News Release from WV Rivers

WESTON, W.Va. — Today, West Virginia Rivers Coalition (WV Rivers) released a Story Map, detailing an in-depth look at the human and environmental toll of the Mountain Valley Pipeline (MVP). The Story Map documents the experiences of impacted landowners, farmers, and water quality monitors who have witnessed first-hand the destruction caused by MVP’s construction. This resource is being released as the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) accepts comments on an amendment request for the MVP Southgate Certificate, with a comment deadline of March 11, 2025. 

“The Mountain Valley Pipeline damaged our waters and puts our communities at risk,”  said Autumn Crowe, Deputy Director of WV Rivers. “We wanted to share these stories that document the impact of pipeline construction in the hope that no other communities have to experience this destruction.” 

For those who live in MVP’s path, the consequences are real. The Sory Map details the injustices that occurred when private property was condemned through eminent domain. Farm fields were flooded, well water was polluted with sediment, and plans for a peaceful retirement surrounded by family were cast aside.  

Now, MVP Southgate seeks to extend the pipeline by 31 additional miles, crossing 103 more waterbodies in North Carolina to transport 550,000 dekatherms of methane gas per day. Communities in its path fear the same destruction seen in West Virginia and Virginia will continue. 

WV Rivers is urging the public to hear these stories and sign the petition urging regulators to protect waterways and communities from additional pipeline destruction. WV Rivers is submitting the petition with their comments to FERC before the March 11 deadline.  

View the MVP Story Map and take action here: https://wvrivers.salsalabs.org/pipeline-risks-and-protections

About West Virginia Rivers Coalition:

The West Virginia Rivers Coalition is a statewide non-profit organization working to conserve and restore West Virginia’s exceptional rivers and streams to ensure clean water for all through advocacy, education, and community engagement. Learn more at www.wvrivers.org.