PennFuture Statement on a Long-Burning Waste Coal Fire in Central PA

People in Locust Gap, Northumberland County, live with smoke from a burning waste coal pile every day. The fire began in April. On Monday, October 26, officials closed roads and Mount Carmel Township declared a disaster emergency. No one should struggle to breathe in their own home.

Communities across Pennsylvania still face problems from old mining contamination and waste piles left by coal-fired power plants. Despite this, lawmakers keep giving billions in subsidies to the waste coal industry while our communities suffer.

DEP says the fire is contained, but it is still burning. Residents have been told the wrong end dates more than once. They need a clear and realistic timeline, with regular updates if things change. Air monitoring results should be shared publicly in simple terms. DEP should also compare the data to health and safety standards and explain what it means for people. Those affected by old contamination deserve more support from our environmental leaders and elected officials.

PennFuture wants a future where Pennsylvanians no longer have to deal with pollution and waste left by fossil fuel industries. We oppose ongoing financial subsidies that allow these polluting industries to keep harming our communities. We are fighting for a healthier future for all our communities.