GARNETT, Kan. — The Environmental Protection Agency said Sunday while they still haven’t determined what the substance was that spilled early the evening of December 31st in Garnett on parts of Maple Street (US 59) south from Park Road and east from Maple on 6th to US 169 then south, field testing has confirmed it is a basic, corrosive liquid with a pH reading of 14.
An on-scene coordinator from EPA was deployed to Garnett Friday to assess the situation along with contractors, and they have entered into a unified command that also includes the Kansas Departments of Health and Environment and Transportation, Anderson County Emergency Management and the city of Garnett.
EPA Region 7 said in a statement ongoing treatment has proven effective at reducing pH below hazardous levels. The product did do some damage to vehicle exteriors. EPA has also announced a no-cost car treatment is being established for individuals whose vehicles were impacted by the spilled substance. That will be Available from 10 AM to 7 PM today, Tuesday and Wednesday.
Anderson County Emergency Management says they will continue to accept information regarding vehicles that may have driven through the substance Wednesday evening in Garnett. Saturday a request for information was put out with a noon Sunday deadline, which they said helped begin the process of gathering data.
If you went through the area on Maple Street from Park Road to 6th, on 6th from Maple to K-169,or on 169 Wednesday evening you can report your information by calling or texting 785-822-8584 or by emailing [email protected]. They can also get you information on the treatment EPA is offering.
As a precautionary measure, KDHE late Friday issued a stream advisory for Lake Garnett and City of Garnett’s Stormwater Drainage System. KDHE said this measure was taken due to the potential presence of elevated contaminants within the stormwater system and the lake. Residents are asked to avoid contact with the affected waters, and children and animals should not enter the lake or drainage system until further notice.
This spill does not impact the city of Garnett’s drinking water supply, as it comes from Cedar Valley Reservoir.
