Maryland Environment Secretary Ben Grumbles leaves under a cloud
His seven-year stint ends amid criticism over lax enforcement and mismanaged sewage treatment plants that have polluted Baltimore area waterways.
Environment
Apr 22, 2022
MDE issues health advisory for Back River after high bacteria levels found
Officials are posting signs warning people to avoid contact with the river based on bacteria levels recorded near Baltimore’s failing sewage treatment plant.
Special SeriesApr 20, 2022
MDE: Brown-orange gunk coming from Back River plant was partially treated sewage
Confirming Brew reporting, the state took samples at the discharge pipe and found suspended solids, dead plankton, high levels of bacteria and more.
Special SeriesApr 19, 2022
What the wastewater looks – and smells – like coming out of the Back River sewage plant
We join a community activist who says state and city officials are not telling the truth about what the plant is releasing into this Baltimore County waterway.
Special SeriesMar 27, 2022
State takes control of Baltimore’s troubled Back River sewage treatment plant
The Maryland Department of the Environment directs the Maryland Environmental Service to take charge of the polluting plant, saying it poses a risk to public health and the environment.
Special SeriesMar 25, 2022
After reports of dead fish and “volcanoes of black stuff” in Back River, MDE cracks down on sewage treatment plant
Citing “a precipitous decline” in the functioning of Baltimore’s Back River Waste Water Treatment Plant, Maryland orders it to come into compliance within 48 hours.
Older Stories
