It has been a while since the U.S. has heard the phrase \u201cnew coal mine\u201d anywhere, but Pennsylvania is taking the next step toward a potential surface mine in Cambria and Somerset counties with the convening of virtual public information events.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection announced this week that it will be holding a virtual public information event on January 19 regarding the proposed Rosebud Mining Mine 78 Surface Mine No. 3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Webex meeting will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. local time and will include presentations from both the agency and Rosebud on the permit review process, map displays and a discussion of the proposed activity. A question-and-answer period will also be on the itinerary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cRosebud applied for the new surface coal and auger mining permit for the facility proposed for Richland Township, Cambria County and Windber borough and Paint Township, Somerset County,\u201d the DEP said, adding it began its technical review of the applications on September 15 of last year to determine if the applications complied with state laws and regulations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Because the community of Windber borough is an environmental justice area, DEP said it will work to facilitate enhanced public participation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Individuals who want to participate or have questions should contact nndimbie@pa.gov or 412-442-4126 a minimum of 24 hours in advance to register. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For individuals who only wish to listen, access information is posted to DEP\u2019s calendar of events webpage<\/a> and DEP\u2019s community information webpage for this project, dep.pa.gov\/Mine78Surface3<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Written comments will be accepted until January 31 and may be submitted to Pennsylvania DEP, Cambria District Mining Operations, 286 Industrial Park Rd., Ebensburg, Pa. 15931 or by email to Melanie Ford Wigfield at mfordwidfi@pa.gov. <\/p>\n\n\n\n