Catlettsburg, Kentucky

Marathon’s Catlettsburg refinery is located in northeastern Kentucky on the western bank of the Big Sandy River. It was purchased in 1924 by Swiss Oil Corporation (then parent company of Ashland Inc.). The refinery sits on a 650-acre site, has a capacity of 226,000 barrels per calendar day and is staffed by more than 800 employees.

Producing nearly two percent of the gasoline made in the United States, the refinery processes both sweet and sour crude oils that are supplied primarily by pipeline. The Catlettsburg refinery is a major producer of asphalt, diesel, jet fuel, petrochemicals, propane and lube oils.

History

The facility has a rich tradition extending back to the 1920s. Ashland Refining Company purchased the 1,000 barrel per day plant in 1924, when it was little more than a skimming operation from which a few products were distilled. Partially built to assist the World War II effort, the Catlettsburg Refinery is a landmark for what is commonly known as the “Tri-State area,” connecting Kentucky, West Virginia and Ohio. With its strong commitment to technology, safety and its employees, the refinery soon became one of the most modern and efficient in the nation.

Safety and Environmental Recognition

  • Awards from the National Petrochemicals Refiners Association and the National Safety Council.
  • Recognized with the inaugural Master Level KY EXCEL award in 2007. KY EXCEL is a voluntary environmental leadership program that encourages individuals, businesses and other organizations to participate in initiatives that benefit Kentucky's environment. The Master Level is the highest ranking in the program. To earn that status, the Catlettsburg refinery had to demonstrate comprehensive environmental management planning; commit to at least four voluntary environmental projects; and submit to a third-party, independent compliance-assessment.
  • An employee wildlife team that educates local schools and residents in conservation and biodiversity manages a 320-acre protected natural habitat on behalf of the refinery. The Savage Branch Wildlife Reserve and its team have been recognized by such organizations as the Wildlife Habitat Council for their hard work and dedication to our environment and its natural resources. Many employees donate their time and attention to a variety of community activities and organizations supported by the refinery.