Dynegy Midwest Generation has withdrawn its application seeking a permit for work along the National Scenic Middle Fork River, but the company says it still plans improvements there. In a statement Friday to VermilionCountyFirst.com News Vistra’s subsidiary, Dynegy Midwest Generation LLC, said it ‘’is still proceeding with the riverbank stabilization project and remains committed to the protection of the Vermilion River and its unique scenic and recreational qualities.’’
The company said it is currently working to finalize a modified design for the project that will improve the aesthetics of the river and reduces the scope of the original design. The company says it anticipates submitting the updated design to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency in August.
‘’This redesign is in response to comments received from the IEPA, National Parks Service, the US Army Corps of Engineers, as well as the public,’’ said the company’s statement to WDAN-WDNL-WRHK Radio News. As a result of the decision to redesign the project, the company worked with the IEPA to determine the best course forward and agreed to withdraw the existing application.
Dynegy adds that while it waits for agency approvals, it is important to point out that the company believes the riverbank stabilization work could be completed in the course of a year. The start date will depend on getting the necessary regulatory approvals.
The Illinois EPA says studies have shown contaminants from coal ash stored near the abandoned Vermilion Power Station have seeped into groundwater at levels exceeding state standards. Additionally, an inspection of the river conducted by the Illinois EPA in 2018 identified numerous seeps of heavily stained water emanating from the embankments adjacent to the Dynegy coal ash ponds and flowing into the river.
In addition to allegations of groundwater and surface water contamination, reports indicate the river continues to steadily erode the riverbank adjacent to the three coal ash ponds, which threaten the integrity of the ponds. Dynegy first proposed it riverbank stabilization project in July of 2018.
[Story by Bill Pickett.]
