Gauley River
Local communities are paying the price for mining practices that are blatantly flaunting basic safeguards to protect West Virginians and the economically vital Gauley River.
David Moryc, Senior Director of river protection for American Rivers
Most endangered rivers
Threat: Pollution from Coal Mining
West Virginia’s Gauley River originates in the highest-elevation streams of the Allegheny Mountains, an area renowned for its extraordinary array of wildlife. The Gauley is a world-famous whitewater destination, beloved by kayakers and rafters from around the globe. Yet, this same remarkable watershed faces a grave threat: toxic pollution from coal strip mining in the headwaters of the Cherry River, one of the Gauley’s primary tributaries. We must protect the river and its clean water from illegal coal hauling through the headwaters.
American Rivers appreciates the collaboration and efforts of our partners:
- Allegheny-Blue Ridge Alliance
- Appalachian Voices
- West Virginia Highlands Conservancy
Protect the Gauley River
Urge the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation & Enforcement to protect the Cherry River, the Gauley River watershed, and the Monongahela National Forest from illegal coal hauling and mining pollution.