EPA Conducts Ongoing Air Monitoring in Fredericktown Following Fire

Fredericktown, Mo. (KFMO) - The EPA Region 7 team continues 24-hour mobile and fixed-location air monitoring in Fredericktown, following a fire incident at the Critical Mineral Recovery facility. This intensive monitoring includes sampling for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and heavy metals, as well as occasional checks for hydrogen fluoride and particulate matter (PM2.5).

Collected data is promptly shared with Fredericktown Fire Department Chief, the designated Incident Commander, to aid decision-making on controlling hotspots at the site. While hydrogen fluoride and elevated PM2.5 levels have occasionally been detected, they remain below action levels and are typically associated with sporadic flare-ups during ongoing suppression efforts.

The EPA has also created a webpage specifically for the Fredericktown response at response.epa.gov/cmrfire. Here, residents can view a map of air monitoring locations and time-weighted averages of air quality readings. In addition, the EPA coordinates closely with contractors hired by Critical Mineral Recovery to ensure consistent data sharing and community safety.

For further details and updates on air quality monitoring in the Fredericktown area, visit the EPA's response page.