Coal Slurry Pipelines

Number: 1982-04

 

WHEREAS, there are several proposals for coal to be transported by slurry pipeline within the nation; and

WHEREAS, such transportation will be a consumptive use of both surface and underground water; and

WHEREAS, the waste waters from the slurry will affect the receiving body of water; and

WHEREAS, both the use (including accidental spills) and the disposal of water used for transporting coal by slurry pipeline could have adverse effects upon fish and wildlife habitat and other values;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the National Wildlife Federation, in annual meeting assembled March 18-21, 1982, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, hereby recommends that the States, concerned Federal agencies, and the U.S. Congress carefully analyze the environmental and economic benefits and costs of the use of water for coal slurry transportation on a case-by-case basis, and balance these against the best alternative uses of the water and the comparative effects on the environment of competing uses before granting permits and other necessary approvals.