Cabell County residents bothered by brown spots on their cars have been blaming Asland-area oil refineries for the problem, but the West Virginia Division of Air Quality has ruled out air pollution, and a researcher said the problem is a low-tech act of nature.
"We feel that it is aphid droppings or looper droppings," said Air Quality Inspector Mike Kolb.
His finding is supported by the work of West Virginia University Extension Agent John Marra, who has been investigating complaints by car owners in Cabell County.
Marra said the spots are caused by looper bug excrement that's falling on the cars or being blown onto them by the wind. "I saw the excrement hit the car and stick on the car," he said.
If you have the spots on your car, Marra said you can use an everyday over-the-counter car care product to remove them: Turtle Wax.