Environmental Testing in Montana
Asbestos & Soot Test Kits

Libby, Montana is the site of the largest naturally occurring asbestos disaster in United States history. W.R. Grace and Company operated a vermiculite mine near Libby for decades, releasing asbestos-contaminated vermiculite throughout the community. EPA declared a public health emergency in 2009 and has spent over $500 million on cleanup. Thousands of Libby residents have developed asbestos-related diseases.

The Libby disaster also spread contaminated vermiculite insulation nationally — sold under the brand name "Zonolite" — meaning Montana-origin asbestos exposure affected homeowners across the country. In Montana itself, historically mined areas carry elevated asbestos risk in soil and older building materials.

Montana's increasing wildfire activity creates serious indoor air quality concerns. Wildfire smoke and soot penetrate homes through ventilation systems and cracks, depositing hazardous fine particles inside. Soot testing can identify whether indoor surfaces have been contaminated by wildfire smoke. Homes near burn areas should also consider asbestos testing if older structures were affected by fire.