Controversial Faulkner Coal Ash Dump Closure Announcement Expected Today

Mirant Reportedly Plans to Announce Closure at Charles County Planning Board Meeting; Long Critical of Site, Environmental Integrity Project Waiting for Details of Mirant Clean-up Plan

March 9, 2010

Environmental groups are eagerly awaiting details of Mirant’s plans to clean up a coal ash dump near LaPlata in Charles County that is the focus of an ongoing state enforcement action over illegal discharges of toxic pollutants into Zekiah Swamp, a key part of the Chesapeake Bay watershed.  Coal ash contains heavy metals and other pollution that is toxic to human health and the environment.

Mirant MD Ash Management, LLC reportedly plans to withdraw its application for a special exception permit because it plans to close the controversial coal ash dump.  Mirant is expected to announce the closure plans for the Faulkner dump today during a meeting of the Charles County Board of Appeals.  Though the closure plans have not yet been officially confirmed, they are being welcomed by the Environmental Integrity Project and Potomac Riverkeeper, who sent a notice of intent to sue letter to the company on April 3, 2008.  Jennifer Peterson, attorney, Environmental Integrity Project, said: “We’re encouraged to hear Mirant is expected to do the right thing and close the Faulkner coal ash dump.  But closure is only half the battle, since this pollution will not just disappear when the dumping stops.  We hope that Mirant will share their schedule for clean up at tonight’s meeting—the sooner the better.”  

For the complete press release, please click here.