21 million tons of toxic coal ash sits on the side of the Mobile River
The Problem
Power plants typically mix the coal ash with water and dump it in massive “ponds” or pits nearby. Arsenic, mercury, selenium, chromium, and lead are all commonly found in coal ash which are hazardous to our health, wildlife, and waterways. 11 workers died after they were exposed to coal ash from the Kingston, Tennessee spill and hundreds more cases of serious illness and death have since emerged.
The unlined coal ash pond at Plant Barry poses significant environmental and public health risk due to ongoing leakage of coal ash pollutants and potential for a spill. Despite this, Alabama Power intends to leave most of the ash in the unlined pit alongside the powerful and flood prone Mobile River.
Our Solution
How Did We Get Here?
2026
Federal Court Revives Plant Barry Coal Ash Case
A federal appeals court overturned the dismissal of Mobile Baykeeper’s case, sending the fight over Alabama Power’s Plant Barry coal ash plan back to federal district court.
2024
Alabama Power's Recycling Announcement
Alabama Power’s Recycling Announcement: Plans to recycle the coal ash at Plant Barry.
2023
EPA Denies ADEM Permitting Program
2022
Lawsuit against Alabama Power
Baykeeper and SELC sue over illegal coal ash plan.
Lawsuit Against Alabama Power:
Baykeeper and SELC sue over illegal coal ash plan.
2021
ADEM Approves Alabama Power's Plan
2020
Public Hearings by ADEM
Thousands of Alabamians say they do not approve of coal ash pond closure plans.
2019
Plans to Leave Ash In Place
Plans to Leave Ash In Place:
Despite threats to safety and waterways, Alabama Power submits plans to keep ash in place.
2018
Baykeeper Pollution Report
Highlighting ongoing water pollution and potential risks of dam failure affecting the Delta and Mobile Bay.
2015
Coal Ash Rule
Coal Ash Rule:
Implementation of federal regulations on coal ash.
First Meeting with Alabama Power:
Starting direct engagement on coal ash issues.
First Sampling Efforts:
Baykeeper begins investigative efforts in coal ash data gathering.
2008
Kingston Coal Ash Spill
A catalyst for increased awareness and advocacy in coal ash management.
Coal ash is the toxic byproduct of coal-burning power plants. It moves into our water, through our fish, and into our bodies. It's killing us.
Tell Alabama Power: Recycle All the Coal Ash at Plant Barry
Our Mobile River and its surrounding waterways are the lifeblood of Coastal Alabama, sustaining our communities, economy, and cherished way of life. Alabama Power has told the press that it plans to recycle millions of tons of coal ash from Plant Barry.
Learn the Facts about Plant Barry
Read our fact sheet about Coal Ash Closure at Plant Barry
Read the Doctors Report on Coal Ash Toxicity
Coal ash, one of the dirtiest secrets in American energy production, burst into the U.S. consciousness three days before Christmas,