Hazardous Substance Research Centers/South & Southwest

Site description

In October 2000, 250 million gallons of coal slurry emptied from a breached retention pond operated by the Martin County Coal Company. The slurry flooded portions of the town, and affected water supplies in the area. Portions of West Virginia (Region 3 EPA) were also affected.

Summary of TOSC Interaction with Community

TOSC has been asked by the community of Inez to assist them with understanding some of the health risks associated with heavy metal contamination of soil. TOSC has compiled and sent to Inez a report on the health effects of several heavy metals contained in the slurry. The community is concerned about exposure to these metals from gardening at various homes in the area. The community has received the report and is currently reviewing the document.