Several agencies investigating orange-colored creek
MINGO COUNTY, W.Va. (WSAZ) — The Mingo County Office of Emergency Management said multiple agencies are investigating on Tuesday after red or orange-colored water was seen in Pigeon Creek in the Ragland area.
The WVDEP is assessing the site, and Chief Communications Officer Terry Fletcher said, ”Based on initial findings, this does not appear to be a mine blowout. Early reports indicate the discoloration stems from material from an abandoned mine lands area that had accumulated on property owned by Norfolk Southern.”
The Office of Emergency Management said Norfolk Southern has reported taking steps to limit runoff. The OEM said efforts include using straw bales, absorbent booms, silt fencing, and a vacuum truck to remove sediment laden water.
Even with efforts to reduce the runoff, some discolored water made its way into the stream.
Fletcher said the discoloration is likely caused by routine maintenance on the railroad tracks and DEP crews will be assessing the site to determine any follow-up actions.
According to the county’s emergency management office, the following agencies are responding:
- West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)
- Norfolk Southern Environmental Division
- West Virginia Emergency Management Division (WVEMD)
- Abandoned Mine Lands (AML)
- Mingo County Office of Emergency Management
- Mingo County 911
- Mingo County Commission
- Local water departments
The County’s Office of Emergency Management said there are no known impacts to the Mingo Public Service District’s water system. The office will keep monitoring the situation and coordinating with the appropriate agencies.
This is a developing story. Keep checking the WSAZ app for the latest.