.cfm Sources: 1. "Under House energy bill, coal won't be going away," Los Angeles Times, June 22, 2009 http://www.moveon.org/r?r=51521&id=16595-1764041-AjYJRQx&t=5 "Big Coal Using Climate Change Bill To Roll Back Clean Air Act," The Huffington Post, June 18, 2009 http://www.moveon.org/r?r=51542&id=16595-1764041-AjYJRQx&t=6 "Waxman-Markey Strips EPA of Clean Air Act Authority to Fight Global Warming," Friends of the Earth, June 2009 http://www.moveon.org/r?r=51541&id=16595-1764041-AjYJRQx&t=7 2. "Climate endangerment finding clears White House review," The New York Times, April 14, 2009 http://www.moveon.org/r?r=51624&id=16595-1764041-AjYJRQx&t=8 "Climate change legislation now faces senate heat," Albany Times Union, July 12, 2009 http://www.moveon.org/r?r=51623&id=16595-1764041-AjYJRQx&t=9 3. "Why we need EPA GHG regulatory authority," Matthew F. Pawa, Esq., July 2, 2009 [PDF] http://www.moveon.org/r?r=51620&id=16595-1764041-AjYJRQx&t=10 4. "Green Recovery: A Program to Create Good Jobs and Start Building a Low-Carbon Economy," Political Economy Research Institute at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst, September 2008 http://www.moveon.org/r?r=51621&id=16595-1764041-AjYJRQx&t=11

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EPA Region 3, Envirobytes, June 26, 2009
by Duane330＠aol.com 02 Jul '09

02 Jul '09

EPA RELEASES NATIONAL AIR TOXICS ASSESSMENT (NATA) REPORT EPA released its latest National Air Toxics Assessment (NATA) report based on 2002 air emissions data which assesses 180 air toxics plus diesel particulate matter from stationary sources of all sizes and from mobile sources such as cars, trucks, buses and construction equipment. The report will increase understanding of the health risks posed by air toxics and provide the public with information regarding the levels which may cause cancer and other serious health problems, including birth defects. The NATA report results should be used to prioritize pollutants and areas for further study, and not as the sole basis for regulation or risk reduction activities. For more information, go to _http://www.epa.gov/nata/_ (http://www.epa.gov/nata/) or _www.epa.gov/nata2002_ (http://www.epa.gov/nata2002) Information on air toxics: _www.epa.gov/oar/toxicair/newtoxics.html_ (http://www.epa.gov/oar/toxicair/newtoxics.html) EPA TO AWARD $10 MILLION IN NEW CLIMATE CHANGE GRANTS TO COMMUNITIES EPA announced the availability of up to $10 million in Climate Showcase Communities grants to help communities implement climate change initiatives to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The agency expects to award approximately 20-30 cooperative agreements, ranging from $100,000 to $500,000 each, with five percent of the funds ($500,000) set aside for tribal governments. Eligibility is open only to government agencies, federally-recognized Indian tribal governments, local public authorities, school districts, special districts, intrastate districts, councils of governments, regional or interstate government entities. Proposals are due no later than July 22, at 4:00 p.m. EDT. Grants are expected to be awarded in January 2010. For more information go to _http://epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-programs/state-and-local/showcase.html_ (http://epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-programs/state-and-local/showcase.html) . To download the Request for Applications go to: _http://www.epa.gov/air/grants/09-08.pdf_ (http://www.epa.gov/air/grants/09-08.pdf) NEW STUDENT TOOLKIT SHOWS CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS ON WILDLIFE AND HABITATS EPA has released an updated toolkit: _”Climate Change, Wildlife, and Wildlands Toolkit_ (http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/CCWKit.html) to enhance middle school students' understanding of climate change's impacts on wildlife and the habitats on which they depend. The toolkit is designed to educate students to become stewards of wildlife and ecosystems. EPA partnered with six other federal agencies in the toolkit's development, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest Service, and Bureau of Land Management. For more information, go to _http://www.globalchange.gov/resources/educators/toolkit_ (http://www.globalchange.gov/resources/educators/toolkit) **************Make your summer sizzle with fast and easy recipes for the grill. (http://food.aol.com/grilling?ncid=emlcntusfood00000005)

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Asthma and Ozone
by Duane330＠aol.com 10 Jun '09

10 Jun '09

Envirobytes - An Environmental Newsletter EnviroBytes, a Summary of Issues and Events for Week Ending May 29, 2009 EPA MID-ATLANTIC REGION PARTICIPATES IN ASTHMA OUTREACH IN MARYLAND The Fredrick Memorial Healthcare System Annual Asthma Awareness Day took place on May 27 in Frederick, Md. to educate the local community and participants about the latest advances in asthma management and control. EPA asthma initiative coordinators were invited and took this opportunity to distribute materials on the factors that trigger asthma, asthma management care, and the contributing factor of environmental tobacco smoke to the affliction. For information on EPA's asthma initiative, go to _http://www.epa.gov/reg3artd/asthma/marai.htm_ (http://www.epa.gov/reg3artd/asthma/marai.htm) KEEP TRACK OF OZONE LEVELS THROUGH EPA WEBSITE As warmer weather approaches, sunlight and hot temperatures react to form air pollution as volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides in the air combine to form ground-level ozone. To protect yourselves from over-exposure to high levels of ozone pollution (especially asthmatics and other vulnerable populations) and to keep abreast of changes in air quality conditions, please access the Air Quality Forecasts _(AQF)_ (http://airnow.gov/index.cfm?action=airnow.national) and the Air Quality Index _(AQI)_ (http://airnow.gov/index.cfm?action=static.aqi) at (_http://airnow.gov/_ (http://airnow.gov/) ) **************Dell Inspiron 15 Laptop: Now in 6 vibrant colors! Shop Dell’s full line of laptops. (http://pr.atwola.com/promoclk/100126575x1222008777x1201444407/aol?redir=htt… 8%3Bv)

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Fwd: Oh soot!
by Duane330＠aol.com 04 Jun '09

04 Jun '09

FYI **************Limited Time Offers: Save big on popular laptops at Dell (http://pr.atwola.com/promoclk/100126575x1221354145x1201369495/aol?redir=htt… %2Fad.doubleclick.net%2Fclk%3B215221161%3B37268813%3By)

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Asthma Awareness Month....
by Duane330＠aol.com 21 May '09

21 May '09

MAY IS ASTHMA AWARENESS MONTH EPA initiated Asthma Awareness Month to educate public about air pollutants that trigger asthma, and methods to reduce the incidence and severity of asthma attacks caused by these pollutants. Some of the most common indoor asthma ‘triggers’ are secondhand smoke, mold, dust mites and cockroaches, household pets, and combustion byproducts. One way to publicize asthma awareness month and to help asthma victims learn to avoid asthma ‘triggers’ is by holding community events publicized on EPA’s Web site, at _http://asthmaevents.cadmusweb.com_ (http://asthmaevents.cadmusweb.com/) . (http://www.epa.gov/epahome/exitepa.htm) For tips to help plan an asthma education event, go to: _Download the Asthma Awareness Month Event Planning Kit_ (http://www.epa.gov/asthma/awm/index.html#Event Planning Kit#Event Planning Kit) . To learn about indoor air quality, go to _http://www.epa.gov/reg3artd/Indoor/iaq.htm_ (http://www.epa.gov/reg3artd/Indoor/iaq.htm) . EPA PLANS TO INCREASE NATIONAL OUTPUT OF RENEWABLE FUELS EPA is proposing a plan (The Renewable Fuel Standard) that when fully phased in by 2022 will increase the volume of renewable fuel required to be blended into gasoline, and reduce the nation’s dependence on foreign oil by more than 297 million barrels a year and greenhouse gas emissions by an average of 160 million tons a year. The 60-day comment period on this proposal will begin upon publication in the Federal Register. During this period EPA will hold a workshop to assure full public understanding of the proposed plan. For more information on the Energy Independence and Security Act, go to _http://www.epa.gov/otaq/renewablefuels/index.htm_ (http://www.epa.gov/otaq/renewablefuels/index.htm) EPA'S TOOLS FOR SCHOOLS PROGRAM WELCOMES THE KENNETT CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL DISTRICT The Kennett Consolidated School District located in Chester County, Pa. has joined the EPA’s Indoor Tools for Schools (TfS) program to achieve clean indoor air in its buildings. The purpose of TfS is to improve the indoor air quality of older school buildings to protect student health. Under the program, a TfS kit (available free to any school district or school) allows EPA specialists to train school staff to identify and resolve potential pollutant sources and activities impacting the indoor environment through presentations, outreach, assessments and technical assistance. For information on EPA’s indoor air quality programs, go to _http://www.epa.gov/reg3artd/Indoor/iaq.htm_ (http://www.epa.gov/reg3artd/Indoor/iaq.htm) **************Huge savings on HDTVs from Dell.com! (http://pr.atwola.com/promoclk/100126575x1221836042x1201399880/aol?redir=htt… t%2Fclk%3B215073686%3B37034322%3Bb)

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Re: [MVCAC] Non-attainment for PM 2.5 (particulate matter)
by Duane330＠aol.com 28 Apr '09

28 Apr '09

In a message dated 4/28/2009 9:23:57 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time, joe.madpj7(a)gmail.com writes: Could this in any way be used as leverage to prevent investors from sinking money into Longview? -Joe Yes, this information could have had a significant effect in the early days if the WV Department of Environmental Protection and EPA had wanted to protect the air of our region. It appears that Longview has all the financing they need; and, they claim the construction is currently 65% complete. Also, when the scrubbers at Ft. Martin and Hatfield Ferry go on-line next year, the particulate condition of the area will be improved. **************An Excellent Credit Score is 750. See Yours in Just 2 Easy Steps! (http://pr.atwola.com/promoclk/100126575x1221621499x1201450105/aol?redir=htt… ilExcScore428NO62)

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Non-attainment for PM 2.5 (particulate matter)
by Duane330＠aol.com 28 Apr '09

28 Apr '09

EPA Makes Decision to Designate Areas Not Meeting Standards for Fine Particle Pollution Press Release: U.S. EPA. Date: 12/22/2008 Contact Information: Cathy Milbourn, (202) 564-4355 /7849/ Milbourn.Cathy(a)epa.gov (Washington, D.C. – Dec.22, 2008)EPA has notified 25 governors and 23 tribal leaders that certain areas in their states and tribal lands do not meet the agency’s daily standards for fine particle pollution, also known as PM 2.5. “These designations are an important step in our steady march toward cleaner air,” said EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson. “We will continue working with our state and tribal partners to meet these air quality standards.” EPA closely reviewed recommendations from states and tribes along with public comments before making its decision to designate 211 counties and parts of counties as not meeting EPA’s PM 2.5 standards. These areas, called nonattainment areas, include counties with monitors violating the standards and nearby areas that contribute to that violation. Affected states and tribes will be required to take steps to reduce the pollution that forms fine particles. The vast majority of U.S. counties and tribal lands are meeting these standards, but will need to continue working to maintain clean air. In 2006, EPA strengthened the 24-hour fine particle standards from 65 micrograms per cubic meter to 35 micrograms per cubic meter of air to protect public health. Nationwide, monitored levels of fine particle pollution fell 11 percent from 2000 to 2007. Fine particles can either be emitted directly, or they can form in the atmosphere from reactions of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. Exposure to fine particle pollution can cause a number of serious health problems including aggravated asthma, increased hospital admissions and emergency room visits for respiratory and cardiovascular disease, heart attacks and premature death. More information on the designations: _http://www.epa.gov/pmdesignations/2006standards/index.htm_ (http://www.epa.gov/pmdesignations/2006standards/index.htm) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> 10 Southwestern Pa. counties cited for not reaching soot pollution standards Tuesday, December 23, 2008, By Don Hopey, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Ten southwestern Pennsylvania counties are among 211 counties and 23 Native American reservations across the nation designated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency yesterday as not meeting tighter federal health standards for fine particle soot pollution. Parts of Allegheny, Armstrong, Lawrence, Greene and Indiana, and all of Beaver, Butler, Washington, Westmoreland and Cambria counties were declared in "nonattainment" of the daily federal pollution standards for fine particulates. Also in nonattainment are seven counties around Philadelphia in the southeastern corner of the state, three around Harrisburg, two around Allentown and Lancaster County. Because of those designations, Pennsylvania and 24 other states containing counties not meeting the health standard must submit plans to the EPA detailing how they will reduce fine particle pollution or risk losing federal highway funding. Allegheny County and most of the other southwestern Pennsylvania counties struggled to meet less stringent health-based soot standards set in 1997. What's different for the fine particle standard set in 2006 is that the more polluted areas of some counties -- like Liberty-Clairton in Allegheny County -- have been carved out as nonattainment areas, while the remainder of the counties, where soot pollution readings are lower, can avoid the negative designation. "I think it's a good idea to back off the whole county designation. It allows us to concentrate our pollution reduction efforts in those areas where they are needed most," said Dr. Bruce Dixon, Allegheny County Health Department director. "From a health perspective, for many living in our county, airborne particulates are not the foremost pollutant," he said. "But in some areas of the Mon Valley where industry is concentrated, we need to recognize that it is." Dr. Dixon said U.S. Steel Corp.'s ongoing $1.2 billion coke oven replacement project at its Clairton Works will help the Liberty-Clairton area reduce soot levels and move that part of the Monongahela River Valley toward attainment of the federal standard. "It may even achieve the standard," he said. "But if not, we will look at reductions from other industry. We want every industry to make improvements to their processes that reduce pollution. Our first target date is 2010, so we have some time." The federal standard measures soot particles that are 2.5 micrometers in size, called PM 2.5 -- so small that several hundred could fit on the period at the end of this sentence. The fine particle pollution can be emitted directly from coal-burning power plants, other industrial sources or vehicles, or form in the atmosphere from chemical reactions involving sulfur dioxides and nitrogen oxides. Exposure to higher levels of such soot pollution can cause a number of serious health problems, including asthma, heart attacks and premature death, as well as increased hospital admissions and emergency room visits for respiratory and cardiovascular problems. The EPA designations culminate a two-year process that identified counties that failed to meet the 2006 standards and allowed states, tribal leaders, environmental groups and business and industry lobbyists to comment on the agency's proposed designations. The American Lung Association faulted the EPA for leaving five metropolitan areas and several counties with high air pollution off its nonattainment list for fine particles, saying it puts populations in those areas at risk. The five cities -- Houston, Texas; Augusta and Columbus, Ga.; Greenville, S.C.; and Fairmont, W.Va. -- all showed unhealthy year-round levels of soot pollution. In two of those cities, Columbus and Houston, fine particulate levels have worsened. "The Clean Air Act plainly requires the EPA to identify all the places where air pollution poses a threat to public health," said Paul Billings, American Lung Association vice president for national policy and advocacy. "The EPA has a responsibility to do more to protect public health when it comes to air pollution." The EPA said it "closely reviewed" recommendations from states and public comments before making its nonattainment designations. Don Hopey can be reached at _dhopey(a)post-gazette.com_ (mailto:dhopey@post-gazette.com) or 412-263-1983. First published on December 23, 2008 at 12:00 am **************One site keeps you connected to all your email: AOL Mail, Gmail, and Yahoo Mail. Try it now. (http://www.aol.com/?optin=new-dp&icid=aolcom40vanity&ncid=emlcntaolcom00000…)

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Happy Earth Day from FERC
by duane330＠aol.com 23 Apr '09

23 Apr '09

----- Original Message ----- / Thanks to Jim Kotcon. Subject: Happy Earth Day from FERC April 22, 2009 No need to build new U.S. coal or nuclear plants -- FERC chairman By NOELLE STRAUB AND PETER BEHR, Greenwire No new nuclear or coal plants may ever be needed in the United States, the chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission said today. "We may not need any, ever," Jon Wellinghoff told reporters at a U.S. Energy Association forum. The FERC chairman's comments go beyond those of other Obama administration officials, who have strongly endorsed greater efficiency and renewables deployment but also say nuclear and fossil energies will continue playing a major role. Wellinghoff's view also goes beyond the consensus outlook in the electric power industry about future sources of electricity. The industry has assumed that more baseload generation would provide part of an increasing demand for power, along with a rapid deployment of renewable generation, smart grid technologies and demand reduction strategies. Jay Apt, a professor at Carnegie Mellon University's Electricity Industry Center, expressed skepticism about the feasibility of relying so heavily on renewable energy. "I don't think we're where Chairman Wellinghoff would like us to be," Apt said. "You need firm power to fill in when the wind doesn't blow. There is just no getting around that." Some combination of more gas- or coal-fired generation, or nuclear power, will be needed, he said. "Demand response can provide a significant buffering of the power fluctuations coming from wind. Interacting widely scattered wind farms cannot provide smooth power." Wellinghoff said renewables like wind, solar and biomass will provide enough energy to meet baseload capacity and future energy demands. Nuclear and coal plants are too expensive, he added. "I think baseload capacity is going to become an anachronism," he said. "Baseload capacity really used to only mean in an economic dispatch, which you dispatch first, what would be the cheapest thing to do. Well, ultimately wind's going to be the cheapest thing to do, so you'll dispatch that first." He added, "People talk about, 'Oh, we need baseload.' It's like people saying we need more computing power, we need mainframes. We don't need mainframes, we have distributed computing." The technology for renewable energies has come far enough to allow his vision to move forward, he said. For instance, there are systems now available for concentrated solar plants that can provide 15 hours of storage. "What you have to do, is you have to be able to shape it," he added. "And if you can shape wind and you can effectively get capacity available for you for all your loads. "So if you can shape your renewables, you don't need fossil fuel or nuclear plants to run all the time. And, in fact, most plants running all the time in your system are an impediment because they're very inflexible. You can't ramp up and ramp down a nuclear plant. And if you have instead the ability to ramp up and ramp down loads in ways that can shape the entire system, then the old concept of baseload becomes an anachronism." 'A lot that is still not understood' Asked whether his ideas need detailed studies, given the complexity of the grid, Wellinghoff said the technology is already moving that way. "I think it's being settled by the digital grid moving forward," he said. "We are going to have to go to a smart grid to get to this point I'm talking about. But if we don't go to that digital grid, we're not going to be able to move these renewables, anyway. So it's all going to be an integral part of operating that grid efficiently." The North American Electric Reliability Corp. reported last week on challenges in integrating a twentyfold expansion of renewable power into the nation's electricity networks but did not specifically address whether additional baseload generation would be needed. A spokesperson for NERC did not have an immediate response to Wellinghoff's comments today. Revis James, who directs energy technology assessment for the Electric Power Research Institute, said recently that it is not clear how fast renewable energy can be added without creating reliability issues. "No one knows what the magic number is," he said. "Are we moving too fast? On the policymakers' side, there's a lot that is not still understood about the implications of a large share of renewables." Impact on nuclear power Wellinghoff's statement -- if it reflects Obama administration policy -- would be a huge blow to the U.S. nuclear power industry, which has been hoping for a nuclear "renaissance" based on the capacity of nuclear reactors to generate power without greenhouse gas emissions. Congress created significant financial incentives to encourage the construction of perhaps a half-dozen nuclear plants with innovative designs, and Energy Secretary Steven Chu has promised Congress to accelerate awards of federal loan guarantees for some of these proposals. But a major expansion in U.S. nuclear energy would require a high effective tax on carbon emissions from coal plants, or an extended loan guarantee and tax incentive policy, according to the Congressional Research Service and outside consultants. The leading energy bills before Congress do not provide more loan guarantees. "If expansion of nuclear plants is the nation's policy, then Congress has to recognize that the U.S. energy companies cannot afford to do this alone," said Paul Genoa, policy director for the Nuclear Energy Institute, in a recent interview. "The president needs to show his cards on nuclear energy," said energy consultant Joseph Stanislaw, a Duke University professor. "He cannot keep this industry, which must make investments with a 50-year or longer horizon, in limbo for much longer." "I think [new nuclear expansion] is kind of a theoretical question, because I don't see anybody building these things, I don't see anybody having one under construction," Wellington said. Building nuclear plants is cost-prohibitive, he said, adding that the last price he saw was more than $7,000 a kilowatt -- more expensive than solar energy. "Until costs get to some reasonable cost, I don't think anybody's going to [talk] that seriously," he said. "Coal plants are sort of in the same boat, they're not quite as expensive." Can renewables meet demand? There's enough renewable energy to meet energy demand, Wellinghoff said. "There's 500 to 700 gigawatts of developable wind throughout the Midwest, all the way to Texas. There's probably another 200 to 300 gigawatts in Montana and Wyoming that can go West." He also cited tremendous solar power in the Southwest and hydrokinetic and biomass energy, and said the United States can reduce energy usage by 50 percent. "You combine all those things together ... I think we have great resources in this country, and we just need to start using them," he said. Problems with unsteady power generation from wind will be overcome, he said. "That's exactly what all the load response will do, the load response will provide that leveling ability, number one," he said. "Number two, if you have wide interconnections across the entire interconnect, you're going to have a lot of diversity with that wind. Not all the wind is going to stop at once. You'll have some of it stop, some of it start, and all of that diversity is going to help you, as well." Push for grid modifications But planning for modifying the grid to integrate renewables must take place in the next three to five years, he said. "If we don't do that, then we miss the boat,"Wellinghoff said. "That planning has to take place so you don't strand a lot of assets, a lot of supply assets." Unlike coal and nuclear, natural gas will continue to play a role in generating electricity, he said. "Natural gas is going to be there for a while, because it's going to be there to get us through this transition that's going to take 30 or more years." Chu reiterated before the House Energy and Commerce Committee today that he supports loan guarantees for new nuclear power plants and is working with the White House on the issue. "I believe nuclear power has to be part of the energy mix in this century," Chu said. Chu also noted today that nuclear technology, along with renewables, is an area where the United States has lost its lead. "We are trying to start the American nuclear industry again," he said. Coal currently provides half of U.S. power, while nuclear energy accounts for about 20 percent. Senior reporter Ben Geman contributed. Copyright 2009 E&E Publishing. All Rights Reserved. -- ***************************** Nathan Willcox Energy & Clean Air Advocate PennEnvironment 1420 Walnut Street, Suite 650 Philadelphia, PA 19102 P: (215) 732-5897 F: (215) 732-4599 nwillcox(a)PennEnvironment.org ****************************

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US EPA focus on air quality
by Duane330＠aol.com 13 Apr '09

13 Apr '09

NINE REGIONAL SCHOOLS TO UNDERGO OUTDOOR AIR TOXIC MONITORING EPA announced that _62 schools in 22 states_ (http://www.epa.gov/schoolair/schools.html) near industrial/urban areas will undergo outdoor air toxics monitoring by EPA, state, and local agencies to protect children from possible high levels of toxic air pollution in these areas. Nine of these are located in EPA's mid-Atlantic region: 1. Clairton Educational Center (Clairton, Va.) 2. Kreutz Creek Valley Elementary School (Hallam, Pa.) 3. Riverside Elementary School (Reading, Pa.) 4. Solid Rock Academy/Early Learning Center (Madison Heights, Pa.) 5. South Allegheny Middle/High School (McKeesport, Pa.) 6. Sto-Rox Elementary School (McKees Rocks, Pa.) 7. Cabell County Career Technology Center (Huntington, W. Va.) 8. Follansbee Middle School (Follansbee, W. Va.) 9. Neale Elementary School (Vienna, W. Va.) Results will be made available to the public at _http://www.epa.gov/schoolair_ (http://www.epa.gov/schoolair/) . >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> APRIL 1 SIGNALS THE BEGINNING OF THE 2009 OZONE SEASON FOR THE MID-ATLANTIC REGION April 1 was designated as the official start of the 2009 ozone season for Region 3 states (Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, W. Virginia) and Washington, D.C. Ground-level ozone is formed when _VOCs_ (http://www.epa.gov/air/emissions/voc.htm) and _NOx_ (http://www.epa.gov/air/emissions/nox.htm) react in the presence of sunlight and hot temperatures during the warmer months of the year. Exposure to unhealthy ground-level ozone conditions affects everyone, especially at-risk populations who have existing respiratory problems and are more susceptible to ground-level ozone exposure. People (especially at-risk groups) interested in protecting themselves from over-exposure to ozone pollution, can access useful air quality information at the _EPA AIRNow website_ (http://www.airnow.gov/) . **************Access 350+ FREE radio stations anytime from anywhere on the web. Get the Radio Toolbar! (http://toolbar.aol.com/aolradio/download.html?ncid=emlcntusdown00000002)

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"NOW" on PBS-TV, Friday, April 17th
by duane330＠aol.com 08 Apr '09

08 Apr '09

Stop Global Warming Virtual March 04/08/09.? Earth Day is April 22nd MASSIVE ANTARCTIC ICE SHELF SET TO BREAK FREE A huge ice shelf in the Antarctic the size of Connecticut is in the last stages of collapse and could break free any day. The Wilkins shelf is the largest slab of ice so far to disintegrate in the Antarctic. According to a recent Guardian article, "Though the collapse of Wilkins shelf will not raise sea levels directly - as ice shelves float on the sea surface - its demise is a warning sign of potentially disastrous changes in the earth's climate. " Click here for more on the story. FACT: Scientists predicted in 1993 that the Wilkins shelf would collapse within 30 years, but the increasing effects of global warming have caused it to melt at double the anticipated rate. MELTING ARCTIC SEA ICE And from the other end of the planet, researchers say that more than 90 percent of the sea ice in the Arctic is only one or two years old. That makes it thinner and more vulnerable to melting than ever before, according to researchers with NASA and the National Snow and Ice Data Center in Colorado. Sea ice is important because it reflects sunlight away from Earth. The more it melts, the more heat is absorbed by the ocean, heating up the planet more and adversely changing weather patterns worldwide. For more, visit NASA and the National Snow and Ice Data Center FACT: The amount of thick sea ice hit a record wintertime low of just 378,000 square miles this year, down 43 percent from last year. The amount of older sea ice lost is larger than the state of Texas. "ON THIN ICE" AIRS ON PBS APRIL 17TH Check out the documentary "On Thin Ice: Our Disappearing Glaciers", scheduled for broadcast on NOW on PBS on April 17, 2009. This investigative film features award-winning journalist David Brancaccio and Conrad Anker, one of the world's best high-altitude mountain climbers. Anker and Brancaccio travel to India's Gangotri Glacier, located in the Himalayas, which is receding at an alarming rate; and Glacier National Park in Montana, where the ancient ice has nearly disappeared. "On Thin Ice" will change the way Americans think about global warming, by making connections between global warming and crucial life and death issues such as competition for water, global food security, and national security. Learn more at PBS.org. FACT: The rate of Greenland's ice melt has increased 70% over the last five years. MAKE EVERY DAY EARTH DAY With the April 22 Earth Day approaching, our partner Grist wants to remind you that living an environmentally-friendly life is not about how you choose to live one day of the year. It's about the choices you make every day. To help make every day Earth Day, Grist is offering a free download of their book "Wake up and Smell the Planet" to anyone who joins one of their free email lists. You'll also be entered to win a trip for two to the Bonnaroo music festival. Check out Grist.org. Keep Marching, Laurie David, Founder StopGlobalWarming.org Stop Global Warming Virtual March, 15332 Antioch Street #168, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272

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HR 1682. Cap and Dividend Bill now in US Congress
by duane330＠aol.com 08 Apr '09

08 Apr '09

The climate answer: cut carbon, get money, save Earth To:? MVCAC & CLEAR.?? From:? Mike Tidwell, USCEC.??? Date:? April 7, 2009 Congressman Chris Van Hollen of Maryland, one of the highest ranking members of the U.S. House of Representatives, introduced the Cap and Dividend Act of 2009 on April 1st. Read more about H.R. 1682 here.?The proposal will help solve the climate crisis, help our economy grow and help working families prosper. It is simple, transparent and fair. Contact your local Congressional representative to ask him or her?to sign on as a co-sponsor of this important piece of legislation. Take action>> Climate leader Bill McKibben supports this bill: "Simplicity is its own virtue sometimes, and this is one of them. Van Hollen's bill sets out a straightforward mechanism for reducing carbon in the atmosphere in a way that will actually be popular with voters. It's the most innovative, yet obvious, piece of climate legislation in the 20 years I've been following this battle." Van Hollen, Co-Chair of the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Caucus, explained his initiative in this way: "The strength of cap and dividend lies in its simplicity and durability. All permits are sold at auction, and all proceeds are given back to the American people. As the price of energy rises, the monthly dividends will keep American consumers whole. "At its core, any successful climate change bill cannot just reduce carbon emissions. It must attract and retain the long-term, popular support of the American people. I believe the cap and dividend approach offers the best chance to get the job done." The legislation will cut carbon pollution to 10% below 1990 levels by 2020, the strongest?target proposed in federal legislation so far (although CCAN believes that target should be strengthened). It auctions 100% of the carbon permits--instead of giving them away to large polluters--and allows for no potentially complex "carbon offsets" of any kind. It will spur economic investment and innovation and create millions of jobs in clean energy. It returns every penny of higher carbon prices to citizens on a monthly, per capita basis. Every American, every month, will receive an "Energy Security Dividend." This is the kind of bill we need to break through the political logjam on Capitol Hill. Please contact your Congressperson now. ? See Also:? http://www.capanddividend.org/ Sincerely, Mike Tidwell Director, USCEC

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Impact of Air Quality Regulations
by Duane330＠aol.com 26 Mar '09

26 Mar '09

E.P.A. SCIENCE GRANTS MEASURE PROGRESS IN ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMS THAT PROTECT HUMAN HEALTH EPA has awarded 10 EPA Science-to-Achieve-Results research grants totaling $5 million to universities, state departments of public health and one research institute to measure progress in environmental programs that protect human health. Using health outcomes data provides a new way to determine program success in reducing the incidence of environmentally-related diseases, such as asthma, and will help environmental managers evaluate the effectiveness of programs in protecting human health. Two grants were awarded to Johns Hopkins researchers in Region 3. Under one of the grants, _ "Statistical Models for Estimating the Health Impact of Air Quality Regulations_ (http://cfpub.epa.gov/ncer_abstracts/index.cfm/fuseaction/display.abstractDe… /0) , researchers will develop evidence of the gains in public health that have followed the implementation of costly regulatory policies. The other grant also to Johns Hopkins titled: _"Longitudinal Indicators of Policy Impact on Pollution, Exposure and Health Risk_ (http://cfpub.epa.gov/ncer_abstracts/index.cfm/fuseaction/display.abstractDe…) " will develop state level indicators of environmental pollution, population exposure, and population health risks. For more information on the grants, go to _http://www.epa.gov/ncer/indicators_ (http://www.epa.gov/ncer/indicators) **************Feeling the pinch at the grocery store? Make dinner for $10 or less. (http://food.aol.com/frugal-feasts?ncid=emlcntusfood00000001)

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Lead, dioxin and mercury
by Duane330＠aol.com 26 Mar '09

26 Mar '09

EPA ISSUES THE MOST RECENT INFORMATION ON TOXIC CHEMICAL RELEASES EPA is making the most recently reported data available on toxic chemical releases into the environment through its Toxics Release Inventory for 2007. The data shows overall decrease of five percent in releases since 2006. (Releases to air decreased seven percent and releases to water decreased five percent). The report also shows a 40 percent increase in the release of persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic chemicals (PCBs) like lead, dioxin, and mercury. Overall releases increased one percent. For more information on the TRI reporting change, go to _epa.gov/tri_ (http://www.epa.gov/tri) For additional information, go to _TRI 2007 Public Data Release_ (http://www.epa.gov/tri/tridata/tri07/index.htm) , and the _TRI Explorer tool_ (http://www.epa.gov/triexplorer) . **************Feeling the pinch at the grocery store? Make dinner for $10 or less. (http://food.aol.com/frugal-feasts?ncid=emlcntusfood00000001)

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Earth Hour. Saturday @ 8:30 pm
by Duane330＠aol.com 24 Mar '09

24 Mar '09

Turn out. Take action. Be part of this historic event. March 28, 2009, 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm, local time World Wildlife Fund is asking individuals, businesses, governments and organizations around the world to turn off their lights for one hour – Earth Hour – to make a global statement of concern about climate change and to demonstrate commitment to finding solutions. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> For more information, see the following web-site..... _http://www.earthhourus.org/main.php_ (http://www.earthhourus.org/main.php) **************A Good Credit Score is 700 or Above. See yours in just 2 easy steps! (http://pr.atwola.com/promoclk/100126575x1220085203x1201389322/aol?redir=htt… %3D62%26bcd%3DMarchfooterNO62)

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Longview to get More Tax Breaks from State of WV
by Paula Hunt 24 Mar '09

24 Mar '09

from the Charleston Daily Mail : http://www.dailymail.com/Business/200903220265 (Please click on the link above if the story below has a bunch of gibberish in it. Sometimes cutting and pasting doesn't work well in e mails. -Pjh) Monday March 23, 2009 State approves more power plant bonds Longview factory is one of largest private investments in W.Va. history by George Hohmann Daily Mail Business Editor CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- The state Economic Development Authority has given preliminary approval to a $45 million tax-free bond issue to help finance the Longview power plant under construction at Maidsville, near Morgantown. The allocation, approved Thursday, is the latest of several approved for the plant. The authority said in April 2007 that it would issue up to $600 million in bonds to help finance the $1.83 billion project. In November 2007 the authority approved a $17.2 million bond issue. A $43.3 million bond issue was approved last July and a $40.8 million bond issue was approved in December. Longview is one of the largest private investments in the history of West Virginia. It is the first coal-fired plant to be built in the state since 1993. Ground for the 695-megawatt plant was broken in May 2007. It is scheduled to begin producing power next year. Also during its regular monthly meeting, the authority agreed to buy 32 acres in The Highlands business park, east of Wheeling, for $5 million from the Ohio County Development Authority. .... (see full story for the rest) Contact writer George Hohmann at <http://www.dailymail.com/Business/contact/ohfvarff+qnvylznvy+pbz+return=/Bu…>busin...(a)dailymail.com or 304-348-4836.

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Fwd: looking for standing witnesses on Hatsfield Ferry Power Plant
by James Kotcon 05 Mar '09

05 Mar '09

I met Lisa Marcucci a few years back working on the Nemacolin and Robinson Township power plants in PA. Anyone know anyone who could fit the description? Jim Kotocn >>> "Frank Young" <frankly(a)mtparty.org> 3/5/2009 7:52 PM >>> "Standing witnesses should be those using the Monongahela River for drinking water sources -- fishing and consuming fish caught in the Mon River -- individuals recreating on the Mon River on a regular basis." Hi All, > Environmental Integrity Project has been working with Earthjustice on a possible challenge to the Hatfield's Ferry Power Plant NPDES permit. If we proceed with a legal challenge, we need standing witnesses for the case. Earthjustice is interesting in identifying residents living in Masontown, Carmichaels and other Mon Valley communities. > Standing witnesses should be those: > -- using the Monongahela River for drinking water sources -- fishing and consuming fish caught in the Mon River -- individuals recreating on the Mon River on a regular basis > > Could any of you indentify any folks who fit this description -- and whom you think we could contact for further discussion? If you could email me their contact info, I will work with Earthjustice in contacting them. > > Many thanks, > Lisa > > > -- Lisa Graves Marcucci > Environmental Integrity Project > PA Coordinator, Community Outreach > 123 Oakwood Drive > Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 > 412-655-0261 > 412-897-0569 (cell) > lisagmarcucci(a)gmail.com <mailto:lisagmarcucci@gmail.com> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ From: Terri Davin <terri(a)coalfieldjustice.org> To: Coalwatc <coalwatch@lists.coalfieldjustice..org> Sent: Wednesday, March 4, 2009 3:20:47 PM Subject: [Coalwatch] looking for standing witnesses on Hatsfield Ferry Power Plant ------- Original Message -------- > Subject: looking for standing witnesses > Date: Tue, 3 Mar 2009 14:29:54 -0500 > From: Lisa Graves-Marcucci <lisagmarcucci@gmail..com> > To: Mountain Watershed Association <mwa(a)mtwatershed.com>, Citizens Coal Council <ccc(a)citizenscoalcouncil.org>, Raina Rippel <raina(a)coalfieldjustice.org> > > > > Hi All, > Environmental Integrity Project has been working with Earthjustice on a possible challenge to the Hatfield's Ferry Power Plant NPDES permit. If we proceed with a legal challenge, we need standing witnesses for the case. Earthjustice is interesting in identifying residents living in Masontown, Carmichaels and other Mon Valley communities. > Standing witnesses should be those: > -- using the Monongahela River for drinking water sources -- fishing and consuming fish caught in the Mon River -- individuals recreating on the Mon River on a regular basis > > Could any of you indentify any folks who fit this description -- and whom you think we could contact for further discussion? If you could email me their contact info, I will work with Earthjustice in contacting them. > > Many thanks, > Lisa > > > -- Lisa Graves Marcucci > Environmental Integrity Project > PA Coordinator, Community Outreach > 123 Oakwood Drive > Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 > 412-655-0261 > 412-897-0569 (cell) > lisagmarcucci(a)gmail.com <mailto:lisagmarcucci@gmail.com> > > > > _______________________________________________ The Coalwatch Listserv exists to allow for the open discussions and strategies around justice issues in the coalfields. Messages to the coalwatch listserv are private and confidential. Do NOT forward e-mails posted to this listserv unless specifically allowed to. Coalwatch mailing list Coalwatch@lists..coalfieldjustice.org http://lists.coalfieldjustice.org/listinfo.cgi/coalwatch-coalfieldjustice.o…

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Fwd: FYI
by Dfvet＠aol.com 02 Mar '09

02 Mar '09

**************Need a job? Find employment help in your area. (http://yellowpages.aol.com/search?query=employment_agencies&ncid=emlcntusye…)

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News from Virginia & Pennsylvania
by duane330＠aol.com 19 Feb '09

19 Feb '09

FROM PIEDMONT ENVIRONMENTAL COUNCIL OF VIRGINIA Victory in the US Fourth Circuit! We've just won a case in front of the US Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals that strikes a blow to the federal government's fast-tracking, environment-be-damned approach to transmission line siting under the NIETC process. The ruling makes it possible for a state utility commission to deny a transmission line project, without giving the utility a second bite at the apple at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Ruling in PEC's favor, the court overturned FERC's "expansive interpretation" of its own siting authority, and found that FERC violated Council on Environmental Quality regulations related to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The decision restores a semblance of federal-state balance in the overall transmission line siting process. Although it is unlikely to influence the Dominion/TrAILCo transmission line case, the decision could impact all future transmission line cases. Court Rules: State Can Deny a Project The Fourth Circuit ruling makes it possible (once again) for a state utility commission to consider a transmission line project, weigh the pros and cons, and then make a decision to deny a permit, without fear of federal reprisal. Under FERC's prior interpretation, a utility was virtually guaranteed two shots at getting their project approved. If the state wouldn't say 'yes', the utility could try again at the federal level. 9th Circuit Case Still Pending This lawsuit was20the first of two filed by PEC relating to the Department of Energy's National Interest Electric Transmission Corridors. The second, which seeks to overturn the DOE’s designation of multi-state corridors for transmission line siting, is pending before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco. This 4th Circuit ruling validates many of the arguments we've made over the past few years. Thanks for your support and continued donations to our Energy and Transmission campaign. We're working on energy efficiency and renewable bills down in Richmond, moving forward with our Virginia Supreme Court appeal, and playing an active role in the state and national discussion on transmission. Very best, Bri West, Piedmont Environmental Council, pecnews(a)pecva.org >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> GASPalerts Action and News from Group Against Smog and Pollution JOIN OUR LIST February 19, 2009 Pittsburgh Healthy School Bus Fund helps reduce kids' exposure to toxic diesel exhaust The Allegheny County Partnership to Reduce Diesel Pollution, a comprehensive campaign led by GASP and Clean Water Action, held a press conference on Tuesday to recognize local school bus owner W.L. Roenigk as he unveiled his newly retrofitted schoo l buses. Read our press release News Coverage from the press conference: Healthy School Buses Unveiled For Pittsburgh Students Cleaner bus air in pipeline for schoolchildren -- Tribune Review, 2.18.09 Pittsburgh school buses to be made to run cleaner 50 school buses to be retrofit Other recent school bus press: Districts largely uninterested in funds for retrofitting buses -- Post Gazette, 2.17.09 Write a letter to the Post Gazette or Pittsburgh Tribune Review editors to let them know that cleaning up school buses is a priority to you. Why aren't more school districts and school bus contractors taking advantage of local funding? Let us know if you submit a LTE. Take Action! Tell the Board of Health to protect children's health by making it easier for local school districts to clean up their school buses If you've already taken this action -- Thank You! If not please do so today. The Allegheny County Board of Health has allocated $500,000 from the Clean Air Fund to retrofit school buses in the county with emission reduction technology. In its current form, the program requires most school districts which apply to match 25%. This appears to be a deterrent and the fund is not being used. Ask Board of Health members to remove the match by writing to boh(a)achd.net. Please copy gasp(a)gasp-pgh.org. Click here to le arn more about the Allegheny County Diesel School Bus Retrofit Program. In the news Pollution link to asthma in womb "Traffic pollution causes genetic changes in the womb which increase a child's risk of developing asthma, research suggests." New Diesel Vehicle Idling Restrictions Will Keep Air Cleaner, Reduce Fuel Consumption "Pennsylvanians -- particularly those vulnerable to air pollution such as children and the elderly -- will breathe easier, thanks to a new measure taking effect today that limits engine idling by heavy-duty diesel vehicles." DEP APPEALS COURT RULING INVALIDATING PENNSYLVANIA'S MERCURY RULE "HARRISBURG - Environmental Protection acting Secretary John Hanger said today the commonwealth has filed an appeal with the Pennsylvania Supreme Court seeking to overturn a recent state court opinion that declared Pennsylvania's Mercury Rule "unlawful, invalid and unenforceable." " Volunteers Needed! Website Redesign GASP is looking for volunteers to work on our website redesign. If you are interested please contact Lee at lee(a)gasp-pgh.org. Nominate YOUR Environmental Hero! This year, GASP is celebrating its 40th year of working to clean up the air in southwestern PA. We'd like to celebrate by recognizing 40 "Environmental Heroes" for the good work that they've done for the environment in the greater Pittsburgh area. Click here to nominate someone or find o ut more information. Become a member of GASP GASP is a membership organization. In addtion to grants from private foundations and government agencies, we depend on donations from individuals to help us conduct education and advocate for clean air and a healthy environment. Learn more about GASP membership. We appreciate your participation on the GASPalerts email list. Working together, we can make a difference in our region's environment. We won't trade or sell your address with other organizations or inundate you with mailings. Thank you. Sincerely, Group Against Smog and Pollution

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Status of TrAILCo transmission line
by duane330＠aol.com 17 Feb '09

17 Feb '09

The link at the bottom of this email leads you to the recent PSC final order reaffirming without signiificant change -- except as requested by TrAILCo -- the August 1, 2008 order approving construction of the TrAILCo transmission line. ?It is aptly summarized in the "Activity Description" section prepared by the Commission and italicized below. Commission Final Order?...... - that the Sierra Club Petition for Reconsideration is denied;? - ?that Mr. Hildebrand's Petition for Reconsideration is denied;? - that the TrAILCo Petition for Reconsideration is granted as described in this Order;? - that the sixth ordering paragraph of the Final Order, regarding installation of a static VAR compensator, is rescinded;? - that TrAILCo notify the Commission within 30 days of the date the MVAR described in this order is installed and operational at the Meadowbrook substation;? - that TrAILCo may proceed with a phased approach to construction and complying with the pre-construction conditions of the Final Order, as described in this Order;? - that the eleventh ordering paragraph of the Final Order is revised;? - that the H-P Petition to Intervene Out of Time and Petition for Reconsideration are denied;? - that Ms. Stahl's Petition for Reconsideration is denied;? - that the Sierra Club Petition for a Continuing Prudence Review is denied;? - that Mr. Hildebrand's Petition for Additional Hearing is denied;? - that exept as modified, the Order of August 1, 2008 remains the final order of the Commission in this matter;? Case Final. Removing from open docket. Click here to view associated document >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> It is my understanding that this decision can be appealed to the WV Supreme Court of Appeals within 30 days of the PSC final ruling...... Duane Nichols

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10.75 percent of Longview to Siemens
by duane330＠aol.com 06 Feb '09

06 Feb '09

First Reserve sells 10.75 per cent stake in power plant holding company to Siemens AllAssets USA Energy specialist private equity firm First Reserve is to sell a 10.75 per cent equity interest and pro-rata funding obligation in Longview Intermediate Holdings to Siemens Financial Services, Inc. The company is an indirect parent of the Longview Power project – a pulverised coal-fired generating facility currently under construction in West Virginia. Financial details were not disclosed. The Longview plant, which secured $1.1bn of construction financing in February 2007, expects to begin commercial operation in early 2011, the firm said. Mark McComiskey, managing director at First Reserve, said, “SFS's investment in the facility highlights the significant market opportunity that both partners see in the project as well as Siemens' confidence as a leading member of the construction consortium in the timely and successful completion of the project. We are delighted to have them as partners in this project.” Johannes Schmidt, CEO equity and project finance at SFS, added, "Longview Power is an excellent opportunity for us to comply with our mission: to invest in new highly efficient and, thus, environmentally friendly energy projects. We value First Reserve Corporation as one of the world's leading energy-focused investors. Together we will implement the most efficient energy project in its class." First Reserve invests exclusively in the energy industry, having invested approximately $12.5bn in equity. The firm has invested in over 100 platform acquisitions and First Reserve portfolio companies have completed approximately 300 add-on transactions. The firm typically targets companies with enterprise values of up to $10bn. First Reserve sells 10.75 per cent stake in power plant holding ...

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Re: [MVCAC] Longview Power
by James Kotcon 03 Feb '09

03 Feb '09

Paula, et al. The article says the sale is subject to the FERC approval, "expected within 60 days". I think we need to go after the funding, and challenge this before FERC. At least make them prove the benefits, verify the congestion issues, assure that the environmental impacts of their water use are considered, etc. We have let Longview have too much of a free ride on financing issues, so let's do our homework. Whaddya Tink? JBK >>> Paula Hunt <pjhunt(a)xemaps.com> 2/2/2009 7:43 PM >>> First Reserve sold "a 10.75% equity interest and pro-rata funding obligation in Longview Intermediate Holdings B, LLC" to Siemens Financial Services. Please see their news release below. It seems like a million companies will own part of this thing by the time it is al through (if it is ever through). I don't think Longview still has all the funding it needs. - paula >News Release for: longview power ><http://www.pehub.com/30192/first-reserve-selling-longview-stake-to-siemens/>First >Reserve Selling >Longview<http://www.pehub.com/30192/first-reserve-selling-longview-stake-to-siemens/> >Stake to Siemens Siemens Financial Services, Inc. Joins Roster of Longview Power Plant Financial Backers Posted : Mon, 02 Feb 2009 12:04:08 GMT Author : First Reserve Corporation; Siemens Financial Services Category : <http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/pg/0.html>Press Release GREENWICH, Conn. and ISELIN, N.J., Feb. 2 CT-Siemens-Longview Multi-Billion Dollar Energy Infrastructure Project GREENWICH, Conn. and ISELIN, N.J., Feb. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- First Reserve Corporation ("First Reserve") and Siemens Financial Services, Inc. announced today the execution of definitive agreements for the sale of a 10.75% equity interest and pro-rata funding obligation in Longview Intermediate Holdings B, LLC ("Holdings") to Siemens Financial Services, Inc. ("SFS"). Holdings is an indirect parent of the Longview Power project ("Longview"), a supercritical, pulverized coal-fired generating facility currently under construction in West Virginia. Closing is subject to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission approval and is expected within 60 days. Terms of the investment were not disclosed. "SFS' investment in the facility highlights the significant market opportunity that both partners see in the project as well as Siemens' confidence as a leading member of the construction consortium in the timely and successful completion of the project. We are delighted to have them as partners in this project," said Mark McComiskey, Managing Director at First Reserve Corporation. Johannes Schmidt, CEO Equity & Project Finance at SFS added, "Longview Power is an excellent opportunity for us to comply with our mission: To invest in new highly efficient and thus environmentally friendly energy projects. We value First Reserve Corporation as one of the world's leading energy-focused investors. Together we will implement the most efficient energy project in its class." The Longview plant, located in Maidsville, West Virginia, broke ground in the second quarter of 2007 and expects to begin commercial operation in early 2011. The project is being constructed by a consortium of Siemens Power Generation, Inc. and Aker Kvaerner Songer, Inc. Foster Wheeler North America Corp. is supplying the supercritical boiler to the project. About GenPower Holdings, L.P. GenPower, LLC and First Reserve, a leading global private equity firm, formed GenPower Holdings, L.P. in October 2006 to pursue the development, ownership, acquisition and operation of power generation facilities in the United States and abroad. Longview Power is the first major investment by the joint venture. For more information on GenPower Holdings, L.P. and Longview Power, LLC, please visit our website at <http://www.genpower.net/>www.genpower.net. About First Reserve First Reserve is the world's leading private equity firm in the energy industry. For more than 25 years, it has invested solely in the global energy industry, and has developed an unparalleled franchise, utilizing its broad base of specialized energy industry knowledge as a competitive advantage. First Reserve invests strategically across a wide range of energy industry sectors, developing a portfolio that is diversified across the energy value chain, backing talented management teams and building value by building companies. Further information is available at <http://www.firstreserve.com/>www.firstreserve.com About Siemens Financial Services (SFS) Siemens Financial Services (SFS) is an international provider of financial solutions in the business-to-business area. With about 1,900 employees and an international network of financial companies coordinated by Siemens Financial Services GmbH, Munich, we support Siemens as well as non-affiliated companies, focusing on the three sectors of energy, industry and healthcare. We finance infrastructure, equipment and working capital and act as a competent manager of financial risks within Siemens. By leveraging our financing expertise and our industrial know-how we create value for our customers and help them strengthen their competitiveness. For more information see: <http://www.siemens.com/finance>www.siemens.com/finance. Siemens Financial Services, Inc. (SFS Inc.) is a leading provider of business-to-business financial services in the United States. SFS is a committed business ally that combines deep industry expertise with integrated financing solutions to enhance the efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness of its customers. The company, based in Iselin, NJ, enables business expansion for thousands of customers in the healthcare, energy, and industrial sectors by providing customized solutions that range from equipment financing and working capital to project and export finance, and insurance solutions. Further information on Siemens Financial Services in the United States: <http://www.usa.siemens.com/financial>www.usa.siemens.com/financial About Siemens Siemens AG (NYSE: SI) is a global powerhouse in electronics and electrical engineering, and operates in the industry, energy and healthcare sectors. For more than 160 years, Siemens has built a reputation for leading-edge innovation and the quality of its products, services and solutions. With 428,000 employees in 190 countries, Siemens reported worldwide sales of $116.6 billion in fiscal 2008. With its U.S. corporate headquarters in New York City, Siemens in the USA reported sales of $22.4 billion and employs approximately 69,000 people throughout all 50 states and Puerto Rico. For more information on Siemens in the United States, visit <http://www.usa.siemens.com/>www.usa.siemens.com Siemens CONTACT: Sonja Ernst (732) 590-6603 sonja.ernst(a)siemens.com First Reserve Corporation CONTACT: Caroline Harris (212) 279-3115 ext. 222 charris(a)cjpcom.com SOURCE First Reserve Corporation; Siemens Financial Services

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Longview Power
by Paula Hunt 02 Feb '09

02 Feb '09

First Reserve sold "a 10.75% equity interest and pro-rata funding obligation in Longview Intermediate Holdings B, LLC" to Siemens Financial Services. Please see their news release below. It seems like a million companies will own part of this thing by the time it is al through (if it is ever through). I don't think Longview still has all the funding it needs. - paula >News Release for: longview power ><http://www.pehub.com/30192/first-reserve-selling-longview-stake-to-siemens/>First >Reserve Selling >Longview<http://www.pehub.com/30192/first-reserve-selling-longview-stake-to-siemens/> >Stake to Siemens Siemens Financial Services, Inc. Joins Roster of Longview Power Plant Financial Backers Posted : Mon, 02 Feb 2009 12:04:08 GMT Author : First Reserve Corporation; Siemens Financial Services Category : <http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/pg/0.html>Press Release GREENWICH, Conn. and ISELIN, N.J., Feb. 2 CT-Siemens-Longview Multi-Billion Dollar Energy Infrastructure Project GREENWICH, Conn. and ISELIN, N.J., Feb. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- First Reserve Corporation ("First Reserve") and Siemens Financial Services, Inc. announced today the execution of definitive agreements for the sale of a 10.75% equity interest and pro-rata funding obligation in Longview Intermediate Holdings B, LLC ("Holdings") to Siemens Financial Services, Inc. ("SFS"). Holdings is an indirect parent of the Longview Power project ("Longview"), a supercritical, pulverized coal-fired generating facility currently under construction in West Virginia. Closing is subject to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission approval and is expected within 60 days. Terms of the investment were not disclosed. "SFS' investment in the facility highlights the significant market opportunity that both partners see in the project as well as Siemens' confidence as a leading member of the construction consortium in the timely and successful completion of the project. We are delighted to have them as partners in this project," said Mark McComiskey, Managing Director at First Reserve Corporation. Johannes Schmidt, CEO Equity & Project Finance at SFS added, "Longview Power is an excellent opportunity for us to comply with our mission: To invest in new highly efficient and thus environmentally friendly energy projects. We value First Reserve Corporation as one of the world's leading energy-focused investors. Together we will implement the most efficient energy project in its class." The Longview plant, located in Maidsville, West Virginia, broke ground in the second quarter of 2007 and expects to begin commercial operation in early 2011. The project is being constructed by a consortium of Siemens Power Generation, Inc. and Aker Kvaerner Songer, Inc. Foster Wheeler North America Corp. is supplying the supercritical boiler to the project. About GenPower Holdings, L.P. GenPower, LLC and First Reserve, a leading global private equity firm, formed GenPower Holdings, L.P. in October 2006 to pursue the development, ownership, acquisition and operation of power generation facilities in the United States and abroad. Longview Power is the first major investment by the joint venture. For more information on GenPower Holdings, L.P. and Longview Power, LLC, please visit our website at <http://www.genpower.net/>www.genpower.net. About First Reserve First Reserve is the world's leading private equity firm in the energy industry. For more than 25 years, it has invested solely in the global energy industry, and has developed an unparalleled franchise, utilizing its broad base of specialized energy industry knowledge as a competitive advantage. First Reserve invests strategically across a wide range of energy industry sectors, developing a portfolio that is diversified across the energy value chain, backing talented management teams and building value by building companies. Further information is available at <http://www.firstreserve.com/>www.firstreserve.com About Siemens Financial Services (SFS) Siemens Financial Services (SFS) is an international provider of financial solutions in the business-to-business area. With about 1,900 employees and an international network of financial companies coordinated by Siemens Financial Services GmbH, Munich, we support Siemens as well as non-affiliated companies, focusing on the three sectors of energy, industry and healthcare. We finance infrastructure, equipment and working capital and act as a competent manager of financial risks within Siemens. By leveraging our financing expertise and our industrial know-how we create value for our customers and help them strengthen their competitiveness. For more information see: <http://www.siemens.com/finance>www.siemens.com/finance. Siemens Financial Services, Inc. (SFS Inc.) is a leading provider of business-to-business financial services in the United States. SFS is a committed business ally that combines deep industry expertise with integrated financing solutions to enhance the efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness of its customers. The company, based in Iselin, NJ, enables business expansion for thousands of customers in the healthcare, energy, and industrial sectors by providing customized solutions that range from equipment financing and working capital to project and export finance, and insurance solutions. Further information on Siemens Financial Services in the United States: <http://www.usa.siemens.com/financial>www.usa.siemens.com/financial About Siemens Siemens AG (NYSE: SI) is a global powerhouse in electronics and electrical engineering, and operates in the industry, energy and healthcare sectors. For more than 160 years, Siemens has built a reputation for leading-edge innovation and the quality of its products, services and solutions. With 428,000 employees in 190 countries, Siemens reported worldwide sales of $116.6 billion in fiscal 2008. With its U.S. corporate headquarters in New York City, Siemens in the USA reported sales of $22.4 billion and employs approximately 69,000 people throughout all 50 states and Puerto Rico. For more information on Siemens in the United States, visit <http://www.usa.siemens.com/>www.usa.siemens.com Siemens CONTACT: Sonja Ernst (732) 590-6603 sonja.ernst(a)siemens.com First Reserve Corporation CONTACT: Caroline Harris (212) 279-3115 ext. 222 charris(a)cjpcom.com SOURCE First Reserve Corporation; Siemens Financial Services

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AEP application to sequester carbon dioxide
by Duane330＠aol.com 30 Jan '09

30 Jan '09

Director, Division of Water and Waste Management, DEP 601 57th Street SE Charleston, WV 25304-2345 ATTN: Jeff Knepper, UIC Programs Comments Regarding AEP's Applicaition for UIC Permit Application No. 1189-08-053 RE: AEPs Permit Application No. 1189-08-053 to geologically sequester carbon dioxide. It is essential that the permit particulars include the requirement that a "tracer" be added to the sequestered gases and/or liquids. This is necessary in order that the future status of these gases and/or liquids can be accounted for by the State, by AEP, and possibly by the federal government or the public at large. The "tracer" can be a chemical substance in extremely low concentration that is non-toxic and a substance that can be detected by chemical instrumentation. The choice of "tracer" can be made via consultation among the applicant (AEP), the State agencies involved, and the federal EPA and DOE. If no tracer is used, it will never be possible to properly or legally account for the amount of dissipation and leakage that takes place over time. Given the long term nature of this proposed storage, then accounting for the sequested material is essential. Given the fact that this project represents a new activity, over which the State has no prior knowledge or experience, it is important that a means is provided to independently track the sequestered material. Respectfully submitted by: Dr. Duane G. Nichols, Chemical Engineer Technical Representative, MonValley Clean Air Coalition January 30, 2009 **************From Wall Street to Main Street and everywhere in between, stay up-to-date with the latest news. (http://aol.com?ncid=emlcntaolcom00000023)

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SCIENCE, January 23, 2009
by Duane330＠aol.com 23 Jan '09

23 Jan '09

Cooking and Burning A huge plume of air pollution, called the Asian Atmospheric Brown Cloud (ABC), emanates from Southern Asia and persists over much of the Indian continent and the Indian Ocean during the winter. It is so large and dense that its cooling effect may balance, or even surpass, the warming effect of greenhouse gases in the region. In order to know how to mitigate this scourge, its origin must be known. There are two major sources that contribute to the ABC--biomass burning and fossil fuel combustion--whose relative importance is unclear. Gustafsson et al. (p. _495_ (http://www.info-aaas.org/util/link.jsp?e=0-jkh8dWkT3n-qkJdT6KB-x1gZzuskeKJg… eLEjlDfdQNDgEiwWG7Bw..A) ; see the Perspective by _Szidat_ (http://www.info-aaas.org/util/link.jsp?e=9hkWtoeqjSJbw-2wNomQH2ftvxBu__f9dA… WW00evvrEUQ&s=8cAH8W7w42QgXi5scbyBzCg..A&v=9QieLEjlDfdQNDgEiwWG7Bw..A) ) measured radiocarbon in particles from the cloud, and between one-half and two-thirds of the carbonaceous aerosols were from biomass burning. Thus, controlling biomass combustion, particularly residential cooking and agricultural burning, will be important to mitigate climate effects and to improve air quality in the region. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Dying Trees Tree mortality rates have more than doubled in recent decades in otherwise undisturbed forests of the western United States, possibly as a consequence of ongoing regional warming. Van Mantgem et al. (p. _521_ (http://www.info-aaas.org/util/link.jsp?e=3HAdVkrSLcAEJ1VfAFh0qQB5HmnlsgC85i… W7w42QgXi5scbyBzCg..A&v=9QieLEjlDfdQNDgEiwWG7Bw..A) ; see the news story by _Pennisi_ (http://www.info-aaas.org/util/link.jsp?e=2O_odGyng9kHXsR_lt2roFsdP6gAdk9HY8… ..A) ) use a long-term set of demographic data to reveal a pervasive increase in background mortality rates for trees in seemingly healthy forest. The increases occur regardless of elevations, tree size, taxon, or fire history and cannot be attributed to processes such as increasing competition or aging of large trees. The increases in mortality are likely to have been driven by environmental changes, with ongoing regional warming and its widespread effects on the western U.S. hydrologic cycle being the most probable contributors. Changes in tree mortality rates can affect future forest structure and composition, which in turn affect ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration, and thereby biological contributions and responses to climatic changes. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> **************From Wall Street to Main Street and everywhere in between, stay up-to-date with the latest news. (http://aol.com?ncid=emlcntaolcom00000023)

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Forgot to attach minutes
by Linda Shuster 13 Jan '09

13 Jan '09

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Minutes
by Linda Shuster 13 Jan '09

13 Jan '09

Attached, please find the minutes from last week's MVCAC meeting in pdf format. Linda

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Re: [MVCAC] Letter to DP
by Bill Reger-Nash 13 Jan '09

13 Jan '09

Charles and Cindy, Good letter. We should all follow your lead and continue to use the Letters to the Editor of the DP, Charleston Gazette, Daily Mail and others to communicate this impt message. I agree that we also need to send these same letters, or slightly modified, to the School Board and County Commission, both of whom are selling our children's health for a few pennies. Bill WV Walks - 30 minutes or more daily Feel the power of half an hour! Bill Reger-Nash, Ed.D Professor of Community Medicine West Virginia University School of Medicine Morgantown WV 26506-9190 Phone: 304/293-0763 Fax: 304/293-6685 Dept. web page: http://www.hsc.wvu.edu/som/cmed BRN's web page: http://www.hsc.wvu.edu/som/cmed/wreger/ >>> "Charles Harris" <clharris(a)hsc.wvu.edu> 01/13/09 4:25 PM >>> All: Cindy and I agreed to author a letter to the editor for the DP, on the issue of non-attainment and children's health. We attach our draft of this letter for your consideration. Please feel free to send us any suggestions or changes you would like to see. We will then edit and send it out for final approval....then to the newspaper. Larry and Cindy Charles L. Harris Professor of Biochemistry West Virginia University School of Medicine 304-293-7749

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Re: [MVCAC] Letter to DP
by Charles Harris 13 Jan '09

13 Jan '09

All: Cindy and I agreed to author a letter to the editor for the DP, on the issue of non-attainment and children's health. We attach our draft of this letter for your consideration. Please feel free to send us any suggestions or changes you would like to see. We will then edit and send it out for final approval....then to the newspaper. Larry and Cindy Charles L. Harris Professor of Biochemistry West Virginia University School of Medicine 304-293-7749

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Burger power plant in Ohio Valley
by Duane330＠aol.com 13 Jan '09

13 Jan '09

NOTE: FirstEnergy's Burger power plant is located approximately 30 miles north of the Mitchell and Kammer plants in the Ohio River valley. The emissions from the Burger and Cardinal plants will be carried via the prevailing winds over our region. See details below. Duane Nichols >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Difficult Choice for FirstEnergy at Burger Plant: Scrubbers or Shutdown Decision on plant’s fate due by end of the year By GABE WELLS, Wheeling News-Register, Posted: December 23, 2008. SHADYSIDE - As many as 100 local jobs hang in the balance as FirstEnergy Corp. decides whether a Belmont County power plant is worth the hundreds of millions of dollars needed to bring the facility into compliance with governmental standards. FirstEnergy spokeswoman Ellen Raines on Tuesday said the company will decide by the end of the year whether to continue operations at the R.E. Burger Power Plant south of Shadyside. She said the company is facing massive expenses for the construction of a new scrubber stack at the plant. Increasing costs for natural gas and other upgrades to bring the facility in line with federal environmental standards also are factors in the decision. It was announced in May 2007 that the company had plans to install an Electro-Catalytic Oxidation system on units 4 and 5 of the Burger Plant. Combined, those units produce 312 megawatts of electricity, or enough to serve about 190,000 homes, the company states on its Web site. The ECO system is designed to control multiple pollutants that result from electricity production at coal-based generating plants. It was developed by Powerspan Corp. of New Hampshire, in which FirstEnergy has a minority ownership interest. Information released at that time states the Burger Plant ECO scrubber system would reduce sulfur dioxide, mercury, other gases resulting from combustion and fine particulates. It further was expected to produce marketable ammonium sulfate fertilizer co-product to be sold in the fertilizer market. An ECO commercial demonstration unit has been operating at the Burger Plant since early 2004. And the Ohio Coal Development Office has contributed more than $5.5 million to the demonstration project. Design engineering for the Burger Plant ECO system was set to begin in 2007, according to FirstEnergy, with the system to begin operating in the first quarter of 2011. The cost of the system was estimated at $168 million. The news that Akron, Ohio-based FirstEnergy - a diversified energy company that serves 4.5 million customers in Ohio, Pennsylvania and New Jersey - might discontinue operations at the Burger Plant came Tuesday after a federal appeals court reinstated one of President Bush's clean air regulations while the Environmental Protection Agency makes court-mandated changes. In July, the U.S. Appeals Court for the District of Columbia Circuit threw out the Clean Air Interstate Rule, which required 28 mostly Eastern states to reduce smog-forming and soot-producing emissions that can travel long distances in the wind. The court said the EPA overstepped its authority by instituting the rule, citing "more than several fatal flaws" in the regulation. However, a three-judge panel decided to reinstate the rule while the EPA develops a new clean air program. The judges did not give EPA a deadline to come up with new regulations, but warned the agency that this decision is not an "indefinite stay" of its July ruling. The EPA had predicted that the Clean Air Interstate Rule would prevent about 17,000 premature deaths a year by dramatically reducing sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions. In addition, the EPA said the rule would save up to $100 billion in health benefits, eliminate millions of lost work and school days and prevent tens of thousands of nonfatal heart attacks. Raines stressed that no decision has not been made concerning the Burger Plant's future. She also said employees at the R.E. Burger plant will be told of FirstEnergy's decision before the announcement is made public. "It's obviously a tough economic environment to make those decisions," Raines said. "We want to make sure we are fair with our employees by talking with them first. This was related to environmental compliance, and if nothing changes we will have to give a federal judge our decision before the end of the year. "What is true is that we have made no announcement," she added. "When we make a decision we will talk to our employees, then we will talk to the news media." >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> FirstEnergy Wants More Time to Think By GABE WELLS, Wheeling News-Register, Posted: January 2, 2009. SHADYSIDE, OHIO - Officials with FirstEnergy need more time to think. They've requested an extension of the time period allotted for them to decide whether to close the R.E. Burger plant or spend hundreds of millions of dollars in mandatory upgrades. FirstEnergy announced Wednesday it is has requested an additional 105 days to make a decision regarding the future of two coal-fired units at the Shadyside plant. If the extension is not granted, the company plans to shut down the two main units at the facility, where more than 100 jobs hang in the balance. The company was to make a decision by Wednesday as to whether it would install scrubbers and other environmental equipment or commit to shutting down the facility in two years. The company filed a motion with the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio requesting the additional time to make the decision. On Wednesday, FirstEnergy spokeswoman Tricia Ingraham said, should the extension not be granted, company officials also would have to decide whether to continue operating the Burger Plant's "peaking unit," which is a backup unit used only about 30 days each year. "We certainly hope the judge will grant the extension, and this is a step to keep the plant open," Ingraham said. Ingraham and FirstEnergy President of Fossil Operations Charles D. Lasky both said Wednesday that difficult economic times have contributed to the uncertain future of the Burger Plant. "We are asking the court for an extension, which would provide us with more time and hopefully more economic and regulatory clarity to make this important decision," Lasky said. The Burger Plant employs 102 people. It began operations in 1944, with additional units completed in the 1950s. The two units that may shut down provide enough electricity to serve 190,000 homes. **************New year...new news. Be the first to know what is making headlines. (http://news.aol.com?ncid=emlcntusnews00000002)

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Re: [MVCAC] Nonattainment letter to EPA
by Charles Harris 13 Jan '09

13 Jan '09

This is a great letter and will also help Cindy and I with some details for our letter to the editor. I did note one typo in the line before the summary: change "at" to" act". Larry Charles L. Harris Professor of Biochemistry West Virginia University School of Medicine 304-293-7749 >>> "James Kotcon" <jkotcon(a)wvu.edu> 01/12/09 6:41 PM >>> Attached is the draft I promised to provide at the meeting last week. I got a little more technical that may be necessary, but as I reviewed the history and technical documents, it looked like there were some issues worth bringing up. Technically, the public comment period was up on Oct. 2, but a letter of support can not hurt. And I propose a copy to both EPA and the DEP. If anyone has any suggestions for improvement, or comments on the letter, let us know. If not, send this puppy in. Jim Kotcon

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Nonattainment letter to EPA
by James Kotcon 12 Jan '09

12 Jan '09

Attached is the draft I promised to provide at the meeting last week. I got a little more technical that may be necessary, but as I reviewed the history and technical documents, it looked like there were some issues worth bringing up. Technically, the public comment period was up on Oct. 2, but a letter of support can not hurt. And I propose a copy to both EPA and the DEP. If anyone has any suggestions for improvement, or comments on the letter, let us know. If not, send this puppy in. Jim Kotcon

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Input for Wed. Meeting
by Duane330＠aol.com 07 Jan '09

07 Jan '09

Let me provide some information and make a few requests: 1. The MVCAC checking account balance as of 11/30/08 was $1555.58. [A check for $248.00 was payed earlier in November]. 2. If we take up a collection at each meeting of the MVCAC and document the individual contributors, then we can help to satisfy our IRS guidelines for our 501(c)3 status. I'll give Paula my check for $20. this week. 3. I make a motion that we renew our Post Office Box no. 4679 for another year under the provision that we will not renew for 2010 unless we double our membership (or active participants). 4. I make a motion that we renew our membership in the West Virginia Environmental Council, and ask Paula to send in our annual dues (unless this has already been done). 5. I suggest that we invite a representative of the Group Against Smog & Pollution [GASP] from Pittsburgh to our next meeting, with the intention to consider a joint (co-operative) agreement with GASP for a one-year trial period. [[GASP has a portable meter for PM 2.5 that could be demonstrated.] [I would be willing to make the contact, or defer to others.] 6. Now we know that the water quality of the Monongahela River influences the air quality in the Monongahela River valley and beyond, given that those powerplants using river water in their evaporative cooling towers have been experiencing problems from the high levels of total dissolved solids (TDS) in the river water. Therefore, we can raise this issue in the public press and before the state agencies. 7. The third meeting on the quality of the Mon River will be held this Friday at 10 am in the Airport Annex (lower level). The Director of the Water and Wastewater Division of the WV-DEP will be there to discuss the TDS problem(s). The meeting host is the Upper Mon River Association. [See _www.uppermon.org_ (http://www.uppermon.org) ] 8. I propose that we take a position of continued opposition to the TrAIL power line as well as the proposed PATH line. These lines are not "smart gird" lines, they were not designed to optimize the delivery of electricity from alternative energy sources, they encourage and support power plants that produce high levels of carbon dioxide, and given the need for energy conservation in the nation--these transmission lines are not needed. 9. I move that we take a position in opposition to proposed coal gasification plants, whether for electricity generation or coal- derived hydrocarbon liquids, because these proposed plants have no demonstrated means for carbon dioxide control or containment. One such plant has been proposed for Mingo County in southern West Virginia and another is under consideration for Marshall Co. in the northern panhandle by CONSOL Energy. We're off to the viewing and funeral for my step-father. Duane **************New year...new news. Be the first to know what is making headlines. (http://www.aol.com/?ncid=emlcntaolcom00000026)

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Re: [MVCAC] Meeting Wednesday, January 7
by William Wonderlin 05 Jan '09

05 Jan '09

The location of the MVCAC meeting this Wednesday will be at the WVU Health Sciences Center in Room 3122-A (the George H. Wirtz Library). Enter through the new learning center and proceed to the main hallway at the North end of the building (the left end of the building as you are facing the Learning Center). Take the elevator (or stairs) to the 3rd floor. Room 3122-A is at the far end of the hallway. I will put up some signs. If you have any problem finding the room, call me at 288-1210. Thanks, Bill Bill Wonderlin Associate Professor Department of Biochemistry West Virginia University (304) 293-3159 -----Original Message----- From: Linda Shuster [mailto:lshuster@wvu.edu] Sent: Tuesday, December 30, 2008 6:22 PM To: <mvcac(a)cheat.org> Subject: [MVCAC] Meeting Wednesday, January 7 There will be an MVCAC meeting on Wednesday, January 7 at the 7:00 pm. The location will be announced shortly. _______________________________________________ MVCAC mailing list MVCAC(a)cheat.org http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/mvcac

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SCIENCE January 2 2009, 323 (5910)
by Duane330＠aol.com 03 Jan '09

03 Jan '09

Adding Injury to Insult Coral reefs worldwide are under terrible pressure from rising sea-surface temperatures, pollution, and overexploitation. Another emerging threat to their health is ocean acidification--the declining pH of surface seawater layers caused by the absorption of increasing amounts of atmospheric CO2. Many studies have demonstrated recent declines in the coverage and numbers of live coral reefs, as well as reduced coral diversity, but few have examined how rates of coral calcification have been affected. De'ath et al. (p. _116_ (http://www.info-aaas.org/util/link.jsp?e=6isk9LxiL1JpBWJFMOUpopDoX0ApMAI2N-… kzhshCCEbx2ZWaYsxaR&s=6iHgiXdLbFDmU3lMydtcxPg..A&v=7FCw5FaSomjQElJWjQltRJw..A) ; see the news story by _Pennisi_ (http://www.info-aaas.org/util/link.jsp?e=47YNycyl_p6XJlMxZ4G3rDzMZ3cAhKChnS….. A&v=7FCw5FaSomjQElJWjQltRJw..A) ) examined growth patterns of 328 massive Porites corals from the Great Barrier Reef of Australia and found that their rates of calcification have declined by nearly 15% since 1990, to values lower than any seen for the past 400 years. The main causes of this continuing decline appear to be increasing water temperatures and ocean acidification. **************New year...new news. Be the first to know what is making headlines. (http://www.aol.com/?ncid=emlcntaolcom00000026)

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Meeting Wednesday, January 7
by Linda Shuster 30 Dec '08

30 Dec '08

There will be an MVCAC meeting on Wednesday, January 7 at the 7:00 pm. The location will be announced shortly.

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Re: [MVCAC] USA Today's Smokestack Website worth a peek
by Dfvet＠aol.com 30 Dec '08

30 Dec '08

Given the headline in today's DP, perhaps it is advisable to meet sooner rather than later. It would be good to piggyback on the DP front page story ( EPA flunks Mon County Air) with some press of our own. I will do my best to meet the week of the 4th if we can get enough heads together then. We have nays on Tuesday and Thursday, so how is Wednesday of that week for everyone? Who schedules a meeting room? Deb **************One site keeps you connected to all your email: AOL Mail, Gmail, and Yahoo Mail. Try it now. (http://www.aol.com/?optin=new-dp&icid=aolcom40vanity&ncid=emlcntaolcom00000…)

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Re: [MVCAC] USA Today's Smokestack Website worth a peek
by James Kotcon 28 Dec '08

28 Dec '08

This is some really cool information. Combined with the recent nonattainment desigantion,prehaps we ought to work this up nto some kind of publicity to better inform local officials. This ought to be an issue for the School Board. The data suggest that Easton Elementary and Mylan park Elementary have the owrst air quality of all schools in the County. While these represent outdoor air quality, they should certainly inform the need for and deplyment of additional air quality monitors. It is worth noting that all schools in mon Coiunty are in the bottom third in the nation in terms of air quality. Thanks Deb. JBK >>> <Dfvet(a)aol.com> 12/27/08 11:17 AM >>> Recently USA Today published results of its investigation into air quality in relation to schools. The first story focused primarily on the cancer hotspots and the link between air quality and disease in our youths. A second Special Report published December 22 described why children are physiologically more vulnerable than adults to the negative effects of air pollution. According to the website _www.smokestack.usatoday.com_ (http://www.smokestack.usatoday.com) , of the 128,000 schools listed, Mon County's 27 public schools ranged in the 22nd to 31st percentile in national rankings. For example, Mylan Park Elementary ranks in the 22nd percentile. The air is worse at 32,000 of the 128,000 USA schools. You can see a complete list of the rankings of Mon County Schools at this site:http://content.usatoday.com/news/nation/environment/smokestack/search/… USA Today special report takes the EPA to task for not attending to environmental health. Hope to see y'all soon. deb **************One site keeps you connected to all your email: AOL Mail, Gmail, and Yahoo Mail. Try it now. (http://www.aol.com/?optin=new-dp&icid=aolcom40vanity&ncid=emlcntaolcom00000…)

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USA Today's Smokestack Website worth a peek
by Dfvet＠aol.com 27 Dec '08

27 Dec '08

Recently USA Today published results of its investigation into air quality in relation to schools. The first story focused primarily on the cancer hotspots and the link between air quality and disease in our youths. A second Special Report published December 22 described why children are physiologically more vulnerable than adults to the negative effects of air pollution. According to the website _www.smokestack.usatoday.com_ (http://www.smokestack.usatoday.com) , of the 128,000 schools listed, Mon County's 27 public schools ranged in the 22nd to 31st percentile in national rankings. For example, Mylan Park Elementary ranks in the 22nd percentile. The air is worse at 32,000 of the 128,000 USA schools. You can see a complete list of the rankings of Mon County Schools at this site:http://content.usatoday.com/news/nation/environment/smokestack/search/… USA Today special report takes the EPA to task for not attending to environmental health. Hope to see y'all soon. deb **************One site keeps you connected to all your email: AOL Mail, Gmail, and Yahoo Mail. Try it now. (http://www.aol.com/?optin=new-dp&icid=aolcom40vanity&ncid=emlcntaolcom00000…)

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Re: [MVCAC] US EPA Designated Monongalia County [PM 2.5]
by Dfvet＠aol.com 26 Dec '08

26 Dec '08

Time for a MVCAC meeting? Jim has some great suggestions. Thank you, Jim. Deb **************One site keeps you connected to all your email: AOL Mail, Gmail, and Yahoo Mail. Try it now. (http://www.aol.com/?optin=new-dp&icid=aolcom40vanity&ncid=emlcntaolcom00000…)

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Re: [MVCAC] US EPA Designated Monongalia County [PM 2.5]
by James Kotcon 25 Dec '08

25 Dec '08

P.S. According to the EPA data, (available at: http://www.epa.gov/pmdesignations/2006standards/rec/letters/03_WV_EPAMOD.pdf) the largest "uncontrolled sources" contributing to Mon County nonattainment are the Fort Martin, and Hatfields Ferry power plants. Once scrubbers are installed at these two plants, the next largest contributing sources are the power plants in Marshall County (Kammer and Mitchell) ad the vehicle traffic in Monongalia County. Completion of the scruber installation at Fort Martin, Mitchell and and Hatfields Ferry, plus scrubber installation at Kammer, and an overall reduction of "Vehicle Miles Traveled" in Monongalia County should be our primary objectives. JBK >>> "Bill Reger-Nash" <wreger(a)hsc.wvu.edu> 12/24/08 5:53 PM >>> Duane et al, Thank you for disseminating this info. I would appreciate your lsuggestions about how and where to appropriately respond. Of course, local industries and many politicians will want to call the designation into question whereas we need to further publicize the health hazards associated with the conditons observed. Thoughts? Have a happy holiday all, and thank you for all you do on behalf of us all. Be well and continue to do good. Bill WV Walks - 30 minutes or more daily Feel the power of half an hour! Bill Reger-Nash, Ed.D Professor of Community Medicine West Virginia University School of Medicine Morgantown WV 26506-9190 Phone: 304/293-0763 Fax: 304/293-6685 Dept. web page: http://www.hsc.wvu.edu/som/cmed BRN's web page: http://www.hsc.wvu.edu/som/cmed/wreger/ >>> <Duane330(a)aol.com> 12/24/08 4:09 PM >>> West Virginia Charleston, WV Kanawha Putnam Kanawha Putnam Kanawha Putnam Huntington-Ashland, WV-KY-OH Cabell Mason (p) Wayne Cabell Mason (p) Wayne Morgantown, WV Monongalia Monongalia Parkersburg-Marietta, WV-OH Pleasants Wood Pleasants (p) Wood Pleasants (p) Wood Steubenville-Weirton, OH-WV Brooke Hancock Brooke Hancock Brooke Hancock See the following web site.............. _http://www.epa.gov/pmdesignations/2006standards/regs.htm#3_ (http://www.epa.gov/pmdesignations/2006standards/regs.htm#3) **************One site keeps you connected to all your email: AOL Mail, Gmail, and Yahoo Mail. Try it now. (http://www.aol.com/?optin=new-dp&icid=aolcom40vanity&ncid=emlcntaolcom00000…) _______________________________________________ MVCAC mailing list MVCAC(a)cheat.org http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/mvcac

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Re: [MVCAC] US EPA Designated Monongalia County [PM 2.5]
by Bill Reger-Nash 25 Dec '08

25 Dec '08

Jim, Your comments are quite helpful. Thank you. Bill WV Walks - 30 minutes or more daily Feel the power of half an hour! Bill Reger-Nash, Ed.D Professor of Community Medicine West Virginia University School of Medicine Morgantown WV 26506-9190 Phone: 304/293-0763 Fax: 304/293-6685 Dept. web page: http://www.hsc.wvu.edu/som/cmed BRN's web page: http://www.hsc.wvu.edu/som/cmed/wreger/ >>> "James Kotcon" <jkotcon(a)wvu.edu> 12/25/08 11:42 AM >>> The designation will require the WV-DEP to propose a revisioon to the State Implementation Plan (SIP) within 3 years. The SIP will require emissions rductions adequate to return the area to "attainment" of the EPA Health Standard. Ultimately, this will require reductions in emissions of fine particulates, and the implementation of these reductions is to occur by 2014. The major source will be the Fort Martin power plant, which has >80 % of Mon County's emissions. I suspect that the addition of scrubbers at Fort Martin (already under construction) will dramatically reduce emissions, and DEP may argue that this will return the area to attainment. Useful steps at this point would be to prepare letters to the editor to announce this designation (I have not seen it published yet) as well as urging local officials to do more to protect human health. This is also an opportunity to point out the contributions from the unwise land use development currently occurring in Monongalia County. Some will seek to blame the expanding student population at WVU, however, their contribution while measurable, is relatively trivial compared to all the shopping malls, housing devlopments, and other developments. We need to keep our officials focussd on the real problems, rather than to blame convenient scapegoats like "students" or "environmentalists". JBK >>> "Bill Reger-Nash" <wreger(a)hsc.wvu.edu> 12/24/08 5:53 PM >>> Duane et al, Thank you for disseminating this info. I would appreciate your lsuggestions about how and where to appropriately respond. Of course, local industries and many politicians will want to call the designation into question whereas we need to further publicize the health hazards associated with the conditons observed. Thoughts? Have a happy holiday all, and thank you for all you do on behalf of us all. Be well and continue to do good. Bill WV Walks - 30 minutes or more daily Feel the power of half an hour! Bill Reger-Nash, Ed.D Professor of Community Medicine West Virginia University School of Medicine Morgantown WV 26506-9190 Phone: 304/293-0763 Fax: 304/293-6685 Dept. web page: http://www.hsc.wvu.edu/som/cmed BRN's web page: http://www.hsc.wvu.edu/som/cmed/wreger/ >>> <Duane330(a)aol.com> 12/24/08 4:09 PM >>> West Virginia Charleston, WV Kanawha Putnam Kanawha Putnam Kanawha Putnam Huntington-Ashland, WV-KY-OH Cabell Mason (p) Wayne Cabell Mason (p) Wayne Morgantown, WV Monongalia Monongalia Parkersburg-Marietta, WV-OH Pleasants Wood Pleasants (p) Wood Pleasants (p) Wood Steubenville-Weirton, OH-WV Brooke Hancock Brooke Hancock Brooke Hancock See the following web site.............. _http://www.epa.gov/pmdesignations/2006standards/regs.htm#3_ (http://www.epa.gov/pmdesignations/2006standards/regs.htm#3) **************One site keeps you connected to all your email: AOL Mail, Gmail, and Yahoo Mail. Try it now. (http://www.aol.com/?optin=new-dp&icid=aolcom40vanity&ncid=emlcntaolcom00000…) _______________________________________________ MVCAC mailing list MVCAC(a)cheat.org http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/mvcac

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Re: [MVCAC] US EPA Designated Monongalia County [PM 2.5]
by James Kotcon 25 Dec '08

25 Dec '08

The designation will require the WV-DEP to propose a revisioon to the State Implementation Plan (SIP) within 3 years. The SIP will require emissions rductions adequate to return the area to "attainment" of the EPA Health Standard. Ultimately, this will require reductions in emissions of fine particulates, and the implementation of these reductions is to occur by 2014. The major source will be the Fort Martin power plant, which has >80 % of Mon County's emissions. I suspect that the addition of scrubbers at Fort Martin (already under construction) will dramatically reduce emissions, and DEP may argue that this will return the area to attainment. Useful steps at this point would be to prepare letters to the editor to announce this designation (I have not seen it published yet) as well as urging local officials to do more to protect human health. This is also an opportunity to point out the contributions from the unwise land use development currently occurring in Monongalia County. Some will seek to blame the expanding student population at WVU, however, their contribution while measurable, is relatively trivial compared to all the shopping malls, housing devlopments, and other developments. We need to keep our officials focussd on the real problems, rather than to blame convenient scapegoats like "students" or "environmentalists". JBK >>> "Bill Reger-Nash" <wreger(a)hsc.wvu.edu> 12/24/08 5:53 PM >>> Duane et al, Thank you for disseminating this info. I would appreciate your lsuggestions about how and where to appropriately respond. Of course, local industries and many politicians will want to call the designation into question whereas we need to further publicize the health hazards associated with the conditons observed. Thoughts? Have a happy holiday all, and thank you for all you do on behalf of us all. Be well and continue to do good. Bill WV Walks - 30 minutes or more daily Feel the power of half an hour! Bill Reger-Nash, Ed.D Professor of Community Medicine West Virginia University School of Medicine Morgantown WV 26506-9190 Phone: 304/293-0763 Fax: 304/293-6685 Dept. web page: http://www.hsc.wvu.edu/som/cmed BRN's web page: http://www.hsc.wvu.edu/som/cmed/wreger/ >>> <Duane330(a)aol.com> 12/24/08 4:09 PM >>> West Virginia Charleston, WV Kanawha Putnam Kanawha Putnam Kanawha Putnam Huntington-Ashland, WV-KY-OH Cabell Mason (p) Wayne Cabell Mason (p) Wayne Morgantown, WV Monongalia Monongalia Parkersburg-Marietta, WV-OH Pleasants Wood Pleasants (p) Wood Pleasants (p) Wood Steubenville-Weirton, OH-WV Brooke Hancock Brooke Hancock Brooke Hancock See the following web site.............. _http://www.epa.gov/pmdesignations/2006standards/regs.htm#3_ (http://www.epa.gov/pmdesignations/2006standards/regs.htm#3) **************One site keeps you connected to all your email: AOL Mail, Gmail, and Yahoo Mail. Try it now. (http://www.aol.com/?optin=new-dp&icid=aolcom40vanity&ncid=emlcntaolcom00000…) _______________________________________________ MVCAC mailing list MVCAC(a)cheat.org http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/mvcac

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Re: [MVCAC] US EPA Designated Monongalia County [PM 2.5]
by Bill Reger-Nash 24 Dec '08

24 Dec '08

Duane et al, Thank you for disseminating this info. I would appreciate your lsuggestions about how and where to appropriately respond. Of course, local industries and many politicians will want to call the designation into question whereas we need to further publicize the health hazards associated with the conditons observed. Thoughts? Have a happy holiday all, and thank you for all you do on behalf of us all. Be well and continue to do good. Bill WV Walks - 30 minutes or more daily Feel the power of half an hour! Bill Reger-Nash, Ed.D Professor of Community Medicine West Virginia University School of Medicine Morgantown WV 26506-9190 Phone: 304/293-0763 Fax: 304/293-6685 Dept. web page: http://www.hsc.wvu.edu/som/cmed BRN's web page: http://www.hsc.wvu.edu/som/cmed/wreger/ >>> <Duane330(a)aol.com> 12/24/08 4:09 PM >>> West Virginia Charleston, WV Kanawha Putnam Kanawha Putnam Kanawha Putnam Huntington-Ashland, WV-KY-OH Cabell Mason (p) Wayne Cabell Mason (p) Wayne Morgantown, WV Monongalia Monongalia Parkersburg-Marietta, WV-OH Pleasants Wood Pleasants (p) Wood Pleasants (p) Wood Steubenville-Weirton, OH-WV Brooke Hancock Brooke Hancock Brooke Hancock See the following web site.............. _http://www.epa.gov/pmdesignations/2006standards/regs.htm#3_ (http://www.epa.gov/pmdesignations/2006standards/regs.htm#3) **************One site keeps you connected to all your email: AOL Mail, Gmail, and Yahoo Mail. Try it now. (http://www.aol.com/?optin=new-dp&icid=aolcom40vanity&ncid=emlcntaolcom00000…)

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US EPA Designated Monongalia County [PM 2.5]
by Duane330＠aol.com 24 Dec '08

24 Dec '08

West Virginia Charleston, WV Kanawha Putnam Kanawha Putnam Kanawha Putnam Huntington-Ashland, WV-KY-OH Cabell Mason (p) Wayne Cabell Mason (p) Wayne Morgantown, WV Monongalia Monongalia Parkersburg-Marietta, WV-OH Pleasants Wood Pleasants (p) Wood Pleasants (p) Wood Steubenville-Weirton, OH-WV Brooke Hancock Brooke Hancock Brooke Hancock See the following web site.............. _http://www.epa.gov/pmdesignations/2006standards/regs.htm#3_ (http://www.epa.gov/pmdesignations/2006standards/regs.htm#3) **************One site keeps you connected to all your email: AOL Mail, Gmail, and Yahoo Mail. Try it now. (http://www.aol.com/?optin=new-dp&icid=aolcom40vanity&ncid=emlcntaolcom00000…)

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Re: [MVCAC] Do we want to apply for an EPA Grant?
by Jonathan Rosenbaum 17 Dec '08

17 Dec '08

I say yes. Right off, we should be placing a monitor at the new University High School. This school is exactly level with the tops of the smokestacks from Longview and Fort Martin. -Jonathan Paula Hunt wrote: > Below is a description of a USEPA grant program to help community-based > entities educate the public and reduce pollution. Applications are due in > March. > > Please let me know if you would like to apply for some of this money. > This may be a good way to buy the air monitors we have been discussing.... > > - paula > > _____________________________________________ > > (Washington, D.C. – Dec. 17, 2008) The U.S. Environmental Protection > Agency is making nearly $3 million available in 2009 to reduce pollution > at the local level through the Community Action for a Renewed Environment > (CARE) program. CARE is a community-based program that builds > partnerships to help the public understand and reduce toxic risks from > numerous sources. > > EPA will award CARE cooperative agreements in two levels. Level I awards > range from $75,000 to $100,000 and will help establish community-based > partnerships to develop local environmental priorities. Level II awards, > ranging from $150,000 to $300,000 each, will support communities that have > established broad-based partnerships, have identified the priority toxic > risks in the community, and are prepared to measure results, implement > risk-reduction activities and become self-sustaining. > > In 2008, $2.5 million was made available to 18 communities through the > CARE program. Examples of projects include addressing land- and > air-pollution issues in Somerville, Mass.; reducing toxics and promoting > green alternatives in Portland, Ore.; dealing with ground and surface > water contamination on the Wind River Indian Reservation in Ethete, Wyo.; > controlling storm water run-off in St. John, Virgin Islands; and reducing > disparities in asthma and blood-lead levels in Baltimore, Md. > > Since 2005, the grants have reached 64 communities in 32 states and > territories. > > Applications for the CARE grants are due March 16, 2009. Eligible > applicants include county and local governments, tribes, non-profit > organizations and universities. EPA will conduct three conference calls, > Feb. 3, 24, and 27 for prospective applicants to ask questions about the > application process. > > Additional information about the CARE program: http://www.epa.gov/care > > > > _______________________________________________ > MVCAC mailing list > MVCAC(a)cheat.org > http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/mvcac >

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Coal Fired Plant Event at the Warner - Saturday at 5
by Jonathan Rosenbaum 03 Dec '08

03 Dec '08

The WVU Sierra Student Coalition and the Morgantown High Green Initiative Club will be hosting activist Elisa Young from Miegs County, Ohio at the Warner Theater on Saturday night at 5 pm. She will speak about how coal fired power plants have had an impact on her community, and will also speak about what she is doing to make her voice heard. Following her presentation, a documentary called "Sludge" will be shown, which delves into a West Virginia related topic: mountain top removal mining. Refreshments and learning, all for free! -Jonathan

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"Bonanzo" decision needs implementation
by Duane330＠aol.com 24 Nov '08

24 Nov '08

Justices Say E.P.A. Has Power to Act on Harmful Gases New York Times, April 2, 2007. WASHINGTON, April 2, 2007 — In one of its most important environmental decisions in years, the Supreme Court ruled on Monday that the _Environmental Protection Agency_ (http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/organizations/e/environ…) has the authority to regulate heat-trapping gases in automobile emissions. The court further ruled that the agency could not sidestep its authority to regulate the greenhouse gases that contribute to global _climate change_ (http://topics.nytimes.com/top/news/science/topics/globalwarming/index.html?…) unless it could provide a scientific basis for its refusal. The 5-to-4 decision was a strong rebuke to the Bush administration, which has maintained that it does not have the right to regulate carbon dioxide and other heat-trapping gases under the Clean Air Act, and that even if it did, it would not use the authority. The ruling does not force the environmental agency to regulate auto emissions, but it would almost certainly face further legal action if it failed to do so. Writing for the majority, Justice _John Paul Stevens_ (http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/s/john_paul_stev… per) said the only way the agency could “avoid taking further action” now was “if it determines that greenhouse gases do not contribute to climate change” or provides a good explanation why it cannot or will not find out whether they do. Beyond the specific context for this case — so-called “tailpipe emissions” from cars and trucks, which account for about one-fourth of the country’s total emissions of heat-trapping gases — the decision is likely to have a broader impact on the debate over government efforts to address global warming. Court cases around the country had been held up to await the decision in this case. Among them is a challenge to the environmental agency’s refusal to regulate carbon dioxide emissions from power plants, now pending in the federal appeals court here. Individual states, led by California, are also moving aggressively into what they have seen as a regulatory vacuum. Justice Stevens, joined by Justices _Anthony M. Kennedy_ (http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/k/anthony_m_kenn… yt-per) , _David H. Souter_ (http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/s/david_h_souter…) , _Ruth Bader Ginsburg_ (http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/g/ruth_bader_gin… urg/index.html?inline=nyt-per) and _Stephen G. Breyer_ (http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/b/stephen_g_brey… -per) , said that by providing nothing more than a “laundry list of reasons not to regulate,” the environmental agency had defied the Clean Air Act’s “ clear statutory command.” He said a refusal to regulate could be based only on science and “reasoned justification,” adding that while the statute left the central determination to the “judgment” of the agency’s administrator, “ the use of the word ‘judgment’ is not a roving license to ignore the statutory text.” The court also decided a second Clean Air Act case Monday, adopting a broad reading of the environmental agency’s authority over factories and power plants that add capacity or make renovations that increase emissions of air pollutants. In doing so, the court reopened a federal enforcement effort against the Duke Energy Corporation under the Clean Air Act’s “new source review” provision. The vote in the second case, Environmental Defense v. Duke Energy Corp., No. 05-848, was 9 to 0. The two decisions left environmental advocates exultant. Many said they still harbored doubts about the federal agency and predicted that the decision would help push the Democratic-controlled Congress to address the issue. Even in the nine months since the Supreme Court agreed to hear the first case, Massachusetts v. Environmental Protection Agency, No. 05-1120, and accelerating since the elections in November, there has been a growing interest among industry groups in working with environmental organizations on proposals for emissions limits. Dave McCurdy, president of the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, the main industry trade group, said in response to the decision that the alliance “ looks forward to working constructively with both Congress and the administration” in addressing the issue. “This decision says that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will be part of this process,” Mr. McCurdy said. If the decision sowed widespread claims of victory, it left behind a prominent loser: Chief Justice _John G. Roberts_ (http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/r/john_g_jr_robe…) Jr., who argued vigorously in a dissenting opinion that the court never should have reached the merits of the case or addressed the question of the agency’s legal obligations. His dissent, which Justices _Antonin Scalia_ (http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/s/antonin_scalia…) , _Clarence Thomas_ (http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/t/clarence_thoma…) and _Samuel A. Alito Jr._ (http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/a/samuel_a_alito… l?inline=nyt-per) also signed, focused solely on the issue of legal standing to sue: whether the broad coalition of states, cities and environmental groups that brought the lawsuit against the environmental agency four years ago should have been accepted as plaintiffs in the first place. This was the issue on which the coalition’s lawsuit had appeared most vulnerable, given that in recent years the Supreme Court has steadily raised the barrier to standing, especially in environmental cases. Justice Scalia has long been a leader in that effort, and Chief Justice Roberts made clear that, as his statements and actions in his pre-judicial career indicated, he is fully aboard Justice Scalia’s project. Chief Justice Roberts said the court should not have found that Massachusetts or any of the other plaintiffs had standing. The finding “has caused us to transgress the proper — and properly limited — role of the courts in a democratic society,” he said, quoting from a 1984 decision. And, quoting from a decision Justice Scalia wrote in 1992, he said, “This court’s standing jurisprudence simply recognizes that redress of grievances of the sort at issue here is the function of Congress and the chief executive, not the federal courts.” Chief Justice Roberts complained that “today’s decision recalls the previous high-water mark of diluted standing requirements,” a 1973 decision known as the Scrap case. That was an environmental case that the Supreme Court allowed to proceed on a definition of standing so generous as to be all but unthinkable today. “Today’s decision is Scrap for a new generation,” the chief justice said, not intending the comparison as a compliment. The majority addressed the standing question by noting that it was only necessary for one of the many plaintiffs to meet the three-part definition of standing: that it had suffered a “concrete and particularized injury,” that the injury was “fairly traceable to the defendant” and that a favorable decision would be likely to “redress that injury.” Massachusetts, one of the 12 state plaintiffs, met the test, Justice Stevens said, because it had made a case that global warming was raising the sea level along its coast, presenting the state with a “risk of catastrophic harm” that “would be reduced to some extent” if the government undertook the regulation the state sought. In addition, Justice Stevens said, Massachusetts was due special deference in its claim to standing because of its status as a sovereign state. This new twist on the court’s standing doctrine may have been an essential tactic in winning the vote of Justice Kennedy, a leader in the court’s federalism revolution of recent years. Justice Stevens, a dissenter from the court’s states’ rights rulings and a master of court strategy, in effect managed to use federalism as a sword rather than a shield. Following its discussion of standing, the majority made short work of the agency’s threshold argument that the Clean Air Act simply did not authorize it to regulate heat-trapping gases because carbon dioxide and the other gases were not “air pollutants” within the meaning of the law. “The statutory text forecloses E.P.A.’s reading,” Justice Stevens said, adding that “greenhouse gases fit well within the Clean Air Act’s capacious definition of air pollutant.” The justices in the majority also indicated that they were persuaded by the existing evidence of the impact of automobile emissions on the environment. The agency itself “does not dispute the existence of a causal connection between man-made gas emissions and global warming,” Justice Stevens noted, adding that “judged by any standard, U.S. motor-vehicle emissions make a meaningful contribution to greenhouse gas concentrations.” Justice Scalia wrote a dissenting opinion, signed by the other three dissenters, disputing the majority’s statutory analysis. The decision overturned a 2005 ruling by the federal appeals court here. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> E.P.A. Decision Signals Trouble for Coal By _Kate Galbraith_ (http://greeninc.blogs.nytimes.com/author/kate-galbraith/) , New York Times, November 14, 2008.. Environmentalists said that the coal industry was reeling following a _ruling_ (http://yosemite.epa.gov/oa/EAB_Web_Docket.nsf/PSD%20Permit%20Appeals%20(CAA…) on Thursday by the Environmental Appeals Board, an independent body of adjudicators within the _Environmental Protection Agency_ (http://www.epa.gov/) . The decision — which responded to a _Sierra Club_ (http://action.sierraclub.org/site/MessageViewer?em_id=78902.0) petition to review an E.P.A. permit granted to a coal plant in Utah — does not require the E.P.A. to limit carbon dioxide emissions from power plants, something which environmentalists have long sought. Rather, it requires the agency’s regional office to at least consider whether to regulate carbon dioxide emissions, before the agency gives a green light to build the Utah plant. On a broader scale, it will delay the building of coal-fired power plants across the country, long enough for the Obama administration to determine its policy on coal, according to David Bookbinder, chief climate counsel for the Sierra Club. “They’re sending this permit — and effectively sending every other permit — back to square one,” he said, adding, “It’s minimum a one- to two-year delay for every proposed coal-fired power plant in the United States.” The decision references the landmark Massachusetts v. E.P.A. decision last year that declared carbon dioxide a pollutant under the Clean Air Act. That ruling, however, has not yet prompted the E.P.A. to act to regulate it. It is the latest setback for coal plants, which emit far more carbon dioxide than natural gas or other power plants. Last year, Kansas state regulators _denied a permit_ (http://www.nytimes.com/2007/10/20/business/20plant.html?ref=science) to a coal plant because of its carbon dioxide emissions. “Although a new administration could always have reversed course, this makes it easier by providing the first prod,” said Jody Freeman, director of the environmental law program at Harvard Law School. “And it’s a heads-up to the coal industry that stationary-source regulation of CO2 is coming.” The coal industry put its best face on the decision. The ruling “merely says what the court has said — that the E.P.A. has the authority to regulate greenhouse gases under the Clean Air Act,” said Carol Raulston, a spokeswoman for the National Mining Association, an industry group. However, she said, before rulemaking occurs, the E.P.A. has to make an “ endangerment” finding, which has not yet been done. An “endangerment” finding would involve the E.P.A. declaring that carbon dioxide is a danger to public welfare, and would lead to regulation. “We still believe, as do many in Congress, that the Clean Air Act is not very well structured to regulate greenhouse gases, and that Congress ought to address this through legislation,” added Ms. Raulston. Ms. Freeman said that this week’s decision was part of a larger debate going forward “over whether and how the Clean Air Act might be used to regulate greenhouse gases while we wait for new climate legislation. “E.P.A. has the authority to impose limits on CO2 coming from sources like power plants through the normal permit process,” she continued. “And we may see this happen in the new administration.” >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> **************One site has it all. Your email accounts, your social networks, and the things you love. 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EPA Ruling and Longview
by Joseph A. Gorman 24 Nov '08

24 Nov '08

Hello, First, I'd like to introduce myself. My name's Joe Gorman, and I'm a WVU student and community coordinator with the WVU Sierra Student Coalition. Lately the WVU SSC has been doing mostly advocacy campaigns, but we'd like to be involved in more local events. I wanted to ask for expert advice on what influence the Bonanza ruling has on Longview. It is my understanding that most new permits nationwide will get clogged in the pipeline. Here are the concerns I have: 1. Doesn't the WV DEP operate independently (and, often, defiant) to the US EPA? How direct is the ruling's impact in this state? 2. All but the acid rain permit have been stamped by the DEP, correct? So, how do we insist the DEP requires a permit for CO2 emissions as well? I saw the section on the new CO2 ruling in the comment letter, but will the DEP see them as relevant the way we do? -Joe p.s. I submitted an editorial to the Dominion Post, and they called me to notify me they were going to publish it. Unfortunately, I am out of town until classes resume next Monday. If anyone has a copy of the paper, would you mind saving it for me for sentimental value?

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Re: [MVCAC] [CLEAR] High TDS in Mon River
by James Kotcon 23 Nov '08

23 Nov '08

This story suggests that PA-DEP first became aware of the problem on Oct. 10 due to air violations at Hatfields Ferry. But the report Duane circulated illustrates spikes at California, Charleroi, and Belle Vernon, PA. All of these are welll downstream of Hatfields Ferry? The story says MUB has rejected brine from gas drillers, so where is the high TDS coming from? JBK State Needs to Plan for Gas Well Drilling Brine Posted Thursday, November 20, 2008 ; 01:50 PM A long-term plan for gas well drilling water disposal may be one outcome of this fall's water quality problem on the Monongahela River in Pennsylvania. Story by Pam Kasey Email | Bio | Other Stories by Pam Kasey MORGANTOWN -- A long-term plan for gas well drilling water disposal may be one outcome of this fall's water quality problem on the Monongahela River in Pennsylvania. Environmental regulators need to anticipate how much brine the coming boom in Marcellus shale gas well drilling will generate and how much of that the rivers can handle, according to one scientist. All Connected The Monongahela River problem first came to the attention of Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection officials Oct. 10, explained PADEP Aquatic Biologist Supervisor Rick Spear at a Nov. 14 Morgantown meeting of agency officials, researchers, nonprofit groups and residents from both Pennsylvania and West Virginia. On Oct. 10, Spear said, Allegheny Energy's Hatfield's Ferry Power Station violated its air emissions permit. What followed is a study in how everything is connected. The power station's problem, it turned out, originated in the cooling water it withdrew from the Monongahela River: Unusually high levels of the salts that, with other substances, make up the contaminant "total dissolved solids" (TDS). TDS is not a human health hazard but, at concentrations above the Pennsylvania water quality standard of 500 milligrams/liter, it can harm industrial equipment and affect the smell and taste of drinking water, officials said. PADEP asked the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to increase releases from dams upriver in West Virginia to dilute the contaminants. And the Corps called the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, which manages the facilities at Tygart Lake State Park. Tygart Lake, it turns out, is on drought watch. Releasing much more from the dam would leave the boat ramps high and dry. "That's going to affect our fishing," said DNR Fisheries Biologist Frank Jernejcic at the meeting. "This potentially has a lot of ramifications, not only for water quality but for access areas and other things." PADEP stepped up its water quality sampling and found concentrations above 900 mg/L below wastewater treatment plants on the Monongahela River in Pennsylvania. They traced it to gas well drilling brine the plants had accepted but could not, with standard technology, fully treat. By Oct. 22, PADEP ordered nine wastewater treatment plants on the Monongahela River to curtail gas well drilling brine treatment until further notice. Did West Virginia Contribute? An outstanding question concerns October data showing TDS levels as high as 500 mg/L as the Monongahela River entered Pennsylvania from West Virginia. The main problem was not in West Virginia, according to Paul Ziemkiewicz, director of the West Virginia Water Research Institute at West Virginia University. PADEP's sampling data show clearly that the TDS numbers spiked at the wastewater treatment plants, Ziemkiewicz said. Still, some wonder whether the West Virginia TDS numbers are unusually high for this time of year and, if so, whether that's due to low flows or to some new upriver discharge. Historical data are not immediately available, but Ziemkiewicz said he's very interested in getting them. Management Options Here's why. The Marcellus shale natural gas boom has only just begun. PADEP's Spear estimated that there are 50 to 150 Marcellus gas wells in operation in Pennsylvania and said that the number is projected to increase "dramatically." Just one company operating in West Virginia, Chesapeake Energy Corp., expects to drill 30 to 40 Marcellus wells in 2009, primarily in Wetzel County, according to vice president Scott Rotruck. Drillers in West Virginia typically inject their brine deep underground or send it out of state. But this fall's incident made it clear that even out-of-state discharges can have effects in West Virginia. Ziemkiewicz suggested a near-term management option. "We'll need to start looking at whether you can manage some of these discharges to the river," he said, "by simply encouraging people to discharge during high flow periods and to stop when river gets low, on a voluntary basis. That's something that could happen right away." But more importantly, for longer-term planning, Ziemkiewicz is considering a research project that would use historical flow and water quality data to calculate how much brine the rivers can dilute. Regulators need to think now about how much drilling brine they can expect in the coming years, he said. If they know how much the rivers will be able to handle, they can plan better for volumes above that. Specialized treatment is one possibility. Morgantown Utility Board General Manager James Green said MUB has rejected water from gas well drillers. "They're talking to engineers right now about building a plant that's focused directly on treating this brine," Green said. At the Nov. 14 meeting, Jernejcic said he joined DNR in the 1970s, "before the fish" -- that is, back when the Monongahela River was almost completely dead because of acid mine drainage. It now supports prized fisheries and continues to improve. He wants to see planning for gas well drilling brine happen now. Copyright 2008 West Virginia Media. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. >>> <Duane330(a)aol.com> 11/22/08 1:08 PM >>> RE: High TDS in Mon River. See the attachment for the Report of the WVU Water Research Institute on the Mon River. Duane p.s. This report is also accessible from the home site of the Upper Monongahela River Association under the Marsellus Shale topic: _www.uppermon.org_ (http://www.uppermon.org) **************One site has it all. Your email accounts, your social networks, and the things you love. 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PLEASE REVIEW THIS DRAFT A.S.A.P.
by Duane330＠aol.com 22 Nov '08

22 Nov '08

MON VALLEY CLEAN AIR COALITION P. O. Box 4679, Morgantown, WV 26504 November 22, 2008 Attn: John A. Benedict, Director Division of Air Quality WV Department of Environmental Quality 601 57th Street SE Charleston, WV 25304 RE: Proposed Phase II Acid Rain Permit, R33-56671-2013-1, Longview Power LLC A number of substantial issues have been identified which need to be taken into account for the proposed Phase II Acid Rain Permit for the Longview coal-fired power plant under construction at Maidsville, Monongalia County, West Virginia. Notice of the comment period is dated November 6, 2008 with comments required in duplicate, sent to the Director of the WV Division of Air Quality. This letter complies with these directions. A copy of this Notice is the Attachment to this Letter. Also, a copy of this letter is being sent to the Regional Administrator of the Region 3 Office of the Environmental Protection Agency in Philadelphia, PA. Our comments are numbered for ease of identification and consideration: 1. Longview has not accurately represented or recently updated the status of the proposed power plant. Schedules are not provided to accurately represent the status of the construction work, the environmental permitting, and the financing for the power plant. Schedules should be solicited from Longview by the WV-DAQ and made public to determine the status of the construction, environmental permitting and availability of secure financing. It appears at this time that it would be premature to proceed with the licensing process. 2. The existing Longview air pollution permit at Section 20, pp. 9 and 10, addresses where the proposed acid rain allowances should come from. These conditions and specifications should be incorporated into any Longview Phase II Acid Rain Permit that is subsequently issued. 3. The proposed power plant will be releasing uncontrolled greenhouse gases, gases that should be considered for documentation, measurement and/or control for this and other large generators of carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, degas and gob gas from coal piles, and other gases that contribute to global climate change. The US-EPA has recently come to realize these considerations and ample evidence is at hand to justify the consideration of these factors in the acid rain permitting process at this time. 4. Local nature preserves within only a few miles of the proposed power plant are in danger of serious damage if continued emissions of acid gases, which result in acid rain, take place. The protections offered to date are not judged to be adequate for protection of these nature preserves. Regionally we have the Dolly Sods and Otter Creek reserves as Class 1 federally protected regions. In addition we have the Coopers Rock State Forest that contains threatened forest species as well as the Cheat three tooth snail. The Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area contains undergrowth and new saplings that are in need of protection. The West Virginia Botanical Garden, the WVU Earl Core Arboretum, and the Forks of Cheat Forest Nature Preserve are all formal documented nature preserves that deserve consideration and protection from acid rain and other possible harm. These are within a 20 mile radius of the power plant, and they are downwind of the plant when considering the direction of the prevailing winds in this region. 5. The Longview power plant is sited for northcentral Monongalia County in northcentral West Virginia. This Monongalia County has been determined to have an unusually high level of fine particular matter in the air. The US-EPA has underway the decision process to determine by mid-December 2008, why Monongalia County should not be place in the “non-attainment” status for particulates smaller than 2.5 microns, i.e. “PM-2.5”. Given that fine particulate matter in this size range is generated predominantly by sulfur oxides and to some extent the nitrogen oxides where the primary sources are fossil fuel combustion, i.e. coal-fired power plants, it stands to reason that new emissions need to be limited substantially to preserve the quality of the ambient air for all the citizens of the county and region. And, given that acid rain is generated by these same precursors, viz. sulfur oxides and nitrogen oxides. Therefore, the underlying problems are the same and consideration of one issue (non-attainment) is interrelated with the other issue (acid rain). 6. Due to the high fine particulate levels reported for Monongahela County in West Virginia, as reflected by the “non-attainment” status considerations now prevailing, any Longview Acid Rain allowances obtained should come from this same locality, i.e. Monongahela County, to protect the said locality to the extent possible. 7. Extremely high levels of sulfates in the local streams has resulted in the curtailment of industrial activities in the region of Monongalia County and southwestern Pennsylvania. These same problems are impacting the water supplies for over 350,000 people in this same region. Sulfate ion concentrations as high as 400 parts per million are being monitored in the Monongahela River and some of the tributaries are showing higher concentrations. Already mitigating actions are being called for to reduce the acidic effluents and protect the public water supplies and industrial water sources. The emission of acid gases in the presence of the large steam plumes from the Longview power plant will adversely impact the local streams with increases in sulfate ion and other substances that contribute the total dissolved solids (TDS) content of the streams here. The TDS levels being monitored in the Monongahela River at the USGS station at Elizabeth (PA), downstream of the proposed Longview emissions, has been showing electrical conductivity levels (a surrogate for TDS) more than twice as high as had otherwise been observed over the past 35 years. 8. The Hatsfield Ferry coal-fired power plant is located within a few miles downstream of the Longview power plant and has experienced violations of its air quality permit as a result of the high total dissolved solids (TDS) level described in Issue 7 above. Recent chemical analysis results from the Department of Environmental Protection in Pennsylvania have demonstrated that the primary constituent making up the high TDS levels is sulfate ion. The dissolved solids cannot be removed via filtration and are present in the cooling water being evaporated by both the Ft. Martin power plant (in West Virginia) and the Hatsfield Ferry power plant (in Pennsylvania), both within view of the Longview power plant site. The TDS levels in this cooling water have been at 500 parts per million or higher in West Virginia and somewhat higher than that in Pennsylvania. These solids are thus contributing to the “particulate matter” or PM emissions now affecting the locality of these plants, the wider region and perhaps the other eastern States. The WV DEP, the Department of Environmental Protection and other authorities in Pennsylvania, and the US EPA have a responsibility to resolve this major problem in the Monongahela River valley before any new permits are issued. Should any further explanation be needed or documentation be required, then a Public Hearing should be held which explicitly calls for these criteria to be addressed. We deplore the fact that the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection has not tried to provide factual information or educational matter to the public so as to help address the issues under consideration. Nor has this agency shown any initiative to protect the public from the impacts of air and water pollution in the Mononghela River valley. Submitted by: William Wonderlin, Convenor MonValley Clean Air Coalition P. O. Box 4679 Morgantown, WV 26504 Cc: Donald S. Welsh, Regional Administrator US EPA Mid-Atlantic Region (Region 3) 1650 Arch Street (3PM52) Philadelphia, PA 19103-2029 ATTACHMENT =========================================================== Thursday, November 6, 2008 @ 3:31 PM =========================================================== NOTICE OF COMMENT PERIOD FOR DRAFT/PROPOSED ACID RAIN PERMIT Under Phase II of the Acid Rain Program (40 CFR 72 and 45CSR33), the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Air Quality (DAQ) proposes to approve a Phase II Acid Rain Permit, R33-56671-2013-1, for Unit 001 at Longview Power LLC’s Longview Power facility located near Morgantown, West Virginia. Longview Power is not eligible to receive sulfur dioxide (SO2) allowance allocations from the U.S. EPA under 40 CFR part 73, but may acquire allowances from other sources. This unit is still obligated to hold SO2 allowances as required under and in accordance with 40 CFR §72.9(c)(1). One allowance authorizes the unit to emit one ton of sulfur dioxide. The permit does not affect Longview Power’s responsibility to meet all other existing local, state and federal requirements related to SO2 and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. The Designated Representative for Longview Power is Mr. Charles Huguenard of Longview Power LLC, 306 Dents Run Road, Morgantown, WV 26501. All written comments submitted by the public and affected state(s) pursuant to this notice must be received by the DAQ within thirty (30) days of the date of publication of this notice. Under the Direct proposed procedures of 40 CFR §72.72(b)(1)(v), if no significant, adverse comments are timely submitted, the proposed permit will be deemed issued on the publication date of this notice or from the date the USEPA receives this draft/proposed permit, whichever is later. Written comments submitted by the USEPA must be received by the DAQ within forty-five (45) days from such date. If significant, adverse comments are timely submitted, the proposed permit will be issued in accordance with 40 CFR §72.72(b)(1)(iv). In the event that the 30th//45th day is a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, the comment period will be extended until 5:00 p.m. on the following regularly scheduled business day. Copies of the Draft/Proposed Permit may be downloaded from the DAQ's web site at the following address: _http://www.wvdep.org/daq_ (http://www.wvdep.org/daq) The Draft/Proposed Permit and the Administrative Record, except information protected as confidential, are available for public review at the following location(s) between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.: WV Department of Environmental Protection Division of Air Quality 601 57th Street, SE Charleston, WV 25304 Contact: Frederick Tipane (304) 926-0499 ext. 1215 OR WV Department of Environmental Protection Division of Air Quality North Central Regional Office 2031 Pleasant Valley Road, Suite #1 Fairmont, WV 26554-9295 (304) 368-3910 Send comments, and/or requests for a public hearing to John A. Benedict, Director, Division of Air Quality, at the above Charleston address. Submit all comments in duplicate and identify the permit to which the comments apply. The submission shall include the commenter’s name and address, the commenter’s interest in this matter and the affiliation, if any, the commenter has to the owner or operator of the unit(s) covered by the permit. All relevant, timely comments will be considered except for those pertaining to any standard requirement under 40 CFR §72.9 and issues not related to the permit, such as the environmental effects of acid rain or permit issuance procedures or actions on other permit applications not relevant to the issuance or denial of the permit. Any person who requests a public hearing must state the issues proposed to be raised in the hearing. If the DAQ finds that a hearing will contribute to the decision making process by clarifying significant issues affecting the draft/proposed permit, a hearing will be announced. **************One site has it all. Your email accounts, your social networks, and the things you love. 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High TDS in Mon River
by Duane330＠aol.com 22 Nov '08

22 Nov '08

RE: High TDS in Mon River. See the attachment for the Report of the WVU Water Research Institute on the Mon River. Duane p.s. This report is also accessible from the home site of the Upper Monongahela River Association under the Marsellus Shale topic: _www.uppermon.org_ (http://www.uppermon.org) **************One site has it all. Your email accounts, your social networks, and the things you love. Try the new AOL.com today!(http://pr.atwola.com/promoclk/100000075x1212962939x1200825291/aol?re… %26icid=aolcom40vanity%26ncid=emlcntaolcom00000001)

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Rivesville power station renewal
by Duane330＠aol.com 21 Nov '08

21 Nov '08

The following was sent to you because you are a Member of the DEP Public Notice mailing list. =========================================================== Friday, November 21, 2008 @ 1:21 PM =========================================================== NOTICE OF COMMENT PERIOD FOR DRAFT/PROPOSED OPERATING PERMIT RENEWAL Title V of the Federal Clean Air Act and the state Air Pollution Control Act requires that all major sources and certain minor sources have a permit to operate which states all requirements (e.g. emission limitations, monitoring requirements, etc.) established by regulations promulgated under the aforementioned programs. The Division of Air Quality (DAQ) has determined that the draft/proposed permit renewal referenced herein meets this requirement. The DAQ is providing notice to the general public of its preliminary determination to issue an operating permit renewal to the following company for operation of the referenced electric generating facility: Monongahela Power Company Rivesville Power Station Plant ID No. : 049-00009 Jackson Street, Rt. 19 Rivesville, WV 26588 This notice solicits comments from the public and affected state(s) concerning the above preliminary determination and provides an opportunity for such parties to review the basis for the proposed approval and the "draft" permit renewal. This notice also solicits comments from the U.S. EPA concerning the same preliminary determination and provides an opportunity for the U.S. EPA to concurrently review the basis for the proposed approval as a “proposed” permit. This notice also incorporates changes to the General Requirements of the following preconstruction permit(s): R13-1098B All written comments submitted by the public and affected state(s) pursuant to this notice must be received by the DAQ within thirty (30) days of the date of publication of this notice. Under concurrent review, written comments submitted by the U.S. EPA must be received by the DAQ within forty- five (45) days from the date of publication of this notice or from the date the U.S. EPA receives this draft/proposed permit renewal, whichever is later. In the event that the 30th/45th day is a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, the comment period will be extended until 5:00 p.m. on the following regularly scheduled business day. The public shall have 135 days from the date of publication of this notice to file petitions for concurrently reviewed permits. Upon notice by the U.S. EPA to the DAQ, prior to the end of the 45- day notice period, the U.S. EPA may choose to hold the 30 day comment period on the draft permit and the 45 day comment period on the proposed permit sequentially. During the public comment period any interested person may submit written comments on the draft permit and may request a public hearing, if no public hearing has already been scheduled. A request for a public hearing shall be in writing and shall state the nature of the issues proposed to be raised in the hearing. The Director of the DAQ shall grant such a request for a hearing if he concludes that a public hearing is appropriate. Any public hearing shall be held in the general area in which the facility is located, after 30 day notice is given. The DAQ will consider all written comments prior to final action on the permit. Copies of the DAQ Fact Sheet and Draft/Proposed Permit Renewal may be downloaded from the DAQ's web site at the following address: http://www.wvdep.org/daq. Copies of the Permit Application, DAQ Fact Sheet, and Draft/Proposed Permit Renewal are available for public review at the following location between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.: WV Department of Environmental Protection Division of Air Quality 601 57th Street SE Charleston, WV 25304 Contact: Frederick Tipane (304) 926-0499 ext.: 1215 Comments and questions concerning this matter should be addressed to the above referenced individual. **************One site has it all. Your email accounts, your social networks, and the things you love. Try the new AOL.com today!(http://pr.atwola.com/promoclk/100000075x1212962939x1200825291/aol?re… %26icid=aolcom40vanity%26ncid=emlcntaolcom00000001)

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First Reserve Corporation's BLUE SOURCE
by Duane330＠aol.com 18 Nov '08

18 Nov '08

Goldman Takes Stake in Blue Source SustainableBusiness.com News, October 28, 2008. The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE: GS) has purchased a minority stake in Blue Source LLC, a U.S. developer of carbon credits from greenhouse gas reduction project, according to a release issued yesterday by the two companies. The size of the equity stake and the purchase price were not disclosed. However, Reuters reported that a source close to the deal said the stake is less than 10%. Through the collaboration, Goldman Sachs will structure and market a broad range of verified emissions reductions (VERs) resulting from greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction projects in Blue Source's portfolio, including those associated with methane management from coal mining, wastewater treatment, landfills and animal waste; energy efficiency; carbon capture and sequestration from fertilizer and natural gas production; and industrial gas destruction. Goldman Sachs aims to bring the reductions to a market increasingly eager to engage in a low carbon economy. In addition, Goldman Sachs gains tools to help its clients manage GHG-related risks in both the voluntary and pre-compliance carbon markets. Furthermore, the recently announced _joint venture _ (http://www.sustainablebusiness.com/index.cfm/go/news.display/id/16627) between Blue Source and certain affiliated investment funds of Och-Ziff Capital Management Group LLC (NYSE:OZM) provides a competitive source of funding to identify, develop and manage emission-related investments, thereby supporting the growth of Blue Source's offset portfolio. "Combining the market reach and trading capabilities of Goldman Sachs with the project development skills and supply position of Blue Source is not only a winning combination, but an important step in the development of the North American carbon market," said Bill Townsend, CEO of Blue Source. "This unique agreement is the next step for Blue Source as the US carbon market evolves from voluntary to compliance. We have been able to develop a high-quality portf olio of independently verified emission reductions from projects based in North America, and this new alliance creates an exceptional opportunity to reach a broad range of offset buyers through a highly experienced and well-trusted institution." "Goldman Sachs is committed to leveraging the first-mover position of Blue Source and its extensive experience and relationships to provide best-in-class risk management to North American voluntary and compliance buyers," said Leslie Biddle, Global Head of Commodity Sales at Goldman Sachs. "Interest in the pre-compliance carbon market in the US is growing rapidly and we are excited to be able to offer our clients immediate access to a diverse selection of emission reductions to manage their carbon risk." About Goldman Sachs The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. is a bank holding company that provides a wide range of services worldwide to a diversified client base that includes corporations, financial institutions, governments and high net worth individuals. Founded in 1869, the firm is headquartered in New York and maintains offices in London, Frankfurt, Tokyo, Hong Kong and other major financial centers around the world. About Blue Source, LLC Blue Source offers businesses multiple approaches for reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with climate change. Blue Source provides access to capital to fund project development, works with companies on developing projects and oversees production of long-term Verified Emission Reductions (VERs). Blue Source is a portfolio company of First Reserve Corporation, a leading private equity investor in the energy industry, who since 2006 has been a major equity partner in the company, and certain affiliated investment funds of Och-Ziff Capital Management Group LLC. Blue Source has offices in Salt Lake City, Utah; Calgary, Alberta; Houston; Denver, Colo.; Raleigh, N.C.; San Francisco; and New York. Website: _http://www.ghgworks.com/_ (http://www.ghgworks.com/) Source of News: _http://www.sustainablebusiness.com/index.cfm/go/news.display/id/17025_ (http://www.sustainablebusiness.com/index.cfm/go/news.display/id/17025) **************Get the Moviefone Toolbar. Showtimes, theaters, movie news & more!(http://pr.atwola.com/promoclk/100000075x1212774565x1200812037/aol?red… p://toolbar.aol.com/moviefone/download.html?ncid=emlcntusdown00000001)

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Longview's Phase II Acid Rain Permit
by Duane330＠aol.com 17 Nov '08

17 Nov '08

TO: Mon Valley Clean Air Coalition. Let me propose that the MVCAC submit a response to the proposed Acid Rain permit licensing for the Longview power plant, per the instructions at the bottom of this message. If we do, there are two issues, (1) what issues(s) should we raise and (2) should we request a public meeting be held. I vote Yes on the first and maybe on the second. Please consider the draft comments immediately below, and provide feedback a.s.a.p. Duane DRAFT COMMENTS ON THE LONGVIEW ACID RAIN PERMIT APPLICATIONS. 1. Longview has not accurately represented the status of the proposed power plant. Schedules are not provided to accurately represent the status of the construction work, the environmental permitting, and the financing for the power plant. It may well be premature to proceed with the licensing process. 2. The proposed power plant will be releasing uncontrolled greenhouse gases, gases that should be considered for documentation, measurement and/or control for this and other large generators of carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, degasses from coal piles, and other gases that contribute to global climate change. The US-EPA has recently come to appreciate these considerations and ample evidence is at hand to justify the consideration of these factors in the acid rain permitting process at this time. 3. Local nature preserves within only a few miles of the proposed power plant are in danger of serious damage if continued emissions of acid gases, which result in acid rain, take place. The protections offered to date are not judged to be adequate for protection of these nature preserves. Regionally we have the Dolly Sods and Otter Creek reserves as Class 1 federally protected regions. In addition we have the Coopers Rock State Forest that contains threatened forest species as well as the Cheat three tooth snail. The Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area contains undergrowth and new saplings that are in need of protection. The West Virginia Botanical Garden, the WVU Earl Core Arboretum, and the Forks of Cheat Forest Nature Preserve are all formal documented nature preserves that deserve consideration and protection from acid rain and other possible harm. All these are within a 15 mile radius of the power plant, and they are downwind of the plant when considering the direction of the prevailing winds in this region. 4. The Longview power plant is sited for northcentral Monongalia County in northcentral West Virginia. This Monongalia County has been determined to have an unusually high level of fine particular matter in the air. The US-EPA has underway the decision process to determine by mid-December 2008, why Monongalia County should not be place in the “non-attainment” status for particulates smaller than 2.5 microns, i.e. “PM-2.5”. Given that fine particulate matter in this size range is generated predominantly by sulfur oxides and to some extent the nitrogen oxides where the primary sources are fossil fuel combustion, i.e. coal-fired power plants, it stands to reason that new emissions need to be limited substantially to preserve the quality of the ambient air for all the citizens of the county and region. And, given that acid rain is generate by these same precursors, viz. sulfur oxides and nitrogen oxides. Therefore, the underlying problems are the same and consideration of one issue (non-attainment) is interrelated with the other issue (acid rain). 5. Extremely high levels of sulfates in the local streams has resulted in the curtailment of industrial activities in the region of Monongalia County and southwestern Pennsylvania. These same problems are impacting the water supplies for over 350,000 people in this same region. Sulfate ion concentrations as high as 400 parts per million are being monitored in the Monongahela River and some of the tributaries are showing higher concentrations. Already mitigating actions are being called for to reduce the acidic effluents and protect the public water supplies and industrial water sources. The emission of acid gases in the presence of the large steam plumes from the Longview power plant will adversely impact the local streams with increases in sulfate ion and other substances that contribute to the total dissolved solids (TDS) content of the streams here. The TDS levels being monitored in the Monongahela River at the USGS station at Elizabeth (PA), downstream of the proposed Longview emissions, has been showing electrical conductivity levels (a surrogate for TDS) more than twice as high as had otherwise been observed over the past 35 years. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> =========================================================== Thursday, November 6, 2008 @ 3:31 PM =========================================================== NOTICE OF COMMENT PERIOD FOR DRAFT/PROPOSED ACID RAIN PERMIT Under Phase II of the Acid Rain Program (40 CFR 72 and 45CSR33), the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Air Quality (DAQ) proposes to approve a Phase II Acid Rain Permit, R33-56671-2013-1, for Unit 001 at Longview Power LLC’s Longview Power facility located near Morgantown, West Virginia. Longview Power is not eligible to receive sulfur dioxide (SO2) allowance allocations from the U.S. EPA under 40 CFR part 73, but may acquire allowances from other sources. This unit is still obligated to hold SO2 allowances as required under and in accordance with 40 CFR §72.9(c)(1). One allowance authorizes the unit to emit one ton of sulfur dioxide. The permit does not affect Longview Power’s responsibility to meet all other existing local, state and federal requirements related to SO2 and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. The Designated Representative for Longview Power is Mr. Charles Huguenard of Longview Power LLC, 306 Dents Run Road, Morgantown, WV 26501. All written comments submitted by the public and affected state(s) pursuant to this notice must be received by the DAQ within thirty (30) days of the date of publication of this notice. Under the Direct proposed procedures of 40 CFR §72.72(b)(1)(v), if no significant, adverse comments are timely submitted, the proposed permit will be deemed issued on the publication date of this notice or from the date the USEPA receives this draft/proposed permit, whichever is later. Written comments submitted by the USEPA must be received by the DAQ within forty-five (45) days from such date. If significant, adverse comments are timely submitted, the proposed permit will be issued in accordance with 40 CFR §72.72(b)(1)(iv). In the event that the 30th//45th day is a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, the comment period will be extended until 5:00 p.m. on the following regularly scheduled business day. Copies of the Draft/Proposed Permit may be downloaded from the DAQ's web site at the following address: http://www.wvdep.org/daq The Draft/Proposed Permit and the Administrative Record, except information protected as confidential, are available for public review at the following location(s) between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.: WV Department of Environmental Protection Division of Air Quality 601 57th Street, SE Charleston, WV 25304 Contact: Frederick Tipane (304) 926-0499 ext. 1215 OR WV Department of Environmental Protection Division of Air Quality North Central Regional Office 2031 Pleasant Valley Road, Suite #1 Fairmont, WV 26554-9295 (304) 368-3910 Send comments, and/or requests for a public hearing to John A. Benedict, Director, Division of Air Quality, at the above Charleston address. Submit all comments in duplicate and identify the permit to which the comments apply. The submission shall include the commenter’s name and address, the commenter’s interest in this matter and the affiliation, if any, the commenter has to the owner or operator of the unit(s) covered by the permit. All relevant, timely comments will be considered except for those pertaining to any standard requirement under 40 CFR §72.9 and issues not related to the permit, such as the environmental effects of acid rain or permit issuance procedures or actions on other permit applications not relevant to the issuance or denial of the permit. Any person who requests a public hearing must state the issues proposed to be raised in the hearing. If the DAQ finds that a hearing will contribute to the decision making process by clarifying significant issues affecting the draft/proposed permit, a hearing will be announced. **************Get the Moviefone Toolbar. 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Interfaith Power and Light
by duane330＠aol.com 13 Nov '08

13 Nov '08

The President-elect should be focusing on all of these categories. We will include more than one in the petition. But we want to know which you think should be emphasized most. Which one element do you think is most important for the faith community to emphasize in our petition to the next U.S. President to be delivered in January 2009? (You can find out more about climate policies by visiting our Public Policy page.) NOTE: A petition is being prepared by the national group known as the Interfaith Power and Light, with its focus on the global climate change problem. This is being distributed for your information and reflection. Duane Nichols. Cap Emissions and Auction the Permits 35% reduction by 2020 and 80% by 2050 Accelerate these reductions to avoid further warming beyond 2º F Auction 100% of credits and direct revenue to developing clean energy Green the Electricity Sector Move America toward a 100% clean energy future by maximizing energy efficiency, modernizing the grid, and greatly expanding power generation from renewable energy resources Stop New Coal Put a moratorium on new coal-fired power plants until carbon emissions can be captured and permanently sequestered Clean up Transportation Invest in clean mass transit infrastructure, increase fuel economy standards, and invest in alternative fuels Make Climate Policies Equitable and Just Provide energy efficiency to low-income families Create 5 million green collar jobs Adaptation assistance to undeveloped nations

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The RAND Corporation reports.............
by duane330＠aol.com 06 Nov '08

06 Nov '08

RAND study warns of liquid coal problems By Ken?Ward Jr., Staff writer, Charleston Gazette, November 5, 2008 CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Alternative sources of fossil fuels such as coal-to-liquids technologies have "significant economic promise," but also major environmental challenges, according to a recent study by the RAND Corp. Turning coal into liquid fuel could significantly increase greenhouse gas emissions, and the costs of reducing those emissions might make the process too costly, according to the study by RAND's Environment, Energy and Economic Development Program. "Because the potential environmental impacts are considerable, decision makers need to assess the economic and other benefits of alternative fuels relative to these environmental concerns," said Mike Toman, lead author of the report. The report, issued last month, analyzes coal-to-liquids fuels along with Canadian oil sands technologies, considers possible impacts of fuel costs from carbon dioxide limits and compares the costs of these alternative fuels to projected conventional petroleum prices in 2025. In West Virginia, Gov. Joe Manchin is pushing for coal-to-liquids plants. Sen. Jay Rockefeller, D-W.Va., has been running campaign ads to say that the state's coal miners "will free us from foreign oil." But many energy experts are worried that liquid coal creates perhaps twice as much carbon dioxide as traditional gasoline. Liquid coal would produce greenhouse gases when the fuel is made, and then again when it is burned. Producing liquid fuel from oil sands poses similar problems, and - like coal mining - can harm local water quality and cause large-scale disturbances of land. The RAND study found that liquid coal and oil sands "do not, in themselves, offer a path to greatly reduced [carbon dioxide] emissions, though there are additional possibilities for limiting emissions." RAND found that even when carbon dioxide emissions from fuel production are captured and stored, "life-cycle emissions of [carbon dioxide] for these alternative fuels are comparable to those of conventional fuels." "Large-scale production of these unconventional fuels does not reduce emissions of CO2," the RAND study said. RAND said the future cost of liquid coals could "be reasonably competitive" with conventional petroleum, provided that: Oil prices do not fall back to pre-2006 levels; there are further improvements in coal-to-liquids technology as production volumes grow; and carbon dioxide limits do not impose "too large a cost burden on liquid fuels from coal relative to conventional fuels." "Since major investments in coal-to-liquids become more likely if environmentally sound carbon capture and storage can be commercialized at relatively low cost, the future expansion of this fuel source will be strongly influenced by future private sector and government initiatives to support such commercialization," Toman said. "However, even with carbon capture and storage deployed, neither alternative fuel offers a path toward large long-term reductions in total carbon dioxide emissions to limit climate change," Toman added. "There will still be a need to develop lower-carbon fuel options, such as fuel synthesized from a mixture of coal and sustainably grown biomass." RAND is a nonprofit research organization "providing objective analysis and effective solutions that address the challenges facing the public and private sectors around the world." Reach Ken Ward Jr. at kw...(a)wvgazette.com or 348-1702. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> http://www.istockanalyst.com/article/viewiStockNews+articleid_2772241.html

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Fwd: We're Going to the Virginia Supreme Court
by duane330＠aol.com 06 Nov '08

06 Nov '08

From: Bri West, PEC pecnews(a)pecva.org Sent: Thu, 6 Nov 2008 5:04 pm Subject: We're Going to the Virginia Supreme Court If you have trouble reading this message, view it online With Your Help, We're Going to the Virginia Supreme Court Dear Duane, Donate Today The SCC decision is not in anyone but the utilities' best interest. PEC continues to lead the campaign against Dominion and Allegheny's unnecessary transmission line. We have now filed our notice of appeal to the Virginia Supreme Court. In addition, Fauquier, Culpeper, Prince William County, Virginia's Commitment, VSEP and the PLA have filed their intent to appeal. Matching Grant (!!) to Help Fund the Appeal The William and Mary Greve Foundation has provided us with a matching grant. Contributions received toward the transmission line campaign before the end of 2008 will be matched dollar-for-dollar. The challenge grant is for $30,000 and so far we have raised almost half of that amount. This is a great way to make your tax-deductable gift to PEC even more valuable. Pennsylvania has not decided; VA and WV Decisions On Hold Pennsylvania has yet to make a decision on their portion of the transmission line, and both Virginia and West Virginia have conditioned approval on a decision from the Keystone State. The last we heard from the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission was in August, when two administrative law judges said "the costs and adverse impacts of the [transmission line] clearly outweigh the benefits of it. We are convinced that the project is driven by economics and not by reliability violations." Thank you so much for your support. We will hold information briefings in early December to update you with the latest information. Location and times TBD. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to email or call. Very best , Bri West Piedmont Environmental Council 540-347-2334 bwest(a)pecva.org p.s. Cool Energy Event: The Warrenton Garden Club is hosting a meeting on November 13th at 5pm (free and open to the public) featuring Mayor George Fitch entitled "Local Energy Independence - How Communities Can Be Energy Independent and Sustainable by Using Trash and Wastes in Their Backyards for Green Electricity and Green Fuel". Find out more. Give the Gift of PEC Membership this holiday season Received this from a friend? Sign up to receive alerts and news from PEC. This message was sent to duane330(a)aol.com. Visit your subscription management page to modify your email communication preferences or update your personal profile. To stop ALL email from The Piedmont Environmental Council, click to remove yourself from our lists (or reply via email with "remove or unsubscribe" in the subject line).

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Longview's Acid Rain Permit
by duane330＠aol.com 06 Nov '08

06 Nov '08

=========================================================== Thursday, November 6, 2008 @ 3:31 PM =========================================================== NOTICE OF COMMENT PERIOD FOR DRAFT/PROPOSED ACID RAIN PERMIT Under Phase II of the Acid Rain Program (40 CFR 72 and 45CSR33), the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Air Quality (DAQ) proposes to approve a Phase II Acid Rain Permit, R33-56671-2013-1, for Unit 001 at Longview Power LLC’s Longview Power facility located near Morgantown, West Virginia. Longview Power is not eligible to receive sulfur dioxide (SO2) allowance allocations from the U.S. EPA under 40 CFR part 73, but may acquire allowances from other sources. This unit is still obligated to hold SO2 allowances as required under and in accordance with 40 CFR §72.9(c)(1). One allowance authorizes the unit to emit one ton of sulfur dioxide. The permit does not affect Longview Power’s responsibility to meet all other existing local, state and federal requirements related to SO2 and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. The Designated Representative for Longview Power is Mr. Charles Huguenard of Longview Power LLC, 306 Dents Run Road, Morgantown, WV 26501. All written comments submitted by the public and affected state(s) pursuant to this notice must be received by the DAQ within thirty (30) days of the date of publication of this notice. Under the Direct proposed procedures of 40 CFR §72.72(b)(1)(v), if no significant, adverse comments are timely submitted, the proposed permit will be deemed issued on the publication date of this notice or from the date the USEPA receives this draft/proposed permit, whichever is later. Written comments submitted by the USEPA must be received by the DAQ within forty-five (45) days from such date. If significant, adverse comments are timely submitted, the proposed permit will be issued in accordance with 40 CFR §72.72(b)(1)(iv). In the event that the 30th//45th day is a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, the comment period will be extended until 5:00 p.m. on the following regularly scheduled business day. Copies of the Draft/Proposed Permit may be downloaded from the DAQ's web site at the following address: http://www.wvdep.org/daq The Draft/Proposed Permit and the Administrative Record, except information protected as confidential, are available for public review at the following location(s) between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.: WV Department of Environmental Protection Division of Air Quality 601 57th Street, SE Charleston, WV 25304 Contact: Frederick Tipane (304) 926-0499 ext. 1215 OR WV Department of Environmental Protection Division of Air Quality North Central Regional Office 2031 Pleasant Valley Road, Suite #1 Fairmont, WV 26554-9295 (304) 368-3910 Send comments, and/or requests for a public hearing to John A. Benedict, Director, Division of Air Quality, at the above Charleston address. Submit all comments in duplicate and identify the permit to which the comments apply. The submission shall include the commenter’s name and address, the commenter’s interest in this matter and the affiliation, if any, the commenter has to the owner or operator of the unit(s) covered by the permit. All relevant, timely comments will be considered except for those pertaining to any standard requirement under 40 CFR §72.9 and issues not related to the permit, such as the environmental effects of acid rain or permit issuance procedures or actions on other permit applications not relevant to the issuance or denial of the permit. Any person who requests a public hearing must state the issues proposed to be raised in the hearing. If the DAQ finds that a hearing will contribute to the decision making process by clarifying significant issues affecting the draft/proposed permit, a hearing will be announced.

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Fwd: Campuses Take Action with Free Bikes
by Duane330＠aol.com 27 Oct '08

27 Oct '08

Take the bike and leave the oil for emergencies. Duane **************Play online games for FREE at Games.com! All of your favorites, no registration required and great graphics – check it out! (http://pr.atwola.com/promoclk/100000075x1211202682x1200689022/aol?redir= http://www.games.com?ncid=emlcntusgame00000001)

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PATH Transmission Line
by Duane330＠aol.com 24 Oct '08

24 Oct '08

Potomac-Appalachian Transmission Highline, LLC Announces Reconfiguration of PATH Project GREENSBURG, Pa. and COLUMBUS, Ohio, October 17, 2008 – Potomac-Appalachian Transmission Highline, LLC, a joint venture of American Electric Power (NYSE: AEP) and Allegheny Energy (NYSE: AYE), said today that PJM Interconnection announced a reconfiguration of PATH, a proposed high-voltage transmission line project. PJM, the organization responsible for the transmission grid covering 13 states and the District of Columbia, directed the construction of PATH to ensure the reliability of the region’s transmission grid. The original project configuration included a 765-kilovolt (kV) transmission line from the Amos substation near St. Albans, W.Va., to the Bedington substation near Martinsburg, W.Va., and twin-circuit 500-kV lines from Bedington to the proposed Kemptown substation southeast of Frederick, Md. The reconfiguration is a result of constraints identified as a result of comprehensive siting studies; interaction with government agencies; public input; and a desire to identify a solution that reduces line mileage and minimizes the impact on communities and the environment. The new configuration will: Consist of a single 765-kV line from Amos to Kemptown, Eliminate the connection with the Bedington substation and the twin-circuit 500-kV lines from Bedington to Kemptown, including many previously evaluated routes in that area, and Include a new mid-point substation in the vicinity of eastern Grant County, northern Hardy County, or southern Hampshire County, near existing PATH alternative routes. The substation site has not been determined. Based on the re-configured project, the PATH team is developing new route alternatives between the mid-point substation area and Kemptown. PATH continues to work toward identifying the complete line route and expects to file applications for approval by state regulatory commissions during the first quarter 2009. Additional open houses will be scheduled in areas where the new alternatives are identified. PJM recently confirmed that the reconfigured project addresses its reliability concerns. Allegheny Energy-- Headquartered in Greensburg, Pa., Allegheny Energy is an investor-owned electric utility with total annual revenues of over $3 billion and more than 4,000 employees. The company owns and operates generating facilities and delivers low-cost, reliable electric service to 1.6 million customers in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Maryland and Virginia. For more information, visit our Web site at www.alleghenyenergy.com. American Electric Power -- American Electric Power is one of the largest electric utilities in the United States, delivering electricity to more than 5 million customers in 11 states. AEP ranks among the nation’s largest generators of electricity, owning more than 38,000 megawatts of generating capacity in the U.S. AEP also owns the nation’s largest electricity transmission system, a nearly 39,000-mile network that includes more 765-kilovolt extra-high voltage transmission lines than all other U.S. transmission systems combined. AEP’s transmission system directly or indirectly serves about 10 percent of the electricity demand in the Eastern Interconnection, the interconnected transmission system that covers 38 eastern and central U.S. states and eastern Canada, and approximately 11 percent of the electricity demand in ERCOT, the transmission system that covers much of Texas. AEP’s utility units operate as AEP Ohio, AEP Texas, Appalachian Power (in Virginia and West Virginia), AEP Appalachian Power (in Tennessee), Indiana Michigan Power, Kentucky Power, Public Service Company of Oklahoma, and Southwestern Electric Power Company (in Arkansas, Louisiana and east Texas). AEP’s headquarters are in Columbus, Ohio. **************Play online games for FREE at Games.com! All of your favorites, no registration required and great graphics – check it out! (http://pr.atwola.com/promoclk/100000075x1211202682x1200689022/aol?redir= http://www.games.com?ncid=emlcntusgame00000001)

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Fwd: Event Wednesday!
by duane330＠aol.com 14 Oct '08

14 Oct '08

-----Original Message----- From: Eric Mclaughlin <eric.mclaughlin(a)gmail.com> To: duane330(a)aol.com Sent: Mon, 13 Oct 2008 9:17 am Subject: Event Wednesday! Hello Mr. Nichols, We have spoken a few times in the past concerning the Mountain Party, and I wanted to inform you of an upcoming event.? This Wednesday, October 15, at the Gluck Theater in the WVU Mountainlair, Mountain Party Gubernatorial Nominee Jesse Johnson will give a speech.? The event will begin at 1130am.? I'd like to invite you and your congregation, if there is a means of doing so early in this week, to attend. The speech will also be followed in the evening by a social and fundraiser at the West Virginia Brewing Company, and all are invited to attend either or both. Thanks, and hope to see you there! Eric McLaughlin

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EPA Report on the Environment
by Duane330＠aol.com 04 Oct '08

04 Oct '08

EPA TO TURN CONTAMINATED SITES INTO RENEWABLE ENERGY PRODUCING SITES Using a novel approach (_the renewable energy interactive mapping tool)_ (http://www.epa.gov/renewableenergyland/mapping_tool.htm) , EPA has identified thousands of properties that could potentially host solar, wind or biomass energy production facilities and has listed each property's attributes for energy redevelopment. These properties have varying levels of historic contamination, some already addressed, while others are still to be fully investigated. The appropriate steps to address the contamination at these properties will vary from site to site, depending on the nature of the contamination and intended reuse. For more information about this renewable energy development potential for contaminated lands, go to _http://www.epa.gov/renewableenergyland_ (http://www.epa.gov/renewableenergyland/) EPA RELEASES ITS 2008 REPORT ON THE ENVIRONMENT EPA released its "2008 Report on the Environment: Highlights of National Trends," a new and important resource to better understand trends in the nation's health and environment. The new report is intended for a general audience and summarizes highlights of the "EPA's 2008 Report on the Environment" which was released in May, and provided more scientific and technical information. Together the two reports inform about EPA's strategic planning process with the best available scientific information. EPA also launched a new Web site that allows the user to search the full technical report for specific trends in air, water, and land at _http://www.epa.gov/roe_ (http://www.epa.gov/roe/) **************New MapQuest Local shows what's happening at your destination. Dining, Movies, Events, News & more. Try it out! (http://local.mapquest.com/?ncid=emlcntnew00000001)

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Re: [MVCAC] Energy meeting
by duane330＠aol.com 23 Sep '08

23 Sep '08

JOHN. YES, THERE IS A DEFINITE NEED FOR SOME REPRESENTATION BY ONE OR MORE ORGANIZATIONS THAT CAN PRESENT SOME OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS. I WILL TRY TO GET A FEW THINGS TOGETHER FROM THE MON-VALLEY CLEAN AIR COALITION. PLEASE CONTACT THE ORGANIZERS AND SEE IF WE CAN GET TWO OR THREE PEOPLE ON THE AGENDA FOR AT LEAST FIVE MINUTES EACH, TO PRESENT SOME ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS. OTHERWISE THE BIAS IS EXTREME. YOU CAN DEFINITELY BE OF HELP IN PREPARING SOME MATERIAL. THANKS FOR SENDING THIS OUT, DUANE. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (((((Logos for the coal forum and the WVU NRCCE appear as letterhead))))) October 2008 On behalf of the West Virginia Coal Forum and West Virginia University’s National Research Center for Coal & Energy, we would like to extend an invitation to you to attend an energy forum to be held from 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 15, 2008 at the WVU National Research Center for Coal & Energy in Morgantown, West Virginia. There is no fee to attend. The purpose of this forum is to expose civic, legislative, research, and opinion leaders in West Virginia to Imagine West Virginia’s “Coal: Energy, The Environment & West Virginia Policy Recommendations” and to facilitate discussion on coal’s role in our state and nation’s energy strategy. Speakers include: Congressman Mollohan (invited), WVU President Peter20Magrath, Imagine West Virginia Board Member Pat Getty, WVU Vice President for Research Curt Peterson, NETL Principal Deputy Director Ralph Carabetta, UMWA President Cecil Roberts, West Virginia Division of Energy Director Jeff Herholdt, and others. The event will include three parts, which include: - Comments by elected officials; - Presentation by Imagine West Virginia outlining their study recommendations; - Panel discussion on the Imagine West Virginia report and coal’s position in state and national energy policy. You can find additional information on the West Virginia Coal Forum at www.wvcoalforum.org. You can learn more about Imagine West Virginia and their report at www.imaginewestvirginia.com. Please RSVP by emailing your name and organization name to rsvp(a)wvcoalforum.org by Friday, October 10, 2008. We appreciate your consideration and hope to see you on October 15, 2008. Respectfully, Joel Watts Administrator WV Coal Forum Fred Tucker Chris Hamilton Co-Chairman, WV Coal Forum Co-Chairman, WV Coal=2 0Forum United Mine Workers of America West Virginia Coal Association >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> -----Original Message----- From: John Balasko <mjmb(a)westco.net> To: Duane Nichols <duane330(a)aol.com> Sent: Tue, 23 Sep 2008 10:23 pm Subject: Fw: Energy meeting Duane, Did you get this invitation? Should the Sierra Club or someone else ask for time at the "table?" I will help work on a presentation if you think that would be wise? The following statement is troubling to me! IMAGINE WEST VIRGINIA is an independent, objective policy research and development entity...... is an independent, objective policy research and development entity...... John www.imaginewestvirginia.com/ENERGY.pdf

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Trail Is Dead
by Julieann F. Wozniak 23 Sep '08

23 Sep '08

>Power line plan killed >Allegheny Energy won't put it through Greene, Washington >Tuesday, September 23, 2008 >By Janice Crompton, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette > >Allegheny Energy is abandoning plans for a high-voltage line through Washington and Greene counties, according to the terms of a settlement agreement reached yesterday. > >The agreement between the Greensburg-based utility and Greene County officials halts plans for a controversial 37-mile, 500-kilovolt power line from North Strabane in Washington County, to Dunkard, Greene County. > >In exchange, Greene County commissioners have agreed to support a companion project which includes a new electric substation and a 1.2-mile transmission line from Greene County to West Virginia, where the line would continue 240 miles into Virginia. > >West Virginia has approved the $1 billion project, and Virginia is expected to do so as well. > >Terms of the agreement, hammered out last week, include a payment of $750,000 to Greene County and other provisions from the company, which sought a compromise after two state Public Utility Commission judges recommended against every phase of the proposal due to lack of need and other considerations. > >The agreement may end more than 18 months of bitter feuding that pitted property owners and officials against Allegheny Energy. The terms of the deal are contingent on final project approval by the PUC before Feb. 16, 2009. > >Along with the financial settlement to Greene County, the company has agreed to return easements to the dozens of property owners in both counties who would have been affected by the line, many of whom sued the company in recent months, claiming that the easements, obtained decades ago, were no longer valid. > >The agreement leaves out Washington County officials, who say they were presented with the pact on Friday, then asked to approve it by yesterday. > >Washington County commissioners Larry Maggi and J. Bracken Burns said they were left out of what they call the "backroom deal" and won't support the agreement, although they, too, were offered $750,000 for Washington County. > >They wonder why their counterparts in Greene County have so readily approved the agreement while the PUC judges harshly criticized the plan, calling the 1.2-mile segment in Greene County a profit-driven attempt to ship "cheaper coal-fired generation" along an "energy superhighway" to the east. The judges said they also saw no need for the 36-mile Pennsylvania segment of the line. With language like that, it's unclear whether the PUC will honor the settlement agreement. > >The commission will review the agreement to determine if it's in the public interest, said spokeswoman Jennifer Kocher. > >"It didn't smell right -- the whole deal," said Mr. Maggi, who said signing the agreement would have nullified the argument that the power line isn't needed either regionally or locally. > >"The agreement in essence says that the argument we've advanced for the past two years is wrong," Mr. Burns said. > >Allegheny Energy has said the Pennsylvania portion of the project is needed to avoid local power interruptions in the next few years, but a grass-roots citizens' group and other property owners were able to convince the PUC judges that it wasn't so. > >Other terms of the agreement require Greene County and other local officials to help form a study group to identify potential new alternatives to the high-voltage line, such as demand-side management, energy efficiency programs and physical upgrades to existing lines, including new substations, transmission infrastructure, and possibly up to 10 miles of new 500-kilovolt lines in Washington County. There would be no new lines in Greene County. > >The company also has agreed not to seek federal intervention for the project if the PUC denies its application. According to the Energy Act of 2005, the federal government has backstop authority to approve transmission projects even if they are denied by states. > >Members of the grass-roots Energy Conservation Council of Pennsylvania said they are still reviewing the agreement, of which they also were not a part. > >They have questioned the wisdom of entering into such a pact after the PUC judges gave them good reason to hope that the company's application would be denied. The five-member PUC panel may or may not adopt the recommendations of the judges. > >Mr. Burns said he saw nothing in the agreement that would preclude the company from proposing different high-voltage lines in Washington County. Under such circumstances, it's unfair to taxpayers to enter into such an agreement, he said. > >"My values aren't negotiable and my principles don't have a price tag," he said. >Janice Crompton can be reached at jcrompton(a)post-gazette.com or 724-223-0156. >First published on September 23, 2008 at 12:00 am

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Historic announcement, historic alliance
by Duane330＠aol.com 18 Sep '08

18 Sep '08

GE, Google Boost Efforts For Improved Power Grid By _JEFFREY BALL_ (http://online.wsj.com/search/search_center.html?KEYWORDS=JEFFREY+BALL&ARTIC…) , _PAUL GLADER_ (http://online.wsj.com/search/search_center.html?KEYWORDS=PAUL+GLADER&ARTICL… SER=bylineAND) and _JESSICA E. VASCELLARO_ (http://online.wsj.com/search/search_center.html?KEYWORDS=JESSICA+E.+VASCELL… AND) Wall Street Journal, September 18, 2008. _General Electric_ (http://online.wsj.com/public/quotes/main.html?symbol=GE) Co. and _Google_ (http://online.wsj.com/public/quotes/main.html?symbol=goog) Inc. said they will jointly ramp up their efforts to prod the U.S. government to upgrade the nation's electrical-transmission lines so that the grid can better accommodate more renewable energy. Both companies sell technology that would benefit from an improved grid. GE has built one of the world's biggest wind-turbine businesses over the past few years, and Google makes computer software it says could help facilitate the introduction of more renewable energy to the U.S. grid. The announcement comes as Congress is considering separate legislation that would open new areas in the U.S. to oil drilling and renew federal tax credits for wind and solar energy that are due to expire at the end of the year. GE Chief Executive Jeffrey Immelt and Google CEO Eric Schmidt called on Congress to continue the renewable-energy tax credits. Wind energy was the second-biggest source of new electrical capacity in the U.S. last year, behind only natural gas, according to the American Wind Energy Association, a trade group. Still, wind power provides only about 1% of total U.S. electricity. Taking into account the benefit of the tax credit, the per-kilowatt-hour cost of wind energy has dropped over the past five years from about 15 cents to about eight cents, Mr. Immelt said, adding: "That makes wind very competitive with coal." But the tax credits have been short term, requiring Congress to renew them frequently. That has led to a boom-and-bust cycle in the wind industry that advocates say has hampered greater growth. Mr. Immelt has largely staked his legacy on GE's clean-energy efforts, a push the company calls "Ecomagination." The company has said revenue from that effort will grow to $25 billion in 2010, up from $6 billion in 2004, with products ranging from hybrid locomotives to wind turbines. Google hopes renewable energy can help it lower the costs of running its data centers, one of its greatest expenses. To that end, the Internet search giant has invested tens of millions of dollars in wind and other renewable-energy technologies. Last year, the company said it would invest hundreds of millions of dollars from its corporate and nonprofit arms in businesses working toward generating cheaper electricity. Beyond the tax credits, Messrs. Immelt and Schmidt said their companies will work together to lobby for government policies to expand the electrical grid to accommodate more renewable energy. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Google, GE to work together on green energy _By Elise Ackerman, San Jose Mercury News_ (mailto:eackerman@mercurynews.com?subject=San Jose Mercury News: Google, GE to work together on green energy) Article Launched: 09/18/2008 08:02:46 AM PDT Google and General Electric announced Wednesday that they would work together to push the development of renewable energy. The companies said they would team up to lobby the federal government to modernize the electrical grid and collaborate in the development of technologies for plug-in vehicles and geothermal energy. "We are trying to make renewable energy cheaper than coal energy," Google co-founder Larry Page said at a news conference Wednesday afternoon. The partnership was unveiled at Google's annual Zeitgeist conference, a two-day think-fest where Google's business partners are invited to Mountain View to discuss global issues with leaders such as former vice president Al Gore and Mexican businessman Carlos Slim, as well as celebrities including Leonardo DiCaprio and Forest Whitaker. Against a backdrop of continued financial turmoil, Google's leaders said their business was in good shape and unlikely to experience a direct impact from the current crisis. "The company has a large amount of cash in very boring investments," Chief Executive Eric Schmidt told reporters. As of June 30, Google had $16 billion in cash and securities and other current assets. Schmidt said Google plans to move ahead with a previously announced deal to provide search-advertising services to Yahoo, despite scrutiny by regulators in the United States and Europe. Schmidt said that his company had anticipated there would be objections to the deal, and that it is carefully structured to comply with antitrust regulations. "We have probably not explained it well enough," he said. Advertisers have expressed concern that the pact would lead to an increase in the cost of advertising brokered by Google. Page pointed out that the price of advertising is not set by Yahoo or Google but in an auction where advertisers decide what an ad is worth to them. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< **************Looking for simple solutions to your real-life financial challenges? Check out WalletPop for the latest news and information, tips and calculators. (http://www.walletpop.com/?NCID=emlcntuswall00000001)

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Climate Changes, from Science magazine
by Duane330＠aol.com 12 Sep '08

12 Sep '08

Extreme Behavior Global warming is expected to have a large effect on the amount and distribution of precipitation, with wet areas projected to become wetter and dry areas drier, and an overall increase in total rainfall. Another important aspect of these predicted changes is the frequency of extreme rainfall events, because the impact of a few heavy rain events is very different from that of many more moderate ones. Allan and Soden (published online 7 August) use satellite observations and model simulations to evaluate how climate warming is affecting the frequency and strength of rain events. Heavy rains are occurring with increasing frequency when it is warm and less often when it is cold, and these extremes are happening more frequently than models have suggested they should. This implies that the impacts of precipitation changes due to global warming could be greater than have been assumed. ____________________________________ **************Psssst...Have you heard the news? There's a new fashion blog, plus the latest fall trends and hair styles at StyleList.com. (http://www.stylelist.com/trends?ncid=aolsty00050000000014)

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Re: [MVCAC] US-EPA Considers Non-Attainment
by James Kotcon 04 Sep '08

04 Sep '08

This is a pretty important issue. The WV-DEP and local business leaders will cry a river about how unfair this is. But to protect the health of people in Monongalia County, we should urge EPA to implement the designation, and act quickly to require reductions in pollution emissions. We should also urge our locqal County Commission and City leaders to support the designation, because people should not have to hold their breathe waiting for cleaner air. Jim Kotcon >>> <Duane330(a)aol.com> 09/04/08 8:33 PM >>> US.EPA.REGION THREE. NOTE: All of Monongalia County in West Virginia and portion(s) of Greene County in Pennsylvania have been under consideration for "non-attainment" status for fine particulate loadings, i.e. PM-2.5. See the following web-site: _http://www.epa.gov/pmdesignations/2006standards/rec/region3.htm_ (http://www.epa.gov/pmdesignations/2006standards/rec/region3.htm) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> URGENT..............................URGENT..............................URGENT ....................URGENT EPA TO TAKE PUBLIC COMMENT ON AREAS TO BE DESIGNATED FOR FINE PARTICLE POLLUTION STANDARDS EPA is opening a 30-day public comment period on its recommendations for areas to be designated as out of compliance with the agency's 24-hour fine particle standards. On Aug. 19 and 20, EPA notified states and tribes of its recommendations for areas to be designated as "attainment" or "nonattainment" for fine particle pollution (PM2.5). Exposure to fine particle pollution is linked to a variety of serious health problems, including aggravated asthma, chronic bronchitis, nonfatal heart attacks, and premature death. States and tribes have an opportunity to respond to EPA's recommendations, and provide new information or analyses if appropriate. EPA will consider those responses, along with the public comment, before making its final decisions. EPA must issue final designations by Dec. 18, 2008. EPA will accept public comment for 30 days after a notice is published in the Federal Register. Instructions for submitting comments are available at _www.epa.gov/pmdesignations_ (http://www.epa.gov/pmdesignations/) . **************It's only a deal if it's where you want to go. Find your travel deal here. (http://information.travel.aol.com/deals?ncid=aoltrv00050000000047)

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US-EPA Considers Non-Attainment
by Duane330＠aol.com 04 Sep '08

04 Sep '08

US.EPA.REGION THREE. NOTE: All of Monongalia County in West Virginia and portion(s) of Greene County in Pennsylvania have been under consideration for "non-attainment" status for fine particulate loadings, i.e. PM-2.5. See the following web-site: _http://www.epa.gov/pmdesignations/2006standards/rec/region3.htm_ (http://www.epa.gov/pmdesignations/2006standards/rec/region3.htm) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> URGENT..............................URGENT..............................URGENT ....................URGENT EPA TO TAKE PUBLIC COMMENT ON AREAS TO BE DESIGNATED FOR FINE PARTICLE POLLUTION STANDARDS EPA is opening a 30-day public comment period on its recommendations for areas to be designated as out of compliance with the agency's 24-hour fine particle standards. On Aug. 19 and 20, EPA notified states and tribes of its recommendations for areas to be designated as "attainment" or "nonattainment" for fine particle pollution (PM2.5). Exposure to fine particle pollution is linked to a variety of serious health problems, including aggravated asthma, chronic bronchitis, nonfatal heart attacks, and premature death. States and tribes have an opportunity to respond to EPA's recommendations, and provide new information or analyses if appropriate. EPA will consider those responses, along with the public comment, before making its final decisions. EPA must issue final designations by Dec. 18, 2008. EPA will accept public comment for 30 days after a notice is published in the Federal Register. Instructions for submitting comments are available at _www.epa.gov/pmdesignations_ (http://www.epa.gov/pmdesignations/) . **************It's only a deal if it's where you want to go. Find your travel deal here. (http://information.travel.aol.com/deals?ncid=aoltrv00050000000047)

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Feds withdraw funding for Western Greenbrier Cogeneration Plant
by Paula Hunt 03 Sep '08

03 Sep '08

This story appeared in the Chas. Gazette (click below for link): ><http://wvgazette.com/latest/200809030382>Feds pull out of >Greenbrier<http://wvgazette.com/latest/200809030382> power plant project >Charleston Gazette - Charleston,WV,USA >Federal officials have quietly pulled the plug on funding for >construction of the proposed Western Greenbrier Co-Generation plant. ... ..................................... I checked the Dept of Energy's Fact Sheet http://www.netl.doe.gov/publications/factsheets/project/Proj223.pdf and it says at the bottom of page 2, "Status: The Western Greenbrier Cogeneration Project was discontinued on June 14, 2008." The Gazette implies things were a bit weird. It says, "DOE dropped the project in mid-June, less than two months after they formally approved a loan of up to $107.5 million, according to federal records. The DOE action also came just a month after developers had obtained private funding to help complete a critical engineering report for other private financiers. DOE had never publicly announced the move, but agency officials confirmed the action in an e-mail statement Wednesday." The story goes on to say, "Wayne Brown, a spokesman for Western Greenbrier, said that a reporter's phone call was the first he heard of the DOE decision. "Well, that's news to me," Brown said. He added that the project's future seemed dim, given the lack of DOE money." Toward the end the story says, "Earlier this year, one local bank refused to continue extending payback dates for Western Greenbrier, and the state EDA [West Virginia Economic Development Authority] had to pay the $3 million of the loan it guaranteed, said David Warner, director of the EDA." So I guess that puts the State on the hook for $3 million.

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Longview Cancels 49% Auction
by Paula Hunt 17 Aug '08

17 Aug '08

Longview Cancels Auction An August 15, 2008 article states that the owners of Longview Pwer, LLC, First Reserve Corp. (90% owner) and GenPower Holdings (10% owner), cancelled the auction of a 49% minority stake in the power plant because several bidders wanted equal control. The article also says that the original financing agreement states that if the ownership changes, First Reserve must pay back $1.15 billion to Goldman Sachs. Now Longview will go for "mezzanine financing." Apparently they had abandoned this type of financing in June due to tight credit. The details are reportedly still being worked out, but they hope to close the new financing in September 2008. The article says Longview is expected to start up 2011, has a guaranteed heat rate of 8,564 Btu per kWh, and has a five-year contract with PPL EnergyPlus for 300 of the plant's 695 megawatts, with the rest being sold on a merchant basis "on the grid" into the western PJM market.

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Re: [MVCAC] Longview Power in the news
by James Kotcon 10 Aug '08

10 Aug '08

The Daily Mail article says the cooling water willl come from the Monongahela River (abnout a mile to the east". This implies that the intake will be in WV, contrary to the article in the Greene County paper last month. The article fails to mention the support from the WV Economic Development Office. I wonder if UMWA is happy with state support for a non-union, out-of-state mine? JBK >>> Paula Hunt <pjhunt(a)xemaps.com> 08/09/08 6:59 PM >>> I am subscribed to Google News Alerts for "Longview Power" and recently received alerts for what is essentially the same article by the same author in three different news outlets. The first is August 8, 2008 Charleston Daily Mail: http://www.dailymail.com/Business/200808070355 . The other two are http://www.istockanalyst.com/article/viewarticle+articleid_2491731.html and http://www.redorbit.com/news/business/1515457/mammoth_power_plant_taking_sh… . It says Longview is a "sprawling" complex and "... the 10,000 tons of steel used in the boiler building and the 2,800 tons in the turbine deck were made and fabricated in China, shipped to Houston, then trucked overland to the construction site." How many West Virginia workers were in China for the fabrication, I wonder? Longview Power's general manager Charlie Huguenard claims that the project "is ahead of schedule and on budget. " I suppose that depends on which schedule and which budget you choose. .... certainly not the $940 million plant that will be online in 2007 budget and schedule we were told originally. Duane sent out a July 30, 2008 letter to this list from Longview's attorney (Leonard Knee) to the WV Public Service Commission that said, Longview is about 40% complete with the construction of the Power Plant. Most of the foundations have been constructed, and steel erection is well under way. To date, Longview has spent about $770 million of the anticipated $1.8 billion construction cost, About 550 craft workers are currently employed. By the end of the year, approximately 1500 craft workers will be working, with the number growing to about 2000 craft workers in 2009. Plant construction is ahead of schedule, and the plant is on track to be operational in the last quarter of 2010. It will be interesting to see if there ever will be 1,500 or 2,000 workers on that site. Nothing else they have said has come to pass. The photos in the article show the steel frame. A resident of the Fort Martin Community pointed out to me that no equipment (boilers, etc.) is on site, and wonders how the large equipment will be squeezed into the erected steel frame if it ever does get on site. Apparently, power plants are usually built one floor at a time with the equipment being installed as they go up with the steel. It doesn't look 40% done. The coal is apparently all coming out of Pennsylvania and will be delivered to the site by a 4+ mile conveyor and by truck. I assume there will be no WV severance tax on that coal (?). How does that work? - paula

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Longview Power in the news
by Paula Hunt 09 Aug '08

09 Aug '08

I am subscribed to Google News Alerts for "Longview Power" and recently received alerts for what is essentially the same article by the same author in three different news outlets. The first is August 8, 2008 Charleston Daily Mail: http://www.dailymail.com/Business/200808070355 . The other two are http://www.istockanalyst.com/article/viewarticle+articleid_2491731.html and http://www.redorbit.com/news/business/1515457/mammoth_power_plant_taking_sh… . It says Longview is a "sprawling" complex and "... the 10,000 tons of steel used in the boiler building and the 2,800 tons in the turbine deck were made and fabricated in China, shipped to Houston, then trucked overland to the construction site." How many West Virginia workers were in China for the fabrication, I wonder? Longview Power's general manager Charlie Huguenard claims that the project "is ahead of schedule and on budget. " I suppose that depends on which schedule and which budget you choose. .... certainly not the $940 million plant that will be online in 2007 budget and schedule we were told originally. Duane sent out a July 30, 2008 letter to this list from Longview's attorney (Leonard Knee) to the WV Public Service Commission that said, Longview is about 40% complete with the construction of the Power Plant. Most of the foundations have been constructed, and steel erection is well under way. To date, Longview has spent about $770 million of the anticipated $1.8 billion construction cost, About 550 craft workers are currently employed. By the end of the year, approximately 1500 craft workers will be working, with the number growing to about 2000 craft workers in 2009. Plant construction is ahead of schedule, and the plant is on track to be operational in the last quarter of 2010. It will be interesting to see if there ever will be 1,500 or 2,000 workers on that site. Nothing else they have said has come to pass. The photos in the article show the steel frame. A resident of the Fort Martin Community pointed out to me that no equipment (boilers, etc.) is on site, and wonders how the large equipment will be squeezed into the erected steel frame if it ever does get on site. Apparently, power plants are usually built one floor at a time with the equipment being installed as they go up with the steel. It doesn't look 40% done. The coal is apparently all coming out of Pennsylvania and will be delivered to the site by a 4+ mile conveyor and by truck. I assume there will be no WV severance tax on that coal (?). How does that work? - paula

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Lung disease in WV and US
by Duane330＠aol.com 04 Aug '08

04 Aug '08

_Two New Asbestos Suits Filed in West Virginia_ (http://www.asbestos-post.com/two-new-asbestos-suits-filed-in-west-virginia.…) July 26th, 2008 Two new asbestos-related lawsuits filed in West Virginia in June name more than 100 defendants between them. The first was filed by Mary Kathryn Black on behalf of the estate of her deceased husband, Steve Black. The second was filed on behalf of Joseph M. Hutchison III and his wife, Ann Hutchison. Both lawsuits were filed in Kanawha County Circuit Court on June 6. Mary Kathryn Black, the widow of steelworker Steve Black, claims that her husband died as a result of asbestos exposure which caused him to develop lung cancer and esophageal cancer. Steve Black worked for companies such as Armco Steel. Other defendants in the suit include six corporations which reside in West Virginia: McJunkin Corporation, Ohio Valley Insulating, State Electric Supply, Union Boiler Company, Vimasco Corporation and West Virginia Electric Supply. The suit alleges that Steve Black developed asbestos-related cancers as a result of working for companies involved in the manufacture, distribution, sale, installation, and removal of products containing asbestos. According to the lawsuit, Steve Black’s lifespan and enjoyment of life was greatly diminished as a result of his asbestos exposure. His widow, Mary Kathryn Black, is seeking compensatory and punitive damages. The second lawsuit was filed on June 6 on behalf of Joseph M. Hutchison III and his wife, Ann Hutchison. The lawsuit names a total of 79 different defendant companies, and claims that the defendants are responsible for Joseph M. Hutchison III having developed asbestosis and mesothelioma. Joseph Hutchison worked in South Charleston as a laborer, and was employed with Union Carbide. Hutchison was also student and faculty member of West Virginia University. The lawsuit claims that Joseph Hutchison was exposed to asbestos while working with and around products in use at sites where he was employed. The sites were located in and across West Virginia. The suit includes fifteen counts, relating to the financial, physical, and emotional losses suffered by both Joseph and Ann Hutchinson. They are seeking compensatory and punitive damages for their losses. [Note. Joseph Hutchinson died July 26th in Morgantown, as shown in the Obituary below. He was a leader in the founding of the National Youth Science Camp, held each year at Bartow in West Virginia. For the National Youth Science Camp, see the following: _http://www.nysc.org/_ (http://www.nysc.org/) ] >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> _Mass Asbestos Lawsuit Dismissal in West Virginia_ (http://www.asbestos-post.com/mass-asbestos-lawsuit-dismissal-in-west-virgin…) July 18th, 2008 A mass dismissal of asbestos-related lawsuits in West Virginia has left many plaintiffs dismayed over the decision. People suffering from asbestos-related diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma must now wait much longer for their day in court. The West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals this week dismissed more than one thousand asbestos-related lawsuits laid by railroad workers against the companies they once worked for. The more than one thousand plaintiffs had filed lawsuits against their employees, CSX Transportation and Norfolk Southern. Previously, Circuit Judge Arthur Recht of Wheeling had dismissed the lawsuits. Following an appeal by plaintiffs, the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals upheld Circuit Judge Arthur Recht’s decision to dismiss all one thousand suits. In upholding the decision, the Supreme Court of Appeals has rejected a plea that the United States Constitution provides every American with the right to sue in West Virginia, regardless of whether or not they have a real connection to the state. In West Virginia, as in many other states, a plaintiff can file a lawsuit even if they live out of state. To do so, however, they must be able to show that either a plaintiff or a defendant in the case has some type of connection to West Virginia. The Court chose to ignore a 2006 decision known as Morris vs. Crown Equipment, which had granted West Virginia jurisdiction to a dispute which originated in another state. The Court says that this decision did not apply because in the Morris case, one of the defendants was a West Virginia corporation. The claims were filed under the Federal Employers Liability Act, which applies to railroad and some other types of workers, regardless of where they live. After the suits had been filed, the Supreme Court of Appeals consolidated them into the Kanawha County Circuit Court, and assigned them all to Judge Recht. The railway companies had already asked for a move to dismiss the cases while the Supreme Court of Appeals was discussing whether or not the plaintiffs could file their suits in West Virginia. Judge Recht then granted the defendants ’ motion, saying that the Morris case was not applicable, and that the railroad workers could not file suit in West Virginia. The plaintiffs’ appeal was subsequently rejected, and now all one thousand cases have been freed and may be tried in other state courts. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> _ALA Report finds Deaths from Lung Disease Increasing_ (http://www.asbestos-post.com/ala-report-finds-deaths-from-lung-disease-incr…) July 26th, 2008 The latest report from the American Lung Association, entitled Lung Disease Data, indicates that death rates due to lung disease are on the increase, and death rates due to other leading causes of death, such as cancer, heart disease, and stroke, are decreasing. The American Lung Association publishes the Lung Disease Data report periodically to provide a resource with information about information about lung disease trends in the United States for the media, healthcare professionals, researchers, patients, and the public. The report indicates that lung disease rates are increasing so rapidly that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease may be the third leading cause of death as early as 2020. Lung diseases include any diseases or disorders in which impairment of lung function is an effect or result of the condition. Lung diseases may be caused by cigarette smoking, exposure to smoke, air pollution, and exposure to occupational hazards such as asbestos and silica dusts. Bernadette Toomey, President and CEO of the American Lung Association, says, “Every year, about 400,000 Americans die from lung disease. With our report, Lung Disease Data, we hope to provide valuable information on lung disease to the public, especially to people who become ill and their family members who are caring for them.” Types of lung disease covered in the ALA report data include the following: • Obstructive lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma, as well as chronic bronchitis and emphysema. All of these diseases affect the person’s airways, and limit or block the flow of air in or out of the lungs. • Lung cancer, caused by uncontrolled growth of abnormal lung cells. Lung cancer may be caused by a variety of factors, including cigarette smoking and exposure to asbestos. • Infectious diseases such as influenza, pneumonia, respiratory syncytial virus, and tuberculosis, caused by viruses or bacteria which can affect both lung tissue and the membrane which surrounds, protects, and supports the lungs. • Respiratory failure, pulmonary edema, pulmonary embolism and pulmonary hy-pertension. These diseases are caused by problems with gas exchange and blood flow in the lungs. • Pulmonary fibrosis and sarcoidosis. These diseases are characterized by stiffen¬ing and scarring of the lungs, which prevents normal lung function. • Occupational diseases, such as mesothelioma and asbestosis, caused by expo¬sure to hazardous substances such as asbestos and silica dust. These occupational diseases have no other known causes apart from exposure to inhalable toxic dusts. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Source of above three entries: _http://www.asbestos-post.com/_ (http://www.asbestos-post.com/) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Submitted by: Duane Nichols, Ph.D., President of CLEAR [Cheat Lake Environment & Recreation Assn.] and Spokesperson for MonValley Clean Air Coalition [MVCAC], Address: 330 Dream Catcher Circle, Morgantown, WV 26508 Phone: 304-599-8040 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> OBITUARY FOR JOSEPH HUTCHINSON **************Looking for a car that's sporty, fun and fits in your budget? Read reviews on AOL Autos. (http://autos.aol.com/cars-BMW-128-2008/expert-review?ncid=aolaut00050000000… )

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Re: [MVCAC] Longview Power Plant Updates
by James Kotcon 04 Aug '08

04 Aug '08

This clearly demonstrates the flaws in Longview's "Desigh/Build" approach, and shows why the PSC should have required complete engineering plans up front, before the start of construction. Jim Kotcon >>> "Paula Hunt" <pjhunt(a)xemaps.com> 8/4/2008 9:11 AM >>> ================================================================ Updates on Longview's Continuing Troubles -- paula ================================================================ Longview Power plans to obtain its water from the Mon River, not from treated mine water. Longview obtained approval to do this from Pennsylvania, where the intake will be located. It turns out that treating all that water by the very expensive process of reverse osmosis is cost prohibitive. * As if they didn’t know that from the very beginning ….. * Construction on the Longview Power Plant, located in the Community of Fort Martin near Maidsville, WV (just north of Morgantown), has begun but is going very slowly. Rumor has it that they are fighting subsidence problems on site and are having trouble finding workers. * Where are all those unemployed union workers that packed the public meeting, I wonder… ? * Bids are being accepted until the end of August 2008 to buy part or all of Longview Power, LLC. Merrill Lynch is conducting the auction and PPL Corp (PPL EnergyPlus), FirstEnergy, PSEG, International Power America, and Energy Investors Funds are thought to be bidders. PPL EnergyPlus has already committed to taking 300 megawatts (MW) of the 695 MW. Goldman Sachs and WestLB have funded part of the construction, putting $1.15 billion into the project last year. Apparently that wasn’t enough, and another $950 million was supposed to come from other sources. The original $900 Million power plant has turned into a $2 Billion power plant (and counting). It appears that this new $950 Million funding is no longer available. Presumably this is why the auction is needed. GenPower supposedly wants $3,500 per kW or more, which is higher than the $3,000-3,250 per kW, which is usual for electricity from a new plant. ================================================= _______________________________________________ MVCAC mailing list MVCAC(a)cheat.org http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/mvcac

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US-EPA releases report
by Duane330＠aol.com 24 Jul '08

24 Jul '08

EPA RELEASES REPORT ON CLIMATE CHANGE AND HUMAN HEALTH The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has released a report developed by _The U.S. Climate Change Science Program (CCSP)_ (http://www.climatescience.gov/) titled "Analyses of the Effects of Global Change on Human Health and Welfare and Human Systems." The report identifies strategies on how to respond to the challenges of a changing climate and identifies near- and long-term research goals that address data and knowledge gaps. The report is thus far the most up-to-date scientific assessment on the impact of global change on human health, welfare and settlements in the country. For more information, go to _Information on Analyses of the Effects of Global Change on Human Health and Welfare and Human Systems_ (http://cfpub.epa.gov/ncea/cfm/recordisplay.cfm?deid=197244) and _The Office of Research and Development's Global Change Research Program_ (http://www.epa.gov/ord/npd/globalresearch-intro.htm) **************Get fantasy football with free live scoring. Sign up for FanHouse Fantasy Football today. (http://www.fanhouse.com/fantasyaffair?ncid=aolspr00050000000020)

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Old news on Longview
by Duane330＠aol.com 07 Jul '08

07 Jul '08

Moody's release on Longview Power Llc Wed Feb 7, 2007 7:59 pm GMT Market News (The following statement was released by the ratings agency) Feb 7 - Moody's Investors Service has assigned a Ba3 rating to Longview Power, LLC's $1.1 billion senior secured credit facilities, including $900 million in term and construction loans, a $100 million revolver, and a $100 million synthetic letter of credit facility. The outlook is stable. Along with $930 million of equity, proceeds of the term and construction loans will be used to help finance the construction of a $1.8 billion coal-fired power plant. The revolver will be available to fund working capital needs while the synthetic LC will be used to fulfill the debt service reserve requirement upon substantial completion and post LCs to the project's counterparties. The Ba3 rating reflects the strong economics of the project, driven by low variable costs. Supported by the significant equity commitment, projected operating company financial metrics are robust for a single-asset merchant plant despite the high capital costs. According to Moody's analyst Aaron Freedman, these fundamental strengths offset multiple risks, related to both construction and operations, though most of these are adequately mitigated while few are very significant on their own. Longview will be a 695 MW supercritical pulverized coal-generating station with an 8,600 Btu/kWh heat rate located in Maidsville, WV, just south of the Pennsylvania border and approximately 70 miles south of Pittsburgh. The project sponsor is a fund managed by First Reserve, a private equity firm specializing in energy industry investments. The developer is GenPower LLC. The plant will have a five year, 300 MW power purchase agreement (PPA) with PPL Energy Plus for energy and capacity (guaranteed by PPL Energy Supply, LLC; Baa2 sr. sec.), with the balance of its capacity and energy expected to be sold on a merchant basis in PJM's wholesale energy and capacity markets. The project's very low variable costs are expected to result in around the clock dispatch. The project will be constructed by Aker Kvaerner Songer, with equipment including the turbine island supplied by Siemens North America and the boiler supplied by Foster Wheeler pursuant to a separate fixed price, date certain engineer-procure-construct (EPC) contracts wrapped by a coordination agreement. Aker Kvaerner SA and Siemens North America will provide a joint and several guarantee of their subsidiaries pursuant to the coordination agreement, including performance and liquidated damages. The boiler design incorporates a first-of-its kind design innovation intended to improve efficiency and reduce operating costs. Coal is expected to be provided by an adjacent mine through a long term supply contract; currently, however, only half of the facility's expected demand has been secured with a binding letter of intent. Water supply will be provided from water pumped from nearby flooded mines and treated by a non-profit joint-venture to which Longview is a party. The water treatment process, which involves a novel application of existing technology, has reportedly garnered environmental support for the project. Moody's has identified the following project strengths and weaknesses: Strengths/Opportunities - Robust projected financial metrics at the operating company are supported by significant equity contribution, including potential additional debt issued by an intermediate holding company. - With good economics resulting from low variable costs, the project is expected to dispatch whenever available. - Efficient design with a heat rate up to 10% lower than new conventional sub-critical plants results in lower fuel requirements and emissions, while the relatively large boiler allows greater use of cheaper, unwashed coal. - Located adjacent to a coal mine that is expected to provide a long-term source of low cost, high quality fuel, helping to reduce transportation and coal washing costs relative to alternatives and resulting in a delivered cost 30% lower on a BTU basis. - Additional locational advantages include proximity to the Monongahela River, which provides access to alternative sources of fuel and a potential backup water supply, a limestone quarry 10 miles away, and a nearby ash landfill. - 300 MW PPA locks in energy and capacity prices for 43% of the project's 695 net capacity for five years with an investment grade counterparty. Capacity payments commence June 1, 2011, but energy payments do not commence until January 1, 2012, ten months after scheduled substantial completion. - Long-term firm transmission rights have been secured to various nodes in PJM, assuring access to PJM's well established, transparent, and liquid wholesale energy market. PJM is projected to demonstrate continued growth in demand and a reduction in reserve margins, helping to sustain an expected robust pricing environment. - Adequate construction risk mitigants include a joint-and-several guarantee provided by experienced, reputable contractors of their obligations under the fixed-price, date-certain EPC contract, adequate liquidated damages, and a reasonable provision for contingencies in the construction budget. - Financing and corporate documentation will provide standard project lender protections and effective ring-fencing, including a waterfall, a conservative restricted payments test, and dividend limitations, with a 100% cash sweep after restricted payments that is expected to result in rapid debt paydown under the sponsor's base case scenario. Weaknesses/Risks - Merchant risk, particularly in the first year of operation, exposes the project to potential wholesale power market volatility. - PJM's new capacity market price setting mechanism is unproven and could produce lower than expected capacity revenues, though these are not expected to account for a significant portion of the project's total revenues. - High capital costs ($2,200/ net kW excluding fees and interest during construction), due in part to use of supercritical technology. - Prospect of a significant amount of additional leverage at the holding company could reduce the rate of senior debt paydown and increase refinancing risk, though the potential impact is limited by deep structural subordination and the expectation that interest on the holding company debt will either be equity funded or become payment-in-kind (PIK) if the operating company's conservative restricted payments test is not met. - Significant portion of the equity commitment is provided by an unrated entity, albeit one with ample financial resources. No bank LC backstops this portion of the equity, which is not expected to be provided until midway through construction. Failure to provide the equity could result in an insufficiency of funds to complete construction. - Developer's lack of significant experience with coal plants could increase risk of change orders, cost overruns, and operational challenges. - Construction risk - this is a complex, greenfield project with new technology. Additionally, the debt service reserve fund LC will not be issued until substantial completion is reached, which could cause liquidity problems in the event of a delay in completion. - Already high projected water supply costs could potentially exceed expectations due to uncertainties relating to the cost of pumping and treatment of water in sufficient quantities to meet expected demand. - Coal costs could potentially exceed expectations due to issues related to the ability of the adjacent mine that is the expected source of supply to produce sufficient quantities of coal to supply the plant's full requirements at projected cost levels. Alternative sources of fuel are expected to be significantly more costly. - Absence of signed operating agreement could result in higher operating and maintenance costs than currently projected. Operating risks are potentially higher t **************Gas prices getting you down? Search AOL Autos for fuel-efficient used cars. 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WV-DEP: 2009 Proposed Rules.
by Duane330＠aol.com 03 Jul '08

03 Jul '08

=========================================================== Thursday, July 3, 2008 @ 5:37 PM =========================================================== Public Notice -- 2009 Proposed Rules The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection has scheduled public hearings for its 2009 proposed legislative rules. All hearings will take place at the DEP’s Charleston headquarters, 601 57th Street S.E., Charleston, WV 25304. Oral and written comments will be limited to the proposed revisions and will be made a part of the rulemaking record. Copies of the rules are available from the Secretary of State’s office or from the DEP at www.wvdep.org/2009rules after Monday, July 7. You may also obtain hardcopies of the information by calling the phone numbers listed below. Written comments may be submitted to the Public Information Office at the above address. Comments may also be e-mailed to comments(a)wvdep.org. The hearing dates, locations and comment deadlines are as follows: Secretary’s Office 60CSR3 – Voluntary Remediation and Redevelopment Rule The public hearing will take place at 6 p.m. on August 4, 2008 in the Coopers Rock Training Room. The comment period will end at the conclusion of the hearing. For more information call 304-926-0455. Division of Air Quality 45CSR1 – Control & Reduction of Nitrogen Oxides from Non-Electric Generating Units as a Means to Mitigate Transport of Ozone Precursors 45CSR8 – Ambient Air Quality Standards 45CSR13- Permits for Construction, Modification, Relocation and Operation of Stationary Sources…(minor source permits) 45CSR14 – Permits for Construction and Major Modification of Major Stationary Sources of Air Pollution for the Prevention of Significant Deterioration 45CSR16 – Standards of Performance for New Stationary Sources 45CSR25 – Control of Air Pollution from Hazardous Waste Treatment, Storage and Disposal Facilities 45CSR26 – NOx Budget Trading Program as a Means of Control and Reduction of Nitrogen Oxides from Electric Generating Units 45CSR34 – Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants 45CSR37 – Mercury Budget Trading Program to Reduce Mercury Emissions The public hearing for all air quality rules will take place at 6 p.m. on Aug. 11 in the Coopers Rock Training Room. The comment period will end at the conclusion of the hearing. Upon authorization and promulgation of revisions to 45CSR8, 45CSR13 and 45CSR14, the DAQ will submit the rules to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as revisions to the State Implementation Plan pursuant to the federal Clean Air Act (CAA). Rules 45CSR16, 45CSR25 and 45CSR34 will also be submitted to EPA to fulfill other federal obligations under the CAA, including delegations, plans and program approvals. Rules 45CSR1, 45CSR26 and 45CSR37 are proposed to be repealed. For more information on any of the DAQ rules call 304-926-0475. Division of Mining and Reclamation 38CSR2 – WV Surface Mining Reclamation Rule The public hearing will take place at 6 p.m. on August 12, 2008 in the Coopers Rock Training Room. The comment period will end at the conclusion of the hearing. 47CSR30 – WV/NPDES Rules for Coal Mining Facilities The public hearing will take place at 6:30 p.m. on August 12, 2008 in the Coopers Rock Training Room. The comment period will end at the conclusion of the hearing. For more information on any of the DMR rules call 304-926-0490. Division of Water and Waste Management 33CSR20 – Hazardous Waste Management System The public hearing will take place at 7 p.m. on August 12, 2008 in the Coopers Rock Training Room. The comment period will end at the conclusion of the hearing. 33CSR 24 – Hazardous Waste Management Fee The public hearing will take place at 7:30 p.m. on August 12, 2008 in the Coopers Rock Training Room. The comment period will end at the conclusion of the hearing. 47CSR32 – Regulations Governing Environmental Laboratories Certification and Standards of Performance The public hearing will take place at 6 p.m. on August 14, 2008 in the Coopers Rock Training Room. The comment period will end at the conclusion of the hearing. 33CSR22 – Assessment of Civil and Administrative Penalties (Hazardous and Solid Waste) The public hearing will take place at 6:30 p.m. on August 14, 2008 in the Coopers Rock Training Room. The comment period will end at the conclusion of the hearing. 47CSR56 – Assessment of Civil and Administrative Penalties (Groundwater) The public hearing will take place at 7 p.m. on August 14, 2008 in the Coopers Rock Training Room. The comment period will end at the conclusion of the hearing. 47CSR34 – Dam Safety The public hearing will take place at 7:30 p.m. on August 14, 2008 in the Coopers Rock Training Room. The comment period will end at the conclusion of the hearing. 47CSR2 – Requirements Governing Water Quality Standards The public hearing will take place at 6 p.m. on August 18, 2008 in the Coopers Rock Training Room. The comment period will end at the conclusion of the hearing. 47CSR 31 – State Water Pollution Control Revolving Fund Program The public hearing will take place at 7 p.m. on August 18, 2008 in the Coopers Rock Training Room. The comment period will end at the conclusion of the hearing. For more information on any of the Water And Waste Management Rules call 304- 926-0495. **************Gas prices getting you down? Search AOL Autos for fuel-efficient used cars. (http://autos.aol.com/used?ncid=aolaut00050000000007)

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Update on EPA ....
by Duane330＠aol.com 26 Jun '08

26 Jun '08

EPA AWARDS GOLD MEDALS TO CLEAN AIR ACT SETTLEMENT LITIGATION TEAM EPA's Richard Killian, Donna Mastro and Doug Snyder received gold medals from EPA Headquarters at the Warner Theatre in Washington, D.C. on May 20, for their nearly ten year effort in the investigation, litigation and settlement of the largest environmental case in history. The outcome of the case against American Electric Power significantly reduced the level of air pollution in many states, (including Indiana, Ohio, Virginia and West Virginia). Eight states, a dozen environmental groups and the EPA brought the lawsuit against AEP in 1999, accusing the energy company of rebuilding coal-fired power plants without installing pollution controls as required under the Clean Air Act. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Carbon Pollution Regulation in U.S. Moving Ahead With EPA Rules By Jim Efstathiou Jr., www.bloomberg.com June 20 (Bloomberg) -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, after seven years of declining to regulate carbon- dioxide emissions under President _George W. Bush_ (http://search.bloomberg.com/search?q=George+W.+Bush&site=wnews&client=wnews… getfields=wnnis&sort=date:D:S:d1) , is taking its first steps to control the main gas blamed for global warming. Ordered to act by the U.S. Supreme Court, the EPA will begin developing limits on greenhouse gases emitted by power plants, vehicles and large manufacturers. In April 2007, the U.S. high court ruled that carbon dioxide is a pollutant subject to government regulation. Next week, the EPA will formally seek public and industry comment on how the U.S. should respond to the court ruling, the first step in developing new rules, agency spokesman _Timothy Lyons_ (http://search.bloomberg.com/search?q=Timothy Lyons&site=wnews&client=wnews&proxystylesheet=wnews&output=xml_no_dtd&ie=UTF-8 &oe=UTF-8&filter=p&getfields=wnnis&sort=date:D:S:d1) said in a June 17 interview. While new gas limits aren't likely to emerge during the Bush administration, utility and refinery lobbyists say they see the EPA action as a prelude to setting caps on carbon emissions. ``Anybody that wants to build anything is extremely concerned with what EPA may do in regulating global greenhouse gases,'' said _Scott Segal_ (http://search.bloomberg.com/search?q=Scott+Segal&site=wnews&client=wnews&pr… wnews&outpu t=xml_no_dtd&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&filter=p&getfields=wnnis&sort=date:D:S:d1) , a partner in the Washington law offices of Bracewell & Giuliani LLP who represents energy companies. The EPA will give industry 90 days to respond to the landmark Supreme Court ruling, according to a draft of the public comment notice obtained by Bloomberg. Offering industry time to comment will slow down rule-setting process, environmental groups say. The request for comment amounts to ``a step back from regulation,'' _David Bookbinder_ (http://search.bloomberg.com/search?q=David+Bookbinder&site=wnews&client=wne… etfields=wnnis&sort=date:D:S:d1) , chief climate counsel for the _Sierra Club_ (http://www.sierraclub.org/) , said in an interview June 19. ``The industry will put in 10,000 pages of stuff each on this. It will take years to go through the information.'' Industry Conversations _Michael McKenna_ (http://search.bloomberg.com/search?q=Michael+McKenna&site=wnews&client=wnew… lter=p&getfields=wnnis&sort=date:D:S:d1) , president of the Washington consulting firm MRW Strategies, a lobbyist for Southern Co., a utility that is the second largest U.S. coal burner, declined to speculate on what form regulation might take. Utilities collectively are the world's biggest industrial producers of gases that create the warming, greenhouse effect. Power companies are ``starting to have some relatively serious conversations with career staff at EPA,'' McKenna said in a June 16 interview. Southern is based in Atlanta. The likelihood that the U.S. will set emission limits for utilities and refiners such as Southern and San Antonio-based Tesoro Corp., as well as automakers, will increase after January when EPA Administrator _Stephen Johnson_ (http://search.bloomberg.com/search?q=Stephen+Johnson&site=wnews&client=wnew… tylesheet=wnews&output=xml_no_dtd&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&filter=p&getfields=wnnis&s ort=date:D:S:d1) and other political appointees will be replaced by a new president. That's because both Senators _John McCain_ (http://search.bloomberg.com/search?q=John+McCain&site=wnews&client=wnews&pr… xml_no_dtd&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&filter=p&getfields=wnnis&sort=date:D:S:d1) and _Barack Obama_ (http://search.bloomberg.com/search?q=Barack+Obama&site=wnews&client=wnews&p… getfields=wnnis&sort=date:D:S:d1) say a climate-change law will be a priority if they become president. `Environmental Threat' ``You can almost guarantee one of the first acts of the new president is to declare that global warming is an environmental threat,'' _Frank O'Donnell_ (http://search.bloomberg.com/search?q=Frank+O'Donnell&site=wnews&client=… &proxystylesheet=wnews&output=xml_no_dtd&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&filter=p&getfields= wnnis&sort=date:D:S:d1) , president of _Clean Air Watch_ (http://www.cleanairwatch.org/) , said in a June 12 interview. ``That will set in motion administrative attempts to reduce carbon dioxide.'' In Europe, a potential model for a U.S. pollution plan, 11,000 power plants and factories must buy permits to emit carbon if they exceed their government allowance. A 2008 permit to release one ton of CO2 cost 27.64 euros ($42.83) yesterday, on the European Climate Exchange in London. U.S. utilities spew about 2.3 billion tons a year into the skies. Every hour, fossil-fuel combustion generates 3.5 million tons of emissions worldwide, helping create a warming effect that ``already threatens our climate,'' the Paris-based International Energy Agency said in a June 6 report. The IEA, the energy adviser to 27 oil-consuming nations, said inaction may allow global temperatures to climb by 6 degrees Celsius (10.8 degrees Fahrenheit) by the year 2100. `Very Substantial' ``In the end, a final rule will lead to something very substantial and address greenhouse gas emissions and perhaps a regulatory framework,'' Lyons, the EPA spokesman said from his office in Washington. The EPA's request for comment will delay actual regulations, said _David Doniger_ (http://search.bloomberg.com/search?q=David+Doniger&site=wnews&client=wnews&… =wnnis&sort=date:D:S:d1) , policy director at the New York-based Natural Resources Defense Council, in a June 12 telephone interview. The Supreme Court's ruling last year said the EPA needed to determine whether carbon dioxide is a harmful pollutant as defined by 1963 Clean Air Act. Congress failed this month in its first bid to promote laws to control CO2 from electricity plants and factories. Their debate exposed partisan divides over global-warming measures and tensions within the Democratic Party between advocates of regulation and lawmakers from states that mine coal, the dirtiest fuel for power plants. The EPA already used the Clean Air Act, amended in 1990, to control the release of sulfur dioxide, called acid rain, from power plants through emissions trading. That is the closest model the U.S. has for a possible cap-and-trade system for carbon dioxide. Obama and McCain both have said they would support a cap and trade approach. Last Updated: June 20, 2008 00:01 EDT **************Gas prices getting you down? Search AOL Autos for fuel-efficient used cars. (http://autos.aol.com/used?ncid=aolaut00050000000007)

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Air Monitoring Stations
by Duane330＠aol.com 29 May '08

29 May '08

EPA LAUNCHES INTERACTIVE MAP OF REGIONAL AIR POLLUTION MONITORING STATIONS EPA Region 3's Web site has launched an interactive map utilizing the Microsoft Virtual Earth® geospatial technology platform pinpointing the locations of its mid-Atlantic region air pollutant monitoring stations including those of some surrounding states. The user-friendly geographical search features lo cate air quality condition in any county, city, state or street address and can be used to identify the area's air quality monitor locations in the event of a chemical spill or other environmental release. View the map at _http://www.epa.gov/reg3artd/airquality/r3monitors.htm_ (http://www.epa.gov/reg3artd/airquality/r3monitors.htm) . For information on air pollution monitoring stations nationwide, visit _EPA's AirData web site_ (http://www.epa.gov/air/data/) . **************Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with Tyler Florence" on AOL Food. (http://food.aol.com/tyler-florence?video=4&?NCID=aolfod00030000000002)

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Air particulates & health talk....
by Duane330＠aol.com 17 May '08

17 May '08

Hi. I just wanted to let you know that Dr. Timothy Nurkiewicz, Ph.D. will be presenting "Airborne Particle Pollution and Cardiovascular Health" at our the Mended Hearts, Inc. Chapter # 209 meeting next week. Date: Tuesday, May 20, 2008 Time: 7pm Location: Ruby Memorial Hospital, 10th Floor Conference Room The meeting is open to all. Individuals do not have to be a member of Mended Hearts, only interested in the topic to be presented. The presentation portion of our meetings usually lasts about 1 hour and the business portion of the meeting follows. If you think that any one from the Mon Valley Clean Air Coalition would be interested in hearing this presentation, please pass along. Thanks. Peggy Filios for Mended Hearts Chapter # 209 (and MVAC member **************Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family favorites at AOL Food. (http://food.aol.com/dinner-tonight?NCID=aolfod00030000000001)

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Slow down, save gas, save our air ...
by Duane330＠aol.com 16 May '08

16 May '08

To: Mon Valley Clean Air Coalition .................. Memorial Day Weekend is coming and -- in spite of gas prices -- more Americans than ever are planning to getaway by car. (1) But that doesn't have to cost as much as you think. There are lots of ways to save gas (checked your tires lately?) but the easiest and most effective way is to slow down (just a little bit). When you add up the savings, it's like getting paid to relax. So before you get behind the wheel for the upcoming holiday, show us what you're made of. Pledge to Drive 55 (or whatever the speed limit is on the roads you're traveling) for Memorial Day Weekend. Poor _Sammy Hagar can't do it_ (http://action.sierraclub.org/site/R?i=K0EE88vsX0xIF2X7I0EUBw..) , but we bet you can. After all, even jets are slowing down to save money! (2) The Union of Concerned Scientists tells us that dropping from 70 to 60 mph improves fuel efficiency by an average of 17.2 percent. Dropping from 75 to 55 improves fuel efficiency by 30.6 percent!(3) Put another way, in a family sedan, every 10 mph you drive over 60 is like paying 54 cents per gallon more for gas you bought at $3.25 a gallon. (4) That extra cost is even higher for big SUVs and other less-efficient vehicles. And the time you save by going easy on the accelerator may not add up to as much as you thought. On a 300-mile trip, driving 65 instead of 70 mph would cost you only 20 minutes -- but save money and spew less carbon. _Take the Pledge_ (http://action.sierraclub.org/site/R?i=MLlaQD-R7muoxlV-dnimcA..) ! Learn about _other ways to avoid a "pain in the gas"_ (http://action.sierraclub.org/site/R?i=LvJfbgitA5VeS7uPoLDU3A..) when it comes to getting from here to there. Is driving to your destination more fuel-efficient than flying? _Take our "How Green Is My Getaway" quiz_ (http://action.sierraclub.org/site/R?i=ro80sPmCebsJ6gRc-aNa9g..) . You might be surprised. Our April 29 post about driving the speed limit in our Green Life blog led many to share the wisdom of their personal road trip experiences. _You can read all of them here, and share your own_ (http://action.sierraclub.org/site/R?i=W8WDiDX9DvZx3nq9EyFsQQ..) . Have a great Memorial Day, Greg Haegele Director of Conservation, The Sierra Club **************Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family favorites at AOL Food. (http://food.aol.com/dinner-tonight?NCID=aolfod00030000000001)

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Asthma Awareness Month
by Duane330＠aol.com 15 May '08

15 May '08

MAY IS ASTHMA AWARENESS MONTH EPA has selected May as asthma awareness month to make the public, asthma sufferers and their caretakers more aware of the programs available to improve the quality of life of sufferers. Poor indoor air quality can aggravate allergies and asthma, and is considered more harmful than outdoor air pollution. Some common indoor asthma triggers include secondhand smoke, dust mites, mold, household pets, cockroaches and other pests, faulty heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. EPA has an asthma outreach Web site at _http://www.epa.gov/asthma/programs.html_ (http://www.epa.gov/asthma/programs.html) Take action during Asthma Awareness Month EPA urges you to take action during Asthma Awareness Month. Join the EPA in its national effort to raise awareness. During Asthma Awareness Month, host activities to educate people in your community about comprehensive asthma management. Download EPA’s Asthma Awareness Month Event Planning Kit featuring new ideas for outreach and awareness activities, tips for working with the media, success stories, and much more. For more information, go to _http://www.epa.gov/asthma/awm/index.html_ (http://www.epa.gov/asthma/awm/index.html) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Submitted by: Mon Valley Clean Air Coalition, P. O. Box 4679, Morgantown, WV 26504. Spokesperson: Duane Nichols, 599-8040 **************Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family favorites at AOL Food. (http://food.aol.com/dinner-tonight?NCID=aolfod00030000000001)

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Diesel Idle Free Zones
by Duane330＠aol.com 29 Apr '08

29 Apr '08

============================================================ Tuesday, April 29, 2008 @ 1:26 PM ============================================================ Along with the spring flowers, signs are popping up at schools participating in the collaborative effort between West Virginia’s Department of Environmental Protection and the Department of Education to establish idle free zones. The Idle Free Zone campaign is an outreach project targeted at reducing diesel emissions from school buses, but includes exhaust emissions from passenger vehicles and delivery trucks on school property. The signs are meant to encourage compliance with the WV State Board of Education policy 4336 to minimize idling. The goal is to raise awareness and stop or limit engine idling. “The cooperation between our agencies will provide benefits not only in creating even healthier school environments, but improving air quality as well,” said John Benedict, Division of Air Quality Director. “This project should improve air quality both outside and inside the schools that participate.” The idle free zone signs are free to the approximately 800 public schools in the state, and to private schools and Head Start locations as well. To date, 47 county public school systems, as well as a few private schools, are participating. “If all of the more than 3,700 public school buses in the state decreased idling by 30 minutes a day during the school year, fuel cost savings would amount to approximately $700,000 a year,” said Ben Shew, Department of Education transportation director. He added that this estimate does not include potential savings from reduced school bus idling at extracurricular activities, such as sporting events and field trips. Diesel fumes from idling school buses can be harmful when loading students onto buses, particularly when several buses are lined up and running all at once. According to the American Lung Association, children are more susceptible to air pollution than healthy adults. Their respiratory systems are still developing and they have a faster breathing rate. Diesel exhaust can aggravate respiratory and cardiovascular disease and existing asthma. “By not idling, you use less fuel, save money, and help air quality,” said Renu Chakrabarty, the DEP’s team leader for the Idle Free Zone. “It’s a win-win situation.” For more information about the idle free zone project, go to www.wvdep,org/daq and click on the Idle Free Zone graphic, or go to the diesel exhaust emissions link on the right side of the page. To inquire about the free signs, school administrators may contact Tammy Mowrer at (304) 926- 0499 ext. 1237, or e-mail her at tmowrer(a)wvdep.org. -30- Contact: Kathy Cosco 304-926-0440 **************Need a new ride? Check out the largest site for U.S. used car listings at AOL Autos. (http://autos.aol.com/used?NCID=aolcmp00300000002851)

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Envirobytes, US-EPA, Week ending April 18th
by Duane330＠aol.com 25 Apr '08

25 Apr '08

WEBSITE SHOWS REGION 3 ELECTRIC UTILITIES AND THEIR AIR QUALITY STATUS EPA’s Air Protection Division is presenting the region’s air quality data in an innovative way. Its public web site database now enables users of Google Earth mapping software to view an interactive map of electric utilities in region 3. After downloading google.earth software at _http://earth.google.com_ (http://earth.google.com/) (http://www.epa.gov/epahome/exitepa.htm) and fulfilling other conditions, the EPA Google Earth file data is provided at _http://www.epa.gov/reg3artd/divinfo/recentadditions.htm#egu-data_ (http://www.epa.gov/reg3artd/divinfo/recentadditions.htm#egu-data) . When opened, each electric utility is represented as a point on a map which, when clicked, reveals a chart showing the selected facility’s annual emissions of six major air pollutants. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> NATIONAL EMISSIONS INVENTORY SYSTEM TO BE UPGRADED A new National Emissions Inventory System (NEIS) will be replacing the current version in October. The system allows states to report their most commonly found pollutants _(criteria pollutants)_ (http://www.epa.gov/air/urbanair/) , as well as the hazardous air pollutant emissions from all sources in their states. Data from the NEI are used for air dispersion modeling, regional strategy development, setting regulation, air toxics risk assessment, and tracking trends in emissions over time. For more information, go to _http://www.epa.gov/ttnchie1/net/neiwhatis.html_ (http://www.epa.gov/ttnchie1/net/neiwhatis.html) **************Need a new ride? Check out the largest site for U.S. used car listings at AOL Autos. (http://autos.aol.com/used?NCID=aolcmp00300000002851)

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Remember: Mon County Commission Forum TONIGHT!
by Paula Hunt 17 Apr '08

17 Apr '08

Please try to attend the Voters Forum tonight. All five people (four Democrats and one Republican) running for the soon-to-be-vacated seat on the Monongalia County Commission will be there to talk to YOU. As one of only three Commissioners, the person winning this race will have a lot of power over our community. When: Tonight The April 17, 2008 at 7 pm Where: United Methodist Church Drummond Chapel on 705 in Suncrest ........................................................ - paula

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Start of Ozone Season
by duane330＠aol.com 15 Apr '08

15 Apr '08

ENVIROBYTES ...... DURING OZONE SEASON, KEEP CHECK ON AIR QUALITY April was designated as the official start of the 2008 ozone season for states in Region 3.? It is a time for everyone to keep abreast of air quality conditions, especially at-risk populations such as asthma sufferers and the elderly who need to protect themselves from ground level ozone exposure.? Ground-level ozone is formed when volatile organic compounds and nitrous oxide in the air react in the presence of sunlight and hot temperatures during the warmer months of the year. People interested in air quality conditions can access the EPA AIRNow Web site for air quality information at (http://www.epa.gov/airnow/ VIRGINIA STRATEGIZES TO REDUCE GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS 30 PERCENT BY 2025 EPA regional representatives attended the Virginia Climate Change Commission meeting on March 27 in Charlottesville, Va. ?The meeting included presentations on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)? to the world community, a summary of local, state, regional and federal approaches to address climate change, and natural sequestration: the role of nature (forests, oceans) in capturing and storing carbon emissions. It was announced that Virginia Governor Timothy M. Kaine's Commission on Climate Change will issue a report by Dec. 15 on the steps Virginia needs to take to achieve 30 percent emissions reductions in its greenhouse gas emissions by 2025. For more information, visit: http://www.deq.virginia.gov/info/climatechange.html.? Envirobytes - An Environmental Newsletter, Summary of Issues and Events for Week Ending April 4, 2008 U. S.? EPA,? Mid-Atlantic Region (Region 3), West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and the District of Columbia.

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Morgantown Toxic Tour Offered April 20 by SSC
by Christy Elise Hartman 09 Apr '08

09 Apr '08

Morgantown Toxic Tour Offered April 20 by WVU Sierra Student Coalition The Sierra Student Coalition at West Virginia University has organized a tour of polluted sites in and around Morgantown, to be held Sunday, April 20th from 1pm-5pm. We would like to extend an invitation to you, your family to participate. The Toxic Tour is a student effort to spread awareness of the toxic environment in and around Morgantown. Presenters will tell each site's story on-site. Tour highlights include: + Acid mine drainage at Decker's Creek + Invasive plants along the rail trail + The proposed Longview coal-fired power plant site + A Morgantown resident’s solar-powered home. The tour is free to attend. Food, soil testing kits and live Appalachian music will be offered at the end of the tour. Transportation is pre-arranged by the SSC, but limited to 40 people. **If you are interested in attending, email your name, email and phone number to motowntoxictour(a)gmail.com. Your email will only be used to send information about the event.** After registering, you will need to meet at Waterfront Park/ the outdoor amphitheater on Beechurst Ave. to get on the tour bus. The tour is Sunday, April 20, at 1P.M. Contact Christy Hartman (chartman(a)mix.wvu.edu) with questions. Thank you in advance for your help spreading the word and I hope to see you there! Thanks, The Toxic Truth Tour Student Planning Collective

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Upcoming Mon County Candidate Forums (Fora?)
by Paula Hunt 08 Apr '08

08 Apr '08

Hi Everyone, The following Mon County League of Women Voter "meet the candidates" forums/fora are your chance to be an informed voter. As a nonprofit organization, MVCAC does not take a political stand or endorse political candidates. .......................................................... You probably know there is a primary election in May to choose a County Commissioner. Then of course the general election in November. The Mon County Commission hopefuls will be at Drummond Chapel on Rt 705 at 7 pm on April 17th (a week from this Thursday). This is a very important race!! We saw with Longview that the Board of Education has more of a role than most of us realized. There is a separate forum for those candidates at Heritage Point on Thursday April 10th (soon!) at 7 pm. The candidates for remaining offices will be at Drummond Chapel on Rt 705 at 7 pm on April 24th (also on a Thursday). In Summary >April 10th - Board of Education- Heritage Point- 7pm >April 17th - County Commision- Drummond Chapel- 7pm* >April 24th - All other candidates- Drummond Chapel- 7pm* See ya there, paula

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SSC Green Fund Petition
by Jonathan Rosenbaum 01 Apr '08

01 Apr '08

Forwarding this on behalf of WVU's Student Sierra Club: As it stands WVU is not taking any serious measures to better their environmental footprint aside from their improvements to energy efficiency and the creation of a campus recycling program. That is why the Sierra Student Coalition is encouraging the university to do better- because we do not want the burden of a polluted, expensive future on our hands. We want to create a green fund that would fund projects on campus, like the creation of on-site renewable energy. It is our overarching goal to reduce emissions 30% by 2015 at WVU To increase solid waste to 50% recycled (up from it's current figure of 22%) To insure that the university invests in sustainability education To construct on site renewable energy, like wind or solar To insure that all new buildings are Silver LEED certified. How does it work? A green fund would take earmarked alumni donations and invest them in a sustainable company, like one that builds solar panels for example. Than, the interest earned would go into creating a green campus project, like on-site renewable energy. We can fund our own windmills! The catch is- we have to convince the administration that this is a great idea and that people are into donating to such a cause. Current and future WVU alumni please sign and leave a comment "You must be the change you want to see in the world." -Ghandi (No immediate contribution to the fund is required.) Thanks! GOAL: 1500 Signatures April 1 Current Signatures: 42 THE PETITION! http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/WVU-Green-Fund Thank you for your time and energy, Christy Christy Hartman West Virginia University Organizer 703-501-2967 chartman(a)mix.wvu.edu

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160 square miles
by duane330＠aol.com 30 Mar '08

30 Mar '08

Polar News and Notes: Antarctic Ice Sheet Break-Up Friday, March 28th, 2008 8:27 am Written by: Jessica Fries-Gaither, NSDL.org A 160 square-mile chunk of ice broke off from the Wilkins Ice Shelf in Antarctica on Tuesday. The ice, approximately seven times the size of Manhattan, had started to break up in late February. Scientists noticed the movement in satellite images and were able to capture footage and images of the event. Unlike sea ice, which floats freely on the ocean, an ice shelf is a portion of glacial ice that extends out from the edge of land over the ocean. If this floating portion breaks off and melts, it does not contribute to sea level rise. However, ice shelves often act as “doorstops,” preventing glacial ice further inland from moving. As these ice shelves break off, inland ice is able to move out to sea – which can raise sea level. Climate change in Antarctica is a complicated picture. Some places on the continent are cooling and adding ice through accumulated snowfall. Other places, such as the Western Antarctic Ice Sheet (of which the Wilkins Ice Shelf is part) are warming and melting. Scientists hope that continued research into the environmental and climate conditions of Antarctica’s past will shed light into the changes observed today.

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WV Env. Council <yes>
by Duane330＠aol.com 22 Mar '08

22 Mar '08

West Virginia Environmental Council March21, 2008 _WVEC Alerts Archive_ (http://www.wvecouncil.org/take_action/index.html) ____________________________________ Dear Friends, Any way you look at it, this was a successful session for the WV Environmental Council and the legislative lobby team. With your help, we pushed state lawmakers to make a real commitment to protecting West Virginia’s cleanest waters; we defeated another proposal to weaken the state’s solid waste laws and bring a mega dump to McDowell County; we succeeded in restoring anti-degradation language to DEP air regulations; we brought public attention to the devastating practice of mountaintop removal mining; and we educated legislators about how a real Citizen’s Energy Plan could benefit the people of West Virginia. Even though the lobby team is exhausted, now is not the time to rest on our laurels. We are already planning the rest of the year’s activities for WVEC, as we continue to increase our outreach to West Virginians and expand our membership base. And even though the 2008 regular session just ended, the monthly Interim legislative sessions will begin as early as April. This is our opportunity to address upcoming agency rule-making as well as to work with lawmakers on new legislation for the 2009 Legislature. With primary elections just around the corner, the lobby team is busy preparing a legislative scorecard so you can see just how your representatives voted on important environmental issues this session. Even though we had a very good year, several good bills to address global warming, energy efficiency, mining regulation, and more, did not pass. The upcoming election cycle is the time to build these issues into a political constituency and to mobilize citizens to advocate for them. This is also the time to build statewide support for the WVEC Citizen’s Energy Plan and Renewable Energy Campaign. Both of these will be featured components next month at Sustainable Fair 2008 (“Green Makes $en$e”, April 18-20 on the campus of Davis & Elkins College in Elkins, WV – see _flyer_ (http://www.wvecouncil.org/calendar/SustainableFairFlyerAgenda.pdf) and _poster_ (http://www.wvecouncil.org/calendar/SustainableFair2008POSTER.pdf) ). All of our efforts represent fundamental change for West Virginia and require a year round commitment in order to be successful. Your continued financial support will help sustain WVEC’s activities for the rest of the year. So please consider sending us a contribution now. Thank you, Jim Kotcon, WVEC President ____________________________________ **************Create a Home Theater Like the Pros. Watch the video on AOL Home. (http://home.aol.com/diy/home-improvement-eric-stromer?video=15?ncid=aolhom0…)

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Indoor Air Quality
by Paula Hunt 22 Mar '08

22 Mar '08

Hi Everyone, If indoor air quality is a concern of yours, you may be interested to know (or you probably already know) that Monongalia County is considering a smoking ban that would extend to bars and restaurants. The text of the proposed regulation is here: http://www.monchd.org/download/ProposedMonongaliaCountyCleanIndoorAirRegula… An very informative site is Smoke Free Mon County: http://www.smokefreemonc.org/involved.html The Board of Health is taking comment from the public on this until March 16, 2008. **** "Comments must be submitted in writing. All comments must include name, address, telephone number and email must include a verifiable e-mail address. Email comments to info(a)monchd.org or mail them to: Monongalia County Board of Health; Re: Smoking Regulation; 453 Van Voorhis Road, Morgantown, WV 26505" They seem to like e mail ( info(a)monchd.org ). I received a prompt response when I sent my message. - paula hunt

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Limits on Ozone
by Duane330＠aol.com 17 Mar '08

17 Mar '08

Ozone Rules Weakened at Bush's Behest EPA Scrambles To Justify Action By Juliet Eilperin, Washington Post Staff Writer, Friday, March 14, 2008; Page A01 The Environmental Protection Agency weakened one part of its new limits on smog-forming ozone after an unusual last-minute intervention by President Bush, according to documents released by the EPA. EPA officials initially tried to set a lower seasonal limit on ozone to protect wildlife, parks and farmland, as required under the law. While their proposal was less restrictive than what the EPA's scientific advisers had proposed, Bush overruled EPA officials and on Tuesday ordered the agency to increase the limit, according to the documents. "It is unprecedented and an unlawful act of political interference for the president personally to override a decision that the Clean Air Act leaves exclusively to EPA's expert scientific judgment," said John Walke, clean-air director for the Natural Resources Defense Council. The president's order prompted a scramble by administration officials to rewrite the regulations to avoid a conflict with past EPA statements on the harm caused by ozone. Solicitor General Paul D. Clement warned administration officials late Tuesday night that the rules contradicted the EPA's past submissions to the Supreme Court, according to sources familiar with the conversation. As a consequence, administration lawyers hustled to craft new legal justifications for the weakened standard. The dispute involved one of two distinct parts of the EPA's ozone restrictions: the "public welfare" standard, which is designed to protect against long-term harm from high ozone levels. The other part is known as the "public health" standard, which sets a legal limit on how high ozone levels can be at any one time. The two standards were set at the same level Wednesday, but until Bush asked for a change, the EPA had planned to set the "public welfare" standard at a lower level. The documents, which were released by the EPA late Wednesday night, provided insight into how White House officials helped shape the new air-quality rules that, by law, are supposed to be decided by the EPA administrator. The White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) questioned in a March 6 memo to the EPA why the second standard was needed. EPA officials answered in a letter that high ozone concentrations can cause "adverse effects on agricultural crops, trees in managed and unmanaged forests, and vegetation species growing in natural settings." The preamble to the new regulations alluded to this tug of war, stating there was a "robust discussion within the Administration of these same strengths and weaknesses" in setting the secondary standard. The preamble went on to say that the decision to make the two ozone limits identical "reflects the view of the Administration as to the most appropriate secondary standard." The effort to rewrite the language -- on the day the agency faced a statutory deadline -- forced EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson to postpone at the last moment a scheduled news conference to announce the new rules. It finally took place at 6 p.m., five hours later than planned. Under the Clean Air Act, the federal government must reexamine every five years whether its ozone standards are adequate, and the rules that the EPA issued Wednesday will help determine the nation's air quality for at least a decade. Ozone, which is formed when pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and other chemical compounds released by industry and motor vehicles are exposed to sunlight, is linked to an array of heart and respiratory illnesses. The EPA set the allowable amount of ozone in the air at 75 parts per billion, a level stricter than the current limit but higher than what the scientific advisers had recommended. Carol M. Browner, who served as EPA administrator under President Bill Clinton, also encountered objections from the OMB when she established new ozone standards in 1997. In that instance, the president backed the EPA over White House budget officials. "We did not allow OMB to push us into a decision we were quite certain was outside the boundaries of the law," Browner said in an interview. The Clean Air Act, she added, creates "a moral and ethical commitment that we're going to let the science tell us what to do." Asked for a comment yesterday, EPA spokesman Timothy Lyons said the agency had complied with the Clean Air Act. "The secondary standard we set is fully supported by both the law and the record, and it is the most protective eight-hour standard ever for ozone." When asked about Clement's role, White House spokesman Tony Fratto said: "The White House sought legal advice from the Justice Department and made its decision based on that advice." The EPA's documents suggest that senior officials and scientific advisers resisted the White House's position. Last year, the agency's Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee wrote -- using italics for emphasis -- that it unanimously supported the EPA staff's conclusion that "protection of managed agricultural crops and natural terrestrial ecosystems requires a secondary [ozone standard] that is substantially different from the primary ozone standard. . . ." When the OMB's Susan E. Dudley urged the EPA to consider the effects of cutting ozone further on "economic values and on personal comfort and well-being," the EPA's Marcus Peacock responded in a March 7 memo: "EPA is not aware of any information that ozone has beneficial effects on economic values or on personal comfort and well being." Lisa Heinzerling, a Georgetown University law professor who specializes in the Clean Air Act, said Dudley's letter to the EPA represents "a misunderstanding of the statute, a misunderstanding of Supreme Court precedent and a misunderstanding of the science as the expert agency understands it." **************It's Tax Time! Get tips, forms, and advice on AOL Money & Finance. (http://money.aol.com/tax?NCID=aolprf00030000000001)

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Fwd: Stop the Towers Update
by Duane330＠aol.com 12 Mar '08

12 Mar '08

From: website(a)stopthetowers.org Sent: 3/11/2008 3:49:58 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time Subj: Stop the Towers Update March 9, 2008 Dear Friends and Neighbors, Here is latest update on the Stop the Towers efforts and related issues. You can always find the latest at the website and on the ECCO Hotline at 724-267-3040. Please stay involved and work to keep all your friends and neighbors informed. Buses Are Filling Up The PUC Evidentiary Hearings in Pittsburgh are just two weeks away and the buses are filling up! Beginning at 10:00 am on March 24th at the State Office Building, the Public Utility Commission will begin hearings on the proposed AP TrAIL. To assist the residents in Washington and Greene Counties, Stop the Towers is organizing buses to take you up and back for the hearings. For less than the cost of gas and parking, not to mention you won’t have to worry about fighting the traffic, you can ride a bus with other Stop the Towers supporters and be dropped off in front of the State Office Building. Please contact Rebecca Foley (_rfoley1(a)windstream.net_ (mailto:rfoley1@windstream.net) ) as soon as possible to reserve your seat. Departure and return times will be available from Rebecca. TrAIL Co Sends Insulting Letter to ALJ’s We believe it is important to have YOU attend the Evidentiary Hearings. Apparently, TrAIL Co does not! Earlier this week, TrAIL Co sent a letter to the Administrative Law Judges asking them to issue an order about proper decorum in the courtroom. They caution the ALJ’s by asking for “observers in the hearing room is (be) closely monitored for everyone's safety, and to permit sufficient room for all the parties, counsel, witnesses and staff before making space available for observers.” TrAIL Co is worried that we won’t properly behave and would disrupt the proceedings. They point to the Public Input Hearings and said that the supporters of TrAIL were “concerned about their personal safety in returning to their vehicles”. First of all, isn’t that ironic that the same company that has been sending land agents onto our properties, harassing and intimidating people in their own homes, is now worried about that same kind of behavior. Secondly, never has Stop the Towers encouraged nor supported such behavior and we certainly are not now! We simply believe that it is important to continue to put faces to the rural Americans whose lives will be destroyed or at the very least severely disrupted should this unnecessary, greed-driven proposal be approved!! So what are you going to do? Contact Rebecca and reserve your seat now!!! DOE does it Again! Once again, the Department of Energy has ignored everyone, except the utility companies that will profit greatly, by denying all requests for Re-Hearings on the NIETC designations. Even with a number of environmental groups filing lawsuit against the designations, the DOE continues to support a flawed energy policy that will encourage long-distant transmission lines coming from the highly polluting, coal-fired generation plants rather than cleaner, safer alternatives. Better alternatives which include demand-side management programs, conservation, upgrading existing infrastructure and the most reasonable solution, building the generation plants near the demand. Utility companies benefit greatly from section 1221 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 as they will be granted profits of up to 14% or more, passing ALL costs on to the rate payers and all the while taking property and destroying the lives of rural Americans. This is exactly what is happening here in southwestern Pennsylvania with the proposed AP TrAIL! Fortunately, most environmental groups and at least some of our Congressman see the flaws in this policy. We must be thankful for people like Senator Casey and the others that recently requested Senate hearings on section 1221. (You can see the letter on the Stop the Towers website)Please continue to encourage Senator Casey and others to push for the complete repeal of Section 1221 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005. Specifically here in Pennsylvania, please contact Senator Specter (contact info below) and encourage him to support a complete repeal of the above Act. Senator Specter did sign Senator Casey’s letter asking for the hearings and he is listening. But we must contact him and tell him our concerns because you can be sure the utility industry lobbyists are talking with him every chance they get. If he is not hearing from us, how is he to know what we are going experiencing? Please email the Senator now. We need him on our side! Senator Arlen Specter - United States Senator Pittsburgh Office: Washington Office: Regl. Entrprs. Twr. 711 Hart Building 425 6th Ave- Suite 1450 Washington, D.C. 20510 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Phone: (202) 224-4254 Phone: (412) 644-3400 Fax: (412) 644-4871 Website: specter.senate.gov Pittsburgh Office Staff Members _Marybeth_McGowan(a)specter.senate.gov_ (mailto:Marybeth_McGowan@specter.senate.gov) _stan_caldwell(a)specter.senate.gov_ (mailto:stan_caldwell@specter.senate.gov) _adam_pope(a)specter.senate.gov_ (mailto:adam_pope@specter.senate.gov) Stop the Towers! For more information, go to _http://www.stopthetowers.org/_ (http://www.stopthetowers.org/) . If you feel you have received this email in error or no longer wish to receive messages from Stop the Towers, a grassroots organization dedicated to stopping the AP TrAIL, please reply to this email with REMOVE in the subject line. **************It's Tax Time! Get tips, forms, and advice on AOL Money & Finance. (http://money.aol.com/tax?NCID=aolprf00030000000001)

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Efficiency & conservation
by duane330＠aol.com 11 Mar '08

11 Mar '08

NEW THINKER OF THE MONTH Innovative individuals are doing some creative problem solving by re-thinking things we take for granted. Noah Horowitz, an NRDC engineer, took a look at the energy hogging vending machine. There is now one soda machine for every 100 Americans! Some 3 million machines are humming away 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, using 10 times more energy than the average refrigerator (the biggest energy user in your home). Noah started looking at ?solutions like more efficient compressors, fans and lighting. He also rethought some of the simplest things like not having outdoor machines running all night in the middle ?of winter. The result is new machines that use half the energy of old ones. And when Coke and Pepsi finish phasing in the new designs, the savings will be 5 billion ?kilowatt hours per year! We become more powerful in our numbers, so I challenge all of you to ?get 5 new people to join the Virtual March at StopGlobalWarming.org. By spreading the word, we are creating thousands of new global warming activists. It takes an army, and we are building one! Thank you for taking the first step by joining this movement. Keep Marching, Laurie David Founder StopGlobalWarming.org

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News from EPA, Region 3, 2/15/08
by Duane330＠aol.com 21 Feb '08

21 Feb '08

CLEAN AIR CONFERENCE TACKLES GLOBAL WARMING EPA staff attended the National Association of Clean Air Agencies conference in Crystal City, Va. to define the role states and localities can play in the development of effective federal global warming legislation. Four key issues were discussed: Preserving the right of states and localities to set more stringent greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction requirements; the role they can play in implementing a federal GHG reduction program; the role they can play in a federal allowance program and in determining how funding is distributed and; their role in data management under a federal climate change program. For more information, go to _http://www.4cleanair.org/documents/GWConferenceMaterials.pdf_ (http://www.4cleanair.org/documents/GWConferenceMaterials.pdf) **************Ideas to please picky eaters. Watch video on AOL Living. (http://living.aol.com/video/how-to-please-your-picky-eater/rachel-campos-du… 2050827?NCID=aolcmp00300000002598)

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proposed CLEAN INDOOR AIR REGULATION
by duane330＠aol.com 19 Feb '08

19 Feb '08

Proposed Clean Indoor Air Regulation - The Monongalia County Clean Indoor Air Regulation proposing to eliminate smoking in all public establishments and places of employment is open for public comment for 45 days.? The Clean Indoor Air Regulation will be posted at the Monongalia County Health Department, the Monongalia County Court House and public libraries. The proposed Clean Indoor Air Regulation will also ?be available at www.monchd.org. The public comment period will be February 1, 2008 through March 16, 2008. Comments must be submitted in writing and the preferred method for submission would be e-mail at info(a)monchd.org. All e-mails must include Name, Address, Telephone Number, and a Verifiable E-mail Address. The Wellness Program is proud to support the protection of citizens and workers through passage of a comprehensive smoke free air regulation in Monongalia County. Learn more at www.smokefreemonc.org ________________________________________________________________________ More new features than ever. Check out the new AOL Mail ! - http://webmail.aol.com

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EPA Air Quality Designations
by Duane330＠aol.com 14 Feb '08

14 Feb '08

EnviroBytes, a Summary of Issues and Events for Week Ending February 8, 2008, from U.S. EPA, Region 3, Philadelphia, PA.............. REVISED STANDARDS PROMPT NEW AIR QUALITY DESIGNATIONS EPA is reviewing the mid-Atlantic states’ recommendations as to which areas are not meeting EPA air quality standards and should be designated as nonattainment under a revised, national air quality standard for fine particulate matter (PM2.5). EPA will make a final determination by Dec. 18, after which citizens will be provided with critical information about air pollution levels in their communities. Particulate matter are minute particles (2.5 micrometers in size or smaller) mixed with droplets in the air that are of great risk to public health and the environment. To learn more about PM2.5 and the revised standards, go to: _http://www.epa.gov/oar/particlepollution/naaqsrev2006.html_ (http://www.epa.gov/oar/particlepollution/naaqsrev2006.html) **************The year's hottest artists on the red carpet at the Grammy Awards. Go to AOL Music. (http://music.aol.com/grammys?NCID=aolcmp00300000002565)

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partners with WVEC
by Duane330＠aol.com 14 Feb '08

14 Feb '08

We Need You....To Come to Charleston. By Chuck Wyrostok, WV Environmental Council Outreach Crew, www.wvecouncil.org Our full-time staff lobbyists, Don Garvin, Vickie Wolfe and John Christensen, are currently putting in some long days pounding the marble hallways at the Capitol in Charleston, in our annual attempt to get the Legislature to protect the environment for all the citizens of West Virginia. And they sure would love some help from you, because there is nothing quite like a constituent from a legislator’s home district showing up at the capitol to “cheer” them on in the right direction. They listen to voters from home. An army of citizen lobbyists descending on the Capitol would delight our lobby team and lend a lot of clout to their efforts. Showing up to speak directly to your Senators or Delegate is grassroots lobbying at its best. They might appreciate hearing that you’ll be taking their views on the planet’s health back home to your neighbors, and they may like to hear that you might be writing a letter to the editor of your local newspaper. It will be important for you to emphasize that you sacrificed your day to come to Charleston to express your views and that you want action and results and that people in their home district will hear about it. The Session is more than halfway through its two-month run. The battle of clean streams vs. dirty streams (Tier 2.5) is revving up. The Bottle Bill got a big boost last week when the CEO of a California company met with Gov. Manchin and legislators to propose a facility here employing over two hundred people (Flash, Joe! Recycling pays). There are stellar Delegates and Senators to congratulate and encourage, like Sen. Jon Blair Hunter, who delivered an impassioned speech to a hushed Senate Chamber deploring mountaintop removal mining. Del. Barbara Fleischauer and House Judiciary Chairwoman Carrie Webster are championing a series of solid ‘green’ energy bills. There’s even a bill that would require retail establishments to phase out the use of plastic bags by 2011! Please check _http://www.wvecouncil.org/legisupdate/2008/02_08.html_ (http://www.wvecouncil.org/legisupdate/2008/02_08.html) for a compilation of the bills WVEC is tracking. We’ll send you an email “packet” with helpful tips and on your arrival Don, Vickie or John will brief you on the status of specific bills being considered and guide you to your legislators’ offices. Tuesday is the optimum day for your visit, but Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays work as well (Fridays, legislators are leaving for the weekend). If you live far from Charleston, try to recruit some local fellow greens and carpool. We’ll try to arrange overnight lodging if you need it (Charleston area folks, please let me know if out-of-town travelers can stay overnight at your home). Or you could save gas by getting a small group together and inviting your legislator to breakfast or lunch right in your home district over a weekend. Oh, one last thing. Friday, February 22nd is E-Day at the Capitol, an excellent day for citizen lobbying, as well as networking in person with WVEC’s member groups and having fun together that evening at our benefit reception. We ’ll present our 2008 Environmental Awards, listen to cool, live music by the Blue Notes and enjoy a buffet dinner. I’ll hook you up with the Green Team under the Gold Dome. _wyro(a)appalight.com_ (mailto:wyro@appalight.com) or 304 927-2978. **************The year's hottest artists on the red carpet at the Grammy Awards. Go to AOL Music. (http://music.aol.com/grammys?NCID=aolcmp00300000002565)

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WV Environmental Council reports.....
by duane330＠aol.com 10 Feb '08

10 Feb '08

The Mon Valley Clean Air Coalition is a member of the West Virginia Environmental Council (WVEC)..... See the recent report of the WVEC at the site below: http://www.wvecouncil.org/legisupdate/2008/02_08.html#ctl ________________________________________________________________________ More new features than ever. Check out the new AOL Mail ! - http://webmail.aol.com

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National Interest Transmission Corridor
by duane330＠aol.com 02 Feb '08

02 Feb '08

****National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor Call to Action**** Please call Senator Rockefeller and Senator Byrd next week and ask them to sign onto a letter requesting oversight hearings on National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor Designation (the letter is attached). The Department of Energy has designated 42 of 55 counties in West Virginia as part of the Mid-Atlantic NIETC. Within this area, an interstate transmission line applicant has access to federal eminent domain to site the line. NIETC could be used to site the TrAILCo/Dominion transmission line in West Virginia. Please ask your Senators to join Senators Casey, Whitehouse and Biden in asking the Energy & Natural Resources Committee to hold hearings on this flawed policy. Senator Rockefeller’s DC office: (202)224-6472 Senator Byrd’s DC office: (202)224-3954 For more information, please contact Liese Dart at (202)857-6982 or by email at ldart(a)pecva.org. What is NIETC Designation? Sec. 1221 of the 2005 Energy Policy Act provided the Department of Energy the discretion to designate National Interest Electric Transmission Corridors (NIETC) in areas of the United States that are found to be electrically congested. If a project lies within an NIETC, a utility may appeal an unfavorable state decision to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for use of federal eminent domain to site the project. Despite receiving over 2,000 comments against the designations, the Department of Energy designated two corridors on October 5, 2007. The first NIETC’s encompass portions of 10 states, 220 counties and impact more than 72 million people. The Department of Energy failed to conduct an alternatives analysis or to consult with the affected states prior to these designations, both requirements of Sec. 1221. Although this policy could be used to provide long distance transmission access to our nation’s developing wind and solar facilities, the Department of Energy has not designated areas of the country that are identified as having significant renewable resources. The Mid-Atlantic NIETC designation will increase transmission infrastructure to coal-fired generation built prior to the 1972 Clean Air Act, facilities that lie outside of the EPA’s non-attainment area for air quality. These investments in unnecessary interstate transmission will make cleaner alternatives such as efficiency and demand response technologies less economically viable. Eight of the ten states in the first NIETC designations have filed Petitions for Rehearing against the Department of Energy’s final decision. Liese Dart Special Projects Assistant Piedmont Environmental Council Phone: (202)857-7982 Cell: (202)431-8606 Fax: (540)349-9003 ldart(a)pecva.org www.pecva.org ________________________________________________________________________ More new features than ever. Check out the new AOL Mail ! - http://webmail.aol.com

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Act for OVEC in Coal's Boycott of Kroger
by duane330＠aol.com 02 Feb '08

02 Feb '08

?From the West Virginia Highlands Conservancy www.wvhighlands.org ? ????The WV Coal Association's Friends of Coal has denounced the Ohio Valley Environmental Council? (OVEC) as an extremist organization. They are boycotting Kroger for including OVEC in their gift card program. If you would like to show your support for the wonderful work OVEC is doing in their fight against mountain top removal strip ?mining you are?encouraged to purchase a Kroger gift card and write and /or email?Kroger and?encourage them to continue including?OVEC?in their gift card program.? ????Here is the process for buying an OVEC Kroger gift card-- Go to the OVEC website www.ohvec.org?and just down from the top of the homepage,in the center,is a link with full explanation and a printable pdf application to mail in. You the Kroger shopper buys a Kroger gift card from OVEC for $20, it is preloaded with $20; then as you shop at Kroger, pay for your purchase with the gift card,making sure you have it sufficiently recharged at the customer service desk before you check out. You can load the Kroger card with any amount up to $500 and spend it over time,?& OVEC get's 5% of whatever?you spend. If you normally pay for groceries with a credit card,you can just recharge your gift card with the same credit card, continuing to earn frequent-flier miles,bonus points,cash back,or whatever. ????Kroger has held up well and so far continues to include OVEC in the gift card program. ????You can email Kroger on line at http://services.kroger.com/comments/comments.aspx ????To write to Kroger and thank them for including OVEC use the address below. Please cc martinjul(a)aol.com? so we know how many have responded. ? Mr. Carl York Public Relations Manager Kroger P.O. Box 14002 Roanoke, VA? 24038? ? "Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, things aren't going to get better, they're not!" From The Lorax by Dr. Suess For The Mountains Julian Martin Vice-President for State Affairs West Virginia Highlands Conservancy www.wvhighlands.org 1525 Hampton Road, Charleston, WV 25314 Contact me(martinjul(a)aol.com) for a trip to Kayford Mountain to see active and so-called reclaimed mountain top removal. Go to www.wvhighlands.org for I Love Mountains t-shirts, hats, I Heart Mountains and Friends Of The Mountains bumper stickers and for speakers, information and exhibits on environmental issues in West Virginia. . . Who's never won? Biggest Grammy Award surprises of all time on AOL Music. ________________________________________________________________________ More new features than ever. Check out the new AOL Mail ! - http://webmail.aol.com

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Re: [MVCAC] Fwd: CAD & TrAILCo Joint Stipulation
by James Kotcon 10 Jan '08

10 Jan '08

I am not sure a lot of action by the Committee is needed. The legal team will be responding formally during the hearings. My testimony has already included the position that any "free" electricity for landowners must come from the TrAILCo stockholders, not from the ratepayers, which means we are already in opposition to this settlement. However, letters to the editor, or calls to legislators expressing this position would be worhtwhile. I think that Delegates Beach and Shook and Senators Prezioso and Oliverio could use some citizen input on this settlement. JBK >>> Barbara Fallon <brbr_fallon(a)yahoo.com> 01/09/08 8:41 AM >>> How does the Sierra Club go on record in opposition to the Consent Agreement between the WV Consumer Advocate and the TrAILCo. Barbara ----- Original Message ---- From: James Kotcon <jkotcon(a)wvu.edu> To: freesource(a)cheat.org; wreger(a)hsc.wvu.edu Cc: Duane330(a)aol.com; mvcac(a)cheat.org; william.depaulo(a)gmail.com; ec(a)osenergy.org; pjhunt(a)xemaps.com; brbr_fallon(a)yahoo.com Sent: Tuesday, January 8, 2008 5:40:11 PM Subject: Re: [MVCAC] Fwd: CAD & TrAILCo Joint Stipulation While Byron Harris is the new Consumer Advocate, Billy Jack has stayed on as attorney for this case and was the one who signed the settlement. A copy with his signature is available on the PSC's TrAILCo case web page. JBK >>> Jonathan Rosenbaum <freesource(a)cheat.org> 01/08/08 2:18 PM >>> According to the Dominion Post the new PSC Consumer Advocate is Byron Harris. Are we sure that it was Bill Jack Gregg who was in support of this sell-out? This is clearly a desperation move by Trailco. I oppose this agreement. -Jonathan Bill Reger-Nash wrote: > Duane et al, > > I concur that we oppose this agreement between the WV Consumer Advocate and the TrAILCo. What was he thinking!!!! What does Billy Jack Gregg think about this? In his former life, we could count on Billy Jack for a balanced and insightful perspective. > > Again, the ecology of the state is sold out for a few shekels to select stakeholders all the while the rest of us bear the brunt of the ill effects in perpetuity. > > Bill > > WV Walks - 30 minutes or more daily > Feel the power of half an hour! > > Bill Reger-Nash, Ed.D > Professor of Community Medicine > West Virginia University School of Medicine > Morgantown WV 26506-9190 > Phone: 304/293-0763 > Fax: 304/293-6685 > > Dept. web page: http://www.hsc.wvu.edu/som/cmed > BRN's web page: http://www.hsc.wvu.edu/som/cmed/wreger/ > > > > > >>>> <Duane330(a)aol.com> 1/8/2008 1:21 PM >>> >>>> > RE: Forwarded message from Jim Kotcon. > > > 1. I make a motion that the Energy Committee of the Sierra Club of West > Virginia > go on-record in opposition to the Consent Agreement between the WV Consumer > Advocate and the TrAILCo. > > 2. I make a motion that the Mon Valley Clean Air Coalition go on-record in > opposition to the Consent Agreement between the WV Consumer Advocate > and the TrAILCo. > > Notes: > > 1. This Agreement is a front page story in the Morgantown Dominion Post > today. This Agreement was posted yesterday on the web site of the Public > Service Commission and is attached to this forwarded message; or, it can be > found under Case 07-0508 at _www.psc.state.wv.us_ > (http://www.psc.state.wv.us) > > 2. It is particularly disturbing that the offer of free electricity will be > available > only to a select group of people, not all those that are affected by the Line. > And, from an overall point-of-view, the cost of this free electricity will be > charged back to the customers of Allegheny Energy in West Virginia, as > I understand it. > > 3. Herbicides could still be used, just not sprayed from aircraft. > > 4. This Agreement reflects an arbitrary decision by the Consumer > Advocate, without consideration of whether it is fully supported > by the affected citizens, or the people of the State who will > need to pay the the proposed Line. > > Duane Nichols, Member. > > > > > > > **************Start the year off right. Easy ways to stay in shape. > http://body.aol.com/fitness/winter-exercise?NCID=aolcmp00300000002489 > > > > _______________________________________________ > MVCAC mailing list > MVCAC(a)cheat.org > http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/mvcac > ____________________________________________________________________________________ Never miss a thing. Make Yahoo your home page. http://www.yahoo.com/r/hs

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Re: [MVCAC] Fwd: CAD & TrAILCo Joint Stipulation
by James Kotcon 08 Jan '08

08 Jan '08

While Byron Harris is the new Consumer Advocate, Billy Jack has stayed on as attorney for this case and was the one who signed the settlement. A copy with his signature is available on the PSC's TrAILCo case web page. JBK >>> Jonathan Rosenbaum <freesource(a)cheat.org> 01/08/08 2:18 PM >>> According to the Dominion Post the new PSC Consumer Advocate is Byron Harris. Are we sure that it was Bill Jack Gregg who was in support of this sell-out? This is clearly a desperation move by Trailco. I oppose this agreement. -Jonathan Bill Reger-Nash wrote: > Duane et al, > > I concur that we oppose this agreement between the WV Consumer Advocate and the TrAILCo. What was he thinking!!!! What does Billy Jack Gregg think about this? In his former life, we could count on Billy Jack for a balanced and insightful perspective. > > Again, the ecology of the state is sold out for a few shekels to select stakeholders all the while the rest of us bear the brunt of the ill effects in perpetuity. > > Bill > > WV Walks - 30 minutes or more daily > Feel the power of half an hour! > > Bill Reger-Nash, Ed.D > Professor of Community Medicine > West Virginia University School of Medicine > Morgantown WV 26506-9190 > Phone: 304/293-0763 > Fax: 304/293-6685 > > Dept. web page: http://www.hsc.wvu.edu/som/cmed > BRN's web page: http://www.hsc.wvu.edu/som/cmed/wreger/ > > > > > >>>> <Duane330(a)aol.com> 1/8/2008 1:21 PM >>> >>>> > RE: Forwarded message from Jim Kotcon. > > > 1. I make a motion that the Energy Committee of the Sierra Club of West > Virginia > go on-record in opposition to the Consent Agreement between the WV Consumer > Advocate and the TrAILCo. > > 2. I make a motion that the Mon Valley Clean Air Coalition go on-record in > opposition to the Consent Agreement between the WV Consumer Advocate > and the TrAILCo. > > Notes: > > 1. This Agreement is a front page story in the Morgantown Dominion Post > today. This Agreement was posted yesterday on the web site of the Public > Service Commission and is attached to this forwarded message; or, it can be > found under Case 07-0508 at _www.psc.state.wv.us_ > (http://www.psc.state.wv.us) > > 2. It is particularly disturbing that the offer of free electricity will be > available > only to a select group of people, not all those that are affected by the Line. > And, from an overall point-of-view, the cost of this free electricity will be > charged back to the customers of Allegheny Energy in West Virginia, as > I understand it. > > 3. Herbicides could still be used, just not sprayed from aircraft. > > 4. This Agreement reflects an arbitrary decision by the Consumer > Advocate, without consideration of whether it is fully supported > by the affected citizens, or the people of the State who will > need to pay the the proposed Line. > > Duane Nichols, Member. > > > > > > > **************Start the year off right. Easy ways to stay in shape. > http://body.aol.com/fitness/winter-exercise?NCID=aolcmp00300000002489 > > > > _______________________________________________ > MVCAC mailing list > MVCAC(a)cheat.org > http://cheat.org/mailman/listinfo/mvcac >

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Fwd: CAD & TrAILCo Joint Stipulation
by Duane330＠aol.com 08 Jan '08

08 Jan '08

RE: Forwarded message from Jim Kotcon. 1. I make a motion that the Energy Committee of the Sierra Club of West Virginia go on-record in opposition to the Consent Agreement between the WV Consumer Advocate and the TrAILCo. 2. I make a motion that the Mon Valley Clean Air Coalition go on-record in opposition to the Consent Agreement between the WV Consumer Advocate and the TrAILCo. Notes: 1. This Agreement is a front page story in the Morgantown Dominion Post today. This Agreement was posted yesterday on the web site of the Public Service Commission and is attached to this forwarded message; or, it can be found under Case 07-0508 at _www.psc.state.wv.us_ (http://www.psc.state.wv.us) 2. It is particularly disturbing that the offer of free electricity will be available only to a select group of people, not all those that are affected by the Line. And, from an overall point-of-view, the cost of this free electricity will be charged back to the customers of Allegheny Energy in West Virginia, as I understand it. 3. Herbicides could still be used, just not sprayed from aircraft. 4. This Agreement reflects an arbitrary decision by the Consumer Advocate, without consideration of whether it is fully supported by the affected citizens, or the people of the State who will need to pay the the proposed Line. Duane Nichols, Member. **************Start the year off right. Easy ways to stay in shape. http://body.aol.com/fitness/winter-exercise?NCID=aolcmp00300000002489

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Reminder: MVCAC meeting Tuesday
by William Wonderlin 10 Dec '07

10 Dec '07

The next MVCAC meeting will be on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 7PM, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church. Dr. Tim Nurkewicz will attend this meeting. Tim is an Assistant Professor at WVU's Health Sciences Center, and his research is focused on the relationship between air pollution and cardiovascular disease. Tim will lead a discussion of recent advances in understanding the potential effects of air pollution on our health. If you would like to do a little "homework" in advance, the following page of the EPA's website as some links to useful information regarding air pollution and health: http://www.epa.gov/air/toxicair/newtoxics.html.

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WSJ: Emission Caps Hit Snags
by duane330＠aol.com 04 Dec '07

04 Dec '07

Kyoto's Caps on Emissions Hit Snag in Marketplace U.N. Mulls How to Fix Pollution-Credit System; 'Expecting Too Much' By JEFFREY BALL. Wall Street Journal, December 3, 2007; Page A1 The Kyoto Protocol was supposed to harness market forces to solve global warming. It slapped caps on greenhouse-gas emissions and set up a complex market for companies to trade permits to pollute. But it hasn't yet ignited the green-energy revolution its architects were expecting. The cap-and-trade system has brought about useful projects targeting a few especially potent greenhouse gases. It hasn't, however, forced the industrialized world to meaningfully curb what scientists say is the biggest problem of all -- the growing consumption of fossil fuels. Today, diplomats at a big United Nations global-warming conference in Bali, Indonesia, will begin looking for a fix as they open debate on a new global-warming agreement. Also this week, a Senate committee in Washington is scheduled to debate a proposed cap-and-trade system for greenhouse gases in the U.S., which opted not to ratify the Kyoto treaty. The Kyoto treaty requires the industrialized countries that ratified it to reduce their overall emissions by 5% from 1990 levels. The caps, which expire in 2012, will not go into effect until next year. But participating nations have spent several years scrambling to get ready. The European Union has already instituted caps on its member nations. This has fueled a nascent carbon-permit trading system: Countries and companies that can't meet the new requirements can buy emissions permits from others that can. Trading in permits hit $30 billion last year, according to the World Bank. Yet problems with the system loom large. The world's two biggest energy users, the U.S. and China, aren't subject to emissions caps. Countries that face the caps have been reluctant to push their industries too hard. And industry itself has proved adept at fulfilling its obligations without cutting down much on fossil fuels such as oil, coal and natural gas. It is doing this largely by funding projects in the developing world that destroy potent but uncommon greenhouse gases. "What has happened is, markets work as markets will do, to find the lowest-cost alternative," says Michael Zammit Cutajar, a Maltese diplomat who during the Kyoto talks was head of the U.N. body that gave birth to the carbon market. The cap-and-trade system was "a brilliant idea," he says, but implementing it has exposed the "tension between the market approach and the sustainable approach." The big question now is how to structure a carbon-trading system that's palatable to the U.S. and to developing countries such as China. The U.S. and China together account for about 40% of emissions of carbon dioxide from fossil-fuel combustion, which scientists say is the most common source of man-made greenhouse-gas emissions. That alone dwarfs the 28% share from the countries that did sign up for Kyoto caps, among them Canada, Japan and the nations of the EU, according to the Paris-based International Energy Agency. The politicians face a dilemma: They want emissions constraints to be tough enough to matter, but loose enough to persuade the U.S. and China to play greater roles. European nations have expressed a willingness to cut emissions deeply, but only if the U.S. does too. The U.S. and China are calling on one another to play ball. The broader question is whether a cap-and-trade system targeting industry is enough to meaningfully curb greenhouse gases. Some favor the introduction of carbon-emission taxes, such as an added tax on gasoline, saying that would push consumers to trim their energy use. Others say even blunter tools are needed, such as tougher government rules on the energy-efficiency of cars and buildings. Industry long has resisted such steps. The current carbon-trading system is producing modest environmental benefits. In Europe and Japan, where the Kyoto emissions caps are set to kick in next year, some companies have begun changing their operations as the effective cost of burning fossil fuel rises. If governments toughen emission caps in coming years, as is expected, the cost will rise further. But progress has been much slower than Kyoto's architects hoped for. Japan's emissions are rising, Canada has backed away from its target, and the EU says it will meet its goal only if member nations get tougher. Scientists say far bigger cuts than those called for in the treaty are needed. But global energy use is expected to rise by 50% by 2030. The U.S. pioneered the concept of harnessing markets to solve environmental problems. In 1995, it imposed a cap-and-trade program to curb power-plant emissions of sulfur dioxide, a pollutant that causes acid rain. Under that program, the federal government gives power plants yearly allocations of permits to emit sulfur dioxide. Power plants that are over the limit have a choice: cut their emissions or buy pollution permits from plants that don't need their entire allocations. The system has reduced U.S. sulfur-dioxide emissions from power plants by about 40% from 1990 levels. It's widely viewed as an environmental and economic success. In the talks leading to the Kyoto treaty, the U.S. argued successfully for using the cap-and-trade model to fight greenhouse gases. But because global warming involves many countries and many gases, solving the problem is far more complicated than addressing acid rain. The Kyoto treaty sets emissions limits for industrialized countries and for the EU, which decided itself how to divide the burden among member countries. Developing nations face no caps. Diplomats decided that it wasn't fair to burden their economies right away with pollution controls, given that the industrialized world had faced no restrictions during decades of growth. It's up to each participating nation to determine which companies to slap restrictions on. After a government sets an emissions limit for a company, it gives that company just enough permits to cover it. Companies that reduce emissions below their caps can sell excess credits to companies that don't have enough. Each company must decide how much to cut emissions and how many permits to buy from others. The EU's cap-and-trade system has been in effect since 2005. It's a dry run for the Kyoto treaty's emissions caps, which go into effect next year and run through 2012. Holcim Ltd., a Swiss cement maker, faces caps. In 2005 and 2006, it didn't need all its permits, so it sold a total of about one million of them for an average of about €11, or about $16, apiece, says Bruno Vanderborght, Holcim's vice president for environmental strategy. This year, Holcim increased cement production and needed to buy about 100,000 permits. Mr. Vanderborght says the company has improved its energy efficiency "slightly" and is looking to improve further. It has also been buying permits from another source: developing nations. The treaty includes a unique mechanism for involving the developing world in the process. Carbon-reduction projects in developing nations generate emissions permits, or credits, which can be sold to companies in industrialized nations facing emissions caps. In effect, these companies can fulfill some of their emission-reduction obligations by financing pollution-control projects in the developing world. The troubles with the system began even before it went into effect. In 1997, the U.S. Senate passed a resolution urging President Clinton not to embrace the Kyoto treaty, and soon after President Bush took office in 2001, he announced he wouldn't support emissions caps because they would be too costly for the economy. That made it tougher for the EU to force stringent emissions caps on its industry. Tough caps would make it harder for European companies to compete against American ones. In 2005, when Europe introduced its first round of caps, it kept them soft. As an added shock absorber, governments and companies began looking hard in the developing world for cheap emissions credits. Kyoto's architects now say they didn't anticipate how the projects in the developing world would suppress efforts to cut back on fossil-fuel use. Under the treaty, projects targeting more potent gases generate more credits than projects targeting carbon dioxide. The treaty covers six kinds of greenhouse gases. At one end of the spectrum is carbon dioxide. It accounts for 77% of all man-made greenhouse-gas emissions, the U.N. says, but it's also the weakest. At the other end is HFC-23, a byproduct of the manufacture of a common refrigerant. Every ton of it is 11,700 times as damaging to the atmosphere as a ton of carbon dioxide, according to the U.N. But despite its high potency, the gas accounts for less than 1% of the effect of man-made greenhouse-gas emissions, the U.N. says. Under the Kyoto trading system, each credit represents one "carbon-dioxide-equivalent" ton of avoided emissions. So a project that eliminates one ton of carbon-dioxide emissions generates one sellable credit. A project that gets rid of one ton of HFC-23 emissions generates 11,700. Installing machinery on a refrigerant plant to incinerate HFC-23 is cheap. According to the World Bank, generating one carbon credit through an HFC-23 project typically costs less than $1. Generating a credit from a renewable-energy project -- erecting a wind turbine or a solar panel -- can cost $5 to $10, the World Bank says. Such credits currently sell for as much as €17, or about $25. So the economic incentives to undertake HFC-23 projects have far exceeded those for fossil-fuel reduction projects. During the Kyoto talks, there wasn't much discussion about whether such disparities might focus too much activity on eliminating gases that aren't a big part of the overall problem, according to Mr. Cutajar, the Maltese diplomat who headed the U.N. body. The provision that allows industrialized countries to obtain credits in the developing world was "an add-on" late in the talks, he notes. "The general impression was that low-carbon development was about clean energy," Mr. Cutajar says. "It sounded good. It smelled good. It was only later that the details got worked out." Between 2002, when credits generated in developing countries began trading, and the end of last year, HFC-23 projects accounted for 46% of all developing-world credits traded -- by far the biggest chunk of that market, according to the World Bank. All told, at least 70% of developing-world credits traded during that market's first five years came from projects targeting gases other than carbon dioxide, the World Bank says. At present, most eligible plants that emit HFC-23 have been signed up for carbon-credit projects. As a result, projects targeting less-potent gases are getting more funding. One such gas is methane. It's emitted when animal dung decomposes on farms and when trash rots at landfills. Ton for ton, it's 21 times more damaging to the atmosphere than carbon dioxide, the U.N. says. That's provided an incentive for two types of popular carbon-credit projects: putting tarps over animal-waste lagoons, and putting pipes in landfills to tap and burn off the methane. Burning methane produces less-potent carbon dioxide. Programs to reduce the burning of fossil fuels -- a far bigger environmental problem -- accounted for less than one-third of the developing-world credits traded between 2002 and last year, the World Bank says. But they have begun getting more attention. The trading system has given birth to an industry of middlemen who arrange projects in developing countries to produce credits. Natsource LLC, a New York-based asset-management firm, manages a roughly $700 million investment fund through which companies, including many Japanese and European utilities, buy carbon credits. Most come from projects targeting the potent but ancillary gases such as HFC-23 and nitrous oxide, a byproduct of nylon production. "Of course the market is going to do the cheaper thing first," says Jack Cogen, Natsource's chief executive officer. "That's what markets do." The World Bank has put together some of the biggest emissions-reduction projects. Karan Capoor, a senior financial specialist at the World Bank, says "it's expecting too much" to think the Kyoto treaty could significantly curb fossil-fuel consumption without long-term caps and the participation of big countries such as the U.S. Some investors in the carbon market cite another reason for the scarcity of clean-energy projects: a panel of U.N.-sanctioned officials who meet periodically in Bonn, Germany, and decide which proposed carbon-reduction projects will get to sell credits. The panel approves only environmental projects it determines wouldn't happen without the sale of the credits. Clearing that bar can be difficult for clean-energy projects. Those related to potent gases such as HFC-23 and methane have an easier time, because they rarely make economic sense without the carbon-credit revenue. U.N. officials say that to keep the system honest, it's important not to subsidize projects that would happen anyway. In 2006, the European Commission, the EU's governing body, reported that the European industry ended 2005 with more permits than it needed to meet caps under the EU's system. That caused the price of European credits to plummet. The commission now is pressuring member governments to tighten their emissions caps, which has pushed prices back up. Eight countries have sued or threatened to sue, arguing the commission is being too stringent. At the U.N. conference in Bali, the price issue is likely to color debate over whether to award carbon credits to projects that preserve forests, which consume carbon dioxide. Kyoto's architects authorized credits for planting new trees. But they declined to allow credits for preserving existing trees. They worried, among other things, that nations might seek credits to preserve trees they have no intention of destroying. Heavily forested nations such as Indonesia and Brazil want to reverse that decision. On Capitol Hill, companies anticipating a U.S. carbon cap are gunning to make it as loose as possible. Duke Energy Corp., the nation's third-biggest coal burner, is one. In October, Duke joined the heads of other big emitters in writing to the head of a Senate committee on the environment. Their letter declared it "critically important" for any cap-and-trade system to set an upper limit on the market price of a carbon permit. That ceiling would rise over time. A system without price controls might force utilities to switch to fuels that are cleaner but costlier than coal. "While a lot of people started down the road romanticizing" the use of emissions caps to fight global warming, says Duke's chief executive, James Rogers, in an interview, they're "now coming to grips with the cold reality of the economics." ________________________________________________________________________ More new features than ever. Check out the new AOL Mail ! - http://o.aolcdn.com/cdn.webmail.aol.com/mailtour/aol/en-us/text.htm?ncid=ao…

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To Bali and beyond . . .
by duane330＠aol.com 04 Dec '07

04 Dec '07

THE MORNING BRIEF,? Wall Street Journal, By JOSEPH SCHUMAN, December 3, 2007? Finding a Successor To the Kyoto Protocol?? In his first official act as a new prime minister, Kevin Rudd today signed paperwork that will lead to Australia's ratification of the Kyoto Protocol, further isolating the U.S. on climate issues just as negotiators are meeting in Bali to start work on Kyoto's successor. Mr. Rudd's signature would seem to bolster the United Nations-sponsored Bali conference's momentum, already building since the Nobel Peace Prize was co-awarded to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and its work documenting human-induced global warming. ? The latest scientific warning came just yesterday, in a study published by peer-review journal Nature Geoscience, which found the earth's tropical zones have begun to spread toward the poles.?While some of the earliest signs of climate change came through melting ice in the Arctic, the study reports evidence of tropical expansion that could threaten subtropical societies. "Poleward movement of large-scale atmospheric circulation systems, such as jet streams and storm tracks, could result in shifts in precipitation patterns affecting natural ecosystems, agriculture, and water resources," it says, but cautions that the implications still aren't well understood. And yet, despite the warnings and burgeoning political consensus, there's also little certainty about what the Bali talks will produce. While the U.S. delegation declared it won't be a "roadblock" to a new agreement, the Bush administration remains opposed to mandatory emission caps for greenhouse gases and some other steps many of U.S. allies support. China, which has seen billions of dollars in crops destroyed by the pollutants of its coal-burning power plants, and India, threatened by melting glaciers and devastating droughts, have both said they won't sign a treaty that slows their pace of economic development, as the Associated Press reports. Both countries are allowed to keep polluting under the 1997 Kyoto treaty, which itself has led to little actual reduction in greenhouse-gas emissions. The product of much geopolitical wrangling, it required only 36 countries to limit pollution, and just over of third of those countries were former Soviet-bloc countries, the Los Angeles Times notes. The likes of Russia, Latvia and Romania have sharply lowered their carbon dioxide emissions since 1990, but that's more due to how the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union shut down smoke-belching factories, the Times says. And the Kyoto emissions were set far above the countries' actual emissions. Under Kyoto, industrialized countries that ratified the treaty were charged with lowering their emissions by 5% from 1990s levels -- requirements that expire in 2012 -- but in many big industrialized countries emissions have continued to increase. That's part of why regimes were created to allow countries to trade carbon credits, buying, for example, Eastern European's permission to pollute in order to emit more in Western Europe. ? It was a way, as The Wall Street Journal says, of harnessing market forces to deal with global warming. But the trading "hasn't yet ignited the green-energy revolution its architects were expecting," the Journal says. "The cap-and-trade system has brought about useful projects targeting a few especially potent greenhouse gases. It hasn't, however, forced the industrialized world to meaningfully curb what scientists say is the biggest problem of all -- the growing consumption of fossil fuels." The Bali talks are aimed at going a lot farther, looking at proposals from the attending governments -- like Britain's idea of limiting global aviation and shipping emissions, as the Guardian reports -- and working off the IPCC recommendations. But as the New York Times notes, few participants expect the current talks to produce a breakthrough. * * * ________________________________________________________________________ More new features than ever. Check out the new AOL Mail ! - http://o.aolcdn.com/cdn.webmail.aol.com/mailtour/aol/en-us/text.htm?ncid=ao…

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MVCAC meeting Dec. 11
by William Wonderlin 03 Dec '07

03 Dec '07

The next MVCAC meeting will be on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 7PM, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church. Dr. Tim Nurkewicz will attend this meeting. Tim is an Assistant Professor at WVU's Health Sciences Center, and his research is focused on the relationship between air pollution and cardiovascular disease. Tim will lead a discussion of recent advances in understanding the potential effects of air pollution on our health. If you would like to do a little "homework" in advance, the following page of the EPA's website as some links to useful information regarding air pollution and health: http://www.epa.gov/air/toxicair/newtoxics.html.

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Save paper, etc.; stop unwanted catalogs easily
by Paula Hunt 27 Nov '07

27 Nov '07

I heard a story on NPR a few days ago about http://www.catalogchoice.org/. Maybe you heard it too. Supposedly you can sign up at the above web site with your name and address and tell them which catalogs you no longer wish to receive. They say they will contact the vendor and get you off the mailing list. I say "supposedly" because I have just gone through the process, so it is too early to see if it works. They have a FAQ page where you can learn how to cancel catalogs that aren't in your name (but sent to your address, of course) or are not in a variation of your name. According to the guy NPR interviewed and the web site, "Catalog Choice is a sponsored project of the <http://ecologycenter.org/>Ecology Center. It is endorsed by the <http://nwf.org/>National Wildlife Federation and the <http://nrdc.org/>Natural Resources Defense Council, ..." Hey, it's worth a try! Those catalogs are coming fast and furious to my house these days. -- paula PS. It's free.

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(no subject)
by Duane330＠aol.com 25 Nov '07

25 Nov '07

NOTICE OF ADDITIONAL PUBLIC COMMENT HEARINGS On March 30, 2007, Trans-Allegheny Interstate Line Company (TrAILCo) filed an application for a certificate of convenience and necessity from the Public Service Commission of West Virginia for the construction and operation of the West Virginia segments of a 500 kV electric transmission line and related facilities in Monongalia, Preston, Tucker, Grant, Hardy and Hampshire Counties. By Commission Order issued on October 24, 2007, the Commission directed that the Commission's Division of Administrative Law Judges hold additional public comment hearings in Preston County, in addition to the public comment hearings already scheduled. Accordingly, the following additional public comment hearings have been scheduled for this proceeding: On Monday, November 26, 2007, at 1:30 p.m. and again at 6:30 p.m., at the Kingwood Volunteer Fire Department and Community Building, 2"d Floor, Buckwheat Room, 115 Brown Avenue, Kingwood, West Virginia. Anyone interested in this proceeding may appear at the public comment hearings and make such statements as may be deemed appropriate with repect to the proceedings. **************************************Check out AOL's list of 2007's hottest products. (http://money.aol.com/special/hot-products-2007?NCID=aoltop00030000000001)

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Global Waming seminar Thursday at Evansdale
by Jonathan Rosenbaum 07 Nov '07

07 Nov '07

Thursday there will be an Energy Expert speaking about Global Warming at the NRCEE at 11:00, see http://wvutoday.wvu.edu/news/page/6300/ . Robert G. Watts, the Cornelia and Arthur Jung Professor Emeritus of Mechanical Engineering at Tulane University, will speak on “Global Warming and the Future of Planet Earth” in Room 101A of the National Research Center for Coal and Energy on the Evansdale Campus. Watts has written several books about he subject: http://tinyurl.com/37s8nk -Jonathan

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PA challenge to NIETC
by Duane330＠aol.com 06 Nov '07

06 Nov '07

Multi-state power corridor already being challenged The Associated Press _http://www.dailymail.com/display_story.php?sid=200711063&format=prn_ (http://www.dailymail.com/display_story.php?sid=200711063&format=prn) Tuesday November 06, 2007 HARRISBURG, Pa. -- Gov. Ed Rendell and state utility regulators challenged the federal government's inclusion of 52 Pennsylvania counties in a regional corridor where states could lose the ability to stop high-voltage power lines from being built. The corridor's boundaries are far broader than intended by Congress, going so far as to include parts of the state that have no electric transmission problems, the Pennsylvania officials said. Lines that cross Pennsylvania may not deliver any benefit to electricity users in the state, and the U.S. Department of Energy, which drew the corridors, did not consider alternatives to meeting growing power demand, Rendell said. "They will be delivering dirtier, fossil-fuel-derived power from states to the south and west of Pennsylvania at a time when we're trying to protect the environment and meet our energy needs through clean and renewable technologies,'' he said in a statement. The Rendell administration on Friday asked the Department of Energy to reconsider the corridor's boundaries. The state Public Utility Commission also asked the department to reconsider, and sued last week in federal court in Harrisburg to stop the federal government from acting on the designation. Megan Barnett, an Energy Department spokeswoman in Washington, D.C., said the federal agency was reviewing the reconsideration request. The Energy Department, Barnett said, "benefited from full public participation on its decision to issue national interest corridors, which included months of public review.'' She said the decision followed more than 60 hours of public meetings across the country and came after the agency received and evaluated more than 2,000 public comments. The mid-Atlantic corridor was one of two mapped out by the Energy Department last month. It would encompass all or parts of Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Ohio, West Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C. The other corridor is in the southwestern United States. Four massive power line projects spanning a combined 900 miles across mid-Atlantic states have already received approval from PJM, the region's electric grid operator. The lines could provide the first tests of a 2005 law that allows federal regulators to override states that do not approve certain transmission lines. The lines, which would cost several billion dollars to build, are designed to relieve the strain on existing lines that officials say could overload as early as 2012 and to bring cheaper, surplus electricity from Appalachia and the Midwest to big East Coast cities. ************************************** See what's new at http://www.aol.com

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Daily Mail Poll On Mountain Top Removal from Julian Martin
by Paula Hunt 05 Nov '07

05 Nov '07

Subject: Daily Mail Poll On Mountain Top Removal Date: Thu, 1 Nov 2007 12:08:02 EDT From: Martinjul(a)aol.com The Charleston Daily Mail's online poll is, "Should Mountain Top Mining be banned?" 164yes and 29no at 11:46am, Nov. 1. Vote now at http://www.dailymail.com/section/Front+Page scroll down to near bottom on left. Julian Martin "Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, things aren't going to get better, they're not!" From The Lorax by Dr. Suess ..................................................... "Mountaintop removal is the biggest environmental battle of our hemisphere. You know, you can restore the Hudson River in perhaps a hundred years. But you will never, never, get these mountains back. This is truly a crime against every human being in the world." - Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. "Strip mining is rampant right now, and it's raping, it's raping the countryside," she said. "What if you knew that every time you flip on your light switch a mountaintop in West Virginia just blows up? It's crazy." Kathy Mattea quoted by Ken Ward, Charleston Gazette, June 28, 2007 "If we destroy the mountain, do you know how much electricity we get out of that mountain for the coal? An entire mountain provides an hour's worth of electricity for the U.S." Mike McKinney, University of Tennessee Geology Professor, as quoted in the June 2007 Highlands Voice. For The Mountains Julian Martin Vice-President for State Affairs West Virginia Highlands Conservancy www.wvhighlands.org 1525 Hampton Road, Charleston, WV 25314 Contact me(martinjul(a)aol.com) for a trip to Kayford Mountain to see active and so-called reclaimed mountain top removal. Go to www.wvhighlands.org <http://www.wvhighlands.org/> for I Love Mountains t-shirts, hats, I Heart Mountains and Friends Of The Mountains bumper stickers and for speakers, information and exhibits on environmental issues in West Virginia. NOTICE: Due to Presidential Executive Orders, the National Security Agency may have read this email without warning, warrant or notice and also without any judicial or legislative oversight. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ . . .

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Lecture Time changed to 8 pm Tue Nov 6
by Paula Hunt 02 Nov '07

02 Nov '07

WVU announced a change in the time of the lecture: ............................... CORRECTION: time of Benedum Lecture Stephen W. Pacala, Frederick D. Petrie Professor in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and director of the Princeton Environmental Institute at Princeton University, will deliver the 2007 Benedum Lecture at 8 p.m. Tuesday (Nov. 6) in Room 202 of Brooks Hall. The title of his talk is *Equitable Solutions to Greenhouse Warming: On the Distribution of Wealth, Emissions and Responsibility Within and Between Nations.* A reception will follow outside Room 202. The event is open to the public; admission is free. The lecture is co-sponsored by the Claude Worthington Benedum Endowment and the Office of the Provost and is coordinated by the distinguished and chaired professors of WVU.

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Add Sustainable Growth to WV-EOP
by Duane330＠aol.com 25 Oct '07

25 Oct '07

ENERGY POLICY: National Academies Make Case for Sustainable Growth Eli Kintisch A report released this week by dozens of the world's national science academies recommends using energy more efficiently, putting a price on carbon emissions, and developing green energy sources. See the journal Science, October 26, 2007, Volume 318, Issue 5850. Let me suggest that you visit the following web site, and submit your support for incorporating the above referenced studies into the WV Energy Opportunities Plan [EOP]. Comments can be submitted electronically until the end of October, i.e. Wednesday of next week. If you do it now, you won't forget. I have requested that WV develop a plan that reduces carbon dioxide emissions state-wide by 2% per year, which would be reasonably easy to achieve and to sustain, if a plan and commitment were made to do so. Web Site for WV-EOP: _www.energywv.org_ (http://www.energywv.org) ************************************** See what's new at http://www.aol.com

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Power Line Hearings are Tomorrow!
by Paula Hunt 22 Oct '07

22 Oct '07

Hi Everyone, Please remember to attend one of the public hearings on the proposed high-power transmission line (TrAIL). Morgantown Hearings (Tomorrow!!!) * Date: Tuesday October 23, 2007 * Location: Erickson Alumni Center Patteson Drive-705 (WVU Evansdale Campus) Morgantown * Time: Afternoon Session begins at 1:30 pm Evening Session begins at 6:30 pm Grafton Hearings * Date: Wednesday October 24, 2007 * Location Taylor County Senior Citizens Center Intersection of Route 119 and 250 ========================================== Be heard or at least be seen! - paula

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Public Input Hearings, Tomorrow.
by Duane330＠aol.com 22 Oct '07

22 Oct '07

RE: Proposed TrAIL Transmission Line. PUBLIC INPUT HEARING: Erickson Alumni Center, Morgantown, WV. Date and Time: Tuesday, October 23rd, 1:30 pm and 6:30 pm. Background information: Pennsylvania: _www.stopthetowers.org_ (http://www.stopthetowers.org/) West Virginia _www.notowersinwv.org_ (http://www.notowersinwv.org/) Virginia _www.stopdominion.org_ (http://www.stopdominion.org/) ************************************** See what's new at http://www.aol.com

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Mid-Atlantic concerned citizens
by Duane330＠aol.com 15 Oct '07

15 Oct '07

The Mid-Atlantic Concerned Citizens Energy Coalition (MACCEC) is an established but expanding network of individuals and organizations within our eight-state region. Our mission is to educate citizens about electricity issues and to motivate them to take actions that will create policies and support solutions appropriate for the 21st century. Please visit the MACCEC website (still a work in progress) at _www.maccec.org_ (http://www.maccec.org/) Email your comments and suggestions, e.g., links you would like to see posted in Electric Energy Information for your state or More NIET Corridor News for your state. Forward this email to others who may be interested in providing input. This Mid-Atlantic area coalition supports 21st century energy solutions and opposes the Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) recently designated Mid-Atlantic Area National Corridor. It is our belief that networking on a regional basis will offer concerned citizens ongoing opportunities to make a difference together. Barbara Kessinger Organizer, MACCEC _www.maccec.org_ (http://www.maccec.org/) ************************************** See what's new at http://www.aol.com

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"Opposition To TrAIL Power Line...."
by Duane330＠aol.com 12 Oct '07

12 Oct '07

Press release: Opposition To TrAIL Power Line Strengthens In West Virginia The diverse opponents of the proposed new TrAIL electric power transmission line are dedicated to bringing a halt to the project. This 240 miles line includes 114 miles in West Virginia and will consume an estimated 7500 acres of land here. The cooperating organizations that oppose the line include the WV Environmental Council, the Ohio Valley Environmental Coalition, the Mon Valley Clean Air Coalition, the Ft. Martin Community Association, the West Virginia Chapter of the Sierra Club, Halleck - Triune Community Association, Laurel Run Watershed Association, WV Highlands Conservancy, WV Inter-faith Global Climate Change Campaign, Capon Valley Coalition, Laurel Mountain Preservation Association and others. Don Corwin Jr, President of the Halleck Community Association says that "West Virginians are being forced into a position where we are giving up our property rights for a power line that passes through the heart of our communities, does not benefit us, and we have to pay for it. This is the ultimate example of bad business in West Virginia." Allegheny Energy submitted an application for the transmission line in March. The 240-mile line consists of 140-foot tall support towers and overhead wires carrying up to 500,000 volts. It would transport electricity from local power plants to the east coast states. Two proposed transmission line routes through West Virginia have been submitted to the WV Public Service Commission by Allegheny Energy. In either case, the line would come south from Washington and Greene counties in Pennsylvania then pass through the counties of Monongalia, Marion, possibly Taylor, Preston, Tucker, Grant, and Hampshire in West Virginia, and then pass through northern Virginia. Opposition to the line is extremely strong in both Pennsylvania and Virginia. Allegheny Energy avoided Maryland all together, apparently to avoid opposition in that state, despite the fact that the shortest distance for this line would have been through Maryland and not northern West Virginia. Lew McDaniel of the Laurel Run Watershed Association believes that “This really is a battle between rural and urban America. We are a nation that fights wars over equal values, which means a green space covered with trees deserves the same consideration as a city lot covered with asphalt. Yet here we are trying to preserve over 7000 acres of our property in the face of unbridled demand for electricity in other states. Primary concerns of the groups are that: (1) current eminent domain rules and practices are not fair to property owners and other residents since the right-of-way will be seized without just compensation for reduced property values for all those near the line, (2) land disturbances will be extensive, surface and ground water flows will be affected, the natural beauty of the region will be substantially degraded, and these disturbance will prevail for many decades to come, essentially forever, (3) a new line will give added life to old power plants that generate extremely large volumes of carbon dioxide, the most important greenhouse gas affecting climate change, as well as other pollutants, (4) and, of equal significance, the line will not serve the electric customers of West Virginia in spite of the fact that local electric bills are being increased already to pay for the planning, permitting, engineering, construction and operation of this line. "I am not aware of any previous application for a transmission line that has ever been turned down by the WV PSC," said Jim Kotcon, President of the West Virginia Environmental Council. "But there has never been such strong opposition from so many diverse groups to such a transmission line. This one is truly a bad idea for West Virginia, and Allegheny is proposing it simply because it is an easy way to make money by gouging the ratepayers." According to Bill Golemon of the Capon Valley Coalition, “Allegheny Power has not adequately considered other alternatives to the power line or made a convincing case that it is really necessary.” Concern is also being expressed over the recent designation of 42 counties in West Virginia as part of a National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor (NIETC), under the US Energy Policy Act of 2005. The designated counties include Kanawha and essentially all the State north of Kanawha. Federal eminent domain authority now applies which supercedes State authority for high voltage electric transmission lines, should the US Department of Energy decided to use the authority. These regulations have not yet been tested in the federal courts, as the designation attempts to overrule the rights of the States that may have constitutional superiority. The WV Public Service Commission will hold extensive public hearings at 1:30 and 6:30 pm on October 23rd in Morgantown, October 24th in Grafton, October 29th in Davis (Tucker County), and October 30th in Moorefield; hearings will start at 9:00 am on November 28th and 29th in Charleston. Anyone interested in the proposed power line may appear at any of these public comment hearings and make statements if relevant to the line, and/or send written comments to the Public Service Commission, ATTN: Sandra Squire, 201 Brooks Street, Charleston, WV 25323. Correspondence should designate the TrAIL Case Number: 07-0508-E-CN. See also the following web site: _www.notowersinwv.org_ (http://www.notowersinwv.org/) For further information, contact: Duane Nichols, _duane330(a)aol.com_ (mailto:duane330@aol.com) , 304-599-8040. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Contact information for participating groups: WV Environmental Council Don Garvin 2206 Washington Street, East _www.wvecouncil.org_ (http://www.wvecouncil.org/) Charleston, WV 25311 304-414-0143 .............................................................................. .......................................................... Ohio Valley Environmental Coalition Dianne Bady PO Box 6753 304-522-0246 Huntington, WV 25773-6753. _ohvec(a)ezwv.com_ (mailto:ohvec@ezwv.com) .............................................................................. ........................................................... Mon Valley Clean Air Coalition Duane G. Nichols P. O. Box 4679 _Duane330@aolcom_ (mailto:Duane330@aolcom) Morgantown, WV 26504 304-216-5535 .............................................................................. ............................................................ Sierra Club, WV Chapter Barbara Fallon P. O. Box 4142 _brbr_fallon(a)yahoo.com_ (mailto:brbr_fallon@yahoo.com) Morgantown, WV 26504 304-292-3345 .............................................................................. ........................................................... Ft. Martin Community Association Rosemary Eavenson 1634 Ft Martin Road 304-599-6916 Maidsville, WV 26541 _FortMartin1769(a)aol.com_ (mailto:FortMartin1769@aol.com) .............................................................................. ........................................................... WV Interfaith Global Climate Change Campaign Wil Reilly 115 Lakeside Drive _Wjreilly99(a)yahoo.com_ (mailto:Wjreilly99@yahoo.com) Morgantown, WV 26508 304-292-0001 .............................................................................. ............................................................ WV Highlands Conservancy Frank Young Route 1, Box 108 304-372-3945 Ripley, WV 25271 _fyoung(a)mountain.net_ (mailto:fyoung@mountain.net) .............................................................................. ..................................................................... Halleck - Triune Community Association Don Corwin, Jr. Monongalia County, WV _Decorwin(a)aol.com_ (mailto:Decorwin@aol.com) _www.notowersinwv.org_ (http://www.notowersinwv.org/) 304-291-0886 .............................................................................. ..................................................................... Laurel Run Watershed Association Lew McDaniel Route 1 Box 252 _lewmcdan(a)hrea.coop_ (mailto:lewmcdan@hrea.coop) Independence, WV 26374 304-288-4078 .............................................................................. ................................................................... Laurel Mountain Preservation Association Art Dodds, Montrose, WV _www.laurelmountainpreservationassociation.org_ (http://www.laurelmountainpreservationassociation.org/) _pamart(a)meer.net_ (mailto:pamart@meer.net) P. O. Box 217, Montrose, WV 26283 304-823-1095 .............................................................................. ...................................................................... Capon Valley Coalition Bill & Lynn Golemon P. O. Box 127 _billgolemon(a)frontiernet.net_ (mailto:billgolemon@frontiernet.net) Yellow Springs, WV 26865 304-856-1188 .............................................................................. ..................................................................... Date: October 12, 2007 ************************************** See what's new at http://www.aol.com

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Transmission Line Hearings Tues Oct 23rd
by Paula Hunt 10 Oct '07

10 Oct '07

Hey Everyone! Please attend one of the public meetings for the proposed HUGE transmission line (cleverly dubbed "TrAIL") Allegheny Energy is trying to foist on our region. Please see the links, etc. at the end of this message for more information about TrAIL. The West Virginia Public Service Commission (PSC) will hold two public hearings in Morgantown on Tuesday October 23. One is at 1:30 pm and the second is at 6:30 pm at the WVU Erickson Alumni Center located on the West Virginia University campus (off of 705/Patteson Drive). Even if you do not choose to speak, please attend one of these VERY important meetings. The Erickson Alumni Center is located off of Patteson Drive (Rt 705) on WVU's Evansdale Campus. Here is a link to map: http://www.wvu.edu/CampusMap/Images/evansdale_campus_vlrg.gif . Parking may be tight, but remember, you can usually find a space near Patteson Drive at the Printing Services Building (a low white brick building). It also makes for a quick exit! Also, please send comments to the PSC: Public Service Commission of West Virginia c/o Ms. Sandra Squire, Executive Secretary PO Box 812 Charleston WV 25323 1-800-344-5113 (in WV) FAX: (304) 340-0325 Please refer to Case Number: 07-0508-E-CN (TrAIL ) in your letter. Reasons to oppose the TrAIL: * Property values for all those near the line will plummet. * The right-of-way can be taken by eminent domain. * The line will not serve the residents of West Virginia, yet our electricity bills would be increased to pay for this transmission line. * The natural beauty of the region will be destroyed, permanently! * The proposed transmission line will give added life to old polluting power plants that need to be retired. * Many of the people and livestock along the transmission corridor rely on wells and springs for drinking water. herbicides used along the transmission line would degrade water quality. Thanks in advance, paula ................................ Here is an overall map of the proposed line in WV: http://aptrailinfo.com/index.php?page=wv-proposed-route-map . Note how the route curves *around* Maryland to stay in West Virginia!! For more information please check out http://www.notowers.info/ . The site http://www.notowersinwv.org/ looked really good two days ago, but was blank when I just checked it. Still... try it out. Lasly, http://stopthetowers.org/ is run by a southwestern PA group opposong the same transmission line. It is a good source of information.

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