Pennsylvania City is Carrying Out an Ambitious Plan to Remove Acid Wastes from Water Draining into Creeks

In the 1950s the mining industry was booming in northern Pennsylvania, but when the industry moved out of the area it left behind abandoned mines that have caused a variety of water problems.  In Sykesville, PA, an abandoned mine has been discharging acid mine drainage into local streams for years.

There was no wildlife in the streams because of the drainage and water from the creeks receiving the discharge was unusable.

County officials are now planning an ambitious water treatment facility that will not only clean up the pollution but will also make the water usable.  Proposed uses include drinking water for the town of Sykesville and possible sales of water to the fracking industry.

For more details on the Jefferson County water reclamation plan.