FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 12, 2004) - A recent series of black water spills originating from Virginia before making their way to eastern Kentucky rivers and lakes has prompted a phone call from LaJuana S. Wilcher, secretary of the Kentucky Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet (EPPC) to her counterpart in Virginia. Wilcher spoke by phone today to Gene Dishner, director of the Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy (DMME).

Wilcher and Dishner pledged to work together to reduce the number and seriousness of black water discharges taking place in the two states. Dishner noted DMME has shut down a Virginia coal company believed to be responsible for some recent spills. Kentucky issued a Notice of Violation to a Virginia company in response to a Dec. 11, 2003 spill that sent black water into Fishtrap Lake. Black water spills can occur as a result of discharges from coal impoundments, sediment ponds, roads or other coal mining-related activities.

"I appreciate Virginia’s willingness to take these spills seriously and to take strong action to stop them," Wilcher said.

Wilcher also announced today leaders of environmental and coal organizations in Kentucky have agreed to serve on a task force to address black water spills in the Commonwealth. Wilcher invited the leaders to participate in the development of recommendations to reduce the frequency of the discharges and severity of the resulting pollution.

"I am pleased that environmental and industry leaders recognize the adverse impact these spills have on water resources in Kentucky and want to work together to address our concerns," said Wilcher. "The Fletcher administration is committed to addressing issues that affect water quality, air quality and natural resources in the Commonwealth."

Participants on the task force are: Ted McGinnis, Beech Fork Mining, Bill Caylor, President, Kentucky Coal Association; Don Bowles, Charolais Coal; Dr. Lindell Ormsbee, Director, Kentucky Water Research Institute and Chairman, Environmental Quality Commission; Judy Peterson, Kentucky Waterways Alliance; and Tom FitzGerald, Kentucky Resources Council.

Wilcher said she plans for the group to begin its work in February following introductory meetings this week.

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