Comment period extended on Raleigh's groundwater pollution request

The state has extended to Nov. 5 the comment period on Raleigh's request that it be exempted from requirements to clean up extensive groundwater pollution near its wastewater treatment plant, the News & Observer reports. The nitrate contamination that was caused by decades of sloppy sewage application practices is now seeping into the Neuse, which is already one of the nation's most pollution-endangered rivers.

The city has asked the state for a permit variance that would allow it to skirt cleanup requirements, but environmental advocates including the Upper Neuse Riverkeeper are calling on the state to deny the request. To weigh in on the matter, click here. You can also send comments to David Hance, DENR-DWQ Planning Section, 1617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1617; call (919) 733-5083; or e-mail david.hance@ncmail.net.