Last month, Mobile Baykeeper, Alabama Rivers Alliance, Black Warrior Riverkeeper, Conservation Alabama, Coosa Riverkeeper and the Southern Environmental Law Center launched AlabamaCoalAsh.org to shed light on the statewide issue of coal ash—the toxic waste that remains after coal is burned. The website lists coal ash pits across Alabama, including Barry Power Plant in Mobile County, and uncovers the risks of cap-in-place versus removal, up-to-date groundwater violations and what other Southeastern states are doing. A calendar displays dates and locations of relevant public hearings and citizens can learn how to take action.

Coal ash contains high concentrations of heavy metals, including mercury, arsenic, selenium, chromium, lead, radium and other pollutants which are hazardous to human health, wildlife and our waterways. For decades, utilities have stored coal ash in unlined pits next to rivers and lakes that provide drinking water, recreation and wildlife habitat. According to the website, it has been confirmed that these pits are polluting groundwater at every site, yet Alabama utilities plan to leave the coal ash in place.

For more information, visit AlabamaCoalAsh.org.