AGP Executive Report

Severe Weather & Public Safety: A thunderstorm swept through WVU’s Morgantown Super Regional on Saturday, and strong winds blew over an event tent near Kendrick Family Ballpark. Injuries & Response: WVU confirmed at least five fans were taken to the hospital, with EMS, law enforcement, and fire crews securing the area and treating people during a weather delay. Coal Policy & Federal Funding: West Virginia leaders praised President Trump’s roughly $700 million push to support coal-fired power, including Defense Production Act funding for upgrades at existing plants and new construction, with West Virginia named among beneficiaries. Wildlife & Land Management: A renewed fight over “cyanide bombs” on public lands is in the spotlight after the Biden-era ban was lifted for case-by-case use, with West Virginia listed among states where M-44s have been used. Power Outages: Damaging storms also knocked out power across parts of the Pittsburgh region, with thousands reported without electricity. Local Environment & Community: A New River Gorge Historical Society fish fry fundraiser in Hinton will raise money to preserve local heritage tied to the region’s rivers and outdoor traditions.

Coal Funding Push: President Trump is using Cold War-era Defense Production Act powers to funnel nearly $700 million into coal, including $425 million to extend 13 coal plants and $185 million for two new builds—one in West Virginia—plus a restart in Maryland and support for a long-delayed California export terminal. WV Energy Impact: Gov. Patrick Morrisey says West Virginia projects tied to the announcement will move forward quickly, including work around the Mt. Storm complex and the Mitchell Plant modernization in Marshall County. Water Pollution Court Fight: A federal appeals court tossed an injunction against Chemours’ Washington Works in Parkersburg that had ordered the plant to stop exceeding Ohio River pollution limits for HFPO-DA (GenX), after finding legal and factual errors in the lower court’s ruling. Severe Weather Watch: A severe thunderstorm watch covers parts of West Virginia and neighboring states, with threats including damaging winds, hail, and heavy rain. Storm Disruption in WV: At WVU’s baseball super regional, a tent collapsed during extreme weather, injuring seven people. Local Community Notes: Wheeling’s new homelessness task force is drawing mixed reactions, while a Parkersburg car show raised money for the Children’s Home Society of West Virginia.

Coal & Grid Funding: Gov. Patrick Morrisey says West Virginia will quickly benefit from President Trump’s Defense Production Act push, including $18.5 million for early work tied to the Mt. Storm area and major modernization planning around the Mitchell Plant in Marshall County and upgrades at Moundsville. Policy Backlash: Critics call the coal subsidies “boneheaded,” arguing the money props up aging plants while renewable options get squeezed. Legal/Water Pollution: A federal appeals court tossed a lower-court injunction against Chemours’ Washington Works in Parkersburg over Ohio River permit exceedances tied to HFPO-DA (GenX), a PFAS-related chemical. Air Quality Oversight: The EPA asked the 4th Circuit to reject a challenge to West Virginia’s regional haze plan, saying the agency reasonably accepted it after proposing to deny it under a streamlined review approach. Public Health Innovation: In Morgantown, GATC Health’s AI-assisted drug GATC-1021 for opioid use disorder moves toward human trials after early success reported in PNAS. Outdoor & Wildlife: BoatUS expanded its free, state-approved boating safety course to West Virginia, and Ohio officials warn black bears are reestablishing as sightings rise.

Coal & Grid Policy: President Trump announced nearly $700M in federal support for coal, using Cold War-era Defense Production Act authority to modernize 13 coal plants (including West Virginia) and fund new coal generation in Alaska and Mt. Storm, plus a long-delayed Oakland export terminal—framed as “national security” for AI power, while critics warn it will raise health and environmental risks. Local Energy Upgrade: In West Virginia, Appalachian Power says DOE grant funding will help modernize the Mitchell Plant in Marshall County, including a new cooling tower, to extend operations and reduce risks from aging equipment. Water Pollution Court Ruling: A federal appeals court vacated an injunction against Chemours’ Washington Works in Parkersburg that had ordered immediate compliance over PFAS-related HFPO-DA discharges into the Ohio River, after finding legal and factual errors in the lower court’s order. Wildlife Protection: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service designated about 1.5 million acres as critical habitat for the endangered rusty patched bumble bee, including areas in West Virginia, shaping how federal projects are planned and permitted. Boating Safety & Clean Water: The BoatUS Foundation expanded its free, state-approved boating safety course to 15 more states, including West Virginia, adding environmental stewardship to the curriculum. Agriculture Biosecurity: USDA confirmed the first New World screwworm detection in the U.S. in Texas; West Virginia agriculture officials say they’re monitoring and have emergency response measures in place.

Coal Policy Push: President Trump announced nearly $700 million in federal support for coal, using Cold War-era Defense Production Act powers to fund upgrades at 13 coal plants (including in West Virginia) and to back new coal generation in Alaska and West Virginia, plus a long-delayed coal export terminal in Oakland—a move framed as grid reliability and energy security but criticized for boosting a high-pollution fuel. Wildlife Protection: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service designated about 1.5 million acres as critical habitat for the rusty patched bumble bee, including areas in West Virginia, which can shape how federal projects are planned and permitted. Flood Aftermath & Community Care: One year after the deadly June 14, 2025 Ohio County flood, local partners held a “Stronger Together” gathering to help residents process lingering emotional impacts. Water & Drought Pressure: Reports highlight ongoing groundwater stress and hay losses tied to drought conditions in the region, with nearby West Virginia monitoring data cited. Local Water Infrastructure: A House community project funding package could mean up to $1 million for Berkeley Springs Water Works. Road Work: Nighttime lane closures are planned on US 340 near the Shenandoah River Bridge for asphalt repairs.

Energy Policy: President Trump invoked Cold War-era Defense Production Act powers to push nearly $700 million into coal, including $425 million to upgrade 13 coal plants (with WV among them) and $75 million for the West Gateway coal export terminal in Oakland, California, plus plans for new coal plants in Alaska and West Virginia and restarting a shuttered plant in Maryland—a move environmental groups call a taxpayer subsidy for a polluting industry. Public Health & Environment: Tick bites and Lyme-related ER visits are rising, with the CDC citing warmer conditions driving more tick activity; Pennsylvania is highlighted as a hotspot. Water Infrastructure: Federal funding requests for sewer and drinking water projects in North Central West Virginia advanced in the U.S. House appropriations process, including Worthington and Buckhannon upgrades. Wildlife & Conservation: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service finalized critical habitat protections for the rusty patched bumble bee, including parts of West Virginia. Local Notes: A temporary West Run Road closure in Monongalia County is set for tree removal.

National Trails Day: West Virginia State Parks is inviting people outdoors this Saturday with guided hikes and trail clean-ups, including a 1.8-mile Coopers Rock hike on June 6—an easy way to enjoy public lands and help keep trails in good shape. Flood Recovery Support: Ohio County groups are hosting “Stronger Together: Community Gathering” for flood survivors and neighbors on Thursday at Valley Grove VFD, focusing on practical tools for coping after severe weather. Power Line Fight: West Virginia’s PSC is holding public comment hearings on NextEra’s $1.16 billion MidAtlantic Resiliency Link transmission project after thousands of written comments opposed it. Water & Pollution: A federal appeals court overturned a ruling that would have forced Chemours to stop violating its Ohio River water pollution permit, while West Virginia’s 2026 sport fish consumption advisories were eased in spots due to improved water quality. Wildlife & Boating Safety: WVDNR is urging people to leave young wildlife alone, and reminding boaters to follow education and life-jacket rules to prevent fatalities. Energy Policy: West Virginia AG JB McCuskey is leading a coalition asking the U.S. Supreme Court to protect states’ roles in environmental permitting.

Water Quality & Accountability: A federal appeals court overturned a ruling that would have forced Chemours to stop violating its Ohio River water pollution permit, lifting a preliminary injunction sought by the West Virginia Rivers Coalition. Public Health & Water: U.S. House committee members rejected Rep. Riley Moore’s $50 million drinking-water funding amendment for Southern West Virginia, despite residents’ sampled “brown water” testimony. Wildlife Protection: The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service finalized critical habitat protections for the endangered rusty patched bumble bee, designating 1.5M+ acres across multiple states including West Virginia. Angling & Pollution Monitoring: West Virginia released its 2026 sport fish consumption advisories with fewer restrictions, citing improved water quality and updated fish tissue results. Outdoor Safety: WVDNR reminded people to leave young wildlife alone, warning that handling can harm animals, spread disease, and violate state law. Local Economy & Exports: West Virginia honored 34 companies with the 2026 Governor’s Export Award for expanding into new international markets. Road Safety: WV officials say summer road work is unavoidable because asphalt and concrete need warmer conditions, but drivers should expect traffic slowdowns and follow work-zone rules.

Food Safety: More than 10 recalls have been linked to Salmonella risk from powdered milk and buttermilk supplied by California Dairies, including nationwide products like Champion Foods’ Motor City Pizza Co. 5 Cheese Bread—consumers are urged to throw away or return affected items. Water Quality & Fishing: WVDEP and partners released 2026 sport fish consumption advisories with fewer restrictions, citing improved water quality; updates include removing the black bass advisory for Sutton Lake and easing smallmouth bass guidance on the Shenandoah River. Watershed Planning: WVDEP is taking public comments on a draft plan for the lower Guyandotte River watershed, aimed at reducing ions that can stress aquatic life in 11 streams. Public Health Funding: Gov. Morrisey announced a $3.4 million Rural Health Transformation funding opportunity to support community-driven prevention efforts. Wildlife Protection: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service designated about 1.5 million acres of critical habitat for the endangered rusty patched bumble bee, including parts of Greenbrier and Pocahontas counties. Chemical Safety Oversight: A federal watchdog for chemical disasters could face funding cuts, raising concerns for states like West Virginia with histories of deadly industrial incidents. Dark Skies: Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation awarded $12,000 to help Blackwater Falls State Park pursue Dark Sky certification by replacing non-compliant exterior lighting. Energy & Industry: FirstEnergy is advancing its Maidsville Energy Center plan—an about 1,200 MW combined-cycle gas plant—pending PSC approval.

Water Quality & Fishing: West Virginia’s 2026 Sport Fish Consumption Advisories were updated by the state Health Department with DEP and DNR, with fewer restrictions thanks to improved water quality—most notably removing the local black bass advisory at Sutton Lake and easing the Shenandoah River smallmouth bass guidance to only fish larger than 12 inches. Pollinator Protection: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service designated about 1.5 million acres of critical habitat for the endangered rusty patched bumble bee, including areas in Greenbrier and Pocahontas Counties. Chemical Safety Oversight: A report says the Trump administration is seeking to cut funding for the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board, raising alarms that West Virginia could face more risk after past deadly chemical incidents. Permitting Power Fight: WV Attorney General J.B. McCuskey is leading 21 states in a Supreme Court push to limit activist groups from suing to halt federal permitting before states review projects. Local Infrastructure: WV 68’s Pond Creek Bridge will close for a full replacement starting Thursday, with detours through mid-August. Outdoor Recreation: West Virginia State Parks is marking National Trails Day with guided hikes and cleanup events June 6.

Sport Fishing Updates: West Virginia’s 2026 Sport Fish Consumption Advisories were released, with fewer restrictions tied to improved water quality—most notably the removal of the black bass advisory for Sutton Lake and a relaxed smallmouth bass advisory on the Shenandoah River (now only for fish over 12 inches). Bridge Construction Disruption: Bridgeport’s Center Street bridge beam installation will trigger traffic control on Main Street from 7 a.m. June 3 to 7 p.m. June 4, with flaggers and delays expected. Drought & Rain Watch: A dry stretch continues in the Pittsburgh area for a sixth day, with rain chances looking more likely Saturday evening into Sunday. Tick Season Health Alert: Tick activity is surging in parts of the U.S., and ER visits for tick bites have hit their highest levels for this time of year since 2017—West Virginia is among states seeing increases. Energy & Environment Debate: Sierra Club filed direct testimony opposing Mon Power’s proposed $2.48 billion gas plant, arguing costs would land on customers and pollution would rise in surrounding communities. Local Health Funding: Gov. Morrisey announced a $3.4 million rural local health challenge funding opportunity under the Rural Health Transformation Program, adding to more than $65 million in total initiatives.

Mining & Wildlife: A federal judge ruled the federal coal permitting process shortchanged endangered species protection in Appalachia, meaning future permits will need stronger compliance with the Endangered Species Act, after a challenge over how regulators handled impacts to rare Appalachian crayfish. DEP & Pollution Response: West Virginia DEP is responding to a used oil spill in McDowell County after a valve failure released about 100 gallons; officials say the leak was stopped, cleanup is underway, and there are no reported impacts to public drinking water. Public Health Funding: Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced a $3.4 million Rural Health Transformation Program funding opportunity to support prevention-focused, community-based health initiatives statewide, with total program funding now topping $65 million. Water Infrastructure: Buckhannon secured major federal support for a new water treatment plant, with USDA Rural Development backing $47.31 million in loans and grants plus additional partner funding, moving the project toward final design, permitting, and bidding. Local Cleanup: Wood County residents collected and disposed of more than 1,000 tires at a community event, using WVDEP’s Rehabilitation Environmental Action Plan program to reduce illegal dumping. Wildlife Safety: New state laws and funding streams for wildlife crossings are expanding to cut animal-vehicle collisions, with West Virginia flagged among states seeing high collision rates.

Environmental cleanup and remediation: Wheeling crews have knocked down the former Clay School, but city officials say about half the Clay School environmental remediation and demolition work still remains through summer, including basement and sub-basement tasks. Waste and pollution prevention: Wood County residents turned in more than 1,000 tires in the first two hours of a community collection event run by the Wood County Solid Waste Authority, with tire disposal tied to WVDEP’s Rehabilitation Environmental Action Plan program to curb illegal dumping. Wildlife and climate pressure: A new look at black bears highlights how climate change and food-seeking behavior can push bears toward human areas, raising the stakes for trash management and coexistence. Wildlife safety funding: A multi-state push for wildlife road crossings aims to cut animal-vehicle crashes, with West Virginia flagged among states with high collision rates. Local tourism economy: West Virginia tourism leaders warn that weekend, especially Sunday, closures can cost communities visitor spending, making consistent hours part of “sustainable” tourism growth. Weather and drought watch: Forecasts point to limited rain chances, with drought concerns likely to worsen if the next system doesn’t deliver meaningful moisture. Coal ash oversight fight: The EPA is seeking to shift coal ash monitoring to states, a move critics say could weaken protection of waterways from toxic residue.

Chemical safety rollback pressure: A new report highlights how back-to-back chemical disasters are raising alarms as the Trump administration moves to reduce oversight, including proposed cuts to the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board—an agency that has investigated multiple West Virginia incidents since 2008. Coal ash monitoring shift: The EPA is seeking to shift toxic coal ash monitoring to states, a move that could change how coal-ash ponds are watched and cleaned. Health impacts of coal expansion: A study links coal mining and living near coal operations to higher cancer deaths, with particular concern for Appalachia. Wildlife lead risk: A bald eagle in Ohio was rescued after acute lead poisoning, underscoring ongoing dangers from lead ammunition and fishing tackle. WV grid and reliability: A West Virginia-focused op-ed argues defense and other critical industries depend on a resilient power grid as severe weather and aging transmission strain reliability. Local environment watch: WVDOH continues pothole patching statewide, with schedules subject to weather.

EPA oversight shift for toxic coal ash: A new report says the EPA wants to move coal-ash monitoring from federal control to states, raising alarms after Georgia approved permits that would leave coal ash partly submerged in groundwater. Public health and coal exposure: An American Cancer Society review links coal mining and living near coal infrastructure to higher cancer deaths, especially in Appalachia—another warning against weakening protections. Chemical safety funding at risk: The Trump administration is proposing to cut the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board, a small agency that investigates industrial chemical disasters; advocates say West Virginia’s history of deadly incidents makes that a dangerous move. Used oil spill response in McDowell County: WVDEP says a used-oil release near a compressor station was stopped and contained after a storage tank valve failure, with extra downstream controls added. Wildlife health: A bald eagle in Ohio was rescued after acute lead poisoning and later released following rehab, highlighting ongoing risks from lead ammunition and fishing tackle. Eastern Panhandle freeze damage: Orchardists and vegetable growers report major crop losses after April freezes, with some farms forced to source fruit from outside the region to keep supply steady. Data centers and power strain: A national look at state policies finds a patchwork response to data centers—some add guardrails or require better cost coverage, while others still offer incentives.

Chemical Safety: WVDEP is investigating a used-oil release in McDowell County after a valve failure at a Diversified Energy compressor station spilled about 100 gallons; the leak was stopped, crews contained it, and booms were deployed in Coalbank Branch, with no fish kill and no reported public water impacts. Public Health & Environment: A new American Cancer Society review links coal mining and living near coal operations to higher cancer deaths, especially lung cancer mortality in Appalachia—raising the stakes for keeping environmental protections in place. Climate & Agriculture: Eastern Panhandle growers report major crop losses after late-season freezes, including a worst-ever freeze at Spring Valley Farm & Orchard with peach and apple damage and plans to source fruit from other regions to keep supplies steady. Energy & Infrastructure: A national look at data centers finds states are responding with a patchwork of new rules and incentives as lawmakers weigh power-grid strain and utility-bill impacts. Wildlife: A bald eagle in Ohio was rescued after acute lead poisoning and released following rehab, highlighting ongoing risks from lead ammunition and fishing tackle.