Reclaimed Coal Sites

Policy Committee    September 26, 2022

ASHLEY, SEPT 26--  The House Democratic Policy Committee toured parts of northeast Pennsylvania, listening to experts and asking questions about the process of transforming polluted and hazardous areas into resources used by businesses. The committee made several stops in NEPA to visit sites and talk with experts on the process of mine reclamation, conservation and economic revitalization. Committee members started the day in Ashley at the headquarters of the Earth Conservancy, then visited the Askam Borehole and oxidizer-based treatment facility and the former Harry E. Colliery in Swoyersville. 

Host + Testifiers

• Hosts: Rep. Napoleon Nelson (D-Montgomery)
• Testifiers:
  • Jaret Gibbons, Appalachian Region Independent Power Producers Association (ARIPPA)
  • Cristy Sweeney, Appalachian Region Independent Power Producers Association (ARIPPA)
  • Sean Lane, Olympus Power
  • Hank Zielinski, Olympus Power
  • Jason Tarnowski, Earth Conservancy
  • Elizabeth Hughes, Earth Conservancy
  • Robert Hughes, Eastern Pennsylvania Coalition for Abandoned Mine Reclamation (EPCAMR) 

Media Release + News Coverage

• Committee tours mine reclamation sites, learns about difficulties, September 26, 2022
• WBRE/WYOU, Committee tours reclaimed mine sites, September 27, 2022
• Citizens Voice, State lawmakers examine activities involving burning coal refuse and mine reclamation, September 27, 2022

Photos

• Click here to view photos from this hearing