WVDEP orders data center company to make repairs after residential flooding
The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (WVDEP) has ordered Monarch Cloud Campus to repair stormwater issues at its data center construction site in Mason County after residential properties were flooded. The company is also required to cease land-disturbing work in an area where required sediment controls were not installed. The WVDEP will continue monitoring the site for compliance.
The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (WVDEP) issued an enforcement order to Monarch Cloud Campus, a company constructing a data center in Mason County, West Virginia, following multiple instances of residential flooding caused by stormwater runoff. Inspectors found that erosion and sediment controls were overwhelmed after heavy rainfall on July 11, allowing sediment-laden water to enter neighboring properties. Further inspections revealed additional control deficiencies and construction beginning in a separate drainage area without the required sediment structures.
WVDEP Cabinet Secretary Harold Ward emphasized that construction stormwater permits are designed to protect properties and streams, and the department will take action when controls fail. The order mandates Monarch Cloud Campus to immediately repair and strengthen failed stormwater controls, install additional erosion measures, and prevent future releases. It also requires an immediate halt to land-disturbing work in the non-compliant drainage area until necessary controls are in place and verified by the WVDEP. Monarch Cloud Campus is reportedly coordinating with affected homeowners for property cleanup and repairs at no cost. The WVDEP will continue inspections and may pursue further enforcement actions for additional violations.