A rural New York community is facing a growing problem as a sticky fungus, believed to have originated from a nearby whiskey facility, threatens the health and homes of residents. Known as whiskey fungus or Baudoinia compniacensis, the sticky residue has taken hold of Mineville, a small hamlet in Essex County with a population of approximately 1,300. State regulators have confirmed the presence of whiskey fungus in some cases, marking the first such instance in New York State.
The fungus, which is uncommon in most areas of the country, is a familiar sight for those living near whiskey facilities. It covers homes and vehicles, leaving behind a dark, sometimes speckled substance that is difficult to remove. The rapid spread of the fungus in Mineville has raised concerns among health and environmental officials.
The source of the problem is believed to be the WhistlePig Whiskey storage facility, which arrived in the area in 2017. The Vermont-based distillery operates several large warehouses that house thousands of barrels of aging whiskey. WhistlePig purchased land in Mineville in 2016 to process, age, and bottle its spirits.
Residents in the affected community have expressed frustration over the fungus and its impact on their homes. Sandra Ploufe, an 83-year-old resident, described how her home was initially covered with the sticky residue. Despite attempts to seek assistance from WhistlePig, her husband was told to leave the property. The family eventually resorted to cleaning their home themselves, but the fungus has since returned.
Similar experiences have been reported by other residents, many of whom feel their concerns have been ignored. Local officials have stated that WhistlePig is not in violation of any regulations and that there is little they can do to address the situation. The aging process of whiskey involves the release of alcohol vapor known as “angel’s share,” which contributes to the spread of the fungus.
WhistlePig has acknowledged the issue but maintains that not all of the black residue found on homes is from their operations. The company claims to assess each case individually when it comes to cleaning affected buildings in the community. Despite the challenges faced by homeowners, the company is considered a good neighbor by some, as it provides employment opportunities and contributes to the local economy.
Efforts to address the situation are ongoing, and residents continue to express their concerns about the potential health risks associated with the fungus. The spread of whiskey fungus in Mineville serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by communities living near industrial facilities and highlights the need for effective regulation and response to protect residents’ well-being.
