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Press ReleaseDescriptionAuthorDate
Bluestone Coke LawsuitBluestone Coke sued for water pollutionBWRk, GASP, SELCSeptember 13, 2023
Southern Exposure in BPL 2023New Southern Exposure Films Donated to all 18 Birmingham Public Library LocationsBWRk, Alabama Rivers Alliance, Birmingham Public LibraryAugust 29, 2023
Fish Guide 20232023 Alabama Fish Consumption Advisories Are Published. Are the Fish You Catch Safe to Eat?BWRk, Coosa Riverkeeper, Alabama Rivers Alliance, Waterkeepers AlabamaAugust 11, 2023
EPA Proposes to Deny Alabama Coal Ash ProgramEPA Proposes to Deny Alabama’s Unsafe Coal Ash Program, Opening Door for Public CommentsBWRk, Coosa Riverkeeper, Mobile Baykeeper, SELCAugust 3, 2023
Bluestone Coke WarningBluestone Coke violates Clean Water Act, polluting Five Mile CreeksSELC, GASP and BWRkJuly 14, 2023
Landfill Methane Petition14 Groups Petition EPA for Stronger Controls on Methane from LandfillsEIP and 14 groupsJune 22, 2023
Northern Beltline Comment ReleaseALDOT plan dumps millions into failed Northern Beltline project Days left to comment on latest ALDOT proposalSELC and BWRkJune 22, 2023
Munson Intern 2023UA Student wins second Munson InternshipBWRkJune 8, 2023
Coalition Sues EPA Over PollutionCoalition Sues EPA Over Unregulated Water Pollution From Oil Refineries, Plastics Plants, and Other IndustriesEIP and 14 groupsApril 11, 2023
Earthbound’s EarthfestEarthbound’s Earthfest Supports Black Warrior Riverkeeper April 29BWRkApril 4, 2023
Southern Exposure in JCLC 2022Southern Exposure Films Donated to all 40 Jefferson County Library LocationsBWRk, Alabama Rivers Alliance, and JCLCDecember 8, 2022
Southern Exposure in BPL 2022Southern Exposure Films Donated to all 18 Birmingham Public Library LocationsBWRk, Alabama Rivers Alliance, and Birmingham Public LibraryNovember 9, 2022
Fish Advisories in SpanishAlabama Fish Consumption Advisories Now Available in SpanishBWRk and Waterkeepers AlabamaOctober 15, 2022
Mine No 7 LawsuitBlack Warrior Riverkeeper Sues Warrior Met Coal Mine No 7BWRkSeptember 14, 2022
Victory Finalized at Maxine MineApproved Consent Decree Requires Cleanup of Drummond’s Maxine Mine SiteBWRk, SELC and Public JusticeAugust 11, 2022
Mine No. 7 NOISBlack Warrior Riverkeeper Intends to Sue Warrior Met Coal and MRC-FGBWRkJune 21, 2022
Munson Intern 2022Alabama Student wins Munson scholarship for Black Warrior Riverkeeper internshipBWRkMay 26, 2022
Maxine Proposed Consent DecreeGroups File Proposed Consent Decree Forcing Cleanup of Drummond’s Maxine Mine SiteBWRk, SELC and Public JusticeMay 17, 2022
New Fish Consumption SignsWaterkeepers Alabama Installs New Fish Consumption Advisory Signs StatewideWaterkeepers AlabamaApril 12, 2022
Earthbound’s Earthfest 2022Earthbound’s Earthfest celebrates the Clean Water Act’s 50th AnniversaryBWRkApril 1, 2022
Notice of Intent to Sue KamtekBlack Warrior Riverkeeper intends to sue Kamtek for Clean Water Act violationsBWRkMarch 22, 2022

Big Win for Watercress Darters
New Conservation Easement Protects Endangered Watercress Darter in BirminghamBWRk and the Freshwater Land TrustNovember 18, 2021

Mays Mine Supplemental NOI
Agencies Warned Alabama Coal Mine May Violate State and Federal LawsBWRk and the Center for Biological DiversityNovember 16, 2021

Maxine 2 Notice of Intent to Sue
Black Warrior Riverkeeper Files Notice of Intent to Sue Drummond for Pumping Polluted WaterBWRkOctober 28, 2021

Earthbound’s Earthfest 2021
Earthbound’s Earthfest celebrates Black Warrior Riverkeeper on September 19BWRkAugust 26, 2021

Fish Guide 2021
Are the Fish Safe to Eat in Your Community?Waterkeepers AlabamaJuly 26, 2021

Southern Exposure in TPL
New Southern Exposure DVDs donated to all Tuscaloosa County Library locationsBWRk and TPLJuly 14, 2021

Southern Exposure in JCLC
New Southern Exposure DVDs donated to all Jefferson County Library locationsBWRk and JCLCJune 30, 2021

Mays Mine Notice of Intent to Sue
Lawsuit Launched to Overturn Approval of Destructive Coal Mine in Alabama. Mays No. 5 Mine Pushing Threatened Flattened Musk Turtle Closer to ExtinctionCenter for Biological Diversity and BWRkJune 16, 2021

Munson Interns 2021
UA Students Win Munson Foundation Grant for Black Warrior Riverkeeper InternshipBWRkMay 28, 2021

Southern Exposure in BPL 2021
New Southern Exposure Films are Back in all Birmingham Public Library LocationsBPLMay 4, 2021

Orvis Giveback Days 2020
Orvis Helping Black Warrior Riverkeeper throughout SeptemberBWRkSeptember 2, 2020

Fish Guide 2020
Alabama Releases Fish Consumption Advisories for 2020BWRk, Coosa Riverkeeper, and Alabama Rivers AllianceAugust 5, 2020

Coal Ash Meetings During COVID
Alabama Power to Hold Public Meetings on Coal Ash Despite Lack of Public NoticeBWRkJune 25, 2020

New Alabama Coal Ash Website
Regional Alliance of Environmental Advocates Launches Alabama Coal Ash WebsiteBWRkMarch 26, 2020

AirWave 2020
AirWave Benefits 3 Waterkeepers March 21 at Good PeopleBlack Warrior, Cahaba, and Coosa RiverkeepersFebruary 25, 2020

Waterkeepers Alabama Website and Map
Waterkeepers Alabama Launches Website and Interactive MapWaterkeepers AlabamaFebruary 13, 2020

Alabama Beta 2019
Alabama Beta Adventure Race Promotes Outdoor Recreation, Conservation and CommunityThe Alabama BetaSeptember 17, 2019

Autumnal AirWave
Autumnal AirWave Benefits Three Waterkeepers September 27 at Avondale BreweryBlack Warrior, Cahaba, and Coosa RiverkeepersSeptember 6, 2019

Orvis Giveback Days
Orvis Supports Black Warrior Riverkeeper with September Giveback DaysBWRk and OrvisAugust 28, 2019

Southern Exposure DVDs at JCLC
New Southern Exposure DVDs donated for all Jefferson County LibrariesARA, JCLC, and BWRKJuly 15, 2019

Bama Belle 2019
Bama Belle Riverboat hosts August 1 event for two WaterkeepersBWRkJuly 9, 2019

Southern Exposure DVDs at TPL
New Southern Exposure DVDs donated for all three Tuscaloosa Public Library locationsARA, TPL, and BWRkJune 26, 2019

Munson Intern 2019
UA Student Wins Munson Foundation Grant for Black Warrior Riverkeeper InternshipBWRkJune 13, 2019

New Coal Ash Pollution Maps
New Interactive Maps of Groundwater Pollution Reveal Threats Posed by Alabama Power Coal Ash Pits.ARA, BWRk, Coosa Riverkeeper, and Mobile BaykeeperJune 5, 2019

Southern Exposure DVDs at BPL
New Southern Exposure DVDs donated for all 19 Birmingham Public Library locationsARA, BPL, and BWRkMay 30, 2019

Maxine Mine Ruling
Court Rules that Drummond is Violating the Clean Water Act on Black Warrior River’s Locust ForkBWRk, SELC, and Public JusticeMay 10, 2019

Earthbound’s Earthfest 2019
Earthbound’s Earthfest Celebrates Black Warrior RiverkeeperBWRkMarch 25, 2019

AirWave 2019
AirWave at Good People Benefits Three Waterkeepers on March 23Black Warrior, Cahaba, and Coosa RiverkeepersMarch 4, 2019

Riverkeeper Sues EPA to Protect Streams
Black Warrior Riverkeeper Sues EPA to Protect Imperiled StreamsBWRkFebruary 27, 2019

My Heart Through Art
Black Warrior Riverkeeper benefit at Liz Lane GalleryBWRkJanuary 17, 2019

Elmore DeMott Photography at Harrison Galleries
Black Warrior Riverkeeper Introduces Elmore DeMott’s Art at Harrison GalleriesBWRkAugust 29, 2018

Letter Urges Governor to Hold AEMC Accountable
Alabama Environmental Organizations Urge Governor Ivey to Hold Alabama Environmental Management Commission AccountableAlabama Rivers AllianceAugust 14, 2018

11 Groups Demand New ADEM Director
Eleven Conservation Groups Call for ADEM Director’s Resignation or TerminationBWRkJuly 30, 2018

2018 Munson Intern
UA PR Student Earns Grant for Riverkeeper InternshipBWRkMay 30, 2018

Bama Belle 2018
Bama Belle Riverboat Hosts Two Waterkeepers’ June 21 Event in TuscaloosaBWRk and Hurricane CreekkeeperMay 17, 2018

Summer Recreation Starts as Sewage Threats Persist
Alabama Summer Recreation Season Starts Today As Sewage Threats PersistWaterkeepers AlabamaMay 1, 2018
Earthbound’s Earthfest 2018Earthbound’s Earthfest April 21 at Avondale Brewing Company Celebrates Black Warrior RiverkeeperBWRkApril 3, 2018
AirWave 2018AirWave at Good People Benefits 3 Local WaterkeepersMorriss EntertainmentMarch 1, 2018
Toxic Chemicals ReportNearly Ten Million Pounds of Toxic Chemicals Dumped into Alabama RiversAll 8 Alabama WaterkeepersNovember 16, 2017
Sewage Permits ImproveAlabama Sewage Permits Become More Protective of CitizensAll 8 Alabama WaterkeepersSeptember 27, 2017
Sewage Spill Notification ToolsGroups React to ADEM’s New Sewage Spill Notification ToolsAll 8 Alabama Waterkeepers and Alabama Rivers AllianceAugust 31, 2017
Coal Ash MapsAlabama Power Coal Ash Maps Illustrate Potential Danger to River and PublicBWRkAugust 24, 2017
Top Student Earns GrantUA PR Student Earns Grant for Riverkeeper InternshipBWRkJune 21, 2017
Black Warrior Riverkeeper 15th AnniversaryCelebrating 15 years of Black Warrior Riverkeeper on the Bama Belle Riverboat on June 15BWRkMay 22, 2017
Appeal to Hold EPA AccountableAlabama Conservation Groups Appeal to Court to Hold EPA Accountable to Clean Water ActAlabama Rivers AllianceMay 2, 2017
State to Study Sewage Spill NotificationsAlabama Environmental Management Commission votes to study better sewage spill notification systemAlabama WaterkeepersApril 21, 2017
Alabama Sewage Spills MapWater Protection Groups Release Map of Sewage Spills in AlabamaAlabama WaterkeepersApril 11, 2017
Earthbounds Earthfest 2017Earthbounds Earthfest 2017 at Avondale BreweryBWRkApril 7, 2017
Black Warrior Minerals Mine 2Groups Challenge Coal Mine’s Stream Fill Permit on the Locust ForkBWRk, SELC and Defenders of WildlifeMarch 21, 2017
Harvest Select Disrupts SewageRiverkeeper Asks ADEM and Uniontown to Stop Catfish Processor from Disrupting Sewage LagoonBWRkMarch 17, 2017
Sewage NotificationAlabama Groups Request Better Public Notification of Sewage SpillsAll 8 Alabama WaterkeepersMarch 7, 2017
Fish GuideNew Fish Guide Program Helps Fishermen across AlabamaCoosa Riverkeeper and BWRkMarch 1, 2017
Wildlife InteventionConservation Groups Join Legal Battle over Protections for Endangered SpeciesSELC, Defenders of Wildlife, SCCCL and BWRkFebruary 28, 2017
AirWave 2017AirWave Festival Benefits 3 Local WaterkeepersMorriss EntertainmentFebruary 24, 2017
Alabama Waterkeepers Tell ADEM to Follow New LawAlabama’s Waterkeepers Call on ADEM to Modify 7 Sewage Plant Permits to Comply With New LawCoosa RiverkeeperJanuary 31, 2017
Southern Exposure 2016 in Birmingham Public LibrarySELC and Black Warrior Riverkeeper donate Southern Exposure Film Fellowship 2016 films to Birmingham Public LibraryBPLDecember 2, 2016
Public Hearing December 5 on Uniontown SewagePublic Hearing on Uniontown’s Failing Sewage Treatment SystemBlack Belt CitizensDecember 1, 2016
Chilling Effect Removed for Coal ChallengesAlabama Coalfield Citizens Win with Black Warrior Riverkeeper LawsuitBWRkNovember 3, 2016
Alabama Toxic Pollutants PetitionGroups Petition State Commission to Impose Stricter Limits on Toxic Pollutants in WatersDavid Ludder and BWRkOctober 25, 2016
Maxine Mine LawsuitGroups Sue Drummond over Abandoned Mine’s Pollution of the Locust ForkSELCSeptember 1, 2016
Save the Black Warrior 2016SweetWater Helps Save the Black Warrior in Birmingham and TuscaloosaBWRkJuly 8, 2016
Groups Push Drummond to Fix Abandoned MineAbandoned Mine Site Continues to Pollute Locust ForkSELC, Public Justic, and BWRkJune 29, 2016
Kayaking for ConservationTwo Alabama Students Kayak From Tuscaloosa to Mobile to Support Two Waterkeeper GroupsMobile BaykeeperJune 2, 2016
Northern Beltline Not In Top FiftyMap of Alabama’s Top 50 Transportation Projects Highlights State’s Imbalanced Approach to InfrastructureSELC and BWRkMay 12, 2016
Earthbounds Earthfest 2016Earthbounds Earthfest Celebrates Black Warrior Riverkeeper at Avondale Brewery April 23BWRkApril 7, 2016
AirWaveMarch 12 AirWave Festival at Good People Benefits Three Local WaterkeepersBWRkFebruary 25, 2016
Court Rules in Favor of Flawed Northern Beltline ProjectThe U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Alabama issued a ruling late yesterday that responsible agencies met threshold legal requirements for a review of environmental impacts and alternative transportation investments for the Northern Beltline.SELC and BWRkJanuary 20, 2016

New Library Partnership
Southern Environmental Law Center donates Southern Exposure DVDs to Birmingham Public LibraryBirmingham Public LibraryDecember 15, 2015

Groups Challenge Lenient Approach to Stream Filling
Advocates Challenge Corps’ Lenient Approach to Stream Filling in Black Warrior River BasinBWRk and SELCOctober 27, 2015

September 15 Epiphany Dinner
Epiphany Dinner Benefits Black Warrior Riverkeeper and Friends of Hurricane CreekBWRkSeptember 2, 2015

Successful Shannon Mine Settlement
Black Warrior Riverkeeper Successfully Settles Shannon Mine LawsuitBWRkJuly 7, 2015
Save Our Water 2015SweetWater Helps Black Warrior Riverkeeper “Save Our Water” in TuscaloosaSweetWater and BWRkJuly 2, 2015
UA PR InternUA PR Student Earns Prestigious Grant to Intern with Black Warrior RiverkeeperBWRkJune 12, 2015
Earthbound’s Earthfest 2015Earthbound’s Earthfest benefits Black Warrior Riverkeeper at Avondale Brewing Company on April 18BWRkApril 2, 2015
Nationwide Permit 21 Decision RemandFederal Court Requires Corps to Rectify Error on Water Impacts of Coal Mining Permit along Alabama’s Black Warrior RiverSELC and BWRkMarch 24, 2015
Red Flags for Northern BeltlineLong Range Plan for Birmingham Region Would Allocate More than Half of Available Funding for Transportation Improvements to Northern Beltline. Completion of the Project Now Estimated to Take 75 Years.SELC and BWRkNovember 19, 2014
Orvis Helps Black Warrior Riverkeeper Protect Local WatersOrvis and their new Birmingham store are providing multifaceted support for Black Warrior Riverkeeper.Orvis and BWRkOctober 30, 2014
Donaldson Prison Sewage Lawsuit Ends SuccessfullyBlack Warrior Riverkeeper has reached a successful settlement in their water pollution case against Alabama Utility Services (AUS), the operator of Donaldson Correctional Facility’s sewage treatment plant.BWRkSeptember 30, 2014

Citizens Advisory Board Opposes Shepherd Bend Mine
Representing all 99 of the city’s neighborhood associations, Birmingham’s Citizens Advisory Board unanimously passed a Resolution urging The University of Alabama System Trustees to stop the proposed Shepherd Bend Mine from polluting a major drinking water supply for the greater Birmingham area.BWRkAugust 18, 2014
Team USA Kayaker Donates PSATeam USA Kayaker Bennett Smith has donated a Public Service Announcement for Black Warrior Riverkeeper.Tracy Bennett Smith ConsultingAugust 6, 2014
Shepherd Bend Mine Public Hearing August 28ADEM will hold a public hearing on Thursday, August 28 at 6 pm regarding the proposed Shepherd Bend Mine, a threat to drinking water for 200,000 people in the greater Birmingham area.BWRkJuly 23, 2014
Save Our Water 2014SweetWater Brewing Company is renewing its annual “Save Our Water” collaboration with Black Warrior Riverkeeper at over 20 Tuscaloosa restaraunts, bars, and stores throughout July and August. Paper fish and tshirt sales at these participating businesses will support Black Warrior Riverkeeper’s efforts to protect the entire Black Warrior River watershed.SweetWater and BWRkJune 26, 2014
Press Statement on Northern Beltline GroundbreakingPress Statement on Northern Beltline Groundbreaking: As Construction Begins, Questions and Doubts Persist about $5.4-Billion ProjectSELC and BWRkApril 21, 2014
Earthbounds Earthfest 2014Saturday April 19, 2014 from 2pm to sundown, Earthbound will play their annual outdoor rock concert, Earthbound’s Earthfest, at Avondale Brewery (201 41st Street South, Birmingham, AL 35222). The family friendly event is open to all ages, although guests under 21 must be accompanied by a parent. Its purpose is to celebrate Earth Day and raise funds for Black Warrior Riverkeeper.BWRkMarch 21, 2014
Top Scientists Oppose Coal Mines Near Drinking Water SourceOur effort to ensure clean, safe, drinkable and affordable drinking water for the Birmingham area recently gained major allies, as three nationally recognized experts on this topic submitted a joint letter in support of our appeal.BWRkFebruary 28, 2014
Public Hearing on Lands Unsuitable for MiningThe Alabama Surface Mining Commission (ASMC) will hold a public hearing on Thursday, February 20 on appeals of Black Warrior Riverkeeper’s Lands Unsuitable for Coal Mining Petition.BWRkJanuary 27, 2014
Epiphany Dinner Supports BWRkThursday, February 6 at 8pm, Epiphany will host a Farm to Table Dinner to raise money for Black Warrior Riverkeeper and awareness for local food and beverages.BWRkJanuary 24, 2014
Groups Challenge Flawed Coal Mine PermittingThe continued use of a controversial permit in the Black Warrior River basin by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers fails to comply with federal requirements for surface mining, according to a lawsuit filed today by the Southern Environmental Law Center and Public Justice on behalf of Black Warrior Riverkeeper and Defenders of Wildlife.SELC & BWRkNovember 25, 2013
Lands Unsuitable for Mining Petition Denied in Flawed DecisionToday the Alabama Surface Mining Commission (ASMC) refused to declare 40,300 acres of land adjacent to the Mulberry Fork of the Black Warrior River as off limits to coal mining, missing an historic opportunity to protect the drinking water source for 200,000 residents in the greater Birmingham area.BWRkOctober 28, 2013
New Lawsuit Challenges Flawed Northern Beltline PermitThe Southern Environmental Law Center today filed a new federal lawsuit on behalf of Black Warrior Riverkeeper, challenging a permit issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the Northern Beltline’s first phase of construction. The lawsuit addresses the Corps of Engineers’ failure to follow requirements of the Clean Water Act and the National Environmental Policy Act.SELC& BWRkOctober 25, 2013
UAH SGA Resolution Urges UA to Stop the Shepherd Bend MineThe Student Government Association at the University of Alabama in Huntsville has passed a Resolution urging the University of Alabama System Trustees to stop the proposed Shepherd Bend Mine from polluting a major drinking water supply for the greater Birmingham area.BWRkSeptember 23, 2013
Warrior River RunBlack Warrior Riverkeeper and Moundville Archaeological Park will present the Warrior River Run at 8 a.m. on Saturday, September 21, at Moundville Archaeological Park. The first race of its kind at Moundville Archaeological Park, the Warrior River Run will feature a full mile flat-track race, a physically demanding sprint to the summits of Mounds A and B and two surprise obstacles of an ancient origin.BWRkAugust 27, 2013
Save Our Water 2013SweetWater Brewing Company is running its annual “Save Our Water” collaboration with Black Warrior Riverkeeper at over 20 Tuscaloosa restaraunts, bars, and stores throughout July and August. Paper fish and tshirt sales at these participating businesses will support Black Warrior Riverkeeper’s efforts to protect the entire Black Warrior River watershed. Learn how you can participate!SweetWaterJune 27, 2013
Alabama PR Intern GrantGillian Richard, a native of Gurley, Ala., has received a grant from the Curtis and Edith Munson Foundation to work with Black Warrior Riverkeeper. Richard, a senior majoring in public relations at The University of Alabama, will be working as a communications intern for the group throughout the summer.Black Warrior RiverkeeperJune 13, 2013
Dock at the Rock 2013H2 Real Estate is hosting the 4th Annual Dock at the Rock on June 15th with a series of outdoor music performances at the amphitheater at Silverock Cove (101 Turtle Point Dr, Crane Hill, AL 35053) on Smith Lake. Dillon Hodges is headlining the event, with a number of musicians scheduled to play throughout day starting at 11 A.M. Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit Black Warrior Riverkeeper.h2 Real EstateMay 28, 2013
Titusville Community Resolution Urges UA to Stop the Shepherd Bend MineTitusville Community officers, collectively representing the Birmingham neighborhood associations of North Titusville, South Titusville, and Woodlawn Park, unanimously passed a Resolution urging the University of Alabama System Trustees to stop the Shepherd Bend Mine from polluting a major drinking water supply for the greater Birmingham area.BWRkMay 18, 2013
Shannon Mine LawsuitBlack Warrior Riverkeeper has filed a citizen lawsuit under the Clean Water Act and Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act in U.S. District Court for 758 water pollution violations at the Shannon Mine. The surface coal mine, run by Shannon, LLC, operates in Jefferson and Tuscaloosa counties within the Upper Black Warrior River watershed.BWRkApril 24, 2013
Black Warrior included among America’s Most Endangered RiversThe Proposed Shepherd Bend Mine, a threat to Birmingham-area drinking water, has landed the Black Warrior on American Rivers’ 2013 Most Endangered Rivers list. The University of Alabama System Trustees are now under a national spotlight to stop this mine proposal.American RiversApril 17, 2013
Alabama Panhellenic Association Greek Week Grant The Alabama Panhellenic Association has invited Black Warrior Riverkeeper to receive a generous Greek Week grant at the Greek Week Leadership and Service Banquet in the Ferguson Center Ballroom at The University of Alabama on April 16 at 6 p.m. This press release discusses that grant and other BWRk work regarding UA, including the Shepherd Bend Mine.BWRkApril 10, 2013
Earthbound’s Earthfest 2013 On Sunday, April 21, 2pm-Until, Alabama rock favorites Earthbound will play their highly-anticipated annual outdoor concert,Earthbounds Earthfest, at Avondale Brewery(201 41st Street South).BWRkApril 1, 2013
Donaldson Prison Sewage LawsuitOn February 28, 2012, Black Warrior Riverkeeper filed citizen suit under the Clean Water Act in U.S. District Court for National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit violations at Donaldson Correctional Facility’s wastewater treatment plant in west Jefferson County.BWRkFebruary 28, 2013
UAB PHSA Shepherd Bend ResolutionUAB Public Health Students Association unanimously passed a resolution imploring the UA System to stop the Shepherd Bend MineBWRkFebruary 15, 2013
UAB GSA Shepherd Bend ResolutionUAB Graduate Student Association unanimously passed a resolution imploring the UA System to stop the Shepherd Bend MineBWRkJanuary 16, 2013
Black Warrior Riverkeeper celebrates 40th Anniversary of the Clean Water ActAfter 40 years, the Clean Water Act has done much to clean up streams, rivers, and lakes within the Black Warrior River watershed and throughout our great nation, but new sources of water pollution are being permitted almost every month. As a public resource, we have created a map showing the location of many wastewater treatment plants with permits to discharge treated sewage into the river and its tributaries.BWRkOctober 16, 2012
Groups ask MPO to remove Northern Beltline from funding plan Black Warrior Riverkeeper and the Southern Environmental Law Center have asked the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) to remove the Northern Beltline from the proposed four-year funding plan because of the project’s ballooning price tag, questionable economic benefits, and harmful effects on the environment.BWRk and SELCOctober 9, 2012
Black Warrior Riverkeeper Petitions ASMC to Prevent Mines Upstream of Birmingham Water SourceBlack Warrior Riverkeeper has filed a petition with the Alabama Surface Mining Commission to designate areas adjacent to the Birmingham Water Works Board’s Mulberry Fork drinking water intake as lands unsuitable for surface coal mining.BWRkSeptember 10, 2012
Tap into the River: 10th Anniversary EventSaturday, September 22, from 2pm to 8pm, Black Warrior Riverkeeper will celebrate 10 years of clean water advocacy with the event “Tap into the River” at Good People Brewery (114 14th Street South). Two excellent bands will play during the event: The Locust Fork Band and Earl Williams & the Juke Band. The event has no entry fee and is open to all ages.BWRkSeptember 5, 2012
Birmingham City Council Votes to Oppose Reed Mine No. 5In its City Council meeting yesterday, the City of Birmingham unanimously passed a resolution addressed to the Alabama Surface Mining Commission (ASMC), stating, “…we implore the ASMC to deny the permit for the proposed Reed Mine No. 5.”BWRkSeptember 5, 2012
Avondale RiverFestAvondale RiverFest will benefit Black Warrior Riverkeeper on Saturday July 21. This is a free live music event at Avondale Brewing Company from Noon to Midnight. The brewery’s owners have publicly implored the University of Alabama to refuse to lease or sell land or minerals for the proposed Shepherd Bend Mine, which would be a major threat to the river, Birmingham’s tap water, and the company’s beer.BWRkJuly 11, 2012
Study finds Northern Beltline a poor economic development toolThe cost of the multi-billion dollar Northern Beltline highway to American and Alabama taxpayers far outweighs the potential for significant revenue and jobs from the project and is a fraction of what highway proponents have long claimed, according to a new economic analysis conducted by the Ochs Center for Metropolitan Studies.SELCJune 19, 2012
Save the Black Warrior 2012SweetWater Brewing Company is Launching its Annual Save the Black Warrior Program June 1 through July 7BWRk and SweetWaterMay 23, 2012
Dock at the Rock 2012Silverock Cove on Smith Lake is hosting its 3rd Annual Dock at the Rock event to benefit Black Warrior Riverkeeper – May 19, 2012H2 Real EstateMay 11, 2012
Latest ALDOT Northern Beltline study misses the markBlack Warrior Riverkeeper and the Southern Environmental Law Center are asking the court to require a thorough “supplemental environmental impact statement” for the Northern Beltline as required under the National Environmental Policy Act.BWRk and SELCMay 1, 2012
Black Warrior Riverkeeper Celebrates 10 Years on June 6 Black Warrior Riverkeeper Celebrates 10 Years of Service on June 6 “Cruisin’ on the River”: Beer, Food, Tunes and a Sunset Cruise.BWRkApril 18, 2012
University of Alabama SGA Passes Resolution Opposing the Shepherd Bend Mine The Student Government Association (SGA) at The University of Alabama (UA) has unanimously passed a resolution imploring UA leaders to stop the proposed Shepherd Bend Mine from polluting Birmingham’s tap water source.BWRkFebruary 27, 2012
Deadly Deception II by CBS 42 March 1 at the Carver Theatre On Thursday March 1, CBS 42 will show a sneak preview of Deadly Deception II: Faces in the Mirror at the Carver Theatre from 6:00-8:30pm. The commercial-free documentary about pollution in North Birmingham is the follow-up to “Deadly Deception” which aired in August, 2011 on CBS 42.BWRkFebruary 22, 2012
UAB Student Government Resolution Implores UA System to Oppose the Shepherd Bend MineThe Undergraduate Student Government Association at UAB has unanimously passed a Resolution imploring the University of Alabama to stop the proposed Shepherd Bend Mine from potentially polluting Birmingham’s drinking water.BWRkFebruary 9, 2012
February 2nd Shepherd Bend Mine Protest and Petition handoffConcerned Citizens will protest the Shepherd Bend Mine during the UA System Trustees’ Meeting. Over 6,000 Change.org petition signatures will be delivered to Trustees.Change.orgFebruary 2, 2012
Birmingham’s Breweries Ask UA to Stop the Shepherd Bend MineBirmingham’s Good People Brewing Company and Avondale Brewing Company each sent letters to the University of Alabama on January 26, 2012 imploring UA not to lease or sell its land and minerals for the Shepherd Bend MineBWRkJanuary 26, 2012
Alabama Coal Ash Ponds Receive Most Toxic Metals in the NationAccording to the Environmental Integrity Project (EIP), Alabama power plants lead the way in disposal of wastes containing toxic metals into coal ash ponds. Alabama Power’s Miller Steam Plant and Gorgas Steam Plant are both in the Black Warrior River watershed. Miller ranked first in the nation for disposing toxic metal wastes into coal ash ponds and Gorgas ranked fifteenth.BWRkJanuary 6, 2012
Groups Urge Corps To Reject Flawed Northern Beltline PermitALDOT is attempting an end-run around federal law by pursuing permits for one section of the proposed Northern Beltline in the face of persistent questions about whether the beltline as a whole merits a multi-billion dollar investment by federal taxpayers, and while a lawsuit challenging the beltline’s environmental study is pending.SELC and BWRkNovember 14, 2011
NAACP Town Hall Meeting on PollutionBirmingham-Metro Chapter NAACP Presents Grand Town Hall Meeting on the Environment Panelists Will Focus on Local Pollution Threats: Shepherd Bend Mine and “Deadly Deception”NAACP and BWRkOctober 3, 2011
Two Waterkeepers Sue Black Warrior Minerals Waterkeeper organizations Black Warrior Riverkeeper and the Friends of Hurricane Creek filed a lawsuit September 13 in United States District Court, alleging that Black Warrior Minerals’ Fleetwood Mine in Tuscaloosa County is polluting Hurricane Creek, a tributary of the Black Warrior River.FoHC and BWRkSeptember 13, 2011
National Study Names Alabama Worst State for Coal Ash Disposal National study finds state protections for coal ash inadequate. Important safeguards lacking for public health, operating old, dangerous coal ash dumps.EarthJustice and BWRkAugust 24, 2011
Groups Ask MPO to Drop Northern Beltline From PlanBlack Warrior Riverkeeper and Southern Environmental Law Center have asked the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) to remove the Northern Beltline from the proposed four-year funding plan because of the project’s ballooning price tag, questionable economic benefits and harmful effects on the environment.BWRk and SELCAugust 9, 2011
SweetWater Completes “Save the Black Warrior” 2011SweetWater Brewing Company Helps Save the Black Warrior! The brewery has completed its annual fundraising and education campaign with Black Warrior Riverkeeper.BWRk and SweetWaterAugust 2, 2011
Reaction to Hearing Officer Ruling on Shepherd BendOn July 22, 2011, an administrative Hearing Officer gave a favorable recommendation for ADEM’s permit. Black Warrior Riverkeeper and Southern Environmental Law Center plan to appeal if the Environmental Management Commission rubber-stamps that decision.BWRkJuly 22, 2011
Save the Black Warrior 2011 beginsSweetWater Brewing Company Helps Save the Black Warrior! Annual Campaign with Black Warrior Riverkeeper in Tuscaloosa and Birmingham: May 20-July 10BWRk and SweetWater Brewing CompanyMay 9, 2011
Black Warrior Chosen Among America’s Most Endangered RiversPollution caused by coal mining near the Black Warrior River has landed the river on the annual list of America’s Most Endangered Rivers™ – a report issued May 17, 2011 by the conservation group American Rivers.BWRk and American RiversMay 17, 2011
Dock at the Rock 20112nd Annual Dock at the Rock event at Silverock Cove will by May 14th. This concert and boat show on Smith Lake Benefits Black Warrior RiverkeeperBWRk and H2 Real EstateApril 27, 2011
Northern Beltline Lawsuit Represented by the Southern Environmental Law Center, Black Warrior Riverkeeper is suing ALDOT for its flawed environmental study on the Northern Beltline.BWRk and SELCApril 11, 2011
Clean Water Groups Defend Alabama Stormwater Pollution Prevention ProgramThe Alabama Rivers Alliance, Black Warrior Riverkeeper and the Cahaba River Society have filed a motion to intervene in a permit appeal by a business organization filed against the Alabama Department of Environmental Management to help defend the agency’s stormwater program for small cities.ARA, BWRk, CRS, SELCMarch 24, 2011
Birmingham City Council Opposes Shepherd Bend MineBirmingham City Council Passes Resolution Imploring UA to Stop the Shepherd Bend MineBWRkMarch 15, 2011
Earthbound’s Earthfest 2011Earthbound’s Annual Free Outdoor Concert benefits Black Warrior Riverkeeper on Sunday April 17, 2011BWRkMarch 14, 2011
An Open Letter to UABlack Warrior Riverkeeper asks UA to take a stand against the Shepherd Bend Mine proposalBWRkFebruary 16, 2011
Rosa Coal Mine Permit AppealEnvironmental Groups Take Rosa Coal Mine Fight to Court of AppealsBWRkJanuary 20, 2011
Sippin with the FishesMcWane Science Center hosts Wild Ocean IMAX event with Black Warrior RiverkeeperBWRkJanuary 4, 2011
Save the Black Warrior 2010 Recap Another Fantastic Year of Support from SweetWater Brewing CompanyBWRk and 360 MediaOctober 29, 2010
Shepherd Bend Receives Mining Permit but Opposition Continues Black Warrior Riverkeeper Reiterates Position that UA System Should Not Lease Land for Mining at Shepherd BendBWRkOctober 19, 2010
Save the Black Warrior 2010SweetWater and Black Warrior Riverkeeper collaborate throughout SeptemberSweetWater Brewing CompanyAugust 18, 2010
Shepherd Bend Mine Public HearingThe Alabama Surface Mining Commission is hosting a public hearing on the Shepherd Bend Mine proposalBWRkJuly 27, 2010
Tuscaloosa’s Waterkeepers Unite at MuseumBlack Warrior Riverkeeper and Hurricane Creekkeeper will host a public event at the Alabama Museum of Natural History on August 12BWRkJuly 16, 2010
New Black Warrior VideoOn this 40th anniversary of Earth Day, Black Warrior Riverkeeper is launching a three-minute video produced by Lewis Communications to raise awareness for the Black Warrior River watershed.Lewis Communications and BWRkApril 22, 2010
Black Warrior Riverkeeper Hires Eva Dillard, Staff AttorneyEva Dillard began work as Black Warrior Riverkeeper’s Staff Attorney on April 2, 2010.BWRkApril 2, 2010
Black Warrior Riverkeeper Wins 2010 River Hero AwardNelson Brooke, staff Riverkeeper at Black Warrior Riverkeeper, won the 2010 River Hero Award at the Alabama Rivers Alliance’s Watershed Leadership Conference.BWRkMarch 1, 2010
Birmingham Airport Authority Fulfills Pollution Case RequirementsBlack Warrior Riverkeeper’s pollution case against the Birmingham Airport Authority was closed on February 16, 2010. The BAA has spent over $1.7 million implementing erosion controls and sediment controls at their runway extension construction site.BWRkFebruary 16, 2010
Clean Water Restoration Act Report In partnership with Black Warrior Riverkeeper and Alabama Rivers Alliance, Environment America releases report on increased risks to Alabama Waterways.Environment America, BWRk, Alabama Rivers AllianceFebruary 10, 2010
Earthbound’s Earthfest 2010Earthbound’s Earthfest Returns to Bessie Estelle Park on Sunday, April 18! Free Outdoor Concert & Family Picnic Raises Funds for Black Warrior Riverkeeper.BWRkFebruary 9, 2010
Clean Water Groups Challenge Rosa Coal MineRepresenting Black Warrior Riverkeeper and the Friends of the Locust Fork River, the Southern Environmental Law Center is challenging a massive coal mine proposal on the Black Warrior River’s Locust Fork.SELC, BWRk, Friends of the Locust Fork RiverNovember 20, 2009
Save the Black Warrior 2009 SweetWater and Riverkeeper Recap 2nd Annual Month-long “Save the Black Warrior” Partnership.BWRkOctober 22, 2009
Grease Opening Night Cast Party After the Opening Night of Grease starring Taylor Hicks, Riverkeeper tickets provide exclusive entry to the Cast Party at Rogue TavernBWRkJuly 16, 2009
Locust Fork Forever Wild Nomination Black Warrior Riverkeeper and the Friends of the Locust Fork River submit Forever Wild nomination for conserving 3200-acre property owned by Birmingham Water Works Board on the Locust Fork.BWRk & Friends of the Locust Fork RiverApril 20, 2009
Clean Water Restoration ActReleased on Rivers of Alabama Day, a new report shows waters in Alabama and across the nation are losing protections from pollution. Elected officials urged to get Congress to fix the broken Clean Water Act.Alabama Rivers Alliance & BWRkApril 14, 2009
Earthbound’s EarthfestSunday, April 19, Earthbound will play a free outdoor concert called Earthbound’s Earthfest to help raise funds and awareness for Black Warrior Riverkeeper.BWRkMarch 20, 2009
Locust Fork Band at Bottletree The Locust Fork Band will play a charity concert for Black Warrior Riverkeeper at Bottletree Cafe from 3-6pm on Saturday, April 4th. Named after the Locust Fork of the Black Warrior River, this legendary Alabama rock and country band hopes the event will raise funds and awareness for watershed protection.BWRkMarch 4, 2009
Website Combats Myth of Clean Coal TheDirtyLie.com website has been launched to combat the lies that are being spread about coal, including the myth of so-called “clean coal.” As an autonomous local chapter of Waterkeeper Alliance frequently focusing on coal pollution, Alabama’s Black Warrior Riverkeeper is helping promote the website.BWRkFebruary 25, 2009
Settlement Victory in case with Birmingham AirportBlack Warrior Riverkeeper settled their pollution case against the Birmingham Airport Authority and Dunn Construction Company on February 18, 2009. In United States District Court, the Honorable Judge Inge P. Johnson approved the settlement including injunctive relief (a court order requiring steps to curtail pollution) and the payment of $150,000. The money will pay for litigation expenses as well as a Supplemental Environmental Project (SEP).BWRkFebruary 18, 2009
ADEM sued for permitting coal mineConservationists have filed a lawsuit challenging the Alabama Department of Environmental Management’s issuance of a permit for a proposed strip coal mine, which would discharge pollutants into the Mulberry Fork of the Black Warrior River, less than a quarter mile from an intake for one of Birmingham’s major sources of drinking water.SELC and BWRkDecember 22, 2008
Ruling Upholds Citizen EnforcementIn Black Warrior Riverkeeper v. Cherokee Mining, LLC, the federal Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals ruled on November 13, 2008 that a Clean Water Act citizen suit is not barred by a state administrative action commenced after a citizen group gives notice of its intent to sue to abate water pollution.BWRkNovember 18, 2008
Metro Tire Landfill Settlement VictoryBlack Warrior Riverkeeper and the Friends of the Locust Fork have settled their case against Metro Recycling, Inc. regarding operation of a used tire landfill in Blount County, Alabama.BWRkOctober 28, 2008
McWane Center Hosting IMAX Movie Event for BWRkAn Evening with the Riverkeeper on Tuesday, August 26 at the McWane Center IMAX Dome in Birmingham. After a special presentation about Black Warrior Riverkeeper, Nelson Brooke, guests will enjoy a private viewing of Grand Canyon Adventure: River at Risk IMAXBWRkAugust 8, 2008
Presents Videos Featuring City Stages HeadlinersProduced at no cost to Black Warrior Riverkeeper from 2007-2008 these videos feature leaders from: The Flaming Lips, Michael Franti and Spearhead, The Roots, and The Wailers.BWRkApril 11, 2008
Riverkeeper Settles Lawsuit with Alabama BiodieselMoundville, AL: Black Warrior Riverkeeper and Alabama Biodiesel have reached a settlement to the pollution lawsuit Black Warrior Riverkeeper filed on August 22, 2007 in United States District Court.BWRkMay 30, 3008
Bottletree Fundraiser: Rollin In the HayBirmingham, AL: Rollin’ In the Hay and One Eyed Mary will be performing a Riverkeeper benefit on June 5, 2008BWRkMay 13, 2008
Star-Studded Earth Day Online AuctionNew York, NY Commemorate Earth Day 2008 with Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Daryl Hannah, Glenn Close, and Alicia Silverstone as they raise funds by donating exclusive celebrity experiences, incredible eco-getaways and amazing water adventures for the Earth Day 2008 online auctionBWRkApril 11, 2008
Bottletree Fundraiser with HoneyBaked and Jasper CoalBirmingham, AL: 3 great bands: Jasper Coal, HoneyBaked, and The Harmless Free Radicals will be performing a benefit for Riverkeeper June 14thBWRkOctober 31, 2007
Riverkeeper Files Lawsuit Against Metro Tire LandfillLocust Fork, AL Black Warrior Riverkeeper has filed suit against Metro Recycling, Inc. in United States District Court. The lawsuit alleges that Metro Recycling’s significant and ongoing pollution violations have diminished water quality, recreation and wildlife habitat in the Locust Fork.BWRkAug. 30, 2007
Riverkeeper Files Lawsuit Against Alabama BiodieselBlack Warrior Riverkeeper has filed a lawsuit in United States District Court against Alabama Biodiesel for the company’s unpermitted oil and grease discharges into the Black Warrior River in Tuscaloosa County, next to Moundville Archeological Park.BWRkAug 30, 2007
Higher Ground Organic Riverkeeper CoffeeHigher Ground Roasters, a top-rated 100% organic coffee company based in Leeds, Alabama, has launched a new blend called Black Warrior Riverkeeper Roast!BWRkAug. 23, 2007
Riverkeeper Reaches 10,000 MySpace SupportersOne of the first non-profit environmental organizations in America to use the social-networking website MySpace.com for online outreach, Black Warrior Riverkeeper recently gained over 10,000 MySpace Friends in the last 18 months. Riverkeeper’s official MySpace page has received over 31,000 unique website hits in 18 months as well.BWRkJune 6, 2007
Bottletree Fundraiser with Locust Fork Band and Alo’s MedsBirmingham, AL, 3 great bands: Organic Earthbound, Locust Fork Band, and Alos Meds will be performing a benefit for Black Warrior Riverkeeper on Thursday, June 14th. $10 tickets available at www.theBottletree.comBWRkMay 25, 2007
Umicore Pollutes Jasper and Birmingham’s Drinking WaterA chemical industry in Arab, AL has been discharging large volumes of bromide into the Riley Maze Wastewater Treatment Plant for years. The Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) oversees the plants daily discharge to Riley Maze Creek and administers the permit.BWRkMay 30, 2007
Cypress Mulch Opposition CampaignBlack Warrior Riverkeeper is asking thousands of supporters and the general public to refrain from buying cypress mulch. The lower part of the Black Warrior River watershed is known for its beautiful and ecologically vital cypress wetlands.BWRkApril 24, 2007
Birmingham International AirportBlack Warrior Riverkeeper filed a citizens suit in Federal court against the Birmingham International Airport and its contractors for allowing mud to run into Village Creek. Riverkeeper alleged over 60 violations of the Clean Water Act resulting from the runway extension project. Penalties could be as high as $4 million.BWRkApril 3, 2007
Fifth AnniversaryBlack Warrior Riverkeeper celebrates its Fifth Anniversary on September 25, 2006. Birmingham’s David Whiteside founded the non-profit organization in 2001.BWRkSept. 25, 2006
Moundville Lagoon N.O.I.S.Riverkeeper’s letter of intent to sue outlines 1,486 violations of the federal Clean Water Act in the past five years. These violations occurred at the Moundville LagoonBWRkDec. 22, 2005
East Walker County WWTP N.O.I.S.Riverkeeper filed Notice of Intent to Sue the East Walker Sewer Authority on August 15, 2005 for illegal discharges into the Mulberry Fork of the Black Warrior River. The letter of intent to sue outlines 4,473 violations of the federal Clean Water Act in the past four yearsBWRkAug. 15, 2005
Donaldson Correctional Facility N.O.I.S.Black Warrior Riverkeeper files a Notice of Intent to sue Donaldson Correctional Facility for sewage-related violations at Big Branch Creek, a tributary of Valley Creek.BWRkNov. 17, 2004
Honda Marine AquaTrax F12Black Warrior Riverkeeper received from Honda Marine a donation of two Honda AquaTrax ® personal watercraft to be used in patrolling the Black Warrior River and its larger tributaries. These personal watercraft are used to look for illegal polluters, respond to citizen complaints, and take water quality samplesBWRkSept. 22, 2004
Vulcan Materials Bessemer Quarry N.O.I.S.Riverkeeper has served statutory notice on Vulcan Materials that it intends to sue the company for the illegal discharge at its Bessemer Quarry of harmful pollutants into Fivemile Creek, a tributary of Valley Creek which, in turn, is a tributary of the Black Warrior River. The notice sets out 465 violationsBWRkAug. 4, 2004
Graduate Fundraiser 2The Graduate and The Sopranos star, Lorraine Bracco, Goes Above and Beyond To Support Alabama’s Black Warrior RiverkeeperBWRkFeb. 18, 2004
Graduate Fundraiser 1Riverkeeper Has A True Friend In Lorraine Bracco, As Mrs. Robinson Sopranos Star Organizing Birmingham Fundraiser To Defend Alabama’s Black Warrior.BWRkJan. 29, 2004
Zydeco’s Fundraiser September 2002Black Warrior Riverkeeper® held its first annual Fall fundraiser at Zydeco’s on September 25, 2002. A spectacular night of music was provided by Fat Finger, Smokeshack, and Avery Ellis Exhibit(s)BWRkSept. 26, 2002

 

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