On April 22, 2021, DEP was advised of the discovery of an unknown substance on the banks of Marsh Creek Lake by the PA Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC). DEP coordinated with PFBC and DCNR, who both responded to the site on April 22 to observe and inspect the area. After conducting initial field tests, DEP collected 3 samples and sent them to a laboratory for chemical and XRD analysis to determine the makeup of the substance.
DEP has received the results of all laboratory analyses. The chemical analysis did not discover any chemical constituents that indicated the material was anything other than naturally occurring substances consisting of plant and decay products. The XRD analysis identified the samples as being primarily composed of quartz with traces of other native minerals. No bentonite was found in any of the samples. Those results are posted below. The sample analyses indicate that this substance is a naturally occurring material. No cleanup of the material is necessary. This investigation is now closed.
Laboratory Report