Please see our Frequently Asked Questions regarding the the release of firefighting foam on August 19, 2024, at the Brunswick Executive Airport.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Release of Firefighting Foam on August 19, 2024, at the Brunswick Executive Airport
Is the public water safe to drink?
Yes. Homes and businesses served by the Brunswick & Topsham Water District (BTWD) can safely use the water. The drinking water supply to the Brunswick Landing comes from the BTWD and they confirm that the public water supply has not been impacted by this incident.
Is my well water safe?
Previous testing data does not confirm a connection between the contaminated site and nearby private drinking water wells. Maine DEP is taking additional samples to determine whether any nearby wells have been impacted by this most recent spill. The DEP will not be sampling every single well in the community, but representative samples will be taken to evaluate groundwater flow and migration, and to quickly understand what is happening to drinking water in the nearby neighborhoods. Residents who want to sample their own private drinking water wells can follow water sampling guidance from DEP.
What should I do if I see firefighting foam?
Do not approach or come in contact with the foam. The areas surrounding the hangar have been cleaned, assessed, and are safe to be walked and driven on. The affected stormwater drains have been jetted clean. The cleanup operations are ongoing in the areas of the retention ponds. If any foam is observed outside of restricted areas, please report it by calling: 207-844-8040. This number is to report foam observations only.
Who will pay for the clean-up and damages?
Midcoast Regional Redevelopment Authority (MRRA) is responsible for all the costs related to the firefighting foam release. MRRA expects to seek grant funding to cover the costs.
What fire suppression system will replace the firefighting foam in Hangar 4 and Hangar 6?
MRRA is currently researching options for an alternative that is safe and effective.
How can I find out more about the environmental conditions at Brunswick Landing?
The Brunswick Area Citizens for a Save Environment (BACSE) is a non-profit corporation established in 1990 by a group of local citizens for the purposes of addressing issues related to the existence of toxic waste sites at the Naval Air Station in Brunswick, Maine and to ensure that the quality of the environment in Brunswick and surrounding areas is protected. BACSE is actively working with the NAS Brunswick Restoration Advisory Board (RAB), which has been leading the cleanup program at the facility since 1995.
All transferred property on the Brunswick Landing has been approved for specific uses by EPA, DEP and the Navy subject to certain restrictions for some parcels. Find more information about property use restrictions.
Who should I contact with questions?
David Madore, Deputy Commissioner of the Maine Department of Environmental Protection, is the point person for inquiries regarding the incident and response.
