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Groups Oppose North Canton Mine Permit Renewal

Canton Area Citizens for Environmental Issues

Environmental groups are calling for public hearings over the renewal of a permit needed

The Owners of the Coal mine at Industry are trying to open a new mine in Canton. They need several permits to make that happen. Several years ag0 there were issued a mining permit by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
They still need permits from the Illinois EPA, including the same kind of water pollution permit that they were found to have violated over 600 times at their Industry Mine.

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It has taken so long to get those permits though, that the permit they do have has come up for renewal.
The Illinois Sierra club and the Prairie rivers network have sent a letter to the Illinois DNR requesting a public hearing on the renewal.

Canton Area Citizens for Environmental Issues are also calling for a hearing. Chair-woman Brenda Dilts said the mine’s proximity to Canton lake threatens the town’s water supply and it will also impact those who live near the mine.

"The noise, the light, the dust, the smells, the beeping of the machinery backing up at night. It's just an environmental hazard," Dilts said.

While the renewal process is ongoing, the original permit is in danger of being revoked.
The DNR conducted an administrative review and has issued a preliminary ruling against the mine. The final decision is expected later this month.
 

Scott Stuntz is a former reporter at Tri States Public Radio.