Complaint Details

Complaint Number

134429

DWR Program Area

WPC

Date Received

11/15/2024

How Received

Concerning

Stream Alteration

Concerning (Other)

Assigned on

Record Last Updated

27-NOV-2024 07:28AM

Site ID: 183593
Site: Milepost Z 141.3 to NC state line
Location: LOW GAP RD
City: Erwin
Description: Railroad track
County: Unicoi
EFO Name: Johnson City
Site Owner: -

Status

Investigation Ongoing

Date Investigated

Responsible Party

Completed on

Referred To

Referred on

Photos

Complaint Description and Writeup

It is a matter of public record that TDEC issued an ARAP #NR2406.088 to CSX on 10/16/2024. It states specifically in the document that "work shall not commence until the applicant has received the federal section 404 permit from the US Army Corps of Engineers, a section 26a permit from the Tennessee Valley Authority or authorization under a Tennessee NPDES Storm Water Construction Permit where necessary." In a meeting with local stakeholders yesterday 11/13, Casey Ehorn from the Nashville District of the ACOE communicated that CSX has applied for the 404 permit on 11/8, weeks after construction began, and they still have not been granted that permit in writing. Only verbal agreements have been made, which are not legally binding. Why is TDEC allowing construction to continue with zero environmental practices in place and with no oversight or proper documentation? Is TDEC an advocate for the environment or for private interests? When will TDEC take this matter seriously and perform a full inspection? As locals who deeply appreciate the beauty of the Nolichucky these destructive construction practices that we know will impact the health of the river for a long time are tragic to observe.

Thank you for your time and consideration in this very impactful manner.

Will & Ella Hinchliffe

Complaint

Location based on SITE_ID

Investigation Results

Complaint Description and Writeup