WI DNR raises multiple concerns over proposed Superior power plant

Keep your eyes on these dramatic and surprising developments: an environmental review by the WI DNR has raised several substantial, interconnected concerns about a major gas-fired generating plant proposed in Superior.

DNR: Proposed natural gas power plant could harm groundwater

The $700 million natural gas power plant proposed for Superior could negatively impact nearby groundwater, according to Wisconsin regulators....  

Ian Anderson, a DNR hydrologist testified that the state agency could not determine the project “would not have a significant detrimental effect on the quantity” of the groundwater.

Additionally, the agency's official review raises concerns about the plant's likely release of harmful greenhouse gases.



And the DNR also cited damage to the environment and threats to public health related to fracking used to extract the proposed plant's fuel - - natural gas - - and further noted the negative impacts of widespread frac sand mining in Wisconsin.

This isn't a rejection of the plant: the final permitting decision is in the hands of the Wisconsin PSC and a 2-1 Walkerite majority, but it's great to see the DNR raising so many important and inter-connected clean air, groundwater and public health issues.

And for following through on Gov. Evers' and DNR Secretary Cole's pledge to re-insert science in its processes which Walker stripped away.

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