Maine Lawmakers Request Navy's Aid in Toxic Foam Cleanup

Maine's congressional delegation is pressing the U.S. Navy for assistance in cleaning up a significant toxic spill of firefighting foam at Brunswick Executive Airport, which occurred on August 19. The malfunctioning fire suppression system released 1,450 gallons of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), mixed with 50,000 gallons of water, containing harmful PFAS chemicals linked to serious health risks. The Navy plans to remove the remaining foam but has faced criticism for a lack of transparency regarding the incident and its aftermath. Local officials and residents are concerned about the long-term health and environmental impacts, as well as the potential for future spills, given that AFFF remains stored on-site. The delegation's letter to Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro requests a briefing on the Navy's involvement and coordination in the cleanup efforts. The situation has also led to calls for the resignation of the Midcoast Regional Redevelopment Authority's executive director due to inadequate communication regarding the fire suppression system's deficiencies.