THE LEDGER-STAR  
              Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: Tuesday, November 8, 1994              TAG: 9411080521
SECTION: LOCAL                    PAGE: B11  EDITION: FINAL 
SOURCE: ASSOCIATED PRESS 
DATELINE: RICHMOND                           LENGTH: Short :   24 lines

STATE TO ALLOW COAL ASH AS MINE-SITE FILL

A new state policy will allow ash from burned coal to be used in strip mine reclamation and construction projects.

Opponents say the ash will taint underground water with toxic pollutants, but state environmental officials say the ash is safe if used properly.

``There is a perception that this material glows in the dark. It doesn't,'' said Peter W. Schmidt, director of the state Department of Environmental Quality.

``In essence, most coal ash is no more than burnt dirt.''

KEYWORDS: COAL by CNB