Pocono News Section

River Dredge Being Used to Fill Old Strip Mines

River Dredge Being Used to Fill Old Strip Mines - Tuesday, March 2, 2010 at 4:30PM EST

Reported by: Andy Mehalshick
Tuesday, Mar 2, 2010 @ 05:30pm EST
HAZLETON, LUZERNE COUNTY -- Efforts are underway in Pennsylvania to increase the use of river dredge. It's to help rid the state of old strip mines. And it’s been placed on the fast track by Senator Arlen Specter.

But some fear that dredge from the Delaware River is not safe. Hazleton has taken the lead in using dredge and says it means progress, not danger.

Dredge, the sediment at the bottom of the Delaware River near Philadelphia, will be used to fill abandoned mine strips in areas like the southern part of Hazleton.

Senator Arlen Specter will introduced a law that would make it easier for communities to take the dredge. Hazleton is already using it to develop hundreds of acres in the south side for a new amphitheatre and businesses.

Mayor Lou Barletta says Specter's action confirms what he always knew. "We're going to get rid of blighted properties. 277 acres turns out to be the largest economic development project in the history of Hazleton and it will benefit all of northeastern Pennsylvania."

But longtime environmental activist Phil Kaufman argues that the health and safety of residents is being placed at risk. He says the dredge could contain toxic chemicals.

"It's total nonsense. Everything is progress. They're gong to poison us and they call it progress? They call us naysayers. We don't want people to die. They could care less," he said.

Barletta insists the dredge is safe. "The protections are there. Every load of material, all that comes to Hazleton, is tested several times before it’s placed."

We stopped by Amore's Restaurant in West Hazleton. People had mixed views, but most were willing to give it a chance, as long as it’s safe. "There are people concerned. I myself don't think it’s a bad idea. The mayor and administration wouldn’t allow toxic chemicals to be brought into our city,” said John Chirico.

State and federal environmental experts say the dredge from the Delaware River does not pose a health risk.