River Commission OKs Water to Douse Pennsylvania's Endless Mine Fire
Published Date: 4/14/2026
Notice
Summary
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission approved new general permits in March 2026, including a key project to put out a mine fire in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. This lets the Pennsylvania DEP use water from a well to help extinguish the fire, with a set water limit to keep things safe. If you’re involved in water projects in this area, these updates could affect your plans and timing.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Permit OKs Water Use to Fight Mine Fire
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission approved a general permit (GP-02-202603022) on March 3, 2026, allowing the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection to use water from Well 1 in Hanover Township, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania to extinguish the Hanover Reservoir mine fire. The permit authorizes consumptive water use up to 0.068 million gallons per day (30-day average). If you are involved in water projects in that area, this approval could affect your project plans and timing during the March 1-31, 2026 notice period.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-20333, Public Hearing
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission is hosting a public hearing on October 28, 2026, where folks can speak up about water projects, a new Access to Records Policy, and a draft fee schedule. This is the only chance to give oral comments before the Commission decides in December. Written comments are due by November 9, so don’t miss your shot to weigh in on water use and fees that could affect local communities and businesses.
2026-19494, Actions Taken at the September 16, 2026 Meeting
On September 16, 2026, the Susquehanna River Basin Commission approved several water project applications, adopted the FY2028 budget, and set new policies to protect water resources. These changes affect local water companies and communities in Pennsylvania, with some projects allowing new water withdrawals. The budget and policies aim to keep water use sustainable while supporting regional growth.
2026-14152, Minor Modification Approval
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission gave the green light to small changes for projects during June 2026. For example, Chobani, LLC got approval to add a new water source for their Well 4 in New York. These tweaks help projects run smoother without big delays or extra costs.
2026-14151, Projects Approved for Consumptive Uses of Water
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission gave the green light to several water use projects in June 2026, including new approvals and renewals for companies and schools in Pennsylvania. These projects can use millions of gallons of water daily, helping businesses and communities grow while keeping water use in check. If you’re involved in these areas, now’s the time to note these approvals and plan accordingly!
2026-14150, Grandfathering Registration Notice
If you run a water-related project in the Susquehanna River Basin, this notice is for you! The Commission has officially listed projects that got 'grandfathered' registrations during June 2026, meaning they’re recognized under old rules before new ones kick in. This keeps things fair and clear—no surprise fees or changes for these projects right now.
2026-11967, Actions Taken at the June 4, 2026 Meeting
On June 4, 2026, the Susquehanna River Basin Commission gave the green light to several water projects in Pennsylvania, including new and renewed water withdrawals. They also updated their budget and water program, extended an emergency certificate, and secured important grants. These moves affect local communities and businesses by managing water use carefully, with some projects allowing up to 5 million gallons per day, starting immediately.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-07199, Projects Approved for Consumptive Uses of Water
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission gave the green light to several water use projects in March 2026, mostly renewing permits for companies to use millions of gallons of water daily. These approvals affect local businesses in Pennsylvania, allowing them to keep operating without interruption. If you’re in the area, expect these projects to continue smoothly, with no new fees or delays announced.
Next: 2026-07201, Grandfathering Registration Notice
If you run certain water projects in the Susquehanna River Basin, you needed to register by March 31, 2026, to keep your old permissions (called 'grandfathering'). This notice lists two companies that got their registrations approved, so they can keep using water without new permits. No new fees were mentioned, but missing the deadline could mean extra paperwork or costs later.