The state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has announced its intention to approve a plan for the installation of a natural gas-fired boiler at Ellwood National Forge.

According to a notice from DEP published in the Times Observer, the plan approval is for the proposed construction of a natural gas boiler” and will be “incorporated into the… operating permit” at a later date.

“This Plan Approval,” per DEP, “will contain emission restriction, testing, recordkeeping, work practice standard and additional requirement conditions” which will “demonstrate Best Available Technology for the source…”

The notice spells out the emission regulations standards in minute detail and indicates that documents regarding the application for review at the Meadville EP office and that appointments are needed.

A 30-day comment period is open on the project and a public hearing “may be held, if the Department of Environmental Protection, in its discretion, decides that such a hearing is warranted based on the comments received.”