ADEM holds public hearing on Reed Materials quarry permits near Guntersville

The Alabama Department of Environmental Management opened a public hearing to receive oral testimony on draft permit actions for Reed Materials LLC’s proposed Project New Road limestone quarry near Guntersville.

Todd Carter, the designated hearing officer, told attendees that the department will consider oral and written comments in deciding whether to issue a Synthetic Minor Operating Permit (SMOP 711-0074-X001) and a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit (AL0084532) for the facility at 7442 Warrington Road.

ADEM air and water division staff presented their preliminary determinations. Dodie Mosley of ADEM’s air division said the department’s review indicates proposed wet suppression systems on crushers, screens and transfer points could meet applicable state and federal requirements. Robert Glover of ADEM’s water division described the draft NPDES authorization for treated effluent through two proposed outfalls and said the draft was developed in accordance with state and federal water‑quality rules.

Speakers for and against the project then addressed the panel. Supporters and company representatives said the quarry would supply local aggregate and add roughly 10–12 jobs; neighbors described potential harms including respiratory‑health risks from dust, blast vibrations and roadway impacts. Carter closed by reminding the public that ADEM’s final determinations and responses to comments will be posted to the department’s e‑file system.

Next steps: ADEM will accept written comments through the close of the public comment period, review the hearing record, and reconsider the preliminary determinations before issuing final permit decisions.