Vermilion County State’s Attorney Jacqueline Lacy says she is pleased with the consent order resolving a 2021 lawsuit brought by Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul’s Office against Dynegy. Lacy’s office prosecuted the case with the Illinois Attorney General’s Office.
‘’The Middle Fork is a popular location outdoor recreational activity and has been designated as Illinois’ only National Scenic River under the Federal National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act,’’ noted Lacy. She added, ‘’The consent order signed by Judge (Thomas) O’Shaughnessy acts not only as a penalty, but also to ensure the safety of the Middle Fork for years to come.’’
The consent order requires Dynegy to close three ponds located at the company’s now-shuttered Vermilion Power Station. Simultaneously Dynegy must remove an estimated 3 million cubic yards of dumped coal ash near the Middle Fork of the Vermilion River. The coal ash generated during the power plant’s operation has been found to be a hazard to the environment.
As part of the consent agreement Dynegy has agreed to contribute $200-thousand dollars to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to support projects in the Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife Area. In consultation with the Vermilion County Conservation District Foundation, Dynegy will contribute $200-thousand dollars to projects to improve Kennekuk County Park (northwest of Danville).
