The endangered clubshell mussel is found in a stream that would be crossed by the Pennypacker Pipeline. Photo by USFWS.

The Pennypacker Pipeline, a 10-mile, 24-inch gathering line proposed for Harrison and Lewis Counties, would tie-in to the Atlantic Coast Pipeline. You can comment to WVDEP on the pipeline’s water quality impacts through 5PM tomorrow, 9/6.

We’ve reviewed the Pennypacker’s Water Quality Certification, the permit that ensures the project meets WV’s water quality standards, and found it to be grossly inadequate.

One of the most glaring omissions is mention of impacts to the clubshell mussel, an endangered species, that lives in Hackers Creek, a tributary of the West Fork River. Clubshell mussels are an important part of the river’s ecosystem. As they feed, they filter particles from the water making them one of the few organisms that actually improve water quality.

Freshwater mussels, like the clubshell, are extremely sensitive to water quality changes. They cannot tolerate pollution like increased sedimentation – a possible impact of the Pennypacker Pipeline.The Pennypacker’s Water Quality Certification lacks the critical information needed to protect this important endangered species.

Help the clubshell mussel and comment on the Pennypacker’s Water Quality Certification today!