FAIRMONT, W.Va. – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Mid-Atlantic Region (EPA) will open a public phone line and webpage to inform the public about the Fairmont Brine site in Fairmont. The site contains hazardous materials and has been unsecured since a fire and explosion in May of 2023.
The site on AFR Drive was used to treat fluids from the hydraulic fracturing process used to extract natural gas, or “brine.” The incident in May has resulted in increased concerns due to the potential release of contamination.
EPA is working with the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (WV DEP), the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WV DHHR), and the Marion County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Services to protect the public.
Radionuclides in the form of TENORM (Technologically Enhanced Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material) are the greatest concern. TENORM is a naturally occurring radioactive byproduct detected at several locations on the property.
The agencies have been on-site evaluating possible responses that would stabilize the level of contamination released into the environment. The plan also includes securing the site to prevent unauthorized access and protect the public from exposure. Interim security measures include measures at the front entrance and lower complex, including barriers and signage. The response team will work at the site regularly and, in the future, will fence the site in.
Increased patrols by law enforcement are also planned.
A Joint Information Center (JIC) has been assembled from members of the responding agencies and will be the source of information for the public.
Click here to visit the response website or call 800-438-2474 Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST.