A large coalition of businesses and groups, plus tens of thousands of citizens, urge the University of Alabama System Trustees (UA) to stop the proposed Shepherd Bend Mine from polluting a major drinking water source for the greater Birmingham area.  

UA is the main owner of land and minerals at Shepherd Bend, site of a proposed coal mine on the Black Warrior River’s Mulberry Fork in Walker County. The 1,773-acre strip mine would discharge wastewater at 29 proposed outfalls, including one 800 feet across the river from a Birmingham Water Works Board intake providing water to 200,000 people. Metals and sediment discharged from the mine would lead to decreased water quality and increased filtration fees for consumers. 

In 2007, UA requested coal mining proposals for this property. Facing public pressure and media coverage, UA has retreated to the oft-repeated statement, “The University has not been approached about leasing the land and has no current plans to lease or sell the land.” 

Our opposition will persist until UA promises they will never lease or sell land or minerals for mining at Shepherd Bend.