DNR will host public hearing on Lee Island cement plant

suntimesnews.com

STE GENEVIEVE -- The Missouri Department of Natural Resources will hold a public hearing at 6:30 p.m., Monday, June 24, at the Elks Lodge on Molasses Hollow Road in Ste. Genevieve. The public will have an opportunity to comment on Holcim Inc.'s application for a 401 Water Quality Certification.

Holcim proposes to construct a cement kiln, quarry operation, access road, railroad spur, a slack-water harbor and fleeting area in Ste. Genevieve County.

Before proceeding with the project, the company must receive a permit from the U.S. Corps of Engineers and a 401 Water Quality Certification from the Department of Natural Resources.

The certification determines if a facility will potentially violate state water quality standards. The Clean Water Act requires federal and state approval when a facility is impacting waters of the United States.

The DNR is evaluating the application for compliance with applicable water quality standards and requirements. Based on the review, the department has three options: issue the 401 certification, deny the certification or issue the certification with conditions designed to protect water quality.

After June 10, citizens will be able to review a copy of the technical documents relating to the project at the Ozark Regional Library, Ste. Genevieve County Community Center, 21390 Highway 32 in Ste. Genevieve.

The department will accept written comments until 5 p.m. July 1. Send written comments to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Water Pollution Control Program, PO Box 176, Jefferson City, Mo., 65102-0176, fax (573) 751-9396 or e-mail wpsc401cert@mail.dnr.state.mo.us.

People requiring special services can make arrangements by calling 1-800-361-4827 or (573) 751-1300. Hearing-impaired people can contact the program through Relay Missouri at 1-800-735-2966.

Holcim would need several environmental permits from the department before construction and operation could begin. The June 24 meeting pertains to the 401 Water Quality Certification only.

For more information, contact the DNR at 1-800-361-4827 or (573) 751-1300.