There is no reason why our society, in the 21st century, should face the dangerous risks associated with irresponsible management of coal ash. The EPA has labeled the two coal-ash ponds at the Lake Julian Progress/Duke utility plant as “High Hazard Potential.” This means, specifically, that a breach of the dam would likely result in the loss of human life.
Additionally, the unlined pits pose a risk to our water table and to our most precious resource in the area, the French Broad River, which we are so reliant on for our local economy, tourism and recreation. With coal-ash regulations being debated in Congress, this issue is ripe. That is why I urge our North Carolina Sens. Kay Hagan and Richard Burr to support strong coal-ash regulations.
It is time that Congress takes simple and logical steps to protect the health of our community and local livelihood instead of catering to special interests of the fossil fuel industry that have obstructed progress for far too long.
— Josh Fernandez
Asheville
Before you comment
The comments section is here to provide a platform for civil dialogue on the issues we face together as a local community. Xpress is committed to offering this platform for all voices, but when the tone of the discussion gets nasty or strays off topic, we believe many people choose not to participate. Xpress editors are determined to moderate comments to ensure a constructive interchange is maintained. All comments judged not to be in keeping with the spirit of civil discourse will be removed and repeat violators will be banned. See here for our terms of service. Thank you for being part of this effort to promote respectful discussion.