Environment

The Kentucky Public Service Commission is set to decide soon whether American Electric Power can keep burning coal at an eastern Kentucky power plant.

Kentucky Power’s Big Sandy Power Plant in Lawrence County burns coal, and the company, which is owned by American Electric Power, is asking for PSC approval to install pollution controls to comply with federal regulations and continue burning coal.

But several entities intervening in the case argue that coal isn’t the least-cost option, considering that federal carbon regulations may be in store in the next few decades.

The Arboretum at Murray State University celebrated Arbor Day 2012 on Saturday, April 28. The event began at 10 a.m. with a presentation by Dr. Winston Dunwell, noted expert in the world of ornamental horticulture. A question-and-answer session was held following Dunwell’s remarks. 

The Kentucky Supreme Court has ruled environmental groups can intervene in a court case involving a coal company and water pollution. Thursday’s ruling upholds a lower court decision that the groups can participate in a lawsuit filed by the state’s Energy and Environment Cabinet against Frasure Creek Mining. The state filed a lawsuit against the mining company for violations of the Clean Water Act in eastern Kentucky. A settlement was reached, but the environmental groups say it is inadequate.

Dave Washburn says fishing is fairly good when the wind will let you get out on the lake.

Hi, I’m Dave Washburn, with the FLW Weekly Fishing Report. Depending on what you’re targeting, fishing is fairly good when the wind will let you get out on the lake. Bass, bluegill and shellcracker are the headliners, but you’ve got to cover water and make a lot of casts to do well.

Less than 25 people have offered comments at public meetings on budget cuts to Land Between the Lakes national recreation area. LBL officials have held two meetings to discuss a 50% cut to the park's maintenance budget which totals around $750,000. The park hosts almost 2 million visitors each year.  12 people attended the last meeting, LBL Public Affairs Specialist Nicole Hawk says she thinks public awareness is increasing.