John Kenny criticizes Alabama Power's ash dump permit at Rattlesnake Lake

The Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) held a public hearing on May 2, 2025, regarding the Alabama Power Company's operations at Plant Gorgas, focusing on the management of coal combustion residuals (CCR). The meeting highlighted significant concerns about the environmental impact of the company's practices, particularly regarding the unlined ash dump located near the Mulberry Fork.

Several speakers, including representatives from environmental organizations, voiced strong objections to the current permitting system. One speaker emphasized that the existing permit does not meet federal and state CCR regulations, urging ADEM to require Alabama Power to provide comprehensive information on contamination levels and long-term solutions. The speaker criticized the plan to maintain an unlined ash dump, arguing that it poses a risk to local waterways.

John Kenny, a staff scientist with Black Warrior Riverkeeper, also raised critical points about the handling of coal ash at the site. He noted that while Alabama Power is removing CCR from a gypsum pond and placing it in a lined landfill, concerns remain about the ash pond at Rattlesnake Lake. Kenny pointed out that the closure plans for the ash pond could lead to the consolidation of coal ash in the drainage course of Rattlesnake Creek, which could result in ongoing contamination of groundwater.

Kenny further explained that the EPA's 2015 CCR rule has not been fully adopted by ADEM, which raises questions about the authority to issue permits under the current framework. He warned that even if the ash is capped, groundwater will still interact with the toxic materials, leading to continued leaching of harmful metals into the environment.

The discussions at the hearing underscored the ongoing debate over environmental regulations and the management of coal ash in Alabama, highlighting the need for stricter oversight and compliance with federal standards to protect local ecosystems and public health.