Activists try to block company behind coal mine reclamation process criticized as slow, dirty

MURDOCK, Illinois — Activists upset with the pace of reclamation at an eastern Illinois coal mine are pressing the Department of Natural Resources to block the site's owner from extending its reclamation permit for another five years.

The Murdock Mine hasn't operated for 25 years, and law requires the site be returned to a natural state. But residents say that process has been too slow. The state has also taken up complaints accusing the owner, Alpena Vision Resources, of generating pollution in the process.

The (Champaign) News-Gazette (http://bit.ly/175FrIs ) reported Saturday that an environmental group called the Prairie Rivers Network wants to block Alpena's application for a permit extension.

The activists cite questions over the company's compliance with reclamation standards as well as the pollution complaints.

Alpena did not return phone calls seeking comment.

Information from: The News-Gazette, http://www.news-gazette.com

Think your friends should see this? Share it with them!

Follow Us

^{Content enhanced with OpenCalais.}