The operator of the Beulah Mine will pay a $1250 fine – because of violations tied to a heavy rain.
The Public Service Commission says Dakota Westmoreland was fined after a dike washed out – and sediment laden water flowed out onto reclaimed land. That affected about an acre of land. At the same time, runoff from a partially graded area went into a county road ditch, rather than into a sediment pond.
"The road was diverting runoff down the ditch, because a culvert had not been installed, as indicated in the reclamation plan," said Commissioner Randy Christmann. "Westmoreland was advised to put a culvert in this road during an inspection in March."
Christmann says Dakota Westmoreland put in that culvert quickly. He says the total fine could have been $1750 – but the company was given a $500 credit for its quick action.
Still – Commission chairman Brian Kalk says this should serve as a reminder to all coal companies.
"Listen to our inspectors," said Kalk. "They're out there, giving companies advice. And if our inspectors see something that may be a problem, they give recommendations. The companies should listen to them."
