State Sees No Threat To Rare Species From Coal Mine's Growth
GRANTSVILLE, Md. (AP) -- The Maryland Department of the Environment says the growth of a coal mine near Grantsville is unlikely to threaten two rare aquatic species.
The agency is proposing that Maryland Energy Resources be allowed to double the amount of treated mine drainage and stormwater discharged into the Casselman River from the Casselman Coal Mine.
The river is believed to harbor two state-endangered species -- the Eastern hellbender salamander and the stonecat catfish.
The proposed limit of 290,000 gallons per day would apply to the current permit, which expires at the end of September. The mine could then seek a further increase. The operator wants to discharge up to 500,000 gallons per day.
The agency says it has received written comments from two people opposing the plan.
The mine opened in 2010.
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