SPRINGFIELD (AP) - The Vermont Agency of Natural Resources has issued a draft air pollution control permit for the construction of a biomass plant in North Springfield.

Under state air pollution control regulations, plant developers must get a permit through the agency and hold a public forum before construction starts.

Steven Snook of the air pollution control division said issuing the draft permit opens the document for review and comment from interested parties such as local citizens and neighboring New Hampshire, according to reports.

The plant is anticipated to provide $100 million of investment and create more than 600 jobs during the construction phase, with at least 160 jobs once it begins operations in 2014.

Opponents said the expected greenhouse gas emissions are higher than coal and natural gas facilities.

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