Protecting Missouri's Natural Resources is a monthly newsletter that informs readers about environmental issues.
JUNE 2008
TESTS SHOW CAMERON WATER SAFE FOR DRINKING;
STATE SEEKS INFORMATION IN TUMOR INVESTIGATION
Tests of both the reservoir and finished drinking water serving Cameron show the city’s water is safe, according to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
Test results from samples taken May 15 showed the water
produced by the city’s drinking water treatment plant met all drinking water standards. The tests looked for 180 possible pollutants and found none that were in excess of the standards set by the federal Safe Drinking Water Act, Clean Water Act or Missouri Water Quality Standards.
The test results were consistent with the regular testing done at the water plant, which has never had a health-based violation of the federal Safe Drinking Water Act. An analysis of sediment samples taken at the reservoir showed very low levels of chemicals such as atrazine and lindane, which are typical for agricultural areas in Missouri. Neither chemical was found in the tested drinking water.
The Department of Natural Resources conducted the testing at the request of Missouri Rep. Jim Guest, King City, whose office had received calls of concerns from Cameron residents reporting what they believed was a disproportionate number of people in the community suffering from brain tumors.
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services announced that work is continuing on a newly initiated investigation, called a Cancer Inquiry, to determine if the number of brain tumors in the community is statistically significant enough to suggest there may be a cause beyond what would typically be found in a community of this size.
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services is asking any Cameron resident suffering from a brain tumor to complete a patient information form and return it to their department. A parent, guardian or close family member may complete the form if the patient is unable to do so. At this time, only Cameron residents with brain tumors will be included in the investigation. Patient information forms are available from the local public health agency by contacting Marcia Downey, Administrator, Clinton County Health Department, 816-539-2144, or contact Jim Pruitt, Department of Health and Senior Services Cancer Inquiry Coordinator, at 573-522-2844.
If information from the patient information forms suggests an above-average number of brain tumors in the community, the Department of Health and Senior Services will begin a more detailed analysis of the data. If that data continues to show a possible cluster of brain tumors, work will begin to identify possible connections between the tumor victims and possible causes of the tumors.
The Department of Health and Senior Services conducted preliminary analysis on information it had on current brain tumor cases in Cameron and in surrounding counties, then compared those numbers to what is statistically expected in similar populations in other parts of the state and the nation. Based the information available, the Department of Health and Senior Services found that the number of brain tumor cases in the Cameron area did not exceed the expected number of cases.
The Department of Health and Senior Services and the Department of Natural Resources will remain in close contact and both agencies will continue collecting information about this situation and will respond to any new developments that arise.
WHEN THE LEFT AND RIGHT HANDS MEET
By Doyle Childers, Missouri Department of Natural Resources Director
Most of us, at one time or another, have heard the expression, “The left hand doesn’t know what the right hand is doing.”
Unfortunately, this is an easy pitfall for government entities. Though our responsibilities may overlap other federal, state and local agencies, it’s sometimes difficult to know who’s doing what and how. For the health and well being of the public, however, it’s critical that we communicate with our partners in other government agencies.
When the Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Southeast Regional Ombudsman, Jackson Bostic, was visiting with county public health agencies recently, he began to notice a trend. Representatives from several local health agencies told Bostic that they’d like to find a better way to communicate with our department. They particularly wanted clarification on how duties were divided between our department and local county health departments, because there is often overlap.
For example, county public health agencies regulate any on-site sewage disposal for single-family residencies, while the Department of Natural Resources is responsible for any disposal system greater than 3,000 gallons per day. Several county health officials were confused about regulations for systems that fall between a single-family residency and the 3,000-gallon-per-day flow.
One local health administrator suggested that the department host a meeting to discuss these types of issues, so the department’s Southeast Regional Office brought together staff from the departments of Natural Resources and Health and Senior Services, along with 36 officials from 20 local county public health agencies. In all, 65 people met in Poplar Bluff to discuss a range of issues.
The meeting was so successful that other ombudsmen in our department organized similar meetings with county health departments in Springfield, Kansas City and Macon. Local and state officials came together to address issues like open burning, illegal dumping, water sampling and more effective ways to alert the public when a boil water order has been issued. Though each meeting focused on a slightly different set of topics, all agreed on one important issue: More coordination efforts of this nature were needed.
The county health department meetings that our ombudsmen and regional offices hosted produced effective solutions and helped us clarify some of our processes and procedures. By bringing all these working hands together at one table, we’ve also promoted a healthier, cleaner Missouri.
More meetings will be scheduled in the future. Visit the department’s online calendar at ww.dnr.mo.gov/calendar/search.do to find out about meetings, conferences, workshops, courses, grant deadlines, public hearings and more events offered by the department or in which the department participates.
DEPARTMENT SUPPORTS EPA PROPOSAL TO STRENGTHEN NATIONAL AMBIENT AIR QUALITY STANDARD FOR LEAD
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently proposed a substantial strengthening of the federal, health-based air quality standard for lead. The proposed revisions would improve health protection for at-risk groups, especially children.
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has been closely following this process and has provided comment to EPA in favor of strengthening the lead standard to a level more protective of human health and the environment as it is supported by the science. EPA’s proposal includes revising the lead standard from 1.5 micrograms per cubic meter, to within the range of 0.10 to 0.30 micrograms per cubic meter.
“We understand the need for EPA taking action to further improve air quality and protect the health of our citizens, especially our children,” said Department Director Doyle Childers. “After the standard
becomes final, the department, in light of these health issues, will work diligently to determine what areas of Missouri do not meet the new standard and what measures are necessary to reduce lead emissions.”
The final standard is set to be announced Sept. 15. After it is established, the Department of Natural Resources will evaluate all lead emissions from industrial sources in Missouri to determine where the standard is not being met. Areas not attaining the standard will be designated as lead nonattainment areas. Designations will be submitted to EPA by Sept. 15, 2009, with final designations being made
no later than 2011. After designations are made,
the state will initiate the process to develop a State Implementation Plan for these currently nonattainment areas to reduce lead emissions to the levels necessary to achieve compliance.
Only one area in Missouri is officially designated as a nonattainment area for the current lead standard. This site is located at the state’s only primary lead smelting operation, the Doe Run facility in Herculaneum. Missouri also has two large secondary smelters, the Doe Run Buick facility in Iron County and Exide Technologies in Holt County. Both are in compliance with the current environmental standard.
A new standard at the levels proposed would also require additional monitoring. In addition to strengthening the lead National Ambient Air Quality Standard, EPA is proposing to improve the existing lead monitoring network by requiring monitors to be placed near large sources of lead emissions and in urban areas with more than 1 million people. There are currently 11 lead monitoring sites in Missouri at four different locations: Doe Run Herculaneum, Doe Run Buick, Doe Run Glover and Clayton, which is a reference site for the St. Louis metropolitan area.
Lead emitted into the air can be inhaled or, after it settles out of the air, can be ingested. Ingestion is the main route of human exposure. Once in the body, lead is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream and can affect many organ systems. Exposure to lead is associated with a broad range of health effects, including effects on the blood, central nervous system, cardiovascular system, kidneys and immune system.
Children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of lead. Exposures to low levels of lead early in life have been linked to effects on IQ, learning, memory and behavior.
DEPARTMENT’S TESTING
FINDS THREE SAMPLES IN
LAKE OF THE OZARKS WATER IN EXCESS OF E. COLI LIMITS
The first round of water testing at the Lake of the Ozarks found that at three of 55 sites tested E. coli bacteria existed in excess of the standard commonly used for swimming and other whole body contact recreation, according to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
The test samples, the first of six monthly samplings schedule for the Lake of the Ozarks, were taken Tuesday, May 27, at sites between the Lake of the Ozarks Community Toll Bridge and mile marker 30.
The highest level of E. coli was found in a sample taken from Cove 043, which is located near mile marker 20.5 in Osage Beach. That sample showed E. coli present at 547.5 colonies per 100 milliliters, or more than four times the state standard for swimming and other aquatic recreation. Three other samples taken in the same cove showed E. coli present at roughly half the standard. The state water quality standard for water bodies with whole body contact for recreation is 126 E. coli colonies per 100 milliliters of water during the recreational season, which is April 1 through Oct. 31.
E. coli levels of 178.5 colonies per 100 milliliters were found in a sample taken at Racetrack Hollow, located near mile marker 28. A sample taken at Bee Hole Hollow, located near mile marker 26, showed levels of 129.1 colonies per 100 milliliters. While three other samples taken at Racetrack Hollow were well within the E. coli standard, both of the other samples taken at Bee Hole Hollow were near the limit.
The Department of Natural Resources’ Southwest Regional Office will be investigating those coves where the higher E. coli levels were found in order to determine possible causes.
Between now and October, the Department of Natural Resources, in partnership with the Missouri Department of Conservation, AmerenUE and the Lake of the Ozarks Watershed Alliance, will test coves from Bagnell Dam to mile marker 30. Alliance volunteers trained to do such sampling are doubling the number of sites that could be sampled.
Tests done in the first set of coves during May will be retested during July and September. The second set of coves will be tested during June, August and October. Approximately 110 coves are in the two sets being tested during 2008. This is the second year of testing for the Lake of the Ozarks. Ameren is paying $15,000 per year for the five-year study. When completed, the water testing will include coves from Bagnell Dam to Truman Dam.
E. coli is a bacteria found in the intestinal tract of warm-blooded animals. Frequently associated with faulty septic tanks or sewer systems, E. coli can cause gastrointestinal illness. For more information on E. coli and the testing program, including 2007 results, visit the department’s Web site at www.dnr.mo.gov/pubs/pub2239.pdf. PDF
Water sample test result data is online at www.lmvp.org/LOWA/ecoli.htm. A link to the data can also be accessed through at the Lake of the Ozarks Watershed Alliance’s Web site at www.soslowa.org.
DEPARTMENT SEEKS PUBLIC COMMENT ON RECREATIONAL USE DESIGNATION STUDIES
Do you enjoy swimming in the streams and rivers
of Missouri? Do you want to help ensure these water bodies are safe and clean? If you answered
yes to one or both of these questions, then the Missouri Department of Natural Resources is
asking for your help.
The Department of Natural Resources has set a
July 21 deadline to submit new information on
how Missourians use their rivers and streams for recreation. The information received will help
the department determine whether or not a
stream can or does support swimming or other
recreational activities.
All Missouri water bodies are designated for swimming and other recreational uses unless information shows those activities are not possible. For example, many streams are too shallow to allow for swimming during most of the year. To make the determination whether or not a stream can or does support a recreational use, a Use Attainability Analysis, also known as a UAA, is conducted for the stream. To learn more about the information requested by the department and the procedure for conducting a UAA, visit www.dnr.mo.gov/env/wpp/wqstandards/uaa/index.html.
Information gathered from the public by mail, e-mail or the department’s online stream use survey will be used to revise UAA recommendations and draft revisions to the water quality standards rule, where necessary. The department will also hold a 30-day public comment period on the draft rule this fall to give the public another opportunity for input before the department finalizes its decisions.
For information about the UAAs already conducted and the department recommendations, visit www.dnr.mo.gov/env/wpp/wqstandards/uaa/uaa_county.htm. Information provided to the department must be gathered during the public comment period, which started May 21 and ends on July 21. For more information about the designation process or the Water Protection Program in general, visit www.dnr.mo.gov/env/wpp/index.html or call 573-751-1300 or 800-361-4827.
DEPARTMENT AND EPA SEEK COMMENTS ON PERMIT MODIFICATIONS FOR CONTINENTAL CEMENT COMPANY / GREEN AMERICA RECYCLING
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Region 7 invite the public to review and offer written
comments on draft hazardous waste permit
modifications for Continental Cement Company LLC and Green America Recycling LLC
until June 23.
During the 45-day public comment period, anyone may request a public hearing on the draft permit modifications by writing to Robert Clay at the address below. The hearing request must state the issues that are to be brought up during the hearing.
Continental Cement is located at 10107 Highway 79 South in Hannibal and operates an active wet process cement kiln. The kiln produces clinker, the primary ingredient in portland cement. Continental Cement primarily uses coal to heat its kiln. Continental Cement also uses non-hazardous waste fuels, such as used oil and solid and liquid hazardous waste fuels, to supplement its fuel needs. Most of the hazardous waste comes from off-site hazardous waste
generators or third party hazardous waste blenders or brokers. The company receives the hazardous waste by both truck and railcar. Green America Recycling,
a company formed by Continental Cement and American Environmental Services Inc., operates
the fuels facility that accepts the liquid and solid hazardous wastes.
The department issued the draft Missouri Hazardous Waste Management Facility Part I permit modifications. EPA issued the draft Hazardous and Solid Waste Amendments Part II permit modifications. If issued as written, the final Part I and Part II permit modifications will allow Continental Cement to build a new dry rotary kiln to produce clinker more efficiently than with the wet process kiln currently in use.
Part I was also updated to clearly outline what units are covered under the permit. The Part II permit modifications also include removing permit conditions the state is now authorized to handle and parts of the permit that are now regulated under the department’s Air Pollution Control Program.
The draft Part I and Part II permit modifications and fact sheet are available on the department’s Web site at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/hwp/permits/notices.htm. Supporting documents are not available on the department’s Web site due to their size. The public can review and copy the modification request, draft Part I and Part II permit modifications, fact sheet and supporting documents at the Hannibal Free Public Library in Hannibal, during its normal business hours, by appointment at the department’s Conference Center in Jefferson City or at the EPA office in Kansas City, Kansas.
Comments on the draft permit modifications are effective if they point out legal or technical issues. Only the conditions being modified are open for public comment. All other conditions of the original permits will remain in effect for the length of the permits. Please send written comments to:
(Part I)
Robert Clay
Missouri Department of Natural Resources
Hazardous Waste Program
P.O. Box 176
Jefferson City, MO 65102-0176
Fax: 573-526-5268
E-mail: robert.clay@dnr.mo.gov
(Part II)
Ken Herstowski
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 7
RCRA Corrective Action and Permits Branch
901 N. Fifth St.
Kansas City, KS 66101
Fax: 913-551-7947
E-mail: herstowski.ken@epa.gov
To receive notice from the department or Continental Cement about any major permitting and cleanup activities at the facility, please call or write the department to have your name placed on the mailing list.
For more information concerning the permitting process or the draft Part I permit modifications, contact Robert Clay by telephone at 573-751-3553 or 800-361-4827. For more information about the draft Part II permit modifications, contact Ken Herstowski by telephone at 913-551-7631 or 800-223-0425.
MISSOURI USE OF RECYCLED CONTENT NEWSPRINT
INCREASED IN 2007
Missouri newspapers reported using at least
50 percent recycled content in their newsprint in 2007, reaching the 50 percent goal established in 2000, according to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. The 2007 data is up slightly from
49 percent in 2006 but remains lower than the
58 percent high reported in 2004. The department continues to encourage all newspapers to use recycled content newsprint, which helps reduce energy
consumption and conserves raw materials.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, producing recycled paper requires about 60 percent of the energy used to make paper from virgin wood pulp. Recycling 1 ton of paper saves 17 mature trees, 7,000 gallons of water, 3 cubic yards of landfill space, two barrels of oil and 41,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity. This is enough energy to power the average American home for five months.
“We applaud the newspapers that continue to use recycled content newsprint each year,” said Department of Natural Resources Director Doyle Childers. “As citizens, businesses and government agencies, we must continue to reduce our environmental impact on carbon energy and water quality. The efforts of these newspapers do make a positive difference for our environment.”
Under Missouri law, newspapers or publications using newsprint with an average daily, or on day of publication, distribution of 15,000 or more must report the quantity of recycled content newsprint used. The department begins receiving reports for the previous year’s usage after the first of each year.
For 2007, there were 58 newspaper publications reporting recycled newspaper content to
the department’s Solid Waste Management Program. Of the 140,122 tons of newsprint used by these newspaper publications, 70,649 tons contained recycled content. Of the 58 publications,
39 reported they met or exceeded the 50 percent recycled content usage goal. Of those 39 publications, 25 reported using 100 percent recycled newsprint content. In 2006, newspapers reported using
49 percent recycled content for their publications, falling just short of the 50 percent goal. An additional 94 publications notified the department’s Solid Waste Management Program they were exempt from
the reporting requirement as their average daily distribution was less than 15,000, or they had no printing to report in 2007.
Some of the larger newspapers listed in the report include the Columbia Daily Tribune using 94 percent recycled content, the Jefferson City News Tribune using 75 percent, the Joplin Globe using 66 percent and St. Louis Post-Dispatch using 64 percent.
Two larger newspapers did not meet the 50 percent minimum of recycled material required. Those papers included the Kansas City Star using 25 percent and the Springfield News-Leader using only 1 percent. Both papers indicated there was not an adequate quantity of newsprint available to meet the target recycled content goal available during the reporting period.
A complete report on recycled content newsprint used by Missouri publications is available on the Department of Natural Resources’ Web site at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/swmp/rrr/newspaperrecycling.htm.
For more information on the newspaper recycled content goal, contact Jane Davis with the department’s Solid Waste Management Program at 573-751-5401 or 800-361-4827.
DEPARTMENT AND EPA DETERMINE REMEDY FOR
WEST LAKE LANDFILL
SUPERFUND SITE IN BRIDGETON
A Record of Decision document for the radioactive portion of West Lake Landfill, located in Bridgeton, has been finalized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. A series of key actions that will protect and monitor groundwater resources and human health are planned as part of this Record of Decision.
These actions include installing a multi-layered landfill cover and a groundwater monitoring network system composed of existing and newly installed monitoring wells. These remedial objectives are specifically designed for this Superfund site in Bridgeton.
The plan was developed by EPA in consultation and agreement with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
EPA’s Record of Decision document on the West Lake Landfill site also includes responses to public comments and comments from the department EPA received about its preferred remedy. This preferred remedy was presented at three public meetings held June 22, 2006, Sept. 14, 2006 and this past March 27. “We believe it is imperative to move ahead by placing a properly engineered cover on the landfill,” EPA Region 7 Administrator John Askew said. “The cover would serve as a stable barrier to minimize future exposure to waste material, as the landfill currently has no such protective cap.”
EPA’s design process also calls for the installation of a new system of monitoring wells around the site and for long-term groundwater sampling to occur.
The results of all groundwater sampling and tests will be made available to the public. EPA and the department will continue to work closely with the site’s owners and responsible parties to oversee the proper implementation of the remedy.
Other official documents and information pertaining to the site are available for public review at
- Bridgeton Trails Branch of the St. Louis County Library, 3455 McKelvey Road, in Bridgeton.
- EPA Region 7 Records Center, 901 North 5th St., in Kansas City, Kan.
- Department of Natural Resources Hazardous Waste Program at 1730 E. Elm St. in Jefferson City.
For more information, call the department’s Hazardous Waste Program at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-3176.
DEPARTMENT IDENTIFIES WATER SYSTEMS THAT FAIL TO COMPLY WITH TESTING REQUIREMENTS
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources
has released a list of 26 public drinking water systems
that have chronically failed to conduct required bacteriological testing.
The department requires all public water systems to test for bacteria at least once a month to verify these systems are providing safe drinking water to the public. While failing to monitor does not necessarily mean that the water is unsafe, routine testing is a crucial part of maintaining a safe water supply.
The majority of community and non-community public water systems in Missouri comply with all monitoring requirements and meet all drinking water standards. Chronic violators are the exception rather than the rule, as this current list of 26 systems represents less than 1 percent of the approximately 2,800 public drinking water systems in Missouri.
Bacteriological testing can be the first step in identifying and correcting a problem. The next step is to investigate the cause of any bad samples and perform corrective action, such as disinfecting and flushing the system. When a public water system has a record of both failing to monitor and a history of exceeding contaminant levels, this may raise concerns about the unknown quality of the drinking water.
If a water sample tests positive for total coliform bacteria, further testing is then performed for fecal coliform or E. coli bacteria, which can directly cause gastrointestinal illness. Most samples that test positive for total coliform, test negative for fecal coliform or E. coli. The total coliform-positive samples that are listed tested negative for fecal coliform or E. coli, unless specifically stated otherwise.
To view more details on the violators listed, visit the department’s Web site at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/wpp/chronic/index.html.
County - Public Drinking Water System
Barry - Country Diner, Fuel Express
Benton - Sun Valley Subdivision
Camden - Bambooze, Deepwater Inn, Donna’s Ice House, Possum Holler
Cole - Lohman’s Eagle Stop
Franklin - Charmwood Subdivision, Delta Motel
Greene - Dalmas Feed Bunk Café
Jasper - Royal Oaks Arena
Lawrence - Route 66 Tavern, Youngberg Estates Mobile Home Park
Maries - Moreland’s Restaurant and Lounge
Miller - Sunset Mobile Home Park
Morgan - Three Pigs Bar B Q and Grill
Pulaski - The Point Steakhouse
St. Clair - Old Plantation Motel
Stone - Cape Fair Mobile Home Park, Show Me Shores, Starlight Village, Starrlite Village 4th Addition Taney - Parkview Lodge
Washington - L & M Mobile Home Park
Webster - Tiny’s Steak Ranch
These systems’ owners have first been sent numerous letters informing them of their responsibilities and subsequently, multiple violation notices because chronic failure to monitor is unacceptable.
Representatives of the Department of Natural Resources also routinely make on-site inspections and attempt to reach an agreement with the responsible parties to ensure sampling requirements will be met. If these parties continue to fail to comply with Missouri’s drinking water law, the department pursues more stringent enforcement action through legal channels.
For more information, contact the department’s Water Protection Program at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-8309.
DEPARTMENT RECEIVES COMMENTS FROM CORPS
OF ENGINEERS ON PERMITS
FOR SHALLOW WATER
HABITAT PROJECTS
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources received a letter from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers asking the state to reconsider conditions in recently issued 401 Water Quality Certifications for two Missouri River habitat restoration projects. The department issued certifications for the Rush Bottoms and Barney Bend chute construction projects in accordance with an order issued by the Missouri Clean Water Commission on Sept. 12, 2007 and amended on March 12.
To implement the Missouri Clean Water Commission’s order, the Department of Natural Resources issued the certifications with special conditions. These conditions require removing, grading and seeding all topsoil from the chute and designed erosion area, as well as sampling and monitoring provisions. In its letter, the corps expressed concerns that several of the provisions were “impractical and cost prohibitive” and would prohibit the corps from building shallow water habitat projects within the State of Missouri.
These projects, which are designed to create habitat for the endangered pallid sturgeon, are being constructed to comply with requirements of the Endangered Species Act. At its March 12 meeting in St. Louis, the Clean Water Commission signed an amended order requiring the U.S. Corps of Engineers to stop the discharge of sediment and topsoil from habitat restoration projects into the waters of the state. The order also requires all topsoil and the excavated sediment to be placed on land in a manner in which it will not erode into the river.
For more information, call the department’s Water Protection Program at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-1300.
EPA WILL AUDIT MISSOURI’S UNDERGROUND STORAGE TANK INSPECTION PROGRAM
Over the next several months, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 7, will audit the Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ underground storage tank inspection program.
From May through July, EPA will inspect approximately 80 facilities that were inspected by the department and its contractor in state fiscal year 2008. EPA will send letters to each facility notifying them of its plans and requesting that each facility have certain records available on-site for inspection.
EPA also will be auditing the department’s compliance and enforcement program as part of its routine oversight of federal environmental programs. The audit is designed to ensure the state follows technical regulations and program authorization requirements.
Federal and state technical regulations for underground storage tanks are designed to reduce the chance of releases from underground storage tanks, detect leaks and spills when they do occur and secure a prompt cleanup. Underground storage tank owners and operators are responsible for reporting and cleaning up any releases.
EPA delegates oversight of the underground storage tank programs to state government and approves the state regulation and compliance of the program.
For information about Missouri’s efforts to deal with underground storage tanks, contact the department’s Hazardous Waste Program at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-3176.
PARKWAY NORTH HIGH SCHOOL WINS TOP SPOT AT STATE ENVIROTHON FOR THIRD STRAIGHT YEAR
Jenny Bower, Kathleen Boilsmith, Rebecca Frankenberger,
Amal Al Lozi and Jon Lee. DNR photo by Jessica Royston.
They say the third time is a charm, but in Parkway North’s case, it has been charmed from the start. Parkway North High School has won the state Envirothon competition for the third straight year. The school is part of the Parkway School District in St. Louis County.
The Envirothon consists of students competing at five outdoor testing stations - aquatic ecology, forestry, soils and land use, wildlife and the 2008 current conservation issue, recreational impacts on natural resources. Test stations require the five-student teams to answer a variety of both hands-on and written natural resource questions. Each team also gives an oral presentation to a panel of judges.
Winning this competition three times in a row is no easy feat. As team members from Parkway North can attest, it requires a lot of dedication. “We meet every Monday after school, and we attend lectures at Washington University when we can,” said Amal Al Lozi, a member of the winning team. “I also study at home a lot.”
“As a group, we’ll go to parks and identify trees and things,” said team member Kathleen Beilsmith. “Our coach has a lot to do with our success though, too.”
Parkway North coach Russell Barton has sponsored the team for the past five years. The team will go on to compete at the 2008 Canon Envirothon in Flagstaff, Ariz., July 28 to Aug. 3.
The Envirothon is North America’s largest high school natural resources competition, with more than 40 states and seven Canadian provinces competing at the national level.
The state event features the top three teams from
each of Missouri’s seven regional competitions held throughout the year. Contact your local soil and
water conservation district office for regional
competition dates.
To obtain pictures and additional information about the Missouri Envirothon visit www.dnr.mo.gov/env/swcp/envirothon.htm.
Sponsors for the Missouri Envirothon include the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, the Missouri Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts, local soil and water conservation districts, the Missouri Department of Conservation, the Missouri Soil and Water Conservation Districts Employee Association, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service, the University of Missouri Extension and the Show-Me Chapter of the Soil and Water Conservation Society.
For more information, contact the Department of Natural Resources’ Soil and Water Conservation Program at 573-751-4932 or the department toll free at 800-361-4827.
DEPARTMENT ISSUES
WAIVERS TO AID IN CLEANUP FOLLOWING TORNADOES
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is waiving specific solid waste and air pollution
regulations to give residents and communities in the southwest Missouri counties of Barry, Newton and Jasper additional flexibility in cleaning up from the May 10 and 11 tornadoes affecting those counties.
The waiver will allow vegetative waste, such as brush and yard waste, and home appliances, which are normally excluded from permitted sanitary landfills, to be taken to such landfills if the landfill agrees to accept the waste. The waiver applies only to
vegetative waste and appliances caused or damaged by the tornadoes of May 10 and May 11.
The department continues to strongly encourage, but not require, composting of vegetative waste and recycling of appliances where practical. The waiver applies only to yard waste and appliances and does not allow disposal of other items normally prohibited in sanitary or demolition landfills.
Cities and counties should coordinate collection of damaged appliances so refrigerants can be legally recovered from air conditioners, freezers and refrigerators before recycling or disposal.
The waiver also allows for communities to establish burn sites for vegetative and untreated wood waste without getting the typical permits through the Department of Natural Resources. Community burn sites must be located at least 200 yards from the nearest occupied structure and be approved by local fire officials. The department is asking community officials to consider the 200-yard buffer as a minimum and to carefully select burn locations, taking local air quality, public health and safety and neighborhood impacts into consideration.
The waiver shall be in effect until June 30 unless extended. Further information, including the full text of the waiver, is available on the department’s natural disaster resources Web page at www.dnr.mo.gov/disaster.htm. Factsheets about proper disposal of storm debris and other related information are also available on this Web page.
In cases where the rains that accompanied the severe weather caused wastewater bypasses at local treatment plants, the department would like to remind all entities subject to Missouri’s Clean Water Law that they are required to notify the department’s Southwest Regional Office in Springfield at 417-891-4300 of such bypasses. In light of this situation, the department will take into account the circumstances of each individual occurrence.
Residents of the affected counties should call the department’s Southwest Regional Office if they need additional information or clarification of the waiver. A map of regional offices with phone numbers is located the department's Web site.
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES ENERGY CENTER ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR ENERGY CONSERVATION LOANS
Saving energy means saving money and the
environment, and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources Energy Center wants to help Missouri municipalities, counties, school districts and public colleges and universities save all three, by providing $3.8 million in low-interest loans for energy conservation projects. In response to changing financial markets, the Energy Center also will give applicants a better deal on interest rates.
The Energy Center began taking applications June 1 for the department’s Energy Loan Program, which makes lower-interest loans for qualifying energy conservation projects. The department will award the new group of loans by Dec. 31. Loan recipients
then repay the loans from the energy savings they experience after implementing the efficiency projects. Past energy loans have funded heating and
air conditioning upgrades, lighting improvement, insulation and window replacement.
With this new loan offering, the department will use a new method to set below-market loan interest rates at the time the loans are awarded. The Energy Center will set interest rates for the new loans in early December immediately prior to awarding the new loans. The interest rates will be set at one-half of one percent below the interest rate of the 20-Bond General Obligation Index, published weekly in the The Bond Buyer, a daily newspaper of public finance. Using this benchmark near the time the loans are awarded will allow the Energy Center to assist communities, counties and schools with better deals to hold down their energy costs. For example, the 20-Bond Index interest rate published May 16 was 4.53 percent. If the Energy Center were preparing loan agreements this week, the interest rate for all loans would be 4.03 percent.
Loan applications will be judged based on a competitive basis, those with the quickest payback time, based on project cost versus anticipated energy cost savings, receiving first consideration. Applications and additional information are available on the department’s Web site at www.dnr.mo.gov/energy/financial/loan.htm. Applications are due by Oct. 15, with funding announcements to be made by Dec. 31. The maximum loan award to any applicant will be $1 million.
Half of the available loan funds will be allocated to primary and secondary public schools. Local governments and public higher education facilities will each receive 25 percent of the loan funds.
Since its inception in 1989, the program has made nearly 480 loans with a total value of more than $80 million. The cumulative energy savings resulting from energy loan-financed projects are estimated at more than $146 million.
For more information, call the department’s Energy Center at 800-361-4827 or 573-526-4220.
DEPARTMENT ACCEPTING COMMENTS ON PROPOSED
RULE AMENDMENTS CONCERNING AIR POLLUTION
Public hearing is June 26 in Jefferson City
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is currently accepting public comment on several proposed rule amendments concerning air pollution.
The Missouri Air Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on these rule amendments on June 26. The public hearing will begin at 9 a.m. at the Governor’s Office Building 200 Madison St., in Room 450, Jefferson City. The commission will hear testimony related to the following amendment items:
- 10 CSR 10-6.070 (amendment) New Source Performance Regulations
This proposed amendment incorporates by reference two new 40 CFR part 60 subparts finalized between July 1, 2005, and June 30, 2006. These subparts pertain to Standards of Performance for Other Solid Waste Incineration Units and Emission Guidelines and Compliance Times for other Solid Waste Incineration Units. Additionally, this amendment updates seven previously adopted subparts with minor
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency changes. - 10 CSR 10-6.075 (amendment) Maximum Achievable Control Technology Regulations
This proposed amendment updates 75 previously adopted 40 CFR part 63 subparts finalized between July 1, 2005, and June 30, 2006. No new federal subparts were promulgated. - 10 CSR 10-6.080 (amendment) Emission
Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants
This proposed amendment updates 40 CFR part 61 between July 1, 2005, and June 30, 2006. No new or amended federal subparts were promulgated.
The Department of Natural Resources requests that people intending to give verbal presentations on the proposed public hearing item also provide a written copy of their testimony to the commission secretary at the time of the public hearing. People requiring special services or accommodations to attend the hearing can make arrangements by calling 800-361-4827 or 573-751-4817. Hearing-impaired individuals may contact the program through Relay Missouri at 800-735-2966.
The department also will accept written comments until 5 p.m. on July 3. Written comments should be sent to:
Chief, Operations Section
Department of Natural Resources
Air Pollution Control Program
P.O. Box 176
Jefferson City, MO 65102-0176
by fax to 573-751-2706 or by e-mail to apcprulespn@dnr.mo.gov.
The department is required to respond to all comments in writing as part of the rulemaking process. Written comments and oral public hearing testimony are treated with equal consideration.
The proposed public hearing documents are available for review at the department’s Air Pollution Control Program, 1659 E. Elm St., Jefferson City and on the Public Notice section of the Web site at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/apcp.
Public hearing items may be adopted by the Missouri Air Conservation Commission as provided for under authority of 643.050, RSMo. For more information or a complete meeting agenda, contact the Department of Natural Resources’ Air Pollution Control Program at 573-751-4817.
ENERGY CENTER HOSTS PUBLIC FORUMS ON WIND ENERGY
IN MISSOURI
The launch of successful new wind farms in
northern Missouri in the last two years has left many Missourians eager to know about possibilities for wind power near their own communities. Beginning with a June 25 live statewide video conference,
this summer the Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Energy Center is holding a series of
public forums this summer to discuss the state’s
wind energy potential.
Missourians are invited to join in three statewide discussions of how to best use the state’s wind energy resources. The three events will be held as video conferences concurrently in nine cities: Columbia, Jefferson City, Kansas City, Kirksville, Maryville, Neosho, St. Joseph, St. Louis and Springfield.
- Wednesday, June 25, 5 to 9 p.m.: The first
forum in the series, “Harvesting Missouri
Wind Resources,” will deal with the wind energy industry including getting electricity
to where it is needed.
• August 6, 5 to 9 p.m.: The second forum“Community and State Economic Impacts” will identify issues that landowners should know about before signing a lease and the impact wind energy development has on the local and state economy.
• September 15, 5 to 9 p.m.: The third forum, “Wind Energy Action Options” will explore what is needed for this self-renewing natural resource to best serve the needs of Missourians.
Following a conference format, each public forum will start with expert presentations, followed by panel discussion, leading to attendees sharing their views in small roundtable discussion groups. Due to the relatively marginal financial outlook for customer scale wind systems at this time, the wind forums will focus on utility-scale wind potentials and issues, rather than on small wind systems.
While there is no cost to attend or to observe the conferences online, seating at each location is limited, and registration is required. Complete information and a registration form are available on the department’s Web site at www.dnr.mo.gov/energy/renewables/wind-energy-forums.htm.
Upon registration, an admission ticket and the address of each meeting place will be provided to those who register. People who have access to a personal computer and high-speed internet connection can observe the video conference online.
Those unable to register online, and people with disabilities requiring special services or accommodations to attend the forums, can make arrangements by calling the department’s Energy Center at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-2254.
MISSOURI OIL AND GAS PERMIT APPLICATIONS INCREASE
The number of applications received by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ State Oil and Gas Council for oil and gas exploration has surpassed last year’s total in the first four months of this year.
"Record oil and gas prices contribute to increased interest in oil and gas potential in Missouri,” said Mimi Garstang, state geologist and director of the Division of Geology and Land Survey. In 2005, the department received 25 applications. Since 2006, the number of applications received quadrupled and the numbers continue to grow:
- 44 applications in the first quarter of 2008 with gas at $86 per barrel.
- 129 applications in 2007 with gas at $61 per barrel.
- 41 applications in 2006 with gas at $57 per barrel.
- 25 applications in 2005 with gas at $50 per barrel.
Many of the applications that were received in 2007 and some from this calendar year were from individuals seeking permission to conduct stratigraphic tests, which help determine if the potential for oil or gas exists. When found in sufficient quantities, a request must be submitted for a permit to drill a full-scale oil or gas well.
To protect the environment, applicants must adhere to rules and regulations set forth by the State Oil and Gas Council. The council publishes rules and regulations that apply to oil and gas drilling and producing operations to foster and promote orderly and economic development, production and use of natural resources of oil and gas. State regulations for protecting the environment must be met at every step.
Wells must be bonded to ensure that they are properly plugged if an owner improperly abandons a well. The department’s Division of Geology and Land Survey, located in Rolla, is responsible for
approving permit applications for oil and gas
exploration in Missouri.
“All types of energy resources need to be evaluated in today’s world,” said Garstang. “While interest in Missouri’s heavy oil has significantly increased with higher energy prices, we must make sure we develop any energy resource in a safe and responsible
manner.”
Garstang is a member of the State Oil and Gas Council. Joining Garstang on the council are Jeff Davis, director of the Missouri Public Service Commission, Jefferson City; Dr. Shari Dunn-Norman, professor of petroleum engineering, Missouri University of Science and Technology, Rolla; Ed Galbraith, staff director with the Department of Natural Resources’ Clean Water Commission, Jefferson City; Terry Maglich, project manager with the Missouri Department of Economic Development, Jefferson City; and William Luebbert, public member, Jefferson City.
With the increase in oil and gas prices, some companies are drilling in established oil and gas areas of Missouri, while others are looking in areas not previously identified as having potential.
The potential for coalbed methane production in Bates and Cass counties is being explored in conjunction with the department and the Kansas Geological Survey. Preliminary results of this study are promising.
“Advancements in recovery techniques may be the key that enables companies to successfully tap into the oil in Vernon County, where the oil is very thick, said Scott Kaden, a department geologist. MegaWest Energy Corporation is using steam to help “thin,” or liquefy, the oil and make it easier to produce from the ground”. The break-even point for profit for the production of heavy oil from Vernon County is approximately $50 per barrel.
The department’s spring 2008 issue of Missouri Resources Magazine offers more details about Missouri’s untapped resources. See the Missouri’s Black Gold feature article beginning on page two at www.dnr.mo.gov/magazine/2008-spring.pdf. PDF
The Ed Clark Museum of Missouri Geology, where rocks, minerals, fossils and map-making tools are on display, is open to the public weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Posters, maps, trading cards and a wide variety of publications relating to geology are available at the publications desk in Rolla at 111 Fairgrounds Road. Call 573-368-2125 or 800-361-4827 or visit online at www.dnr.mo.gov/geology.
REPORT LAUDS IMPACT OF ENERGY CONSERVATION; MISSOURI EFFORTS SHOW BENEFITS, POTENTIAL
Even as Missourians face a total annual energy bill of more than $20 billion, residents can take some comfort knowing that energy costs would be even greater if not for the significant energy conservation strides the state has made in recent years, and the potential to do even more, according to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Energy Center.
Missouri’s experience of finding economic benefit in energy conservation and knowing there is potential for doing even better mirrors the findings of a report lauding national efforts and highlighting the potential for even greater economic benefits from energy conservation.
A report released May 15 by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy concludes that energy-efficiency efforts made nationwide during 2004 alone saved an amount of energy equivalent to the amount needed to operate 40 mid-sized power plants. The report touts the significant environmental and economic gains made by energy-efficiency efforts and points out that tremendous potential gains remain to be captured.
In Missouri, this potential for significant further energy savings also exists. In recognition of the environmental and economic benefits of energy efficiency, Missouri state leaders, the Department of Natural Resources, utility companies and others have stepped up efforts in recent years to tap energy-efficiency gains in Missouri.
In 2008, Gov. Blunt proposed the Show-Me Green Tax Holiday, which passed in the waning hours of the legislative session. The tax holiday, described in Senate Bill 1181, would reward Missourians for choosing to purchase energy-efficient appliances during the week of April 19-25 by exempting them from state sales tax.
In late 2007, Gov. Blunt joined more than 65 area businesses and community groups to sign the Kansas City Climate Protection Partnership. The signatories commit to assessing and reducing environmental impacts from greenhouse gas emissions.
In 2007, Governor Blunt signed the Green Power Initiative, which sets goals for meeting 11 percent of Missouri’s electricity needs through energy efficiency or renewable energy use by 2020.
Major Department of Natural Resources initiatives also focus on energy-efficiency investments made by utility companies. During the past several years, the department’s Energy Center has worked effectively through utility rate cases to present information about the benefits of energy efficiency. These efforts have led to partnerships with several Missouri utility companies.
As a result, investor-owned utility investments in energy-efficiency programs to help customers save energy have increased from $0 in 2000 to more than $22.5 million in 2010. One Missouri utility company, AmerenUE, has set a goal of using energy-efficiency programs for its customers to save the equivalentof more than 500 megawatts, which represents a medium-sized power plant.
The department’s Energy Center partners with the University of Missouri-Columbia to offer energy audits to Missouri industries. Implementation of audit recommendations is forecasted to save $1.25 million each year in energy costs.
Projects financed through the department’s energy loan and low-income weatherization assistance programs have saved, since inception, an estimated $23.6 million each year.
Missourians paid nearly $20 billion for all energy needs in 2005. This was 12 percent of Missourians’ total disposable income. Most of this money leaves Missouri because more than 95 percent of the primary, conventional fuels consumed come from outside the state.
A copy of the ACEEE report is available online at www.aceee.org/pubs/e083.htm. More information on Department of Natural Resources’ energy loan and conservation programs is also available online at www.dnr.mo.gov/energy/index.html.
OZARK COUNTY RECOGNIZED BY DEPARTMENT FOR WORK IN SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION
Erosion has been reduced and water quality
improved in southern Missouri due to the
efforts of Ozark County Soil and Water
Conservation District.
Missouri Department of Natural Resources Director Doyle Childers has recognized Ozark County Soil and Water Conservation District for its outstanding implementation of Best Management Practices on grasslands. Bill Wilson, deputy director for the Soil and Water Conservation Program, presented the Ozark County Soil and Water Conservation District with the Director’s Award for Outstanding Achievement in the Implementation of Best Management Practices on Grasslands at its annual meeting on May 1 in Gainesville.
“Soil and water conservation districts have made great strides in controlling erosion and improving water quality in Missouri,” said Childers. “We should all recognize them for their important contribution to the sustainability of our agricultural land.”
Best Management Practices, including intensive grazing systems, permanent vegetative cover establishments and permanent vegetative cover improvements, were implemented on 5,250 acres of grassland in Ozark County Soil and Water Conservation District in fiscal year 2007. These practices reduce erosion and improve water quality by increasing the amount of quality forage available on grasslands.
Other districts recognized for their outstanding work are Audrain County for treatment of gully erosion, Pettis County for treatment of sheet and rill erosion and Stoddard County for progress made toward implementing its Agricultural Nonpoint Source Special Area Land Treatment project.
Missouri’s 114 soil and water conservation districts work with agricultural landowners and the public to conserve the state’s soil and water resources. The districts are funded by the one-tenth-of-one-percent parks, soils and water sales tax.
For more information, contact the Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Soil and Water Conservation Program at 573-751-4932 or the department toll free at 800-361-4827.
THREE HUNDRED FIFTH GRADE STUDENTS PARTICIPATE
IN ANNUAL “ROLLA SCHOOL
DAZE” EVENT
Many hats are worn by employees with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, and Rolla Middle School students and their teachers learned that firsthand when they visited the department’s facility
in Rolla.
Three hundred fifth-grade students attended the annual “Rolla School Daze” event on May 15. While Mother Nature decided to send another rain shower, the rain did not keep the youngsters and their teachers from enjoying their half-day visit.
Earth science presentations concentrated on environmental protection, geology, land surveying and groundwater issues. Rolla Middle School teacher Jeanie Strain, who coordinates the event with the department said, “Rolla Daze is a great trip for our fifth graders. They get a chance see science and history in action. The students enjoy relating what they know from class to the information given to them by the speakers. We always look forward to the trip,” Strain said. “My students spent 20 minutes telling me about their favorite sessions.”
Tour stops included visits to six educational stations where staff presented information geared to supplement classroom curriculums. A geologist discussed the importance of proper disposal of chemicals and hazardous household supplies so they do not pose a threat to our water supplies.
A demonstration using crushed limestone, cabbage juice and a small amount of hydrochloric acid (uses include cleaning and food processing, even pickling), creating the right combination for a potentially dangerous chemical reaction, when combined in
the environment.
Students toured the Ed Clark Museum of Missouri Geology where a geologist talked about rock types and their characteristics. Of particular interest was our state rock (Mozarkite) and the state mineral (Galena) and its role as a primary lead ore. They also learned about equipment used by geologists more than a century ago, Ice Age mammals, earthquakes and fossils. An earthquake occurrence demonstration was of particular interest.
Land surveyors explained methods used by 1800s surveyors to map our state and nation. Students had an opportunity to work with a Gunter’s chain, which was used as a measuring tool when Missouri was originally surveyed. Another demonstration offered modern land surveying techniques that include global positioning system satellite technology.
Environmental specialists captured the attention of the students when they aired several short video clips showing illegal dumping. It was a revelation to many of the students that dumping yard and garden waste on public grounds is illegal and that people continue to be prosecuted for this unwise act. Some of the videos can be viewed online. See the enforcement videos section available on the department’s Web site at www.dnr.mo.gov/videos/.
Geologists and technical staff showed video clips of water wells that had become contaminated. Staff also explained the need to protect drinking water against environmental contamination. Additional information about private water wells is available online at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/wpp/wellhd/index.html.
Another video, presented by a hydrologist, explained the water cycle, groundwater regions of Missouri, the importance of clean water and ways we can prevent pollution of our groundwater resources. Information about the development, conservation and use of the state’s water resources is available on the Web at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/wrc/.
“It is a pleasure to host the Rolla students and their teachers. Offering educational presentations for school-age children is an opportunity where we
hope to spark student interest in careers in the field
of science,” said Mimi Garstang, state geologist
and director of the Division of Geology and
Land Survey.
The Ed Clark Museum of Geology is open to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. Posters, maps, trading cards and a wide variety of publications on topics such as rocks, minerals and fossils are available at the publications desk in Rolla.
For more information call 573-368-2125 or 800-361-4827 or visit the Web site at www.dnr.mo.gov/geology.
ENVIRONMENTAL EMERGENCY RESPONSE
The department's Environmental Emergency Response provides daily support and protection for the citizens of Missouri. On-scene coordinators are located throughout the state and available 24-hours a day, seven days a week to respond to hazardous substance spills. Some of the protection and services the department provides are:
- emergency response training and planning;
- advice on hazardous chemicals and technical expertise used to provide spill cleanup advice and oversight;
- coordinate private contractors to clean up hazardous material spills;
- ensure a proper environmental cleanup is completed;
- drug lab seizure assistance;
- Chemical Accident Prevention Program for businesses that use hazardous chemicals;
- Homeland security issues.
Environmental Emergency Response staff use specially designed vehicles that contain protective gear, air monitoring instruments, sampling equipment and spill cleanup equipment. The department's Environmental Emergency Response Team is funded from a hazardous waste generator fee. To report a hazardous substance spill call 573-634-2436.
DEPARTMENT DISPATCHES CREW TO SPRINGFIELD RAIL YARD RELEASE
On Thursday, June 5, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources responded to oversee the cleanup of a chemical release from a Springfield rail yard.
Cleanup contractors worked to clean up more than 8,000 gallons of liquid sodium hydroxide released from a tanker car at the Burlington Northern Santa Fe railyard at 1625 N. Lexington. The car began leaking after receiving a five-foot gash during an accident while switching tracks.
Rain overnight washed much of the sodium hydroxide into a ditch in the railyard, where crews applied limestone and citric acid during cleanup efforts. None of the chemical reached Wilson’s Creek, which also borders the yard.
The department’s Environmental Emergency Response section was contacted by the Springfield Fire Department concerning the release. The department dispatched a state on-scene coordinator from its Southwest Regional Office in Springfield.
Liquid sodium hydroxide is caustic material with numerous industrial applications from making soap to the high-end chemical industry.
The department’s Environmental Emergency Response section is called to the scene of more than 300 emergencies each year, including fires, traffic accidents, leaking storage tanks and other incidents that could have a negative environmental impact. The department’s 24-hour spill line receives more than 1,600 incident reports annually.
To report an environmental emergency, including fuel spills, please contact the department’s spill line at 573-634-2436. For more information, contact the Department of Natural Resources at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-3443, or visit the department’s Web page at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/esp/esp-eer.htm.
DEPARTMENT RESPONDS TO DIESEL FUEL RELEASE ON MISSOURI RIVER
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is assessed the damage and oversaw the cleanup of more than 2,000 gallons of diesel fuel that was released in the Missouri River following the grounding of a tugboat on May 30.
State on-scene coordinators from the department’s Environmental Emergency Response Section assessed how far the diesel spill traveled downriver from the scene of the accident, which occurred near the Mile Marker 11 on the Missouri River near West Alton.
Department emergency staff also oversaw work by cleanup contractors hired by the boat’s owner, Excell Marine of Cincinnati, Ohio. Contractors deployed absorbent booms around the leaking vessel to capture escaping fuel.
According to the U.S. Coast Guard, shortly after 2 a.m., the towing vessel Omaha reported that it was taking on water and intended to intentionally ground the boat along the river bank in order to lessen the potential risk to the crew and the environment.
The Environmental Emergency Response section was contacted at 3:40 a.m. by the U.S. Coast Guard concerning the accident. The department dispatched state on-scene coordinators from its emergency response station in Eureka to the site of the spill.
An estimated 2,000 to 2,500 gallons of the boat’s 22,000 gallons of diesel fuel are believed to have escaped from its tank vents as it took on water.
For specific details about the accident, contact the U.S. Coast Guard at 314-269-2614. The Coast Guard news release on the accident is available online at www.piersystem.com/go/doc/425/204409/.
The department has also been working with drinking water systems downriver from the accident. Officials monitored the water for signs of the fuel at the nearest downriver water plant.
From July 1, 2006, through June 30, 2007, petroleum products accounted for 43 percent of materials released during environmental emergencies.
The department’s Environmental Emergency
Response section is called to the scene of more than 300 emergencies each year, including fires, traffic accidents, leaking storage tanks and other incidents that could have a negative environmental impact.
The department’s 24-hour spill line receives more than 1,600 incident reports annually.
To report an environmental emergency, including fuel spills, contact the spill line at 573-634-2436. For more information contact the Department of Natural Resources at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-3443, or visit the department’s Web page at www.dnr.mo.gov.
Visit Calendar of Events at www.dnr.mo.gov/calendar/search.do for a complete list of Department of Natural Resources' events through the end of the calendar year. People requiring special services or accommodations to attend a meeting can make arrangements by calling the department at 800-361-4827. Hearing-impaired individuals may contact the department through Relay Missouri at 800-735-2966.
MISSOURI AIR CONSERVATION COMMISSION TO MEET JUNE 26
The Missouri Air Conservation Commission will hold a public meeting at 9 a.m., June 26 at the Governor’s Office Building, 200 Madison St., in Jefferson City.
A subsequent meeting will be held July 31 in
Osage Beach.
For more information, call David Gilmore of the Department of Natural Resources at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-4817.
CLEAN WATER COMMISSION TO MEET JULY 2
The Missouri Clean Water Commission will hold a public meeting at 9 a.m., July 2 in Jefferson City. The exact location is yet to be determined.
For more information, call the Department of Natural Resources’ Water Protection Program at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-6721.
WATER QUALITY COORDINATING COMMITTEE TO MEET JULY 15
The Missouri Water Quality Coordinating Committee will hold a public meeting at 10 a.m., July 15 at the Department of Natural Resources’ Conference Center, 1730 E. Elm St., in Jefferson City.
For more information, call the Department of Natural Resources’ Water Protection Program at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-7428.
DEPARTMENT SPONSORS ENERGY EFFICIENCY WORKSHOP FOR UTILITIES ON JULY 22
Rising energy costs can be a major challenge for water and wastewater utilities. To address this issue, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency developed a training program, sponsored in part by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, to help utilities assess their current energy management programs and make improvements.
This program, which includes an energy management workbook, will teach participants how to set measurable energy goals and manage energy issues to reduce consumption, and implement plans to follow through on energy reduction goals.
This workshop will be held July 22 at the EPA Caves. Yes, these are real caves that are part of the Hunt Midwest Industrial Park located at 8600 NE Underground Drive Pillar 253, Door 32 in Kansas City, Mo.
The workshop is designed to provide energy management concepts, tools and techniques to help move water and wastewater utilities toward energy efficient operations. EPA and the Department of Natural Resources urge you to attend this workshop to help prepare for energy reductions in 2008.
For registration, visit www.epa.gov/region07/news_events/events/energy_management_workshop.htm.
LAND RECLAMATION COMMISSION TO MEET JULY 24
The Missouri Land Reclamation Commission will hold a public meeting at 10 a.m., July 24 at the Department of Natural Resources’ Conference Center, 1730 E. Elm St., in Jefferson City.
For more information, call the Department of Natural Resources’ Land Reclamation Program at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-6893.
REGISTER NOW FOR MISSOURI EARTHQUAKE CONFERENCE TO BE HELD AUG. 12-14
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Geology and Land Survey is partnering with the U.S. Geological Survey Mid-Continent Geographic Science Center, the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency, the Missouri University of Science and Technology (formerly
the University of Missouri - Rolla) and the Society
of american Engineers to host an earthquake
preparedness workshop focused on the New Madrid Seismic Zone.
The workshop is scheduled for Aug. 12 through 14, 2008, on the campus of the Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla. The goal of this workshop is to provide a regional forum for the presentation, exchange of ideas and potential solutions involved with preparing for a significant central U.S. earthquake. Registration costs $125. For more information and to register for the conference, visit www.dnr.mo.gov/geology.
The Rules in Development Web page contains all rule actions in progress and rule actions effective within the last three months for the Department of Natural Resources.
For more information, contact Keith Bertels in the Department of Natural Resources' Division of Environmental Quality at 800-361-4827. For the latest updates visit the Rules in Development Web page at www.dnr.mo.gov/regs/index.html.
Air Pollution Control Program |
Time Schedule for Compliance |
| Rule Number 10 CSR 010-02.150 - The proposed rulemaking will eliminate confusion in the regulated community regarding the time schedule for compliance of new and existing sources by removing requirements that establish compliance dates that are more than 30 years out of date. |
|
| Public comment ends: Aug. 7, 2008 |
Public hearing: July 31, 2008 |
| Missouri Register Citation: Filed, not yet published |
Department contact: 573-751-4817 |
Air Pollution Control Program |
Time Schedule for Compliance |
| Rule Number 10 CSR 010-04.140 - The proposed rulemaking will eliminate confusion in the regulated community regarding the time schedule for compliance of new and existing sources by removing requirements that establish compliance dates that are more than 30 years out of date. | |
| Public comment ends: Aug. 7, 2008 |
Public hearing: July 31, 2008 |
| Missouri Register Citation: Filed, not yet published |
Department contact: 573-751-4817 |
Air Pollution Control Program |
Time Schedule for Compliance |
| Rule Number 10 CSR 010-05.250 - The proposed rulemaking will eliminate confusion in the regulated community regarding the time schedule for compliance of new and existing sources by removing requirements that establish compliance dates that are more than 30 years out of date. | |
| Public comment ends: Aug. 7, 2008 |
Public hearing: July 31, 2008 |
| Missouri Register Citation: Filed, not yet published |
Department contact: 573-751-4817 |
Air Pollution Control Program |
New Source Performance Regulations |
| Rule Number 10 CSR 010-04.140 - This amendment provides consistent standards between federal and state agencies. It will reduce the number of regulations that the identified facilities must comply with.
It adopts by reference updates to previously adopted 40 CFR Part 60 subparts finalized between July 1, 2005 and June 30, 2006. |
|
| Public comment ends: July 3, 2008 |
Public hearing: June 26, 2008 |
| Missouri Register Citation: Filed, not yet published |
Department contact: 573-751-4817 |
Air Pollution Control Program |
Maximum Achievable Control Technology Regulations |
| Rule Number 10 CSR 010-06.075 - This amendment provides consistent standards between federal and state agencies. It will reduce the number of regulations that the identified facilities must comply with. It adopts by reference new 40 CFR Part 63 subparts finalized between July 1, 2005 and June 30, 2006. | |
| Public comment ends: July 3, 2008 |
Public hearing: June 26, 2008 |
| Missouri Register Citation: Filed, not yet published |
Department contact: 573-751-4817 |
Air Pollution Control Program |
Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants |
| Rule Number 10 CSR 010-06.080 - This amendment provides consistent standards between federal and state agencies. It will reduce the number of regulations that the identified facilities must comply with.
It adopts by reference updates to previously adopted 40 CFR Part 61 subparts finalized between July 1, 2005 and June 30, 2006. |
|
| Public comment ends: July 3, 2008 |
Public hearing: June 26, 2008 |
| Missouri Register Citation: Filed, not yet published |
Department contact: 573-751-4817 |
Air Pollution Control Program |
Submission of Emission Data, Emission Fees and Process Information |
| Rule Number 10 CSR 010-06.080 - This proposed rulemaking will change the emissions reporting threshold for emissions changes that require sources to submit a complete Emissions Inventory Questionnaire, rather than a short form, in interim reporting years. This will reduce reporting requirements for small sources without impacting air quality. Also, a reference to annual emission fee adjustments will be removed as annual fee adjustments are no longer required unless determined necessary by the Missouri Air Conservation Commission. It changes emissions reporting threshold requirements for emissions changes and removes a reference to annual fee adjustments. | |
| Public comment ends: Aug. 7, 2008 |
Public hearing: July 31, 2008 |
| Missouri Register Citation: Filed, not yet published |
Department contact: 573-751-4817 |
Water Protection Program |
Construction and Operating Permits |
| Rule Number 10 CSR 020-06.010 - This rulemaking promotes consistency between the Missouri Clean Water Law and the federal requirements regarding FIFRA in the application of pesticides to waters of the state. The exemption in this amendment assures pesticides applicators that compliance with relevant requirements under the FIFRA will mean that the activity is not also subject to distinct National Pollution Discharge Elimination System permitting requirements. | |
| Public comment ends: Sept. 17, 2008 |
Public hearing: Sept. 10, 2008 |
| Missouri Register Citation: Filed, not yet published |
Department contact: 573-751-1300 |
Water Protection Program |
Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations |
| Rule Number 10 CSR 020-06.300 - To align state regulations with federal regulations and maintain delegated authority, Missouri must adopt certain EPA provisions of their regulations, not impacted by the Waterkeeper Alliance case. This amendment includes new permit application requirements due to lowering the animal threshold for swine to <55 lbs. Phosphorus assessment requirement reducing phosphorus in surface water to comply with the Nutrient Management Plan criteria. It also includes new reporting requirements. |
|
| Public comment ends: Sept. 17, 2008 |
Public hearing: Sept. 10, 2008 |
| Missouri Register Citation: Filed, not yet published |
Department contact: 573-751-1300 |
PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS
Public service announcements may be downloaded for use by any newspaper, magazine, newsletter, radio stations, etc. The department will continue to add new announcements to the Web each month. If you would like to receive new announcements by e-mail as they are made available, please contact kathy.deters@dnr.mo.gov and provide your publication name and e-mail address.
REGIONAL OFFICE MAP
Department of Natural Resources' Regional Offices provide field inspections, complaint investigation and front-line troubleshooting, problem solving and technical assistance on environmental and emergencies for the following programs:
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INTERNET ADDRESSES
Missouri Department of Natural Resources at www.dnr.mo.gov
Division of Environmental Quality at www.dnr.mo.gov/env
Air Pollution Control Program at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/apcp
Division of Geology and Land Survey at www.dnr.mo.gov/geology/
Energy Center at www.dnr.mo.gov/energy
Environmental Services Program at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/esp
Gateway Clean Air Program at www.gatewaycleanair.com
Hazardous Waste Program at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/hwp
Historic Preservation at www.dnr.mo.gov/shpo/index.html
Land Reclamation Program at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/lrp
Soil and Water Conservation Program at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/swcp
Solid Waste Management Program at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/swmp
State Parks, Division of at www.mostateparks.com
Water Protection Program - Drinking Water Branch at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/wpp
Water Protection Program - Water Pollution Branch at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/wpp
SUBSCRIBE ON THE WEB TO READ PROTECTING MISSOURI'S NATURAL RESOURCES NEWSLETTER ONLINE
Sign up now to receive a monthly e-mail reminder and link to the online version of Protecting Missouri’s Natural Resources newsletter. A subscription form is now available on the Web at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/pmnr/subscribe_pmnr.htm. People who subscribe will receive an e-mail containing a link to the latest issue of the newsletter.
If you subscribe to receive the online newsletter, please let us know to cancel your current hard copy subscription to save printing and mailing costs associated with the newsletter.
Contact us at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-6892 or send an e-mail to cancel your hard copy subscription to elisha.bonnot@dnr.mo.gov.
LET US KNOW HOW WE CAN IMPROVE PROTECTING MISSOURI’S NATURAL RESOURCES NEWSLETTER
The staff of Protecting Missouri’s Natural Resources values your feedback about information you want to see in future issues of our newsletter. Send us your comments and suggestions about what information you want to see included in the newsletter.
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