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WEB SEMINAR ~ MicroPlastics Impact Our Heath & Environment
by Frack Check WV: admin 18 Jun '23

18 Jun '23

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Our Water is Being Destroyed by Fracking ~ Consumed and/or Polluted!
by Frack Check WV: Duane Nichols 16 Jun '23

16 Jun '23

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Grays Peak Compressor Station Planned Near Reader in Wetzel County, WV
by Frack Check WV: admin 15 Jun '23

15 Jun '23

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WV-DEP Public Notices on Water Pollution & Land Slides
by Frack Check WV: Duane Nichols 15 Jun '23

15 Jun '23

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ALERT ~ Time to Halt Plans for Fracking Ohio’s Public Lands
by Frack Check WV: Duane Nichols 13 Jun '23

13 Jun '23

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Conservation Activities in the Monongahela National Forest
by Frack Check WV: admin 12 Jun '23

12 Jun '23

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Part 3. Coal Operators are Undermining the Black Lung Benefits Program
by Frack Check WV: Duane Nichols 11 Jun '23

11 Jun '23

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Clean-Seas WV Plans to Produce Hydrogen & Fuel Oil from Waste Plastics via Pyrolysis Process
by Frack Check WV: Duane Nichols 10 Jun '23

10 Jun '23

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Very Dangerous Mariner East Pipelines Cross Pennsylvania
by Frack Check WV: Duane Nichols 09 Jun '23

09 Jun '23

# [Very Dangerous Mariner East Pipelines Cross Pennsylvania](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/06/09/very-dangerous-marine… east-pipelines-cross-pennsylvania/) [![](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/wp- content/uploads/2023/06/0ECB8679-EFA3-410C-9FD0-879D891D6304-300x155.jpg)](… content/uploads/2023/06/0ECB8679-EFA3-410C-9FD0-879D891D6304.jpeg) Mariner East pipelines pass thru residential neighborhoods **Mariner East Pipelines Carry Fracked Gas Liquids from OH, WV & PA to East Coast ** From the [Appeal by Ginny Marcille-Kerslake, Food & Water Watch](https://secure.foodandwaterwatch.org/donate/donate-food-water-watch- and-help-fight-big-oil-gas), June 8, 2033 In honor of **World Environment Day** , I’d like to share a personal story highlighting how pipeline companies damage communities in my state and how we’re fighting back. Pipeline construction has already been destructive! For years, fossil fuel corporation Sunoco/Energy Transfer Partners (ETP) plan was for the Mariner East 2 and 2X pipelines to transport highly explosive natural gas liquids from fracking overseas to produce single-use plastics. Construction for this project wreaked havoc on my community and left us with dangerous pipelines. In 2017, because of drilling being done for this project, the aquifer underneath my neighborhood was hit! The water that flowed from this spill destroyed the private wells residents relied on for drinking, cooking, and bathing. That’s when their dirty project really came to the forefront of my life. My neighbors and I demanded an explanation. But, when we realized how difficult it was to get straight answers from Sunoco/ETP, and how likely they were to keep doing the dangerous drilling, we got to work, and I took on a new role — as an activist against the Mariner East pipelines. We worked with Pennsylvania Senator Andy Dinniman to get temporary halts to the drilling and pursued longer-term moratoriums. We bird-dogged Sunoco/ETP every time something went wrong — like when Sunoco/ETP didn’t self-report as they’re required to do when sinkholes occurred. My community and I are still fighting back against the threat of more pipeline construction. It’s a David vs. Goliath kind of battle, but we’ve carved out essential wins along the way. These fights don’t just affect one person — they affect entire communities, states, and the country. And though my story involves the Mariner East 2 pipeline, it reflects the kinds of fights going on in communities nationwide. It’s why I joined Food & Water Watch because we’re in this together, and we’re making lasting change. Join us in the fight to secure safe water and a livable climate for future generations — make a gift today. >>> Onward together, Ginny Marcille-Kerslake, Eastern Pennsylvania Organizer, Food & Water Watch #######+++++++#######+++++++####### [LET’S FIGHT BIG OIL & GAS](https://secure.foodandwaterwatch.org/donate/donate-food-water-watch-an… help-fight-big-oil-gas) **Pennsylvania fines Sunoco Pipeline for Mariner East violations in Delaware County, PA ~ The PUC imposed a $51,000 fine against the Energy Transfer LP subsidiary for violations related to disruptive pipeline construction through an apartment complex.** From Andrew Maykuth, Philadelphia Inquirer, June 8, 2023 URL: <https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/06/09/very-dangerous-mariner-east- pipelines-cross-pennsylvania/>

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Two Wells Drilled in Utah for Access to Hydrogen Storage Caverns
by Frack Check WV: Duane Nichols 08 Jun '23

08 Jun '23

# [Two Wells Drilled in Utah for Access to Hydrogen Storage Caverns](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/06/08/two-wells-drilled-in-utah- for-access-to-hydrogen-storage-caverns/) [![](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/wp- content/uploads/2023/06/C2926923-0D3A-40BA-8FA2-ED934013E643.jpeg)](https:/… content/uploads/2023/06/C2926923-0D3A-40BA-8FA2-ED934013E643.jpeg) Caverns underground must be dedicated to specific gases under pressure and monitored for leakage **WSP Completes Drilling Two Wells for Utah Hydrogen Hub ~ Designed for Curtailed Renewable Energy Use** From an [Article in Alternative Energy Magazine](https://www.altenergymag.com/news/2023/06/06/wsp-completes-drilli… two-wells-at-hydrogen-hub-designed-for-curtailed-renewable-energy-use/39636), June 6, 2023 SALT LAKE CITY — [WSP USA, a leading engineering, environment, and professional services consultancy](http://wsp.com), has successfully completed drilling operation and mechanical integrity tests for two new cavern wells for the Advanced Clean Energy Storage (ACES) I project in Utah — part of the first phase for the ACES Delta hydrogen hub. **The Advanced Clean Energy Storage I project will convert renewable energy into green hydrogen that can be stored in utility-scale solution mined domal salt caverns. The ACES Delta hydrogen hub controls the only known "Gulf Coast"-style domal-quality salt formation in the western U.S., which contains five existing salt caverns already being used for storing liquid fuels.** Advanced Clean Energy Storage I is a wholly owned subsidiary of ACES Delta, LLC. ACES Delta is a joint venture between Magnum Development and Mitsubishi Power Americas. WSP was contracted for the designing, drilling and completion of both cavern wells. Beside the drilling operation, WSP was responsible for designing procuring and managing the construction process of the project's solution mining surface facility to provide water and power to the well sites and will manage the solution mining process until final completion of both caverns. "Hydrogen underground storage is a key component of the hydrogen economy, which is critical in the effort to decarbonize U.S. power generation," said Scyller Borglum, PhD, underground storage leader for WSP USA. "These underground salt dome caverns will provide a huge reservoir of renewable fuel for power generation, supporting levels of utility scale renewable energy storage that have not been previously possible." The drilling operation for each cavern well was completed ahead of schedule, and both cavern wells have successfully passed the mechanical integrity test designated to ensure well integrity prior to the start of the solution mining process. Upon completion of the solution mining process, the total cavern volume of 9MM barrels-equivalent will be able to store around 300 gigawatt hours of clean and reliable energy in the form of hydrogen. **These will be the fourth and fifth hydrogen-compatible caverns in the U.S., and the salt cavern storage capacity will make it possible to store excess renewable energy produced in the spring when energy demand is low and use it to generate energy in the summer when demand is high.** #######+++++++#######+++++++####### **See Also** : [Hydrogen projects hang on IRS decision on how clean is clean energy](https://www.houstonchronicle.com/business/energy/article/clean- hydrogen-irs-tax-credit-18137623.php), James Osborne, Houston Chronicle, June 7, 2023 WASHINGTON — Methane emissions from oil and gas drilling are under scrutiny as the Internal Revenue Service weighs how to assess the climate impact of clean hydrogen made from natural gas. The numerous clean hydrogen projects under development along the Gulf Coast await a critical decision by the Biden administration on how to count the burgeoning industry’s greenhouse gas emissions. The Internal Revenue Service is in the midst of deciding how companies qualify for a tax credit included in last year’s Inflation Reduction Act that could potentially be worth tens of billions of dollars in the years ahead. Environmentalists and some technology firms are pushing officials to consider not just how much carbon dioxide facilities are capturing and storing underground but emissions from the natural gas they use to make so-called blue hydrogen. URL: <https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/06/08/two-wells-drilled-in-utah-for- access-to-hydrogen-storage-caverns/>

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Hannibal Site (Ohio) is Becoming a Hydrogen Technology Center ~ Directly West of Morgantown in Ohio Valley
by Frack Check WV: Duane Nichols 07 Jun '23

07 Jun '23

# [Hannibal Site (Ohio) is Becoming a Hydrogen Technology Center ~ Directly West of Morgantown in Ohio Valley](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/06/07/hannibal-ohio-is-becoming-a- hydrogen-technology-center-directly-west-of-morgantown-in-ohio-valley/) [![](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/wp- content/uploads/2023/06/4B93E24D-693B-4FE5-89BC- CC463D05A54F-265x300.jpg)](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/wp- content/uploads/2023/06/4B93E24D-693B-4FE5-89BC-CC463D05A54F.jpeg) Test site opposite the end of the Mason-Dixon Line in Ohio River valley **Harnessing an H-Class Gas Turbine for Hydrogen: Long Ridge Energy Terminal** From an [Article by Sonal Patel, Power Magazine](https://www.powermag.com/harnessing-an-h-class-for-hydrogen-long- ridge-energy-terminal/), October 3, 2022 **Long Ridge Energy Terminal in Hannibal, Ohio** , is one of the first power plants in the U.S. to be purpose-built for generating power with hydrogen fuel. But embarking on the pioneering journey that could ultimately allow the plant’s GE 7HA.02 gas turbine to combust 100% hydrogen by volume hasn’t been easy. At the end of March 2022, a team comprising Long Ridge Energy Generation, Black & Veatch, GE, NAES, and Long Ridge’s engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractor Kiewit successfully wrapped up a first test to combust an initial blending of 5% hydrogen and 95% natural gas fuel by volume at the 485-MW Long Ridge Energy Terminal combined cycle power plant. The achievement marked a significant step for the project in Hannibal, Ohio, which launched commercial operation in October 2021 as one of the first power plants in the U.S. that was purpose-built to transition from natural gas to hydrogen blends and ultimately be capable of burning 100% hydrogen. **But while the test was significant and its future capabilities are being much-watched, Long Ridge Energy’s long journey in getting the pioneering power plant built may also offer crucial insight for gas power project developers that are considering large-scale hydrogen-ready projects. “I’ll confess that when we started off the project, it seemed like a really simple concept that wasn’t going to take very long to execute, given good partners,” noted Mark Barry, program manager at Long Ridge Energy, during a July GE-hosted webinar. “The closer we got to it, the steeper we realized that the curve was, from codes to materials to control issues**. There was a lot to work through. But with our team, it was really a series of engineering problems that you worked through in any project—more of them, and not a lot of them that we thought about really at the beginning.” How the plant resolved these issues and continues its transition to a higher concentration of hydrogen, despite so many unknowns that characterize the burgeoning low-carbon fuel horizon, makes Long Ridge an especially noteworthy POWER 2022 Gas Top Plant. **Why Long Ridge Chose to Be Hydrogen Ready** Long Ridge Energy was formed five years ago by investment firms Fortress Transportation and Infrastructure Investors, and Grosvenor Capital Management—Labor Impact Fund, which saw a redevelopment opportunity at the site of a former aluminum smelter that operated for more than 50 years in the Appalachian Basin. The site is located within a 1,660-acre multimodal facility in the heart of the Marcellus and Utica shale formations alongside other natural gas infrastructure, including two storage tanks and four gas pipelines. “Really our objective for this project from the very beginning was to develop a digital industry on this large property adjacent to the power plant that could take power from the plant,” said Bo Wholey, president of Long Ridge Energy. “So, we started targeting really large power load industries like data centers but quickly concluded that the market had shifted several years ago and was really very focused on carbon-free generation,” he said. Long Ridge approached GE, and that kicked off a discussion about exploring the potential to transition the power plant to start blending hydrogen, he said. At the time, GE was intently exploring low-carbon fuels for its gas turbine fleet as part of a pathway to help the power sector combat climate change. In October 2020, the American original equipment manufacturer unveiled a contract with Long Ridge for a 7HA.02 combustion turbine, effectively launching a flagship hydrogen power demonstration for its HA-class gas turbines. The HA gas turbine, notably, is capable of 50% hydrogen by volume for units with the DLN 2.6e combustion system, which is found on the 7HA.03 (60 Hz)—GE’s newest HA-class model—and the 9HA.01 and 9HA.02 (50 Hz). The 7HA.02 combustion turbine—a model GE debuted in 2017—which has a DLN 2.6+ combustion system, is “innately capable” of burning 15% to 20% hydrogen by volume, explained Dr. Jeffrey Goldmeer, director of Emergency Technologies at GE Gas Power. “The 7HA.02 at Long Ridge has not been modified for hydrogen,” he said. “When we talk about going to 50% or 100% hydrogen, then we’ll start needing to see changes in the combustion system, primarily on the gas turbine, and changes in the balance of plant to handle much more hydrogen.” **Unique Challenges Obtain at Every Turn** While the concept was attractive, integrating it into the plant design with urgency, to meet the commercial operating timeframe of November 2021, proved more challenging, said Barry. “There were a few things — technical, logistical — that we don’t think we really appreciated until we started our working group,” which included GE, Black & Veatch, and Kiewit. Holding the authority to make decisions at a group level, for example, to simplify the design criteria and forego blending hydrogen at below 60% load, provided crucial project alignment, he said. It also allowed the team to address emerging supply chain constraints and rising prices for specialty items, such as stainless steel valves and piping. “We had to act quickly and grab things or commit to things when we could,” he said. **Permitting the novel project also prompted some issues.** Barry said the Ohio Power Siting Board was “extremely interested” in the project; it has monitored the volume of hydrogen the project has combusted in tests. Part of the issue stems from a general lack of awareness by energy regulators about existing codes and standards that exist for industrial hydrogen use. [![](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/wp- content/uploads/2023/06/B43D42E8-FD73-48B8-B38D-25E2C7091BBA-150x150.jpg)](… content/uploads/2023/06/B43D42E8-FD73-48B8-B38D-25E2C7091BBA.jpeg) High pressure hydrogen transport trailers **PHOTO** : The Long Ridge team successfully completed a test to combust an initial blending of 5% hydrogen and 95% natural gas fuel in March 2022. A key feature of the test was the H2 Integrated Fuel Blending System, a system that GE provided to allow the initial blending of 5% hydrogen with natural gas by volume. The system comprised two hydrogen trailers each holding up to about 100,000 cubic feet of hydrogen. Once the hydrogen was onsite, supply from the two tanks went into a blending system and was then sent to the gas turbine. **Courtesy: GE Gas Power** While the team didn’t see any changes in the plant’s operating parameters when running the turbine at 5% hydrogen, future tests promise to shed more light on technical challenges. Transitioning to higher concentrations of hydrogen may “bring a new set of unknowns,” he said. Barry, however, noted that a key takeaway from the experience is that designing and building a purpose-built plant “makes a whole lot more sense than coming back for retrofit later.” **Future Uncertainties — Some Known & Some Unanticipated** Another substantial hurdle was securing adequate hydrogen fuel supply, particularly for the first-fire test. On an hourly basis, the 7HA.02 consumes more than 100,000 cubic feet of hydrogen. While Long Ridge has access to industrial byproduct hydrogen nearby and had it trucked in on tube trailers for the test, a supplier maintenance outage during the testing period underscored “how big the supply problem” can be, Barry said. **Reliable hydrogen supplies as fuel for gas turbines will likely endure as a long-standing challenge.** _Costs are another concern._ Wholey said Long Ridge’s efforts to secure larger quantities for further testing will rely on lowering the hydrogen cost. “A big component of hydrogen cost is transportation and storage,” he said. While Wholey is optimistic that recently announced U.S. government initiatives to develop hydrogen hubs may alleviate the issue somewhat, the necessary hydrogen infrastructure may not be fully built-out for several years. **“The obvious solution is to make hydrogen onsite, next to the power plant,” he said. For now, the company has several options. While it can produce green hydrogen with electrolysis using water from the Ohio River, wind and solar in eastern Ohio don’t produce as much power as in the West. “I think that those locations are probably better suited for making green hydrogen since solar can be fairly cheap,” he said.** “We sit right next to one of the largest gas pipeline hubs in the world, Clarington Hub, and so in this location, blue hydrogen and other ways of making hydrogen are better suited.” However, the company continues to explore other hydrogen production methods, including methane pyrolysis and even breaking down recycled aluminum to create hydrogen from the process. “That may be ironic, given the history of the site as an aluminum smelter,” Wholey said. “The way we’re thinking about the site that we own is almost as a hydrogen incubator, creating a number of different pilot projects and scaling them over time to make hydrogen onsite.” Meanwhile, the site also offers good long-term storage prospects, Wholey noted. “We’re fortunate at Long Ridge that the geology is suitable for hydrogen storage. And what I mean by that is we have a fairly thick layer of salt that runs throughout this area. Caverns can be leached in that salt, which is really one of the most cost-effective ways for large-scale hydrogen storage,” he said. For Wholey, a more treacherous “unknown” relates to the market component of power generation from hydrogen. “Specifically, what is the revenue opportunity from running an existing generation unit on hydrogen?” he asked. While the market is moving to value reliability and sustainability, cost competitiveness continues to pose a challenge. “But hydrogen is still so new in terms of large-scale generation, and we believe that first we need to show the market that it’s possible. And now that we’ve done that, that has really helped kickstart some of our discussions with large companies, for example, that have targets to be emissions-free, in some cases on a 24/7 basis.” **Wholey suggested that industry should approach value proposition from the standpoint that hydrogen power, a decarbonized dispatchable asset, complements wind and solar both as a balancer and as storage. “The way we think about cost should really be compared to long-term battery storage,” he said. Currently, however, no real policy or market advocacy exists because hydrogen power is so new.** —Sonal Patel is a POWER senior associate editor URL: <https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/06/07/hannibal-ohio-is-becoming-a- hydrogen-technology-center-directly-west-of-morgantown-in-ohio-valley/>

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It Isn’t Easy Being Green at US Department of Energy
by Frack Check WV: Duane Nichols 06 Jun '23

06 Jun '23

# [It Isn’t Easy Being Green at US Department of Energy](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/06/06/it-isn%e2%80%99t-easy-being- green-at-us-department-of-energy/) [![](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/wp- content/uploads/2023/06/1BDDA05E-A61D-4002-ACD8-3C788998E242.jpeg)](https:/… content/uploads/2023/06/1BDDA05E-A61D-4002-ACD8-3C788998E242.jpeg) Diagram to become modern art in “Museum of Technical Wonders” **US DOE Sets Vision for Major Clean Hydrogen Scale-Up** From an [Article by Lauren Craft, Energy Intelligence News](https://www.energyintel.com/00000188-8cab-d485-af9e-aefb80350000), June 5, 2023 **US DOE of President Joe Biden’s administration has rolled out a national clean hydrogen strategy that acts as an important signal for the emerging industry, but leaves unanswered questions about which types of hydrogen would be promoted.** [The 99-page strategy aims to set a unified vision](https://www.hydrogen.energy.gov/pdfs/us-national-clean-hydrogen- strategy-roadmap.pdf) around scaling up US clean hydrogen production to 50 million metric tons by 2050, which would in turn cut 10% of US greenhouse gas emissions between now and then. That 10% reduction would see decreases from multiple sectors of the economy — particularly hard-to-decarbonize industries where hydrogen is increasingly eyed as a replacement for fossil fuels. **In the industrial sector, this includes segments like cement and steel, and in transportation, this includes heavy-duty trucking, maritime vessels and aviation, explained White House Climate Adviser Ali Zaidi in a call with reporters. The plan also eyes clean hydrogen uptake in agricultural sectors and energy use within buildings, Zaidi added.** Despite the broad appeal of the landmark Inflation Reduction Act, (IRA) the US has faced criticism for mixed messages on the energy transition, with investors finding it difficult to reconcile sometimes-conflicting signals from various agencies, lawmakers and states. The new strategy marks an attempt to deliver more clarity on the clean hydrogen front — while rallying the government around a unified goal and earning consensus and mutual trust from the private sector. Biden administration officials said they canvassed views of industry and other stakeholders beforehand and used those to shape the strategy. US Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm said a major objective of the new strategy is to provide certainty across the different points in the clean hydrogen value chain. _“When you’re creating an entirely new sector — which is what the clean hydrogen economy will be — you have to do everything, everywhere all at once,” she said in a call with reporters. “That means looking at supply-side strategy, the workforce, the offtake strategy to make sure there are going to be customers. You have to look at the physical locations of supplies, where will hydrogen be taken from, delivered to, and by what means.”_ Experts are saying that clean hydrogen investments are lopsided at present. Investments in production are ramping up, but spending is lagging on infrastructure and offtake agreements. Some say this is to be expected, with production bound to lead and downstream investments eventually expected to catch up. **Elephant in the Room** ~ The government has not yet spelled out the answer to a major unanswered question: What, from the point of view of the government, constitutes “clean hydrogen"? Granholm said Monday that this is an “important consideration” and to “stay tuned.” Although so-called green hydrogen produced using renewable electricity would obviously be fundamental to the strategy, the role remains unclear for blue hydrogen produced using natural gas with CCS, pink hydrogen made using nuclear power, or similar varieties. **The same cloud of uncertainty surrounds the hydrogen production tax credits included in the IRA. Many have lamented that the Treasury Department has not yet released guidance about what types of hydrogen would fully qualify for the $3 per kilogram incentive based on lifecycle emissions intensity.** That's a key consideration for oil and gas companies like Exxon Mobil that are betting on blue hydrogen as a way to help scale up the hydrogen economy and perhaps eventually pave the way for green hydrogen. **Blue hydrogen — and, of course, conventional gray hydrogen produced using unabated natural gas — are far more cost-competitive today than green hydrogen.** **Broader Vision Suggested** ~ The high price tag of clean hydrogen hasn't gone unnoticed by administration officials. The new strategy was characterized as a way to help achieve scale and meet the Department of Energy's target of lowering clean hydrogen costs roughly 80%, to $1/kg, over the next decade. **The plan also mirrors the DOE’s effort to establish hydrogen hubs around the country, which has attracted an expansive list of project and concept proposals.** **Granholm said Monday that the hub initiative is undergoing peer review and that her department hopes to unveil more details of the envisioned hubs, including their locations, this September.** URL: <https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/06/06/it-isn%e2%80%99t-easy-being- green-at-us-department-of-energy/>

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Latest Debt Ceiling Deal Grants Blanket Approval to Mountain Valley Pipeline
by Frack Check WV: Duane Nichols 05 Jun '23

05 Jun '23

# [Latest Debt Ceiling Deal Grants Blanket Approval to Mountain Valley Pipeline](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/06/05/latest-debt-ceiling-deal- grants-overall-blanket-approval-to-mountain-valley-pipeline/) [![](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/wp- content/uploads/2023/06/8D3448C7-4DB9-44F6-9786-A49931D74A3B-300x199.jpg)](… content/uploads/2023/06/8D3448C7-4DB9-44F6-9786-A49931D74A3B.jpeg) Members of VA delegation, including Sen. Kaine, spoke against inclusion of MVP in dirty deal **Mountain Valley Pipeline approvals OKed as part of (dirty) debt ceiling deal** From an [Article by Charlie Paullen, Virginia Mercury](https://www.virginiamercury.com/2023/06/02/mountain-valley-pipelin… approvals-oked-as-part-of-debt-ceiling-deal/), June 2, 2023 **The controversial Mountain Valley Pipeline received federal support for completion Thursday after the U.S. Senate approved a debt ceiling deal that includes a provision requiring fast-tracked approvals for the project, despite opposition from some members of Virginia’s congressional delegation.** **Both the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate sent the Fiscal Responsibility Act, which prevents the country from defaulting on its debt, to Democratic President Joe Biden with a measure attached to it that creates a 21-day deadline for the government to approve permits for the project.** **The provision also states that “no court shall have jurisdiction to review any action” taken by various federal actors to provide approvals for the pipeline and mandates that any challenges to the legislation be heard in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, which is generally seen as more favorable to the project than the U.S. 4th Circuit Court of Appeals, where most legal challenges have been heard.** **The move was hotly opposed by Virginia’s Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine, who this week sought an amendment to the bill to strip out the pipeline provision. Democratic Sen. Mark Warner also opposed inclusion of the provision. The amendment failed Thursday.** “My Virginians just want to be sure that if this pipeline is built, it has met the requisite standards of review agencies, both state and federal, and it has withstood any court challenges,” said Kaine in a floor speech Thursday. “Most people would be embarrassed to ask for that. ‘I lost, I’m unhappy, why don’t I get Congress to rewrite the rules of federal jurisdiction and take this case away from the court that’s maybe unhappy and put it in another court.’” **[[See the text of the MVP provision shown in the Comments below](https://www.virginiamercury.com/2023/06/02/mountain-valley-pipeline- approvals-oked-as-part-of-debt-ceiling-deal/)]** The 303-mile natural gas pipeline received its initial approval from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in 2017 to supply gas from the Marcellus and Utica shale fields to southern Virginia. Initially expected to be finished in 2018, completion of the project has been delayed due to numerous legal challenges over environmental impacts, including sediment and erosion issues. In 2019, the pipeline agreed to pay Virginia $2.15 million to resolve litigation over what former Attorney General Mark Herring had claimed were some 300 environmental violations in the commonwealth. Most recently, the pipeline sought and received a four-year extension of its approval from FERC to continue construction. An earlier attempt to force completion of Mountain Valley through a deal between the White House, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Sen. Joe Manchin, D-West Virginia, related to the Inflation Reduction Act failed this fall. In a sharply critical floor speech in September, Kaine said the proposal would set “a very, very dangerous precedent.” Environmental groups in Virginia took to the streets in Richmond, Roanoke, Norfolk and Vienna on Thursday to rally in opposition to the bill. Virginia Del. Sam Rasoul, D-Roanoke, participated in the Roanoke gathering. Chesapeake Climate Action Network and Appalachian Voices rallied in Richmond outside of Warner’s office. “We do not want this project built, and we will not stop until that project is stopped,” said Jessica Sims, a field coordinator with Appalachian Voices. The project is estimated to be 94% complete, according to the company, although environmental groups dispute the calculation. “We look forward to completing this important infrastructure project by the end of 2023 and flowing domestic natural gas for the benefits of reliability and affordability in the form of lower natural gas prices for consumers,” wrote Mountain Valley Pipeline spokesperson Natalie Cox in an email. “To date, Mountain Valley has successfully acquired 100 percent of right-of-way in West Virginia and more than 99 percent of right-of-way in Virginia, providing landowners with more than $125 million in compensation across the 303-mile route.” In October, the company withdrew its legal challenges seeking eminent domain for an extension project into North Carolina. URL: <https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/06/05/latest-debt-ceiling-deal-grants- overall-blanket-approval-to-mountain-valley-pipeline/>

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Two Separate Explosions ~ Utica Shale Pad in Ohio & Fairmont Brine Processing in WV
by Frack Check WV: Duane Nichols 04 Jun '23

04 Jun '23

# [Two Separate Explosions ~ Utica Shale Pad in Ohio & Fairmont Brine Processing in WV](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/06/04/two-separate- explosions-utica-shale-pad-in-ohio-fairmont-brine-processing-in-wv/) [![](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/wp- content/uploads/2023/06/FCB9F60D-8ABC-47C7-88CC- FB60773D97AB.jpeg)](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/wp- content/uploads/2023/06/FCB9F60D-8ABC-47C7-88CC-FB60773D97AB.jpeg) Highly corrosive brine (residual) wastewater processing facility on Mon River in Fairmont **Well pad explosion rattles windows for miles, no injuries** From an [Article of Your Radio Place in Ohio](https://yourradioplace.com/well- pad-explosion-rattles-windows-for-miles-no-injuries/), June 1, 2023 LORE CITY, Ohio–Members of three area fire companies responded to the report of an oil and gas well pad explosion Thursday morning. Around 10 am Thursday, a explosion was reported at a Utica Resources drilling site on Leatherwood Road (SR 265) near the intersection of Salem Road, located east of Lore City. According to local fire officials, a storage tank on the site exploded for reasons yet to be determined. The blast was reported by residents nearly 15 miles away. Members of Lore City, Old Washington and Quaker City Fire Departments responded, and per protocol, staged at the entrance to the pad site. Following the explosion, a small fire was extinguished and situation was quickly brought under control by drilling company personnel on scene. One worker, close to the blast received minor injuries and was evaluated by Old Washington EMS personnel. The worker refused treatment. There was no report of nearby property damage and the incident is under investigation by the ODNR, well drilling company personnel and local fire officials. #######+++++++########+++++++######## **WV-DEP: Testing after Fairmont explosion showed no signs of contamination** Articles by [C. Allan, WBOY News 12, Posted: May 30, 2023](https://www.wboy.com/emergencies/911-center-no-evacuation-necessary- after-fairmont-explosion/), Updated: May 31, 2023, UPDATE: 5/31/2023, 1:14 p.m. FAIRMONT, W.Va. (WBOY) — Officials with the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) are still assessing the site of a fire that happened at the Fairmont Brine Plant on Tuesday. According to an update sent to 12 News by a DEP representative early Wednesday afternoon, testing performed by the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources on Tuesday showed that no first responders showed any signs of contamination. “No testing showed above background readings on their bodies,” said a DEP representative. The representative also said that when the fire was extinguished around 4 p.m. on Tuesday, DEP staff did not see evidence of material or firefighting water leaving the site. Crews from the DEP, Fairmont Brine Plant and Environmental Protection Agency are currently on site conducting an updated assessment. UPDATE: 5/30/2023, 7:01 p.m. FAIRMONT, W.Va. (WBOY) — After previous reports that no evacuation was needed after an explosion at a brine plant in Fairmont on Tuesday, officials from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) are now at the site testing for radioactive material. According to the Marion County Homeland Security & Emergency Management Facebook page, DEP is at the Fairmont Brine Plant on AFR Drive performing various sampling tests of the air and ground. The post said that the operations are contained to the immediate affected area. The Winfield VFD, Valley VFD, MCRS, Bunner Ridge VFD, Rivesville VFD, Barrackville VFD, Marion County Sheriff, Marion DHSEM, WV DEP, and Mon County Hazardous Response Team all responded. ORIGINAL: 5/30/2023, 2:59 p.m. FAIRMONT, W.Va. (WBOY) — A representative with the Department of Environmental Protection has been called following an explosion in Fairmont. According to the Marion County 911 Communications Center, an explosion was reported at 1:53 p.m. Tuesday at the old brine processing plant on AFR Drive in Fairmont. When crews arrived on the scene, they reported back that there were no injuries and determined it was not necessary to evacuate the area due to potential chemical leaks resulting from the reported explosion, comm center officials said. At this time, the Department of Environmental Protection has been notified of the incident and is sending a representative to the scene, according to the comm center. At the scene were the Winfield, Valley, Rivesville, Barrackville and Bunner Ridge fire departments, also on the scene is the Marion County Rescue Squad as a precaution, comm center officials said. The Winfield District Volunteer Fire Department is the lead at the scene, according to the comm center. Currently, the crews on scene are following precautionary direction and instruction per the Department of Environmental Protection. #######+++++++#######+++++++######## **TIMELINE for Fairmont Brine Processing** > 2009 – Facility was constructed under previous ownership > Q4 2009 – Venture Engineering & Construction, Inc. (“Venture”) hired by > previous ownership to manage construction and commissioning > Late 2009 – Operations begin (3,500 bbl/day facility) 2010 - Facility encounters increasing and severe metallurgical issues ~ Facility shuts down due to improper materials of construction and process issues 2012 - Facility is acquired by Fairmont Brine Processing, LLC (“FBP”) Venture is hired to redevelop the facility as a 4,000 bbl/day plant 2013 - Pretreatment operations commence July 1, 2014 - Evaporation & Crystallization process operations commence October 1, 2014 – Sold 100% of the plant capacity under two take or pay contracts (4,000 bbls /day) through end of 2016. URL: <https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/06/04/two-separate-explosions-utica- shale-pad-in-ohio-fairmont-brine-processing-in-wv/>

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WV Environmental Council Calls for Action Now, Ahead of 2024
by Frack Check WV: Duane Nichols 03 Jun '23

03 Jun '23

# [WV Environmental Council Calls for Action Now, Ahead of 2024](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/06/03/wv-environmental-council-call… for-action-now-ahead-of-2024/) [![](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/wp- content/uploads/2023/06/2EDB34AC-21CD-453A-80C6-851977729D8A.jpeg)](https:/… content/uploads/2023/06/2EDB34AC-21CD-453A-80C6-851977729D8A.jpeg) E-Council activities are essential in West Virginia now and next year! **Action Alert ~ Calling all Changemakers! Prepare for Coming Months & Year!** >From the [West Virginia Environmental Council, Charleston, WV](https://wvecouncil.org/calling-all-changemakers/), June 2, 2023 The **West Virginia Environmental Council (WVEC)** is gearing up for the 2024 legislative session with several crucial campaigns, and we need your support to make a real impact. And there is even a greater sense of urgency now that the [Mountain Valley Pipeline (MVP)](https://wvecouncil.org/calling-all- changemakers/) has been exempted from judicial review, placing it above the law and risking our lands and waters. By joining our campaigns, whether it's through writing Op-Eds, engaging with legislators, or boots-on-the-ground water quality monitoring with [WV Rivers Coalition (WVRC)](https://wvecouncil.org/calling-all-changemakers/), you can play an active role in protecting our state. Lawmakers must hear directly from their constituents on the issues that matter most. Your unique voice can help us gain the momentum we need before the next legislative session begins. Year-round outreach is crucial. **Please take a moment to complete our survey and let us know how you 'd like to contribute.** [Complete our volunteer survey today!](https://wvecouncil.org/calling-all- changemakers/) If you have any questions or need help with the form, please don't hesitate to contact us at WVECevents(a)gmail.com. [Add your voice to our campaigns! Thank you!](https://wvecouncil.org/calling-all-changemakers/) >>> **West Virginia Environmental Council** , P.O. Box 1007, Charleston, WV 25324 ~ info(a)wvecouncil.org ~ (304) 414-0143 #######+++++++#######+++++++######## **See Also the E-Calendar:** Check out our calendar for upcoming events and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to stay informed! [See the Calendar here!](https://wvecouncil.org/calendar/) URL: <https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/06/03/wv-environmental-council-calls- for-action-now-ahead-of-2024/>

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Misguided Sen. Manchin Taking Nation Over “Climate Cliff”
by Frack Check WV: Duane Nichols 01 Jun '23

01 Jun '23

# [Misguided Sen. Manchin Taking Nation Over “Climate Cliff”](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/06/01/misguided-sen-manchin-takin… nation-over-%e2%80%9cclimate-cliff%e2%80%9d/) [![](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/wp- content/uploads/2023/06/AC396935-3B19-482C-AE06-AB4E91452150.jpeg)](https:/… content/uploads/2023/06/AC396935-3B19-482C-AE06-AB4E91452150.jpeg) MVP at 42 inch diameter is too large for such rough terrain & risks are too high **Congress Is Turning Climate Gaslighting Into Law** From an [Article by Jonathan Mingle, New York Times](https://www.nytimes.com/live/2023/05/31/us/debt-ceiling-biden- mccarthy), June 1, 2023 Late on Saturday, as members of Congress scrambled to strike a deal for legislation that would raise the nation’s debt ceiling, they agreed to a total non sequitur in the text they would release the next day. Following a series of late-in-the-game interventions by lobbyists and energy executives, the draft bill declared the construction and operation of a natural gas pipeline to be “required in the national interest.” It wasn’t really germane to the debt ceiling, at least not in the literal sense. But then again, it wasn’t any ordinary pipeline. Building the Mountain Valley Pipeline, a 303-mile-long conduit to bring fracked gas from West Virginia to southern Virginia, has been a top priority for Senator Joe Manchin III of West Virginia since the project was announced in 2014. The problem, for him and the project’s other supporters, is that it has been fiercely opposed by grass-roots groups and landowners living in the project’s path for just as long. Construction on the project was recently stalled after federal judges found that regulatory agencies had repeatedly failed to comply with environmental laws. By forcing through this pipeline, the Biden administration rounded out the ransom sought by Republicans holding the global economy hostage, and paid off a debt of its own to Mr. Manchin for his crucial vote last year for the Inflation Reduction Act But if the Senate passes the bill the House passed Wednesday, an insidious piece of misinformation will be enshrined in federal law: the claim that the pumping, piping and burning of more fossil fuels is — despite all scientific evidence and common sense to the contrary — a climate solution. **Natural gas is predominantly made up of methane, a climate-warming super- pollutant that is responsible for about a third of the warming the world has experienced to date. If completed, the Mountain Valley Pipeline will be a very large and long-lived methane delivery device. At the wells that feed it and along the way, some of that methane will inevitably leak into the atmosphere, where each molecule will exert 86 times the heat-trapping power of carbon dioxide over a 20-year period. At the end of the line, the methane will be burned in power plants and furnaces, producing carbon dioxide. Taken together, by one estimate, the M.V.P. would generate yearly emissions equivalent to what’s produced by 26 coal plants.** Mr. Manchin was also a supporter of another large gas pipeline that would have originated in his state: the Atlantic Coast Pipeline, which I have been reporting on since 2019. The two pipelines were twins, announced on the same day in 2014 and approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission on the same day in 2017. They would have crossed similarly steep and landslide-prone Appalachian terrain. But the A.C.P. was canceled in 2020 after years of tenacious grass-roots resistance and successful legal challenges. Mr. Manchin seems determined to rescue the Mountain Valley Pipeline from this fate. And with it, his gas industry and power utility donors — whose lobbyists helped him in the final hours of debt ceiling deal making — will be able to further strengthen their foothold in the energy system. White House officials have said that the project would probably have secured the remaining federal permits regardless. But the provision authorizes all necessary permits and bars further judicial review of any of them — thus neutering an essential tool for ensuring that infrastructure projects comply with existing laws and regulations. It’s the legislative equivalent of overturning the Scrabble board in a fit of pique when you’re losing a game fair and square. For many of those living in the project’s path, who watched as its construction has so far triggered over 500 recorded violations of water quality and other regulations, it’s a terrible betrayal. But it also sets a dangerous precedent. It is it’s safe to assume this won’t be the last time this tactic is pursued to shield fossil fuel projects from judicial review or scientific scrutiny, if they happen to be deemed by their developers and political allies to be in the “national interest.” ‘Terrible public policy’: Why the debt deal infuriates climate activists The deal does little for the clean energy transition, and expedites a natural gas pipeline. But it keeps intact … **Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia has cited this risk in explaining his opposition to the Mountain Valley Pipeline provision. When Mr. Manchin succeeded in getting a similar carve-out attached to the continuing budget resolution to fund the government last September, Mr. Kaine refused to vote for it. “If the M.V.P. owners are unhappy with a court ruling, they should do what other litigants do and appeal,” he said. “Allowing them to fundamentally change federal law to achieve their goal would surely encourage other wealthy people and companies to try the same. I won’t participate in opening that door to abuse and even corruption.”** Mr. Kaine, along with other Democratic members of the Virginia congressional delegation, remains opposed; this week he said he’s against any debt-ceiling bill that exempts the Mountain Valley Pipeline from judicial review. Meanwhile one of the lead Republican negotiators told reporters this week the pipeline provision is a “huge win” for his party, because it puts “Democrats on record supporting a conventional energy project that removes or ties the hands of the judiciary.” How a fossil fuel pipeline helped grease the debt ceiling deal ~ A group of Republican lawmakers, urged on by oil and gas lobbyists, saw an opening for the Mountain Valley Pipeline. Democratic leaders will surely bristle at the suggestion that they are helping the gas industry obstruct the transition to clean energy. After all, they passed the Inflation Reduction Act, the most significant climate legislation in U.S. history, and protected its raft of clean energy incentives from cuts in the debt ceiling deal. It’s clear that the deal makers regard themselves as the grown-ups in the room, making the tough trade-offs needed to avert financial catastrophe. But when the stakes are this large, one need not grant them that deference. There’s always a political “crisis” gathering on the near horizon that will supersede concerns about the climate — that will cause us to look away from the dizzying rise of methane concentrations, currently spiking to levels not seen in over 800,000 years, a trend tracking with the worst-case climate scenarios. This is what it looks like to shuffle along toward climate chaos, one misguided “compromise” at a time. [Mr. Mingle is an independent journalist at work on a book about the grass- roots and legal fights over new gas pipelines.] #######+++++++#######+++++++######## **NOTICE** ~ **Virginia Democrats Tim Kaine and Jennifer McClellan aren 't happy with the White House for not alerting them of the Mountain Valley Pipeline project's inclusion in the debt ceiling deal — and they're not hiding it.** From the [Article by Nancy Vu and Josh Siegel, Politico dot com, ](https://www.politico.com/minutes/congress/05-31-2023/virginia-dems-anger-at- wh/)May 30, 2023 **What 's happening:** Virginia Democrats are fuming about the inclusion of the Mountain Valley Pipeline in the debt ceiling deal reached between House Republicans and the White House — but are aiming their ire at the Biden administration for not giving them a heads-up beforehand. **The details:** Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.) criticized the White House for not alerting the lawmaker about including the natural gas pipeline, which would run from northwestern West Virginia and cut through parts of his home state, in the debt limit proposal. **What he said:** ~ "It's extremely frustrating because there could have been other vehicles to do it. I mean, it doesn't have to go into the debt ceiling bill. … [The White House doesn't] even bother to pick up the phone and call me. Have I made them mad? No, I'm the one they call to try and get cabinet secretaries confirmed. 'Go talk to your colleagues. They're not yet going to vote for Julie Su.' … They call me and ask me to help out. So like, what did I do wrong?" **What he 's asking for:** Kaine is requesting a vote on an amendment that would strip out the Mountain Valley Pipeline provision from the bill, arguing that if Republican senators get votes on their proposed amendments, he should be granted a vote as well. "Look, if I get screwed by putting this thing in, and then we get [votes] only on Republican amendments and not on mine, I'm really going to be unhappy. So I should get an amendment on this." In the case the amendment fails — which is likely considering there isn't enough Republican support to remove the pipeline project — Kaine stopped short of saying he would oppose the debt ceiling proposal. Rep. Jennifer McClellan (D-Va.), who said she's undecided on how she'll vote on the debt ceiling bill, shared Kaine's frustration on the lack of communication from the Biden administration. "[The White House] say they’ve just accelerated what was already going to happen," McClellan told POLITICO. "If that’s the case, then why bother?” McClellan is leading other Virginia Democrats in introducing an amendment in the House to strip the project from the bill. But fair warning: It's likely to fail in the Republican-controlled House. A spokesperson for Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.) told the Washington Examiner that while the Virginia Democrat opposes the inclusion of the pipeline, the senator will ultimately vote for the debt ceiling deal. Significance: Kaine has been publicly against Congress weighing in on the Mountain Valley Pipeline — including during a deal struck last year between Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Manchin to allow for a vote to approve the pipeline and broader reforms speeding up approval of energy projects, in exchange for Manchin's vote on Democrats' sweeping climate and health bill. Kaine came out against the deal when it was floated for inclusion in a government spending bill in September 2022 — and yet again underlined that he was not consulted about the details of the measure. “I strongly oppose the Mountain Valley Pipeline provision of this legislation, which would greenlight this pipeline without normal administrative and judicial review and ignore the voices of Virginians," Kaine said then in a statement. "The pipeline runs through Virginia for 100 miles and takes property from landowners, but I was not consulted as a deal was struck to approve it and thus not given an opportunity to share my constituents’ deep concerns." Fast forward: Permitting reform, along with the pipeline, were successfully blocked from being attached to the September 2022 spending deal — and later failed to be included in the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act, which was passed late last year. The debt bill, in addition to approving MVP, includes a handful of measures pushed by Republicans to ease permitting reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act. URL: <https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/06/01/misguided-sen-manchin-taking- nation-over-%e2%80%9cclimate-cliff%e2%80%9d/>

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LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD: ‘Mountain Valley Pipeline’ is in Congress
by Frack Check WV: Duane Nichols 31 May '23

31 May '23

# [LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD: ‘Mountain Valley Pipeline’ is in Congress](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/05/31/let-your-voice-be- heard-%e2%80%98mountain-valley-pipeline%e2%80%99-in-congress/) **[WILD VIRGINIA SEEKS TO PRESERVE& PROTECT OUR WILD PLACES](https://wildvirginiainfo.salsalabs.org/mvpcalltoaction/)** [![](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/wp- content/uploads/2023/05/9BC46CEB-3221-4EA7-BF1E-A02E91694F8E-300x300.png)](… content/uploads/2023/05/9BC46CEB-3221-4EA7-BF1E-A02E91694F8E.png) The environmental & public safety risks are huge and increasing with the age of the pipe **Thank you for your continued action**. _Updates and urgent calls to action are below! The calls to action are time sensitive - #1 is before 2pm._ [Please check in on the toolkit for updates, calls to action and (very long) call lists!](https://wildvirginiainfo.salsalabs.org/mvpcalltoaction/) **Update: The bill passed through the House Rules comm with NO amendments, and will go to the House floor for a vote today/tonight.** [This is the house schedule for today:](https://wildvirginiainfo.salsalabs.org/mvpcalltoaction/) 2pm ET: Convene 2:30pm: Debate rule for Fiscal Responsibility Act 3:30pm: VOTE: PQ, Rule and 1 suspension 4:10pm: Recess 7:15pm: Debate Fiscal Responsibility Act 8:30pm: VOTE MTR, passage of Fiscal Responsibility Act and 1 suspension [Call to Action #1 HOUSE PROGRESSIVE CAUCUS - Make some calls!](https://wildvirginiainfo.salsalabs.org/mvpcalltoaction/) [Call your House Rep 888-997-5380 and ask for a CLEAN debt ceiling!](https://wildvirginiainfo.salsalabs.org/mvpcalltoaction/) Then, call members of the Congressional Progressive Caucus before 2pm TODAY and ask for a CLEAN debt ceiling: [MORE CALL LISTS ARE IN THE TOOLKIT](https://wildvirginiainfo.salsalabs.org/mvpcalltoaction/) #######+++++++#######+++++++####### **Fossil Fuel ADVOCATES Manchin, Biden and Schumer Tell West Virginians to ‘Rest in Peace’** [Note: This is the first in a series about Mountaintop Removal in WV.] RICHWOOD, W.Va. – As I write this, Congress is poised to pass the so-called “Fiscal Responsibility Act.” If passed as written, it will make impotent the nation’s environmental laws, people and courts. In short, democracy will be flattened like strip-mined mountaintops. It will also lead to new, aggressive Mountaintop Removal (MTR) endeavors in West Virginia. A poem by a new contributor to the Appalachian Chronicle and some photographs I took at the Blue Knob Surface Mine in Greenbrier County, W.Va. last week warn of the dangers and grief caused by MTR. Read the full article here. As always thanks for reading and feel free to share. - MMB Michael M. Barrick, The Appalachian Chronicle URL: <https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/05/31/let-your-voice-be- heard-%e2%80%98mountain-valley-pipeline%e2%80%99-in-congress/>

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ACTION ALERT ~ The Mountain Valley Pipeline “Dirty Deal” is Back in Spades!
by Frack Check WV: Duane Nichols 29 May '23

29 May '23

# [ACTION ALERT ~ The Mountain Valley Pipeline “Dirty Deal” is Back in Spades!](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/05/29/action-alert-the-mountain- valley-pipeline-%e2%80%9cdirty-deal%e2%80%9d-is-back-in-spades/) [![](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/wp- content/uploads/2023/05/AF21BAD1-B8CB-4084-9BF8-A1D5C75EE175.jpeg)](https:/… content/uploads/2023/05/AF21BAD1-B8CB-4084-9BF8-A1D5C75EE175.jpeg) The environmental science is clear, MVP is a dirty deal for the climate & the land **Time to push back really hard and stop this Dirty Deal in the US Congress.** >> From [Maury W. Johnson, Affected Resident & POWHR Member in Monroe County, WV](https://powhr.org/), May 28, 2023 **According to an email I received from Grace Tuttle, POWHR Coalition Advocacy Director, the “Dirty Deal” was included into the “Debit Ceiling Deal.”** **It orders all permits to be granted within 21 days and mandates NO judicial review for permits. This text, full of many other cruel and destructive provisions, still has to pass the House and the Senate, but every further delay now is closer to risking default making it extremely hard to vote against by design.** **We are working to draft calls to action ASAP. We will be URGING Members of Congress to reject this horrific (on many levels) deal and to pass a clean debt ceiling.** **The MVP portion of the text** i **s Section 324 in the** [full text is available here](https://t.co/8IvlQu4isH): <https://t.co/8IvlQu4isH> >> _Thanks, Maury Johnson, Monroe County, West Virginia. Protect our Water, Heritage, Rights [POWHR]_ #######+++++++#######+++++++####### **NOTE: My urgent recommendation and request is as follows. Regardless of where you live, please Google one or more Senators from Pennsylvania, Ohio, Maryland, Delaware or Virginia and get their contact information.** Tell them the **MOUNTAIN VALLEY PIPELINE** must be rejected. It is too large in diameter for the terrain @ 42 in., it is too long for Appalachia disturbing 300 miles of farms & forests & rivers & streams. The metals pipe is subject to excess stresses due to bending & changing temperatures. There will be chemical corrosion from contact with soil & water because the coating has been exposed to sunlight beyond its safety limit. Failures at the welded joints can result in leaks that become explosions and forest fires. **(The MVP natural gas is not needed & excess greenhouse gases would be generated if installed. The pipeline project should not be decided by a back room deal in Congress.) DGN ** URL: <https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/05/29/action-alert-the-mountain- valley-pipeline-%e2%80%9cdirty-deal%e2%80%9d-is-back-in-spades/>

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Remembering the Dunkard Creek Fish Kill of August & September 2009
by Frack Check WV: Duane Nichols 28 May '23

28 May '23

# [Remembering the Dunkard Creek Fish Kill of August & September 2009](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/05/28/remembering-the-dunkard-creek- fish-kill-of-august-september-2009/) [![](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/wp- content/uploads/2023/05/5C8B41B5-AF5E-4820-9D86-87B4BB6F330C.jpeg)](https:/… content/uploads/2023/05/5C8B41B5-AF5E-4820-9D86-87B4BB6F330C.jpeg) Over 40,000 fish killed over essentially the entire length of Dunkard Creek **Remembering the 40 Mile Dunkard Creek Fish Kill of August 2009 in WV & PA** From the [Blog of Betsy J. Lawson, Monongalia County, WV](https://betsyjaeger.com/f/dunkard-creek-fish-kill), May 31, 2019 **Dunkard Creek wanders above and below the Pennsylvania-West Virginia state line for much of its forty-three miles, seeming to taunt the rigidity of man- made boundaries. It was one of the most ecologically diverse streams in either state. But in August of 2009, people who lived along the stream witnessed an unimaginable sight: thousands of fish were trying to leap out of the water.** During the next month, about 22,000 fish washed ashore, many bleeding from the gills and covered in mucous. Some estimates say as many as 65,000 died. Three- foot long muskies washed up along the riverbanks. The die-off marked one of the worst ecological disasters in the region’s history. **Some 161 species of fish, mussels, salamanders, crayfish and aquatic insects were wiped out.** [Department of Natural Resources officials from both states arrived at the crime scene to find answers.](https://betsyjaeger.com/f/dunkard-creek-fish- kill) Golden algae bloom was the cause. The algae releases a toxin that ruptures the tissue cells in the mouths and gills of fish, depriving them of oxygen and suffocating them. Algae bloom only lives in very salty waters. The DNR found that Consol Energy had been discharging acid mine drainage directly into Dunkard Creek for decades. In the spring of 2010, one of Consol’s primary contractors, Allan’s Waste Water Service, a wastewater hauling company, was charged with multiple counts of illegally dumping toxic waste, including Marcellus Shale-produced wastewater into Dunkard Creek and its tributaries. Wastewater from fracking is ten to twenty times more saline than sea water. In more recent years, hydraulic fracturing wells had been removing huge quantities of fresh water from the stream and dumping the wastewater back into the stream. Low water levels, high salt content from fracking wastewater, and especially high sulfate levels, typical of AMD, led to the algae bloom. Such a bloom had never been seen north of Texas and Florida before. How did the golden algae get to the temperate freshwater of West Virginia and Pennsylvania? [Read a more detailed explanation of the fish kill HERE](https://www.earthisland.org/journal/index.php/magazine/entry/what_kil…. #######+++++++#######+++++++####### **See Also:** [A Case Study of a Prymnesium parvum Harmful Algae Bloom in the Ohio River Drainage: Impact, Recovery and Potential for Future Invasions/Range Expansion](https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/13/22/3233), November 15, 2021 Authors are Kyle J. Hartman, David I. Wellman, Jr., Joseph W. Kingsbury, Daniel A. Cincotta, Janet L. Clayton, Kevin M. Eliason, Frank A. Jernejcic, Nathaniel V. Owens, and Dustin M. Smith ~ School of Natural Resources, West Virginia University & Wildlife Resources Section, West Virginia Division of Natural Resources **Water 2021, 13(22), 3233;<https://doi.org/10.3390/w13223233>** Received: 24 August 2021 / Revised: 9 October 2021 / Accepted: 2 November 2021 / Published: 15 November 2021. (This article belongs to the Special Issue: “The Blue Economy: Evaluating the Human Benefits from and Pressures on Marine and Coastal Environments”) **Abstract** ~ Inland waters provide valuable ecosystem goods and services and are intrinsically linked to downstream coastal areas. Water quality impairments that lead to harmful algal blooms damage valuable commercial and recreational fishing economies, threaten food security, and damage already declining native species. Prymnesium parvum is a brackish water golden alga that can survive in salinities less than 1 ppm and when it blooms it can create toxins that kill aquatic life. Blooms have been documented globally including 23 U.S. states. We report a case study of an aquatic life kill associated with P. parvum in Dunkard Creek (WV-PA, USA), in the Ohio River Drainage. We document the immediate impact to aquatic life and responses of the aquatic community ten years post-kill. Most fish species returned within a year. Excellent connectivity to unimpacted tributaries and a river downstream likely aided the reestablishment of most species, although some had not reached pre-kill abundances after ten years. Mussel taxa did not recover despite significant efforts to relocate adult mussels and stocking of host fish inoculated with glochidia; probably due to other water quality impairments. Given the potential for lateral transport of P. parvum via industry and natural vectors we conducted an ecological risk assessment mapping the spatial extent of U.S. waters that could be threatened by golden algae colonization and blooms using a national water quality database and a state database. Overall, about 4.5% of lotic systems appeared to have some level of risk of harboring P. parvum, making them at risk for potential golden algae blooms in the face of increasing salinization and eutrophication of freshwaters. URL: <https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/05/28/remembering-the-dunkard-creek- fish-kill-of-august-september-2009/>

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Wind Powered Electrolysis Projects Have Been Slow to Materialize
by Frack Check WV: Duane Nichols 27 May '23

27 May '23

# [Wind Powered Electrolysis Projects Have Been Slow to Materialize](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/05/27/wind-powered- electrolysis-projects-have-been-slow-to-materialize/) [![](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/wp- content/uploads/2023/05/15BF9606-DC25-4AF6-837C-EF3461778820-300x203.jpg)](… content/uploads/2023/05/15BF9606-DC25-4AF6-837C-EF3461778820.jpeg) Green hydrogen: full of promise but not without risk | November 2022 (Allianz Speciality) **Green hydrogen faces ‘significant step-up challenge’ says report** . . From an [Article by Janet Wood, Wind Power Monthly,](https://www.windpowermonthly.com/article/1824050/green-hydrogen- faces-significant-step-up-challenge-report) 25 May 2023 . . **Electrolysis projects are taking longer to deliver than expected due to lack of government support.** More than 1,000 large-scale project proposals had been announced by the end of January 2023 for all types of low-carbon hydrogen, according to the Hydrogen Insights report, produced by McKinsey consultancy and the Hydrogen Council. It expected 795 projects to be fully or partially commissioned by the end of 2030, representing total investments of $320 billion and capacity of 38Mt per year. About 25Mt of that capacity is from renewables. The report said that of the 12Mt of projects added in the past eight months, about 10 Mt are renewable hydrogen. It pointed to the high growth in announcements in renewables-rich regions such as Africa and the Middle East. But projects are taking longer to deliver than expected, the report warned. Out of the 6GW of electrolysis projects due for deployment by the end of 2022, only 700MW have been delivered – largely in China. More than 200GW of electrolysis capacity is needed by 2030 to track net zero in 2050, according to the report – more than 200 times the capacity installed today. “The next three to five years represent a significant scale-up challenge,” it added. The report blamed slow deployment on lack of government support and slow permitting, supply chain and engineering, procurement and construction capacity constraints. It also lamented the high cost of deploying projects while offtakers would not pay a green premium. Some 120GW of electrolysis projects were undergoing feasibility studies, the report said, while only 9GW had achieved final investment decision (FID). Geographically, Europe is the largest market but has less than 1.5GW past the FID stage. “Momentum is strong, and the industry is planning investments into clean hydrogen, yet much more needs to be done,” the report concluded. >> Scottish port could become offshore wind-powered hydrogen hub — Offshore wind companies have increased their links with industry in Scotland’s Cromarty Firth region after it was named a ‘green freeport’ by the UK government, raising expectations for it to become a green hydrogen hub. >> Port of Rotterdam to tender for offshore-wind powered 1GW green hydrogen plant — The Port of Rotterdam is developing a tender for a 1GW electrolyser facility to be built in connection with the IJmuiden Ver Beta wind farm. Both projects are due for completion in 2028. The Port will reserve 11 hectares at Maasvlakte for the project. #######+++++++#######+++++++####### **UPDATE INFORMATION** ~ HYDR: The DOE's H2 Hubs Spell A New Era For Hydrogen, Sean Daly, Seeking Alpha, May 26, 2023 Down 68% from its high, the Global X Hydrogen ETF looks washed out. Of the original 79 bids for DOE-subsidized hydrogen hubs, 22 were allowed to send full applications before April 7th, and the final “7 to 10” will be chosen this fall. The DOE will disburse $8 billion for the buildout, giving the hub's corporate partners -HYDR's primary holdings -- a much clearer glide path to profitability. URL: <https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/05/27/wind-powered-electrolysis- projects-have-been-slow-to-materialize/>

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Power Plant Residue Ponds Need More Regulation, Whether Active or Inactive
by Frack Check WV: Duane Nichols 26 May '23

26 May '23

# [Power Plant Residue Ponds Need More Regulation, Whether Active or Inactive](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/05/26/power-plant-residue-ponds- need-more-regulation-whether-active-or-inactive/) [![](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/5BB732AA- BD32-419E-99AB-432750D4F379.jpeg)](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/wp- content/uploads/2023/05/5BB732AA-BD32-419E-99AB-432750D4F379.jpeg) Little Blue Run Lake in Beaver County (PA) and Hancock County (WV) **Changes Proposed for Management of Legacy Coal Combustion Residuals (CCR)** >From the [Roux Group, Long Island, NY](https://info.rouxinc.com/usepa- proposed-changes-to-ccr-regulations/), May 25, 2023 The USEPA is proposing changes to the CCR regulations for inactive surface impoundments at inactive electric utilities, referred to as "legacy CCR surface impoundments." The USEPA is proposing that within tailored compliance deadlines, owners and operators of legacy CCR surface impoundments comply with all existing requirements applicable to inactive CCR surface impoundments at active facilities, except for the location restrictions and liner design criteria. These are ponds which were exempted from the original rule in 2015. This action is in response to the August 21, 2018 opinion by the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit (Utility Solid Waste Activities Group, et al v. EPA), which voided the provision that exempted inactive impoundments at inactive facilities from the April 17, 2015 CCR rule. The notice for the proposed rule changes came out on May 18, 2023. Legacy CCR surface impoundments are more likely to be unlined and unmonitored, making them more prone to leaks and structural problems than units at utilities that are currently in service. Legacy CCR surface impoundment and CCR management units are currently not regulated at the federal level and pose risks to groundwater. Therefore, as part of this action, the USEPA is also proposing to establish groundwater monitoring, corrective action, closure, and post closure care requirements for all CCR management units (regardless of how or when that CCR was placed) at regulated CCR facilities. These additional requirements may result in substantial additional long-term costs for facilities with these types of impoundments, depending on how legacy CCR impoundments are currently managed at the state level. The USEPA will collect public comments on this proposal until July 17, 2023. The USEPA will host an in-person hearing in Chicago, IL on June 28, 2023 and an online public hearing on July 12, 2023. Once the rule is finalized, it is expected to impact as many as 400 CCR units nationwide. [For more information on legacy CCR surface impoundments and understanding the proposed changes, use the form provided.](https://info.rouxinc.com/usepa- proposed-changes-to-ccr-regulations/) >> Roux Group, 209 Shafter Street, Islandia, NY 11749, United States #######+++++++#######+++++++####### **See Also:** [Little Blue Run Lake or Little Blue Run is the largest coal ash impound in the United States.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Little_Blue_Run_Lake) FirstEnergy owns the site, located in Western Pennsylvania and parts of the Northern Panhandle of West Virginia, and has disposed of billions of gallons of coal waste into the body of water. Several court cases have been brought against the company as a result of the damage caused by the company's practices at the site. [From Wikipedia.] URL: <https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/05/26/power-plant-residue-ponds-need- more-regulation-whether-active-or-inactive/>

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New “Workforce Hubs” to Focus on Advanced Technology & Clean Energy
by Frack Check WV: Duane Nichols 25 May '23

25 May '23

# [New “Workforce Hubs” to Focus on Advanced Technology & Clean Energy](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/05/25/new-%e2%80%9cworkforce- hubs%e2%80%9d-to-focus-on-advanced-technology-clean-energy/) [![](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/wp- content/uploads/2023/05/1B8CDC8F-AC49-44DE-8DF2-83074EF607F2.jpeg)](https:/… content/uploads/2023/05/1B8CDC8F-AC49-44DE-8DF2-83074EF607F2.jpeg) American Clean Power Association promotes sustainable jobs & electricity **Pittsburgh named 'workforce hub' in White House initiative** From a [News Report of WTAE News 4, Pittsburgh](https://www.wtae.com/article/pittsburgh-workforce-hub-biden- administration/43910256), May 18, 2023 PITTSBURGH — The Biden administration is creating five workforce hubs around the U.S. to help bolster the economy, and Pittsburgh has been named as one of those hubs. Each hub will work to expand apprenticeship programs, develop career and technical education programs, and provide support services to help under- represented students and workers succeed. **A statement from the White House noted Pittsburgh 's growth in advanced manufacturing, including robotics and biomanufacturing, as well as clean energy.** **The initiative begins this summer. Other regions chosen as hubs were Columbus, Ohio; Baltimore; Phoenix; and Augusta, Georgia.** "The goal here is for the administration to work closely with the state, and particularly local partners, mayors, community groups, unions, to make sure that workers are getting access to the workforce skills and training that they need, and really making sure that the communities are ready for all of this new investment that's going to be coming in and that they're helping to prepare the workforce to take advantage of these opportunities," said Heather Boushey, chief economist with the president's Investing in America agenda. #######+++++++#######+++++++####### **See Also:** [Appalachian solar developer and non-profit to bring 100 jobs to West Virginia](https://pv-magazine-usa.com/2023/02/20/appalachian-solar- developer-and-non-profit-to-bring-100-jobs-to-west-virginia/); Michael Schoek, PV Magazine, February 20, 2023 Following a recently announced award to the ACT (Appalachian Climate Technology) Now Coalition, two entities will collaborate on strategies to recruit, train and employ local workers in the growing renewable energy industry in West Virginia and around the Appalachian region. <https://pv-magazine-usa.com/2023/02/20/appalachian-solar-developer-and-non- profit-to-bring-100-jobs-to-west-virginia/> URL: <https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/05/25/new-%e2%80%9cworkforce- hubs%e2%80%9d-to-focus-on-advanced-technology-clean-energy/>

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All Fossil Energy Projects Need to Follow the Environmental Laws
by Frack Check WV: Duane Nichols 24 May '23

24 May '23

# [All Fossil Energy Projects Need to Follow the Environmental Laws](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/05/24/all-fossil-energy-projects-ne… to-follow-the-environmental-laws/) [![](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/wp- content/uploads/2023/05/6C592943-9A14-4802-9698-772CCA63F5F1-300x186.jpg)](… content/uploads/2023/05/6C592943-9A14-4802-9698-772CCA63F5F1.jpeg) Joe Manchin puts coal & gas projects ahead of the public health & welfare **U.S. Senators Should Not Grant Exceptions Just For Oil & Gas Projects** _To: Residents of Appalachia & Concerned Citizens of WV, PA, OH, VA & NC_ . . **Joe Manchin is the fossil fuel industry’s favorite senator, and it’s no surprise why. After we stopped Manchin’s dirty permitting deal three times at the end of 2022, Manchin is back and trying to do it again. He wants to lock us into decades of fracking and fossil fuel use, and force the completion of the Mountain Valley Pipeline.** It’s time to speak out again and oppose the Dirty Permitting Deal. [Will you send a message to your Senators and demand that they reject fossil fuel handouts in any must-pass legislation?](https://secure.foodandwaterwatch.org/act/tell-your-senators-n… deals-big-oil-0) Manchin and his allies in the Senate want to gut our bedrock environmental laws to make it easier for oil and gas to frack, drill, build pipelines, and export fossil fuels. This would limit tribal sovereignty and community input, and weaken protections for our air, water, and planet. Their goal is to make the country more reliant on coal, oil and gas, and ensure more profits for their corporate cronies. Manchin knows that his pro-pollution agenda is deeply unpopular and could never pass on its own. So after failing last year, Manchin is trying to attach his dirty permitting deal to must-pass legislation and force Congress’ hand. We can’t allow them to jeopardize crucial public programs with this dirty permitting deal. **[Send a message to your Senators and tell them to reject this dirty permitting deal.](https://secure.foodandwaterwatch.org/act/tell-your-senators- no-deals-big-oil-0)** Last year, Food & Water Watch, our volunteers, and supporters along with a huge coalition of climate, environmental justice, civil rights, and progressive organizations stopped this deal with people power because we know what’s at stake. We showed up in Washington, D.C. and in Congressional offices across the country, made thousands of calls to representatives and senators, and even went to jail to protest this awful deal. **But we’re not out of the woods yet.** To protect our communities and climate, we can't allow Senator Manchin and his fossil fuel industry backers to lock us into decades of more emissions that harm the planet and endanger our food, water, and health. **Your senators need to hear from you** — will you take a minute to send a message and tell them to reject the dirty permitting deal? [![](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/wp- content/uploads/2023/05/A761DEE4-F770-4479-95A9-E99CD56BACE3.png)](https://… content/uploads/2023/05/A761DEE4-F770-4479-95A9-E99CD56BACE3.png) >> _**Onward together, Thomas Meyer,** Strategic Organizing Projects Director, Food & Water Watch, 1616 P Street, NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20036 _ URL: <https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/05/24/all-fossil-energy-projects-need- to-follow-the-environmental-laws/>

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Drilling & Fracking of Horizontal Gas Wells in Monongalia County, WV
by Frack Check WV: Duane Nichols 23 May '23

23 May '23

# [Drilling & Fracking of Horizontal Gas Wells in Monongalia County, WV](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/05/23/drilling-fracking-of-horizontal- gas-wells-in-monongalia-county-wv/) [![](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/wp- content/uploads/2023/05/07148664-BEAD-4097-B407-3D49819C5B2E-174x300.jpg)](… content/uploads/2023/05/07148664-BEAD-4097-B407-3D49819C5B2E.jpeg) Also in Monongalia County, this is another application for drilling & fracking, etc. (click to enlarge) **Horizontal Natural Gas Well Work Permit Application Notice By Publication** >> **NOTICE** : _23613 April 5, 12 in Dominion Post Newspaper, Morgantown, WV_ **Notice is hereby given:** Pursuant to West Virginia Code 22-6A-10(e) prior to filing an application for a permit for a horizontal well the applicant shall publish in the county in which the well is located or is proposed to be located a Class II legal advertisement. **The following applicant intends to apply for a horizontal natural well work permit which disturbs three acres or more of surface excluding pipelines, gathering lines and roads or utilizes more than two hundred ten thousand gallons of water in any thirty day period.** **Applicant: Northeast Natural Energy, LLC. Well Number: Dolls Run 3H, 5H, 7H, 9H Address: 707 Virginia St. E, Suite 1200, Charleston, WV 25301** Business Conducted: Natural gas production. Location – WV. County: Monongalia. District: Clay. Quadrangle: Osage. UTM Coordinate NAD83 Northing: 3H - 4388829.9; 5H - 4388835.9; 7H - 4388817.8; 9H - 4388841.9 UTM coordinate NAD83 Easting: 3H - 577809.8; 5H - 577810.7; 7H - 577808.2; 9H - 577811.5 Watershed: Dunkard Creek Coordinate Conversion: To convert the coordinates above into longitude and latitude, visit: http://tagis. dep.wv.gov/convert/llutm_conus.php Electronic notification: To receive an email when applications have been received or issued by the Office of Oil and Gas, visit http://www.dep.wv.gov/insidedep/Pages/DEPMailingLists.aspx to sign up. **Reviewing Applications** : Copies of the proposed permit application may be reviewed at the WV Department of Environmental Protection headquarters, located at 601 57th Street, SE Charleston, WV 25304(304-926-0450). Full copies or scans of the proposed permit application will cost $15, whether mailed or obtained at DEP headquarters. Copies may be requested by calling the office or by sending an email to DEP.comments(a)wv.gov. Submitting Comments: Comments may be submitted online at: https://apps.dep.wv.gov/oog/comments/comments.cfm or by letter to Permit Review, Office of Oil and Gas, 601 57th Street, SE Charleston, WV 25304. Please reference the county, well number, and operator when using this option. Regardless of format for comment submissions, they must be received no later than thirty days after the permit application is received by the Office of Oil and Gas. (deadline - May 25) NOTE: For information related to horizontal drilling visit: www.dep.wv.gov/oil-and-gas/pages/default.aspx URL: <https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/05/23/drilling-fracking-of-horizontal- gas-wells-in-monongalia-county-wv/>

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Damaging El Niño Weather Predicted Costing $ Trillions
by Frack Check WV: Duane Nichols 22 May '23

22 May '23

# [Damaging El Niño Weather Predicted Costing $ Trillions](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/05/22/damaging-el-nino-weather- predicted-costing-trillions/) [![](https://www.frackcheckwv.net/wp- content/uploads/2023/05/AEADC8BA-3745-4F6A-9C9F-84BB7439B353-300x201.png)](… content/uploads/2023/05/AEADC8BA-3745-4F6A-9C9F-84BB7439B353.png) El Niño weather predicted for northern hemisphere **Study Warns El Niño Could Cost Global Economy $84 Trillion by 2100** . . From the [Article by Jessica Corbett, Common Dreams](https://www.commondreams.org/news/el-nino-climate-global-economy), May 19, 2023 . . **With experts anticipating El Niño will return in the months ahead, a pair of Dartmouth College researchers warned this week that the long-term cost to the global economy could be as much as $3 trillion by 2029 — which could be largely felt by poorer countries.** **The El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), a climate pattern that affects sea surface temperatures across the tropical Pacific Ocean, has three phases: the cooler La Niña; neutral, which the world is now experiencing; and the warmer El Niño that is expected soon.** **" El Niño triggers far-reaching changes in weather that result in devastating floods, crop-killing droughts, plummeting fish populations, and an uptick in tropical diseases," explained a Dartmouth statement about the study, published in the journal Science.** Doctoral candidate Christopher Callahan and Justin Mankin, an assistant professor of geography at the college, examined economic conditions for several years after the 1982-83 and 1997-98 El Niño events. They connected those two warm phases to $4.1 trillion and $5.7 trillion in global income losses, respectively — far higher than previous estimates. "El Niño amplifies the wider inequities in climate change, disproportionately impacting the least resilient and prepared among us.mWe can say with certainty that societies and economies absolutely do not just take a hit and recover," said Callahan, the study's lead author, noting that their data suggest an El Niño-related downturn could last up to 14 years or longer. "In the tropics and places that experience the effects of El Niño, you get a persistent signature during which growth is delayed for at least five years," he continued. "The aggregate price tag on these events has not ever been fully quantified — you have to add up all the depressed growth moving forward, not just when the event is happening." The pair found that the gross domestic product of the United States was roughly 3% lower in 1988 and 2003 than it would have been without the preceding El Niño events— and, for the latter phase, GDPs in coastal tropical countries were more than 10% lower. "The global pattern of El Niño's effect on the climate and on the prosperity of different countries reflects the unequal distribution of wealth and climate risk — not to mention the responsibility for climate change — worldwide," said Mankin. "El Niño amplifies the wider inequities in climate change, disproportionately impacting the least resilient and prepared among us." "The duration and magnitude of the financial repercussions we uncovered suggests to me that we are maladapted to the climate we have," he added. "Our accounting dramatically raises the cost estimate of doing nothing. We need to both mitigate climate change and invest more in El Niño prediction and adaptation because these events will only amplify the future costs of global warming." **Callahan and Mankin 's study was released the same day as research published in the journal Nature Reviews Earth and Environment that found human-caused global heating has likely made El Niños and La Niñas "more frequent and more extreme."** Models for the latter research showed that sea surface temperature extremes were about 10% more intense for the six decades after 1960, compared with the previous 60 years. Co-author Mike McPhaden, a senior research scientist at the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), said that "the big events pack the most punch, so even though 10% doesn't sound like much, it juices up the strongest and most societally relevant year-to-year climate fluctuation on the planet." **" In practical terms, this translates into more extreme and frequent droughts, floods, heatwaves, wildfires, and severe storms, just like we observed during the recent triple dip La Niña that ended in March," McPhaden told The Guardian.** Given that observed trend and expectations it will continue, the Dartmouth researchers project that even if countries pursue their pledges to cut planet- heating emissions, global economic losses related to El Niño could reach $84 trillion for the 21st century. "Our welfare is affected by our global economy, and our global economy is tied to the climate," he said. "When you ask how costly climate change is, you can start by asking how costly climate variation is. We're showing here that such variation, as embodied in El Niño, is incredibly costly and stagnates growth for years, which led us to cost estimates that are orders of magnitudes larger than previous ones." The Associated Press reported that "some — but not all — outside economists have issues with the new research out of Dartmouth College, saying its damage estimates are too big." However, McPhaden welcomed the findings, telling the AP that he has long believed previous estimates were far too low and the "big loser during El Niño is the Global South." **While the Dartmouth projections suggest 2023 ′s looming warm phase could cost trillions of dollars, the NOAA scientist stressed that "the economic impacts of the El Niño that is predicted for later this year will depend on how strong it is."** "Monster El Niños" like the 1997-98 event "can be hugely damaging with lingering effects that carry over into following years," he said. "On the other hand, if it turns out to be a garden variety El Niño, the consequences may be more muted and the recovery time shortened." #######+++++++#######+++++++####### **See Also:** [ENSO: Recent Evolution, Current Status and Predictions ~ Update prepared by: Climate Prediction Center](https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/analysis_monitoring/lanina/e… status-fcsts-web.pdf) / NCEP, 22May2023 URL: <https://www.frackcheckwv.net/2023/05/22/damaging-el-nino-weather- predicted-costing-trillions/>

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