JBA Fuel Leak Response

Available Information

Joint Base Andrews officials are responding to a fuel leak that was identified on base property after personnel discovered fuel odors and observed a visible sheen on Piscataway Creek on March 23, 2026.
All appropriate federal and state agencies have been notified, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the National Response Center (NRC), and the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE).
Mitigation measures are in place to contain the release and prevent further migration, while the spill is being investigated and addressed. The installation is coordinating closely with environmental authorities to ensure all appropriate steps are taken to protect surrounding waterways and ecosystems.
- Absorbent containment devices remain deployed and are being routinely replaced.
- Environmental teams are assessing potential impacts to soil, groundwater, and surface water and will continue containment, spill response, and monitoring activities.
- Containment has been effective to prevent migration and to absorb fuel. Spill response and cleanup efforts will continue as needed to protect human health and the environment
- More than a dozen containment layers exist on base. As of 17 April, protective measures installed include five harbor booms, absorbent materials, and two underflow dams. These enhanced measures, including more rigid booms built for deeper waterways and a second underflow dam, exceed industry standards for a waterway of this size.
The valve replacement began April 27 and was completed April 29.
- A second valve in the pump house was also replaced due to the age and condition of the valve. This valve was working properly but was replaced as a precautionary measure.
JBA is coordinating with MDE on the safest method to conduct pressure testing of the system now that the valve replacement is complete.
Joint Base Andrews remains committed to protecting the environment and the surrounding community.
Joint Base Andrews is committed to working closely with environmental authorities to ensure full compliance with federal regulations and to ensure all necessary actions are taken to achieve a timely and effective spill response and cleanup to protect human health and the environment.

Press Release - April 13, 2026

Joint Base Andrews officials are responding to an on-base fuel leak, which was identified when installation personnel discovered a visible sheen and fuel odors on Piscataway Creek within base boundaries on March 23, 2026...