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STATEMENT ON THE UPPER BIG BRANCH MINE TRAGEDY

The entire membership of the West Virginia Coal Association and Friends of Coal, from throughout West Virginia extend their deepest sympathies and support for the families of those who lost their lives at Montcoal. These miners are part of our family. They are brothers to all of us. This tragedy is felt by all West Virginians, because in a very real sense we are all part of the coal-mining family. It is what we do.

Today, and in the coming weeks, we ask that you join us in praying for those that are injured and certainly praying for the families who lost loved ones in this terrible tragedy. Let this be a time when all of West Virginia comes together to comfort one another. Let us reach out to those that are suffering and help lift their burdens as best our abilities allow us.

STATEMENT OF SUPPORT FOR MINGO LOGAN COAL Co.’s SUIT AGAINST EPA

EPA action is reckless and arbitrary, shows disregard of impact on people and the economy
 
CHARLESTON – The West Virginia Coal Association supports today’s decision by Mingo Logan Coal Company to file suit against the federal Environmental Protection Agency over its announcement of intent to revoke the permit for the company’s Spruce #1 surface mine in Logan County.
 
“This decision by EPA is reckless and arbitrary,” said West Virginia Coal Association President Bill Raney. “It establishes a very dangerous precedent in that it reneges on an already approved permit, something that has never been done previously. In doing so it brings into question the reliability of the entire permitting process and shows an arrogant disregard for the impacts this will have on the state’s economy and its people. We fully support Mingo Logan’s actions to compel EPA to respect the law and follow its own regulations.”
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New Members Approved by Board

The Board of Directors at its last meeting approved the membership of the following Associate members:  BBU Services of WV with Darren Carnefix as their representative; Caudill Seed Company with Donnie Roe representing; Demand Response Partners (DRP) with Andy Dorn and Greg Stevens; and, Longview Power, LLC represented by Charlie Huguenard.  We welcome each of the new members and look forward to meeting each of the representatives and working with them in the future.
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EPA Releases New Plan to Restrict Mining

EPA today released a new plan (comprehensive guidance) regarding the review and approval of mining related permitting applications under Section 404 and 402 of the federal clean water act.  Attached below is the press release and link to relevant guidance documents from EPA.  The Association is working feverishly to understand the parameters and application ramifications of the new guidance documents.  We are also fully examining all possible legal and regulatory actions to address this new action from EPA.  Further information will be provided to the membership as it is developed.
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Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine Opens

The Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine has reopened for the season.  Visitors listen to first-hand accounts from the veteran miners, and because each guide’s experience is different, each tour is different.  In addition to experiencing a bit of life underground, visitors can tour the historical coal camp above-ground, which features the Company Store, Coal Company House, Superintendent’s Home, Pemberton Coal Camp church and the Helen Coal Camp School.  The mine is open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.  For more information, call 304-256-1747 or visit www.beckleymine.com