Construction has already begun on the Trans-Allegheny Interstate Line and the West Virginia Public Service Commission will soon determine the fate of yet another giant transmission line proposal, the Potomac Appalachian Transmission Highway (PATH).

The WVU Environmental Law Society will host a panel discussion, PATH and TrAIL: Where do they actually lead? to explore the motives behind constructing the transmission lines and the issues affecting citizens and utility ratepayers. The discussion will be held Thursday, Nov. 12 at 7:30 p.m. in Room 154 at the WVU College of Law.

“West Virginians are affected on so many levels by the construction of high-voltage transmission lines,” said Amy Dawson, president of the WVU Environmental Law Society. “What we hope to offer to the public is a chance to explore these issues, from environmental impacts to property issues. To hear about the implications of PATH and TrAIL from those directly involved is a great opportunity.”

The discussion features a panel of three speakers, each of whom is involved in the PATH case in a varying capacity.

Bill Howley is the author of the blog, The Power Line, The View from Calhoun County, which covers numerous topics related to the proposed PATH transmission line and energy production.

Morgantown attorney Brad Stephens represents West Virginia landowner groups affected by the proposed PATH transmission line. Stephens also represented similar groups in the TrAIL case.

Attorney Bill DePaulo has represented Sierra Club in environmental litigation in West Virginia for several years, including the TrAIL proceedings in 2008. DePaulo is representing both Sierra Club and the West Virginia Highlands Conservancy in the PATH case.

Utility companies have already submitted applications in three states for the construction of PATH, a 765 kilovolt line, which includes more than 200 miles in West Virginia. County governments, citizen coalitions and environmental groups have questioned both the need for the line’s construction as well as the long-term consequences of PATH.

-WVU-

11/11/09

CONTACT: Amy Dawson, President, WVU Environmental Law Society
adawson2@mix.wvu.edu or 304-629-8633