E.P.A. Finalizes Arrangement for

DALLAS - (Oct. 29, 2014) Today the E.P.A. (EPA) finalized an arrangement with the Louisiana Department of Environmental (LDEQ), Louisiana Military Department (LMD), and the U.S. Army (Army) to dispose of 15 million pounds of abandoned explosives at Camp Minden, La.

Under the final agreement, the Louisiana Military Department will control burn in excess of 15 million pounds of smokeless propellants in specifically designed burn trays with backing provided by the U.S. liability fund, on behalf of the Army. E.P.A. and LDEQ will oversee the work and environmental safety.

"This arrangement provides a comprehensive solution that protects public health and the environment," said E.P.A. Regional Administrator Ron Curry. "It reflects the dedication and hard work of all our partners."

Since 2005, Camp Minden, a former Army base in Northwest Louisiana, was owned and managed by the Louisiana Military Department. A private company under contract with the Army and other private companies used the location to improperly store obsolete explosives and propellant.

In July 2014, E.P.A. ordered the Army to eliminate the imminent and substantial endangerment posed by the M6 artillery propellant stored at the camp. Louisiana also issued an order to the Army to perform the cleanup. Under the terms of the settlement, both the E.P.A. and State of Louisiana orders will be withdrawn.

The abandoned explosives become more unstable as they age, increasing the chances of an uncontrolled explosion. Due to the volume of the abandoned propellant and explosives, on-site destruction represents the most efficient and effective cleanup alternative to address the site.

The on-site destruction of the abandoned explosives is not only designed to achieve an efficient and effective cleanup of the site, but also abate the risks to public health and the environment. Because the stability of the abandoned explosives cannot be guaranteed, an expeditious destruction of the explosives is needed.

The arrangement will become effective on Nov. 4, 2014. EPA's past costs incurred at the location will be subject to a review period and will be published in the Federal Register on or about October 31, 2014. After a 30-day public review period, E.P.A. will finalize the arrangement regarding recovery of past costs.

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