In a significant development for environmental accountability, Maryland Department of the Environment Secretary Serena McIlwain and Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown announced a $1.1 million settlement with Fleischmann’s Vinegar Company concerning unauthorized pollution discharges from its Baltimore facility. The consent decree, filed in Baltimore City Circuit Court, outlines stringent measures to halt discharges into the Jones Falls, a critical waterway in the region.
The settlement comes after a thorough investigation initiated by the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) following a report from environmental group Blue Water Baltimore in September 2021. The report highlighted a concern about fish kill and deteriorating water quality in Jones Falls, which is linked to the operations of the vinegar plant. In April 2023, the MDE and the Office of the Attorney General filed a complaint in Circuit Court to address the unauthorized discharges.
During the investigation, the department conducted dye tests, confirming that leaked liquids from Fleischmann’s facility could reach Jones Falls through interior floor drains. These findings raised alarms about the facility’s operations' impact on local ecosystems.
Secretary McIlwain emphasized the historical significance of Fleischmann’s in Baltimore, stating, “We appreciate the fact that this company has been a part of Baltimore’s fabric for generations, but pollution from the now-closed facility harms the ecosystem in one of the city’s major waterways.” The consent decree mandates several requirements aimed at safeguarding water quality, including:
The decree stipulates additional penalties if water testing reveals continued discharges, underscoring the commitment to restoring the health of the Jones Falls.
The collaboration with Blue Water Baltimore and the Chesapeake Legal Alliance has been pivotal in advancing the cause for clean water. The organizations have long advocated for environmental protections and accountability for local businesses. The settlement signifies a collective effort to ensure that waterways are safeguarded against harmful pollutants.
The Jones Falls is a vital ecosystem, supporting diverse wildlife and providing recreational opportunities for the community. As a significant tributary to the Chesapeake Bay, maintaining its health is crucial not only for local biodiversity but also for the overall water quality in the Bay. The state’s investigation and subsequent settlement with Fleischmann’s Vinegar Company reflect a broader commitment to environmental protection and public health.
Founded in 1868 by Charles Fleischmann, Fleischmann’s Vinegar Company has a rich history in Baltimore. Originally starting as a yeast manufacturer, it evolved into one of the largest vinegar producers in North America, with a range of products serving both retail and industrial markets. Despite its historical significance in the region, the recent pollution issues have overshadowed the company’s contributions to the local economy and food industry.
The company’s operations at the Baltimore facility have raised concerns about environmental responsibilities in industrial production. While the settlement marks a pivotal moment in addressing pollution, it also emphasizes the need for companies to implement sustainable practices in their operations.
