The public comment period is now open for the proposed renewal of the wastewater discharge permit associated with the Shafter Mine in Presidio County, according to an announcement from state Sen. César Blanco.
In a social media post, Blanco said he has requested that the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality hold a public meeting in Presidio County regarding the permit renewal. While a meeting date has not yet been scheduled, residents may begin submitting comments, questions and concerns about the application.
The permit under review involves wastewater discharge operations at the Shafter Mine, located near the community of Shafter in Presidio County.
Comments may be submitted online through the TCEQ public comment system or mailed to:
TCEQ Office of the Chief Clerk (MC-105)
P.O. Box 13087
Austin, Texas 78711-3087
According to Blanco, the public comment period will remain open until after a public meeting is held.
The Shafter Mine has been the subject of ongoing public discussion in the Big Bend region, with supporters citing economic development and mining opportunities and opponents raising concerns about environmental impacts, water resources and long-term effects on surrounding communities.
Residents interested in participating in the permitting process are encouraged to review the application materials and submit comments during the open comment period.
