"SD Board OKs Air Quality Permit for Oil Refinery"

"PIERRE, S.D. -- A state board voted unanimously Thursday to approve an air quality permit for a $10 billion oil refinery that Hyperion Resources wants to build in southeastern South Dakota.

The Board of Minerals and Environment found that Dallas-based Hyperion has met the requirements set in state laws and rules. It endorsed the state Environment Department's recommendation to issue the permit for the first new U.S. oil refinery built since 1976.

Ed Cable, a leader of opponents who live near the project, said they will likely file a court appeal to try to overturn the board's decision.

Opponents, which include the Sierra Club and local groups Save Union County and Citizens Opposed to Oil Pollution, contend that the proposed refinery near Elk Point would emit too much pollution and hurt the quality of life in the area. Hyperion argues it will be a clean, modern plant that will reduce the nation's dependence on oil from overseas."

Chet Brokaw reports for the Associated Press August 20, 2009.