Cleanup Continues at Former Acme Power Plant (6/2026)

A new phase of the on-going cleanup is underway at the former Acme Power Plant.  As discussed at an April public meeting, this phase includes building demolition and cleanup of previously disturbed contaminated soils.  The plant, which closed in 1976, was abandoned and contained large quantities of asbestos.  Asbestos fibers were also present in surface soils around the building.   The work is being completed by Wyoming Demolition with oversight from WWC Engineering.  The cleanup is being funded with federal grants through the US Environmental Protection Agency Brownfields Program and other federal funds administered by the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality.   Though asbestos is the primary concern, other contaminants, such as lead-based paint and PCBs, will also be addressed.

Building demolition was the safest way to address the asbestos concerns. In 2023, the Sheridan County Conservation District Board formally approved a recommendation from the Acme Working Group to not retain the power plant building for future uses.  Building reuse options had been considered since the District assumed ownership of the property in 2017, but no feasible uses for the fully intact building were identified.  In addition, portions of the roof were actively collapsing and adjacent walls are unstable.   

Carrie Rogaczewski, District Manager of the Sheridan County Conservation District, requests the public’s cooperation in respecting adjacent landowners and contractors by not going out to the site:  “There are a lot of trucks and equipment, which can pose a safety risk for persons and vehicles.  Certainly, folks are curious, but we ask that they avoid the site so that workers can do their job safely.  We will post photos and videos on the project website.  Once this phase of cleanup is complete, we’ll provide an update or tour about the work.”

As a coal-fired power plant constructed in 1910, Acme was an important component of the region’s cultural and industrial history; however, contamination at the site threatened water and land quality, recreational activities, and the health and safety of residents and tourists.  Project partners established early expectations for potential future uses: protecting water and land quality, ensuring public access, and capturing the historical importance.  The next phase will focus on site redevelopment.  While no specific plans have been finalized, input from past meetings favored uses that support passive outdoor recreation and an appreciation of the area’s history. 

Check out the project website (www.acmeprojectwyoming.org) for photos or more information.