To send a drafted message to the Division of Air Quality, West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection fill in your contact information and click “START WRITING" and a sample letter will appear!

On the last day of the legislative session, the WV Legislature passed HB 2014—removing local authority over massive “microgrid” power plants and data centers. This bill means communities like ours have no say in where these projects go or how they’re built.

Just outside of Thomas, a redacted air permit was filed for a large gas-fired power plant—likely tied to a data center. Local leaders had no warning. Now, a grassroots group called Tucker United is urging the Governor to veto this rushed, high-risk bill.

Friends of Blackwater believes in progress—but not at the cost of transparency and local input. Submit a written comment on the air permit. Your voice can help protect our air, water, and way of life.