STREAM LIFE KILLED ON BULL RIVER - Toxic Substance Dumped

(04/09/2001)

An unknown toxic substance was dumped Friday in the headwaters of Bull River, according to DNR officer Tom Fox. Fox discovered all the aquatic life in the stream had been killed, after he received the report Sunday. "There is still a strong odor around the stream today (Monday)," he said. DNR officer Tom Fox investigating the site "This is a nasty thing someone has done," he said. "We are asking people in the area for information which would help us catch the guilty party." He said all leads would be kept confidential. Hundreds of dead earthworms, salamanders and amphibians were noticeable in the stream Monday. Dead worms killed by toxic substance Salamanders and other aquatic life destroyed Residents of Bull River are upset over the contamination. DEP inspector Mike Mills is currently analyzing water samples which could give clues to its origin. Fox said the substance is not water soluble, which could pose a problem in the stream for several days. He was hopeful livestock or pets have not used the stream for drinking. "It smells like some kind of paint thinner," he said. Dave Johnson, Grantsville's water technician, said there was no problem with the spill at the new water plant. The plant acquires water from the Little Kanawha River directly below the mouth of Bull River. "We will keep on top of the situation, I can assure you," he said. Grantsville's water plant technician, Dave Johnson, "We will keep on top of the situation" The dumping occurred on the hill leading to White Pine Road at the head of Bull River. If you have information regarding the situation, contact: DNR Tom Fox 304-354-7686 or trfox@wirefire.com

Hur Herald ®from Sunny Cal The information on these pages, to the extent the law allows, remains the exclusive property of Bob Weaver and Dianne Weaver The Hur Herald. All information may be freely used but must not be sold or used in any type of commercial endeavor, or used on any web site without the express permission of the owners ©Bob and Dianne Weaver, The Hur Herald, 1999, 2000, 2001