State officials are monitoring fish at the Benner Spring State Fish Hatchery in Centre County following a Department of Environmental Protection investigation into local water contamination. The inquiry, discussed during a recent state House committee hearing, focuses on chemical contamination in Benner Township potentially linked to firefighting foam used at the nearby University Park Airport. Despite the proximity of the hatchery to the investigation sites, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission Director Timothy Schaeffer assured lawmakers that testing indicates the fish remain safe to eat and currently meet health advisory levels. The State College Airport has since changed the type of firefighting foam it uses.
Friday 13th February 2026
