ANNAPOLIS, MD (May 27, 1998) -- A project to construct a passive acid mine treatment system in Elklick Run in Garrett County, received financial assistance today thanks to Board of Public Works approval of $50,000 grant.

"This project will correct the last remaining untreated acid mine discharge into the Elklick Run watershed," said Governor Parris N. Glendening. "It will be able to operate for years with little or no maintenance and will improve water quality in Elklick Run, the North Branch, the Potomac River and ultimately, the Chesapeake Bay."

In addition to the State grant, the Garrett County Sanitary District is contributing $20,000. Construction will begin in April 1999 and be complete in June 1999.

"Acid mine drainage from an abandoned coal mine in Garrett County is causing water quality problems in Elklick Run," said Dr. Roland C. Steiner, Ph.D., associate director for water resources of the Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin. "The project will improve the quality of the mine drainage before it reaches Elklick Run."

Chaired by Governor Glendening, the Board of Public Works also is comprised of Comptroller Louis L. Goldstein and Treasurer Richard N. Dixon. The Board is empowered by the General Assembly to approve construction and consultant contracts, equipment purchases, property transactions and other procurement actions.

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