State Testing for Contamination at Apalachin Recycling Fire Site

Apalachin residents are awaiting test results for possible contamination in the aftermath of the blaze that tore through the Taylor Garbage Service recycling plant.

Some have questioned whether the firefighting foam used at the scene of the January 3 fire poses a risk to groundwater in the town of Owego.

Homes and businesses near the facility use wells for their water.

According to a New York State Department of Environmental Conservation representative, soil and water samples have been collected "to evaluate potential off site impacts from the fire and firefighting activities."

When results have been received, "DEC will then determine what additional steps should be taken to evaluate and/or abate any off site impacts."

Although a Greater Binghamton Airport emergency truck was at the site, Broome County aviation commissioner Mark Heefner said no aircraft firefighting foam was used.

Several five-gallon buckets of Buckeye Fire Equipment foam concentrate were observed at the fire scene. The company describes the concentrate as nontoxic and biodegradable.

Tioga County Health Department representatives have not responded to calls about possible contamination concerns.

Taylor Garbage Service officials have not been available to answer questions since the fire.

Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com

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