This article originally provided by The Logan Banner

June 28, 2006

Massey, ICG cited after heavy rains cause mudslide, other problems

CHARLESTON
AP
— Two coal companies were cited by state regulators on Monday after heavy rains caused problems at their operations, including a mudslide at one site.

International Coal Group was issued an imminent harm cessation order after a sediment pond overflowed on Sunday and sent sediment and muddy water into the Birch River in Nicholas County. The washout occurred as crews were reclaiming a valley fill between Boggs and Big Ditch Lake, the state Department of Environmental Protection.

Work targeted by an imminent harm cessation order is halted until the problem is corrected.

Massey Energy Inc. was issued a notice of violation for a mudslide on Monday at its Aracoma Coal subsidiary that blocked State Route 17 and Dingess Run near Ethel in Logan County, the DEP said.

No injuries were reported. Crews from Aracoma Coal were working to clear the road and the stream, the DEP said.

Massey also received an imminent harm cessation order for a blackwater spill on Sunday in Pigeon Creek in Mingo County that Monday’s rains exacerbated.

The spill occurred at Delbarton Mining, another Massey subsidiary, as crews were constructing an under drain for a refuse area, the DEP said.