Two environmental groups have issued a new report showing even greater pollution from coal ash – the waste from burning coal – than previously thought.

The Environmental Integrity Project and Earthjustice say they have analyzed soil and water data and found 39 additional coal ash sites in 21 states where nearby groundwater, wetlands, or surface waters are contaminated.  Those sites join the EPA’s list of 70 other sites known to be contaminated, which agency officials say are the justification for new regulation.

The contaminants are heavy metals, such as arsenic and lead, leaching out of the ash, some of which the environmental groups say have been found in drinking water at levels far exceeding health advisories.  The sites include those in states throughout the Ohio River valley.

The problem is often found at older, unlined coal ash ponds, which could become a thing of the past if certain aspects of the EPA’s proposal are adopted.  Liners would be required, and coal ash ponds phased out in favor of landfills and more recycling.

The first public hearing on the pending EPA coal ash rule is set for August 30, 2010 in Arlington, Virginia.  The rest are in: Denver on September 2; Dallas on September 8; Charlotte, North Carolina on September 14; Chicago on September 16; Pittsburgh on September 21; and Louisville  on September 28.  Find more information here.