© 2026 WEKU
NPR for Central and Eastern Kentucky
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
The fall drive begins Friday, September 11. Support WEKU and get the brand-new WEKU travel mug! Click here to donate. Thanks for your support!

“All clear” given after chemical spill at Mastronardi Produce facility in Berea prompts evacuations

Smoke from a chemical spill at the Mastronardi Produce, formerly AppHarvest facility in Berea
Samantha Fisher
/
Facebook
Smoke from a chemical spill at the Mastronardi Produce, formerly AppHarvest facility in Berea

An “all clear” has been given for the area around the Mastronardi Produce, formerly AppHarvest building in Berea. On Wednesday evening, the Berea Fire Department was dispatched to the scene for a possible hazardous material spill.

A press release from the department stated that crews found an active spill of a container of nitric acid spilled in semi-trailer outside of the facility. The area was evacuated and the spill was contained. A hazardous material team arrived to assist in the neutralization, removal, and disposal of the chemical spill.

Authorities say there are no threats posed to the community or the environment. No injuries were reported by employees or response crews.

** WEKU is working hard to be a leading source for public service, fact-based journalism. Monthly sustaining donors are the top source of funding for this growing nonprofit news organization. Please join others in your community who support WEKU by making your donation.

Stan Ingold is WEKU's former News Director. He left the station in April, 2026.
WEKU depends on support from those who view and listen to our content. There's no paywall here. Please support WEKU with your donation.
Related Content