Environmental Services News and Alerts
Proposed Septic Appeals Process
The following policy has been posted for a public comment period prior to the April 2, 2019 Board of Health Meeting. Comments may be submitted by email to JeffersonLHD@wv.gov or mail to Jefferson County Health Department, 1948 Wiltshire Road Suite 1, Kearneysville WV 25430.
Rockwool Facility Construction
The Jefferson County Health Department was not involved in the approval process for the Rockwool plant under construction in Ranson; nor is there any statutory requirement for the company to obtain local health department plan approval. Please direct your questions, comments and concerns to Mr. Jake Glance at the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, 304-926-0499 ext. 1335. Media inquiries should be emailed to Jacob.P.Glance@wv.gov.
Giant Hogweed – Invasive Species
Giant hogweed has been spotted for the first time nearby in Virginia. This invasive plant, which can produce severe burns and blisters, was confirmed in Berryville by the Virginia Cooperative Extension.
Giant hogweed, which is heavily regulated in Virginia, is one of three plants defined as a Tier 1 noxious weed in the commonwealth. It can be confused with cow parsnip, which is native to West Virginia.
JCHD has contacted the WV Department of Agriculture, alerting them of the Giant Hogweed’s proximity to Jefferson County. Scientists at WVDA have been monitoring reports of possible hogweed in our state, and so far have detected none.
Citizens can always send suspect hogweed photos, along with location, to bugbusters@wvda.us e-mail address. Photos should show as much detail as possible. Those without computer/camera capabilities can call WVDA-Plant Industries Division (304-558-2212). SUSPECT HOGWEED PLANTS SHOULD NOT BE HANDLED.
https://vtnews.vt.edu/articles/2018/06/hogweed-media-advisory.html
Well and Septic Information Requests
The Well and Septic Information Request form is now available online – simply fill out the form and return by email or fax.
Environmental Services Appointments
Due to staffing changes you will now need an appointment to speak to an Environmental Health Specialist. You can schedule an appointment by calling 304-728-8416 and selecting option 1 or by emailing Danielle.R.Phillipson@wv.gov.
Food handlers cards will still be issued without appointments. Walk in on Mondays, Tuesday, and Wednesdays between 9:00-11:00 am or 1:00-3:30 pm.
Environmental Services News
Watch here for updates about Environmental Services; as we have news to share we’ll post items to our blog. Be sure to subscribe to our blog to be notified of new posts by email!
