Moss Landing fire concerns remain despite no elevated levels of heavy metals found, demolition planned

MOSS LANDING, Calif. (KION-TV) -- The fire at the Moss Landing Battery Storage facility caused widespread concern about environmental contamination. 

Monterey County released new reports at Wednesday's meeting

"Data from the sampling conducted by the Department of Toxic Substance Control, DTSC, indicates there are no elevated metals associated with the fire and soil. DTSC obtains soil samples directly north from the location of the fire and up to 4 miles away," County of Monterey Environmental Health Bureau director Ric Encarnacion said.

"Our growers have also been very concerned about soil and plant health. And yes, it is reassuring to know that there not elevated, elevated, levels of metals found in the soil, related to the fire," U.S. Environmental Protection Agency onsite coordinator Eric Sandusky said.

Air and water readings have raised concerns, although new data from the EPA shows results from hydrogen fluoride and particulate matter pose no threat to the public.

"Regarding drinking water. All tested samples remain within regulatory standards and the results are consistent with historical data," Encarnacion said.

North County Fire is working with Vistra in demolishing the building at 300.

"We're also closely following the development of the building demolition and the battery removal fence, and we're going to remain informed and an active participant in that planning process," North County Fire Protection District Chief Joel Mendoza said.

Testing samples by Sana Jose State University and Monterey County raised local concerns.

"I don't have any - any comments for the San Jose study. But it just confirms my observations that the closer you are to the fire, the more affected the surrounding areas," Encarnacion said.

Officials are still considering what's next for the facility.

"Our two other battery storage facilities at Moss Landing remain offline and there are no immediate plans to bring them back online," Vistra Energy Community Affairs senior director Brad Watson said. "This will only be considered when we have had sufficient time to evaluate the loss."

As the investigation continues, vista says they are now focused on a complete investigation, continued environmental monitoring and the demolition of the Moss Landing facility.

That demolition will be done with guidance from a U.S. EPA moderator and the relevant state agencies

Questions regarding the civil lawsuit against Vistra were brought up during the meeting, but Vistra declined to comment at this time.