Protecting Missouri's Natural Resources is a monthly newsletter that informs readers about environmental issues.
JULY 2008
DEPARTMENT TESTING FINDS LOW E. COLI LEVELS IN LAKE OF THE OZARKS
The most recent round of testing at the Lake of the Ozarks found all 55 samples had only low levels of E. coli bacteria, according to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
The test samples, the third of six monthly samplings scheduled for the Lake of the Ozarks, were taken July 7 at sites between the Lake of the Ozarks Community Toll Bridge and mile marker 30. The complete test results are available online at www.lmvp.org/LOWA/ecoli.htm.
E. coli is a bacteria found in the intestinal tract of warm-blooded animals, including humans. Some strains of E. coli can cause gastrointestinal illness. These bacteria can reach lake water from many different sources, both human and animal. For some people, such as children, elderly or those with weakened immune systems, even low levels of these bacteria may cause illness.
The state water quality standard for waters with whole body contact for recreation is a geometric mean of 126 E. coli colonies per 100 milliliters of water during the entire recreational season of April 1 to Oct. 31. The geometric mean is a statistical method used to analyze data collected over a period of time. This standard is based on the current risk level accepted by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency of eight people in 1,000, or less than 1 percent, over the recreational season becoming ill as a result of swimming in the water. The EPA’s suggested maximum level for test results of a single sample taken at a beach is 235
E. coli colonies per 100 milliliters of water.
The department’s Division of State Parks operates two public beaches at Lake of the Ozarks State Park - Public Beach #1 and the Grand Glaize Beach. The department samples water weekly at both beaches and posts warnings if warranted to ensure a safe public swimming area. Neither beach is on a cove being tested as part of this year’s larger monitoring project. While the larger project is to assess the overall condition of the Lake of the Ozarks, the weekly sampling of the state park beaches is a separate effort to determine the week-to-week suitability for swimming at those specific beaches.
Lake residents and users can take simple steps to help reduce bacteria levels entering the lake:
- Keep septic system tanks or aeration systems
- in proper working condition by having them serviced according to manufacturer’’s recommendations.
- Properly dispose of boat waste.
- Take regular bathroom breaks when swimming and use designated restrooms.
- Collect and properly dispose of pet waste.
Between now and October, the Department of Natural Resources, in partnership with the Department of Conservation, Ameren UE and the Lake of the Ozarks Watershed Alliance, will test coves from the Community Toll Bridge to mile marker 30.
The testing is a proactive project to gain information about the water quality of the lake. The department and the watershed alliance will collect the next round of samples in early August.
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.
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. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’’s Web site has additional information on swimming-related illness: www.cdc.gov/healthyswimming/general_pub.htm.
You may also contact the Department of Health and Senior Services’’ Bureau of Environmental Regulations and Licensure at 573-751-6095 for more information on the possible health effects of E. coli at the Lake of the Ozarks.
DEPARTMENT AWARDS $95,000 TO 2008 SCRAP TIRE PLAYGROUND GRANT RECIPIENTS
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded 10 grants totaling $95,000 from the fiscal year 2008 Scrap Tire Playground Surfacing Material Grant cycle. These grants promote the use of recycled scrap tires for playground cover or surfacing material for running tracks, walking trails or other surfacing projects.
“The Scrap Tire Playground Surfacing Material grant projects support one of the Department of Natural Resources’ goals to reduce the amount of waste disposed of in landfills and encourage the beneficial uses gained from recycling scrap tires,” said Department of Natural Resources Director Doyle Childers.
Award recipients include the following:
- A.D. Stowell Elementary Hannibal District #60, Marion County.
- City of Raytown Parks and Recreation, Jackson County.
- City of Memphis, Scotland County.
- Fairfax R-3, Atchison County.
- Lafayette County C-1-Grandview Elementary School, Lafayette County.
- Miller R-II Schools, Miller County.
- Platte County R-3 Pathfinder Elementary School, Platte County.
- Republic Early Childhood Center, Greene County.
- West Plains R-7 Elementary, Howell County.
- West Plains R-7 Middle School, Howell County.
Non-profit organizations including schools, day care centers and parks may apply for grant funds. The department has awarded almost $1.6 million to 279 organizations since the grants became available in 1994.
The source of funding for the grant program is a 5 percent portion of the 50-cent-per-tire fee collected during the sale of new tires in Missouri. This fee also finances clean up of illegal scrap tire dumps and inspection and enforcement activities. The 50-cent fee is currently set to expire on Jan. 1, 2010, unless it is renewed by the legislature.
For more information on the Scrap Tire Material Grants or the department’s Solid Waste Management Program, call 573-751-5401 or 800-361-4827 or visit the Web at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/swmp.
DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES SECOND APPLICATION PERIOD FOR SCHOOL CHEMICAL CLEANOUT PROJECT
Is your school storing outdated, dangerous and unstable chemicals in the laboratories, storerooms or other classrooms? These chemicals can pose a significant health and safety threat to students and faculty. The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is providing financial and compliance assistance to schools in Missouri to properly dispose of certain unwanted chemicals.
The department is conducting a second application period for phase two of the School Chemical Cleanout Project. The department received applications from 63 schools during an open application period from April to May. With one-time funding still available, the department is again accepting applications for participation in the project from July 1through Sept. 30 to allow time for additional schools to complete the application process. All of Missouri’s public and private elementary, middle, vocational or high schools are encouraged to apply.
“As a former science teacher familiar with strange chemicals in school science lab closets, this project is a priority for me,” said Department of Natural Resources Director Doyle Childers. “The previous application period fell during a busy time for most schools as it was near the end of the school year.
I want to thank those schools that were able to find the time to submit applications, and I encourage those that did not to take advantage of this second opportunity.”
Working with local schools and school districts, the Department of Natural Resources, the Center for Safe Schools and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education want to remove and safely dispose of outdated, dangerous and unstable
laboratory and instructional use chemicals from science and chemistry labs, storerooms and other classrooms in elementary, middle, vocational or high schools.
The department intends to pay the disposal cost for schools that apply and are accepted into the project. Schools chosen to participate will be required to complete the required application and related forms and, if accepted, pay a registration fee of $100 as a hazardous waste generator.
Currently under way, phase one of the project is cleaning up chemicals from nearly 100 schools that have been working with the Center for Safe Schools over the past year. The Department of Natural Resources will be paying for contractors to properly remove and dispose of the dangerous chemicals inventoried.
This project is not intended to remove other wastes, such as industrial cleaners, floor waxes, paint or paint waste, thinners, road salt, pesticides, batteries, waste oil or other wastes from shop or agricultural classes.
For more information on the School Chemical Cleanout Project, contact the department’s Environmental Services Program at 800-361-4827 or 573-526-3315, or visit the department’s Web site at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/schoolcleanout.htm.
STATE OF MISSOURI SEEKS TO JOIN OZONE LAWSUIT
Missouri Department of Natural Resources Director Doyle Childers announced the department is seeking to join a lawsuit to halt new nationwide federal ozone restrictions.
The new restrictions would likely place Kansas City in non-attainment, make it more difficult for St. Louis to reach attainment and cause additional Missouri communities to face the burden of being considered in non-attainment. This standard would even place rural counties such as Iron, Cedar and Perry in non-attainment. An area violating the ozone standard is considered in non-attainment.
Department of Natural Resources Director Doyle Childers called on Attorney General Jay Nixon to support Missouri’s economic health by joining the State of Mississippi’s appeal to halt the restrictions. Because Attorney General Nixon’s response failed to indicate he would represent the state of Missouri, the department is moving forward and has filed a motion to intervene.
"No one disputes the importance of maintaining good air quality for the health of Missourians,” Childers said. “We believe the new federal regulation will place thousands of Missouri jobs at risk, jeopardizing income for Missouri families and will result in unwarranted and burdensome regulations on industry.”
The ozone issue has been smoldering for some time, according to Childers. Recent action by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has brought it to the forefront as many states, including Missouri, made comments and suggestions on the issue. "It would be the height of irresponsibility for the Attorney General to ignore this issue and then complain later when the rule is mandated on the states that this federal rule imposed an unnecessary economic burden on the citizens of Missouri,” Childers said. “I had hoped the Attorney General would step forward and represent the State of Missouri, but his obvious reluctance to act on this time-sensitive issue leaves us no option but to intervene in this lawsuit on our own.”
Because the Attorney General represents the State of Missouri, Childers said his agency would intervene on behalf of the Department of Natural Resources. “If the concerns expressed by Mississippi are found to be valid, there’s too much at risk for us to sit on the sidelines and hope Jay Nixon does his job,” he said. “If we don’t intervene now, we won’t be able to do so down the road. We want to make sure our concerns about the new, stricter standard are heard by the federal court.”
Under the current standard, ozone levels have been on the decline nationally. In Missouri, the Department of Natural Resources has implemented innovative new programs and technologies and aggressive monitoring to reduce ozone levels. The department is concerned that EPA did not consider the positive effects its current standard is having nationwide as well as the mobile nature of ozone. The federal agency also failed to consider addressing the ozone problem at regional or national levels and only accounted for man-made ozone, failing to account for biogenic ozone that occurs naturally.
The new standard could have a particularly detrimental effect on St. Louis and Kansas City. The Department of Natural Resources and local governments in those areas have worked hard to reach attainment status at the previous ozone standard. The new standard would likely place Kansas City in non-attainment and make it even more difficult for St. Louis to reach attainment, which
it is projected to do next year. Historically, non-attainment areas have been categorized by the severity of the problem, for example marginal, moderate, serious, severe and extreme. The higher the monitored ozone values recorded above the standard, the more federally mandated emission controls placed on a community.
Under the new rule, additional areas of Missouri will likely be in non-attainment zones, which will require additional state and local funds and impose oppressive costs on private industry across the state. Other states asked to join the lawsuit include
Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Tennessee, Kentucky, West Virginia, Nevada, Arkansas, Alaska, Texas, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Carolina, Indiana and Oklahoma.
DEPARTMENT ACCEPTS COMMENTS ON PROPOSED AIR POLLUTION RULE AMENDMENTS
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is currently accepting public comments on several proposed rule amendments concerning air pollution.
The Missouri Air Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on these rule amendments July 31. The public hearing begins at 9 a.m. at the Inn at Grand Glaize, Grand Ballroom, Highway 54 and Lake Road 40, Osage Beach. The commission will hear testimony related to the following items:
- 10 CSR 10-2.150 (rescission) Time Schedule for Compliance.
- 10 CSR 10-4.140 (rescission) Time Schedule for Compliance.
- 10 CSR 10-5.250 (rescission) Time Schedule for Compliance.
- 10 CSR 10-6.110 (amendment) Submission of Emission Data, Emission Fees and Process Information.
The first three items are rule rescissions proposed to remove requirements for initial compliance dates established more than 30 years ago. These requirements are obsolete and no longer needed. The last item is a proposed amendment to amend the threshold for emission changes that would require small sources to submit a complete Emissions Inventory Questionnaire, rather than a short form, in interim reporting years and update the fee collection language to remove references to an annual adjustment because it is no longer required by statute.
The Department of Natural Resources requests people intending to give verbal presentations 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 Aug. 7. 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, 1659A E. Elm St., Jefferson City and on the Public Notice section of the Web page at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/apcp/index.html.
For more information or a complete meeting agenda, contact the Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Air Pollution Control Program at 573-751-4817.
DEPARTMENT AWARDS $384,382 GRANT FOR RESTORATION AND EDUCATIONAL PROJECT IN LITTLE CREEK WATERSHED
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded a $384,382 grant to the St. Louis County Soil and Water Conservation District for the Little Creek Watershed Restoration and Education project. The project will focus on the Little Creek watershed within and upstream of the Little Creek Nature Area located in the Ferguson-Florissant School District.
The project will help restore Little Creek within the Little Creek Nature Area and manage the supporting areas so the creek is accessible for educational programs provided by Little Creek Nature Area.
The watershed restoration and management plans focus on streambed stabilization, natural stream bank stabilization, biological storm water practices, gully stabilization and vegetative enhancements.
Community outreach and educational awareness efforts will be conducted by organizing three annual watershed festivals, one in conjunction with World Water Monitoring Day, and by developing new water quality curriculum into the Little Creek Nature Area and Ferguson-Florissant School District lesson plans.
The Little Creek Nature Area and its watershed provide hands-on science education to more than 12,000 urban students and several thousand community residents each year. The soil and water district and the Ferguson-Florissant School District have partnered to conduct the watershed project activities.
Other contributing partners in this collaborative effort include the East-West Gateway Council of Governments, City of Florissant, Great Rivers Greenway District, Metropolitan Sewer District, Missouri Department of Conservation, Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation, Open Space Council, Saint Louis Christian College and Special School District of St. Louis County.
The soil and water conservation district will monitor the match funds pledged by the Little Creek Watershed Restoration Partners in the amount of $421,762, bringing the total of the project to $806,144. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 7, through the Department of Natural Resources, has provided funding for this project under Section 319 of the Clean Water Act.
The grant will be administered by the Department of Natural Resources’ Water Protection Program. For more information, contact the department’s Water Protection Program at P.O. Box 176, Jefferson City, MO 65102 or by calling at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-1300.
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES RECEIVES AWARDS AT WASTE CONFERENCE
The Missouri Department of Natural resources was among three state agencies that received an environmental award at the Missouri Waste Control Coalition conference held June 24 at the Lodge of Four Seasons in Lake Ozark.
L to R: Dr. Mariann Atwell - Missouri Dept. of Corrections, Jim Hull -
Missouri Dept. of Natural Resources, Paul Hoeman - University of
Missouri Power Plant, Gregg Coffin - University of Missouri Power
Plant, Dan Fester - Missouri Dept. of Natural Resources and
Kathy MacBeth - MWCC President. A three-agency partnership between the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, the Missouri Department of Corrections- Missouri Vocational Enterprises, and the University of Missouri-Columbia has resulted in the clean up of more than four million tires at more than 250 illegal tire dumps since 1995.
With the help of Department of Natural Resources Solid Waste Management Program grants, the University of Missouri - Columbia retrofitted their stoker grate and fluid bed boilers and administered a lengthy testing program to obtain proper burn rates and acceptable stack emissions from the university power plant. The university mixes the tire derived fuel with coal in an area outside the plant and this mixture is fed into the boilers.
This partnership has resulted in reducing the university’s smokestack emissions at UMC by 250 tons per year and has saved $100,000 per year in fuel expenses for more than 10 years.
During the clean up process, Missouri low custody prison inmates are provided an opportunity for meaningful work outside the confines of the prison and an opportunity for rehabilitation while removing scrap tires from the state’s landscape.
In 1998 the team was presented the Missouri Governor’s Award for Quality and Productivity and the Council of State Government’s Award as one of America’s Best Innovations.
For more information or to sign up for the program, contact the department’s Scrap Tire Unit at 800-361-4827 or 573-526-3909 or visit www.dnr.mo.gov/env/swmp/tires/tirelist.htm.
L to R – Kathy MacBeth - MWCC President, Richard Hock - MO
Dept. of Natural Resources, Bob Geller - MO Dept. of Natural
Resources, Dennis Hansen - MO Dept. of Natural Resources,
Steve Fishman - EPA Region 7, Laura Yates - St. Louis County
Department of Health, Jim Hull - MO Dept. of Natural Resources,
Katy D’Agostino - MO Dept. of Natural Resources, Rob Didrikson -
Office of Administration, Candace Bias - MO Dept. of Natural
Resources, Derrick Standley - Genesis Group, Scott Ammon -
Northwest Missouri State University.The e-cycle Missouri Steering Committee and Stakeholder Workgroup received the Outstanding Achievement Award in the Nonprofit/Citizen Category. Fostered by the Hazardous and Solid Waste Management Programs, e-Cycle Missouri is a partnership that evolved to address how to manage discarded electronics, or E-Scrap. The group includes private, public and non-profit recyclers, federal, state and local governments, national manufacturers and retail organizations. Together, the group decided its goal was to put in place a framework for reusing, recycling, and disposing of E-scrap in Missouri in an economically sustainable fashion, without threatening the environment.
This partnership developed a three pronged strategy called e-cycle Missouri, which is located on the Web at www.e-cyclemo.org.
The strategy includes:
- A set of best management practices for electronic equipment recyclers and demanufacturers to use that will ensure these services protect the environment.
- A voluntary 4 tiered registration where each level represents an increasing commitment to following the standards and adopting additional environmental controls.
- An education and outreach component to raise public awareness of the environmental impacts and the options available to address discarded electronics. This entire effort is expanding to deal with the growing challenge of addressing the more than 2 million computers and other electronics that are disposed of each year.
The Hazardous Waste Program issues included groundwater at landfills, environmental updates, petroleum tank information, Brownfield developments and climate change. A new addition and highlight of the conference was a Tanks Workshop where department staff and a contractor presented information to consultants on the Missouri Risk-Based Correction Action guidance available for cleaning up petroleum tank sites and how to use the document appropriately when cleaning up tanks sites. This workshop looked at soil vapor guidance, determining soil types, and indoor air pathways.
The Brownfields Workshop, in its fourth year, was an additional highlight of the conference. The attendees were made up of city and community representatives, consultants, and other stakeholders including several state and federal agencies. Providing essential
information for the cleanup and redevelopment of contaminated properties in Missouri was the focus of the workshop. This year the workshop was enhanced by having two sessions featuring Barry Hersh of Vita Nuova, LLC, a nationally recognized leadership company in Brownfields redevelopment. Hersh presented insight on the developer’s needs and financial strategies when considering a Brownfield project and, in the second session, the impact of sustainable design and green technologies upon development.
DEPARTMENT ACCEPTS PUBLIC COMMENTS ON PROPOSED AIR PERMIT AMENDMENT FOR BUZZI UNICEM USA - SELMA PLANT
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is inviting the public to review and comment on a proposed construction air permit amendment for Buzzi Unicem USA - Selma Plant in Jefferson County.
The department will hold a public hearing at 4 p.m. on Thursday, July 31, at the Festus Public Library, 300 N. Mill St., Festus. Comments will be accepted on the revised Prevention of Significant Deterioration permit.
Interested parties must request in advance to speak at the public hearing. If the department does not receive requests to speak at the public hearing by noon on Monday, July 28, the department will cancel the hearing. Interested parties may also submit written comments to the department regarding any relevant information, materials and views in support of or in opposition to the proposed amendment.
Both requests to speak at the hearing and written comments should be sent to James L. Kavanaugh, Missouri Department of Natural Resources, P.O. Box 176, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0176 or by fax to 573-751-2706. Comments may also be sent
electronically by e-mail to apcppermitspn@dnr.mo.gov. All written comments must be received by 5 p.m. on Monday, July 28. Written comments and oral public hearing testimony are treated with equal consideration.
The department’s Air Pollution Control Program amended this permit based on revised data it received from River Cement Company, d.b.a. Buzzi Unicem USA. The application was submitted to amend its original permit to account for changes that occurred during the construction process. This re-evaluation and revision will ensure the permitted emission rates are correct and its projected net emissions remain at levels protective of public health and air quality.
A copy of the application, the preliminary determination and other related materials are available for public review at the following locations:
- Department of Natural Resources, Air Pollution Control Program, 1659A E. Elm St., Jefferson City, 573-751-4817.
- Department of Natural Resources, St. Louis Regional Office, 7545 S. Lindbergh, Ste. 210, St. Louis, 314-416-2960.
- Festus Public Library, 300 N. Mill St., Festus, 636-937-2017.
A copy of the permit amendment is also available for public review on the department’s Web site at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/apcp/PermitPublicNotices.htm.
For more information concerning the hearing, please call the department’s Air Pollution Control Program at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-4817.
FLOOD CLEANUP TIP: DEBRIS REMOVAL
Many of those affected by recent floods have been left with piles of broken tree limbs, unusable furniture and appliances, tires washed onto their property from other locations and other debris.
Many towns and counties are offering central drop-off points or collections for these items. Check your local newspaper or contact your municipality for dates and types of items accepted during the collection. Appliances such as clothes washers, dryers, water heaters, trash compactors, dishwashers, conventional ovens, ranges, stoves, wood stoves, air conditioners, refrigerators and freezers, may be disposed of in a permitted sanitary landfill, because the Missouri Department of Natural Resources has issued a waiver for this type of disposal. Home furnishings including carpeting, draperies, linens, kitchenware, furniture and mattresses must be disposed of in a municipal solid waste landfill. Check with your city and county to determine whether some type of central collection or drop-off is being offered for appliances and home furnishings. Cities and counties should coordinate collection of damaged appliances so refrigerants can be legally recovered from air conditioners, freezers and refrigerators before recycling.
Concrete, rock, brick and other materials defined as clean fill under state law may be buried on-site. Contact your municipality to determine whether there will be a centralized collection or drop-off location for treated wood and painted or coated construction debris.
Tires should be cut into thirds and buried in a permitted sanitary landfill. You may also contact a local tire retailer or a permitted waste tire hauler in your area for other disposal options. A list of haulers is available on the Department of Natural Resources Web site at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/swmp/tires/haulerinfo.htm.
Wood or untreated lumber may be mulched for on-site use if chippers are available. Untreated lumber does not include painted material, chromated copper arsenate or creosote impregnated materials. Brush and yard waste generated as a result of the flooding may be disposed of in a permitted sanitary or demolition landfill when it is not practical to compost. Contact municipalities for information on local collection of this material or for centralized drop-off areas.
For more information, contact the Department of Natural Resources’ Solid Waste Management Program at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-5401. The department also has additional resources available to help guide flood cleanup efforts available on its Web site at www.dnr.mo.gov/disaster.htm.
Missourians seeking resource referrals or non-emergency help, as well as those wanting to volunteer, are urged to call 211. The 211 Service is now available for most areas of Missouri and helps citizens with disaster information and referrals. In areas where 211 is not operational, citizens may call 800-427-4626. Information is also available on the Web at www.211missouri.org, or by e-mailing 211missouri@stl.unitedway.org.
DEPARTMENT SEEKS COMMENTS ON HOLCIM (U.S.) INC./GEOCYCLE LLC HAZARDOUS WASTE VARIANCE PETITION, RECOMMENDATION
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources invites the public to review and offer written comments on a variance petition that would give Holcim (U.S.) Inc./Geocycle LLC more flexibility in unloading hazardous waste from railcars.
The department is also seeking comments on its recommendation to the Missouri Hazardous Waste Management Commission to approve the variance petition with conditions. This variance petition is the same as the variance the Commission approved for Holcim on Oct. 10, 2007, which expires Oct. 9, 2008.
The department will accept public comments on both documents until July 18. Please send written comments to Richard Hock, Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Hazardous Waste Program, P.O. Box 176, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0176 or by e-mail to richard.hock@dnr.mo.gov or by fax to 573-526-5268.
During the 30-day public comment period, anyone can request a formal public hearing on the variance petition or the department’s recommendation by writing to Hock. If no public hearing is requested, the Commission can decide on the matter no sooner than July 18.
Holcim is located at 14744 Highway 79 N. in Clarksville and operates a single, wet process cement kiln under a hazardous waste permit. The kiln produces approximately 4,000 tons of clinker per day. Clinker is the primary ingredient in portland cement. Pulverized coal is the primary fuel used for the cement kiln, however, Holcim also uses a wide variety of liquid and solid hazardous waste-derived fuel as supplementary fuel. Holcim receives the hazardous waste by both truck and railcar. Holcim handles approximately 170 railcars per year.
The department received Holcim’s petition for a variance from the Missouri Hazardous Waste Management Regulation on April 21. According to state regulations, “The owner/operator shall unload hazardous waste from an incoming railcar within 72 hours of receipt of the shipment.”
Since Holcim does not control the scheduling and routing of incoming railcars, it is not uncommon for cars to aggregate off-site to meet the 72-hour offloading requirement. This means the railcars must be “staged” in a rail yard or siding where there are no special provisions for safety and spill response. Holcim would like to stage the railcars on their property, as opposed to railroad-owned property, and extend the time cars are on-site from a three-day maximum up to a 10-day maximum.
The department reviewed the variance petition and determined the request to be non-substantive. The department has recommended the Commission grant the variance petition with conditions. If the Commission agrees with the department’s recommendation and approves the variance petition, Holcim would be allowed 10 days from receipt of a shipment to unload hazardous waste from incoming railcars.
The variance petition and department’s recommendation 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 variance petition, department’s recommendation and supporting documents at the Bowling Green Free Public Library or by appointment at the Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Hazardous Waste Program, 1730 E. Elm St., Jefferson City.
Interested parties may call or write the department at any time to be placed on Holcim’s mailing list. Those on the list will receive notice from the department or Holcim on any major permitting activities at the facility.
For more information, or to obtain a written copy of the documents for review, please contact Hock by telephone at 573-751-3553 or 800-361-4827. Hearing-impaired people may reach Hock through Relay Missouri at 800-735-2966.
15 MILLION TIRES CLEANED UP IN MISSOURI
Tire cleanups reduce the threat of the West Nile virus during the summer
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources announces that more than 15 million tires have been cleaned up in the state since cleanup efforts began in 1990. Totals compiled in May 2008 show 773 sites have been cleaned by the department.
“15 million tires is an amazing figure,” said Department of Natural Resources Director Doyle Childers. “Tires become a breeding ground for mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus and they pose a fire hazard. This program continues to work hard to remove all of the unwanted or scrap tires from the environment so they can be put to good use.”
Illegal scrap tire dumps pose serious environmental and health threats. Insects and rodents that grow and breed in these dumps can transmit diseases, such as the West Nile virus. Fires at tire dumps can release hazardous substances to the air, soil and water sources. When recycled properly, scrap tires have other beneficial uses. They can be made into playground surfaces, running tracks, recycled rubber products and can even be burned for fuel in power plants. In 2005 and 2006, more than 5.5 million tires were used as tire-derived-fuel in power plants.
The department is also working with the Missouri Department of Transportation to promote the use of scrap tires in asphalt for Missouri’s roadways. The Department of Natural Resources established the Tire Dump Roundup Program in November 2006. This program does not seek reimbursement for cleanup costs for eligible sites. To qualify for this program, a site must contain between 500 to 10,000 tires. Active businesses and prior program recipients are not eligible for this program. The department continues to work with Missouri’s solid waste management districts, cities, and counties coordinating tire roundups, and encourages and reimburses nonprofit citizens groups in cleaning up dumpsites containing fewer than 500 tires.
The Scrap Tire Fee, a 50-cent-per-tire fee charged on every new tire purchased in Missouri, funds the cleanups. The fee will expire on Jan. 1, 2010, unless extended by the legislature.
The department estimates there are more than 300,000 tires remaining to be cleaned up throughout the state at nearly 150 sites. These tires are in known dumps throughout the state, and the department estimates there are 500,000 tires remaining in
unknown dumps.
For more information or to sign up for the Tire Dump Roundup Program, contact the department’s Scrap Tire Unit at 1-800-361-4827 or 573-526-3909 or visit the department’s Web site at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/swmp/tires/tirelist.htm.
DEPARTMENT ISSUES REGION T SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT DISTRICT AUDIT DOCUMENTS CONTINUED NEED FOR IMPROVEMENT
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources recently completed a performance audit of the Region T Lake of the Ozarks Solid Waste Management District. The performance audit cited several significant findings. The department has requested the district formally respond to the audit resolution plan by Aug. 4.
Region T Lake of the Ozarks Solid Waste Management District encompasses Camden, Laclede and Miller counties. For the fiscal year that ended June 30, the district received $95,000 in district grant funds and through the third quarter of 2008 has received $72,683. The district’s administrative contractor is the Lake of the Ozarks Council of Local Governments.
A state auditor’s report released in 2006 resulted in a disallowance to this district for $4,458 in expenditures made by the district not related to the purpose of the department-approved grants.
The recently completed performance audit cited the following significant findings:
- Failure to comply with provisions of the Sunshine Law.
- Failure to hold the District Council and Executive Board meetings in the frequency prescribed by the district’s by-laws and state law.
- Failure to comply with grant application evaluation requirements.
- Failure to maintain surety bond coverage on individuals involved in the receipt and disbursement of grant funds.
- Failure to independently review bank statement reconciliations to ensure their accuracy and verify their propriety.
- Failure to maintain a fixed asset inventory on grant-funded equipment.
- Failure to submit timely project progress and audit reports.
- Financial assistance agreements had expired and the district continued reimbursing expenditures resulting in questioned costs of $1,756.
Administration cost allocations were based on estimates and were not supported by time sheets or other documented analyses of time spent on district grant functions resulting in questioned costs of $38,722.
“I hope everyone remains aware that every dollar going to the solid waste districts comes from someone’s pocket, and our agency must account for how these funds are spent,” said Department of Natural Resources Director Doyle Childers. “The performance audits confirm those changes were needed. The department will continue to work with the district to ensure they take appropriate corrective action.”
In 2005, the Solid Waste Management Law changed, providing the department the authority to conduct performance audits of solid waste management district grant funds. These audits are conducted at least once every three years if the department has funds available. The audits are intended to determine whether districts are exercising appropriate control over district grant funds, which are generated through landfill tonnage fees collected at permitted solid waste facilities in Missouri, and their compliance with state regulations governing their use.
The audit was conducted by the department’s contract audit firm, McBride, Lock and Associates of Kansas City. The performance audit report and resolution document is available on the department’s Web site at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/swmp/swmd/DistrictT.htm.
Solid waste management districts were created and funded to help cities and counties work cooperatively in developing local waste prevention programs and in providing resource recovery services and safe disposal options.
DEPARTMENT AWARDS $28,000 TO OSAGE BEACH FOR WASTEWATER SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded a $28,000 grant to the city of Osage Beach in Camden County. The city will use the funds to build a wastewater collection system in the Airport Road area. Currently, the area relies on residential septic systems. The new wastewater system will eliminate 20 of the current septic systems.
The grant funds come from a $50 million bond sale in November 2007, which funded Gov. Blunt’s Clean Water Initiative for water and wastewater improvements. The funds will be used in conjunction with loan funds from a Clean Water State Revolving Loan. The sewer project is estimated to cost $645,806.
The Department of Natural Resources’ Water Protection Program will administer the grant funds. For more information, contact the Department of Natural Resources’ Water Protection Program, Financial Assistance Center, P.O. Box 176, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0176 or phone 800-361-4827 or 573-751-1192.
DEPARTMENT AWARDS $47,600 TO THE GLAIZE CREEK SEWER DISTRICT FOR WASTEWATER IMPROVEMENTS
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded a $47,600 grant to the Glaize Creek Sewer District in Jefferson County.
The district will use the funds to build gravity sewer collection lines in Barnhart Hills subdivision. Currently, the area relies on residential septic systems and drain fields. The new collection lines will eliminate 34 of the current systems.
The grant funds come from a $50 million bond sale in November 2007, which funded Gov. Blunt’s Clean Water Initiative for water and wastewater improvements. The funds will be used in conjunction with a State and Tribal Assistance Grant through the Environmental Protection Agency. The project is estimated to cost $532,986.
The Department of Natural Resources’ Water Protection Program will administer the grant funds. For more information, contact the Department of Natural Resources’ Water Protection Program, Financial Assistance Center, P.O. Box 176, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0176 or phone 800-361-4827 or 573-751-1192.
DEPARTMENT ISSUES 2009 STATE REVOLVING FUND INTENDED USE PLANS
Each year, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources prepares a plan describing how it intends to use state and federal funds to assist public entities with construction of water and wastewater infrastructure. The department has published the final plans and made them available on the Web.
The Clean Water State Revolving Fund and the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund are the department’s major infrastructure funding programs. Since 1989, the State Revolving Fund has provided more than $2.1 billion to 240 Missouri communities to construct and improve wastewater treatment and drinking water facilities. Towns and cities across Missouri have saved more than $573 million dollars in interest charges compared to conventional, higher interest rates of financing.
The Department of Natural Resources uses most of the available funds to make low-interest loans to municipalities, water and sewer districts and other eligible entities for the construction of water and wastewater facilities. The loans, provided through the State Revolving Fund, help recipients comply with state and federal clean water and safe drinking water laws and protect public health. A small percentage of funds are used to cover administrative costs and provide compliance assistance. In addition to the State Revolving Fund, the department also provides funding for water and wastewater infrastructure with funds made available through the sale of state Water Pollution Control Bonds. Programs funded through the sale of state Water Pollution Control Bonds include the 40 Percent State Construction Grant Program, Rural Water and Sewer Grant Program and the Small Borrower Program.
Copies of the State Fiscal Year 2009 Clean Water State Revolving Fund Intended Use Plan, the State Fiscal Year 2009 Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Intended Use Plan, as well as information regarding the 40 Percent State Construction Grant Program, Rural Water and Sewer Grant Program and the Small Borrower Program, may be found on the department’s Web site at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/wpp/srf/index.html.
Information may also be obtained by writing the department’s Water Protection Program Financial Assistance Center, P.O. Box 176, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0176 or by calling 800-361-4827 or 573-751-1192.
DEPARTMENT AWARDS MORE THAN $1.5 MILLION IN GRANTS TO SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT DISTRICTS
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded $1,675,640 in grants to the 20 solid waste management districts in Missouri for the third quarter of state fiscal year 2008.
These grants enable Missouri’s Solid Waste Management Districts to fund operational costs, administration of activities related to implementation of the district’s solid waste management plan and grants to cities and counties within the district for solid waste management, waste reduction, recycling and related services. Missouri’s 20 solid waste management districts were organized to encourage regional cooperation and to help ensure proper solid waste management through waste reduction and recycling activities.
The districts received the following grant amounts:
- District A (Atchison, Gentry, Holt, Nodaway and Worth counties) received $23,750.
- District B (Caldwell, Carroll, Chariton, Daviess, Grundy, Harrison, Linn, Livingston, Mercer, Putnam and Sullivan counties) received $23,750.
- District C (Adair, Clark, Knox, Lewis, Schuyler and Scotland counties) received $23,750.
- District D (Andrew, Clinton and DeKalb counties) received $46,279.
- District E (Cass, Clay, Jackson, Platte and Ray counties) received $222,981.
- District F (Johnson, Lafayette, Morgan, Pettis and Saline counties) received $81,836.
- District G (Macon, Marion, Monroe, Pike, Ralls, Randolph and Shelby counties) received $70,721. (In November 2007, the Department of Natural Resources placed District G on high risk due to management and accounting system concerns. The district will not be having a grant call for new grants until July 2008, while these management issues are being addressed.)
- District H (Audrain, Boone, Callaway, Cole, Cooper, Howard, Moniteau and Osage counties) received $101,774.
- District I (Franklin, Lincoln, Montgomery and Warren counties) received $25,222.
- District J (Bates, Benton, Cedar, Henry, Hickory and St. Clair counties) received $23,750.
- District K (Crawford, Dent, Gasconade, Maries, Phelps, Pulaski and Washington counties) received $57,548.
- District L (Jefferson, St. Charles and St. Louis counties and the city of St. Louis) received $553,243.
- District M (Barton, Jasper, McDonald, Newton and Vernon counties) received $127,836.
- District N (Barry, Dade, Lawrence, Stone and Taney counties) received $23,750.
- District O (Christian, Dallas, Greene, Polk and Webster counties) received $59,923.
- District P (Douglas, Howell, Oregon, Ozark, Shannon, Texas and Wright counties) received $71,520.
- District Q (Butler, Carter, Reynolds, Ripley and Wayne counties) received $42,160.
- District R (Bollinger, Cape Girardeau, Iron, Madison, Perry, St. Francois and Ste. Genevieve counties) received $37,303.
- District S (Dunklin, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Scott and Stoddard counties) received $34,793.
- District T (Camden, Laclede and Miller counties) received $23,750.
These grants are provided from the Solid Waste Management Fund. This fund is made up of tonnage fees charged for each ton of waste disposed of in Missouri landfills or processed through transfer stations that move waste out-of-state. A major amendment to the Solid Waste Management Law in 1990 created a goal to significantly reduce the amount of waste going to landfills. The projects funded by these grant funds will help the individual districts achieve this goal.
Revenue from the solid waste disposal fee is used to fund local solid waste management district activities, such as grants to communities and small businesses and for the operation of the state’s Solid Waste Management Program. The state’s work includes compliance assistance, permitting, inspection and enforcement activities. These funds are allocated quarterly to the districts. Each district chooses when to hold its grant application process, which may be annually, quarterly, or periodically throughout the year.
For more information on the Department of Natural Resources’ Solid Waste Management Program, call 800-361-4827 or 573-751-5401 or visit the Web at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/swmp.
MISSOURI STATE FAIR INSTITUTES RECYCLING PROGRAM
The Missouri State Fair is decreasing the total waste generated during this year’s 11-day event by placing 50 bins designated for recycling throughout the fairgrounds. The bins will be placed next to the regular trash receptacles and will be used to recycle aluminum and plastic beverage containers.
“This is the first program of its kind that the Fair has been involved in,” said Missouri State Fair Director Marion Lucas. “We want to make the 2008 Fair a great place for family fun, while doing what we can to help protect the environment.”
While the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has set the national goal for recycling at 35 percent, the state of Missouri has aimed higher with a goal of 40 percent. Since 2001, the state has continually exceeded the goal that was established in 1990 by Senate Bill 530. In 2006, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources reported that Missourians recycled or composted nearly 44 percent of all waste within the state. Read more about waste reduction in the Missouri Department of Natural Resources June 23 news release at www.dnr.mo.gov/newsrel/nr07_559.htm.
Lucas said that in support of Missouri’s impressive recycling rates, the Missouri State Fair wants to work to push those numbers even higher. “We understand how important recycling is to Missouri and its future,” said Lucas, “that is why we have teamed-up with such great sponsors to ensure this program is successful.”
Lucas said that the recycling bins are being donated by Anheuser-Busch Recycling/County Distributing Co. Inc. Additional support for the program is being provided by Johnson County Sheltered Workshop, Midwest Assistance Program and the State of
Missouri Office of Administration. Pioneer Trails Regional Planning Commission/Region F Solid Waste Management District has donated $1,000 to cover the expense of labor associated with the recycling campaign.
Visitors to the Fair this year are encouraged to look for the red bins throughout the fairgrounds.
VISIT THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES AT THE MISSOURI STATE FAIR
See examples of Missouri rocks, minerals, fossils and
more exhibits
presented by the Missouri Department of
Natural Resources inside
the Womans Building at the
Missouri State Fair.
MoDNR photo by Van Beydler
Don’t miss the activities presented by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources at the 2008 Missouri State Fair in Sedalia from Aug. 7 through 17. Displays, exhibits, games and entertainment are scheduled during the 11-day Missouri State Fair.
There will be special showcase presentations by Missouri State Parks including entertainment, Civil War re-enactments and much more.
The department activities will be on the front lawn and inside the Woman’s Building. Fair-goers can peddle the energy bicycle to light up conventional bulbs vs. energy-saving compact fluorescent bulbs.
The department’s exhibits and activities will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily on the fairgrounds.
TIRE DUMP ROUNDUP CLEANUP PROGRAM HELPS PREVENT WEST NILE VIRUS
Thunderstorms and hot, humid weather have signaled the height of summer in Missouri and created an ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Mosquitoes that carry the West Nile virus often breed in scrap tires that hold stagnant water in moist, humid climates, according to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
In 2007, there were 77 cases and five fatalities of West Nile virus in Missouri. The department suggests now is a great time to enroll in the department’s Tire Dump Roundup Program. The program allows property owners to rid their property of unwanted scrap tires at no cost and reduces the chances of spreading the West Nile virus.
Enrollment into the Tire Dump Roundup Program is limited to sites containing approximately 500 to 10,000 tires. Active businesses and property owners who have participated in prior cleanup initiatives are not eligible. The program allows Missouri private property owners to self-report tire dumps on their property and have them cleaned up for free. The owner must sign an access agreement that states if a property owner violates the solid waste management law in the future, the department can proceed with assessing penalties and cost recovery for the cleanup.
The Department of Natural Resources established the Tire Dump Roundup Program in November 2006. Over the last 20 months, 184 sites containing an estimated 573,498 tires have met the qualifications and enrolled in the program. To date, 94 of those sites, containing a total of 409,911 tires, have been cleaned up and removed from Missouri’s environment. The Missouri Vocational Enterprises provides the labor for the cleanups.
Other financial incentive programs are available to those who do not qualify for the Tire Dump Roundup Program. The Department of Natural Resources continues to work with Missouri’s solid waste management districts and nonprofit citizens groups in facilitating the cleaning up of dumpsites that contain less than 500 tires.
The Scrap Tire Fee, a 50-cent-per-tire fee charged on every new tire purchased in Missouri, funds the cleanups. Since the fee was established in 1990, more than 15 million tires have been removed from Missouri’s environment. The fee will expire on
Jan. 1, 2010, unless extended by the legislature.
When recycled properly, scrap tires have other beneficial uses. They can be made into playground surfaces, running tracks, recycled rubber products and can even be burned for fuel in power plants. In 2005 and 2006, more than 5.5 million tires were used as tire-derived-fuel in power plants. The department is also working with the Missouri Department of Transportation to promote the use of scrap tires in asphalt for Missouri’s roadways.
For more information or to sign up for the program, contact the Department of Natural Resources’ Scrap Tire Unit at 800-361-4827 or 573-526-3909.
DEPARTMENT ISSUES CONSTRUCTION PERMIT FOR SOLID WASTE PROCESSING FACILITY IN ST. LOUIS COUNTY
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has issued a construction permit to FW Disposal South LLC to construct the FW Disposal South LLC Waste Processing/Transfer Facility in St. Louis County. The site is to be located at 5219 Baumgartner Road, 3/10 of a mile east of Lemay Ferry Road and 1.3 miles west of I-55 in unincorporated St. Louis County. The processing facility will be used to receive solid waste material onto the tipping floor, load waste into open top transfer trailers, cover and stage the filled trailers and ship the trailers to a landfill or material recovery facility.
The department held a public hearing on this application on April 10 and solicited comments. A summary of the comments received and the department’s response, along with a copy of the construction permit, can be found on the departments’ Web site at www.dnr.mo.gov/env/swmp/fredwebertransfer.htm.
The Department of Natural Resources reviews all applications submitted by cities, counties and private owners to ensure that solid waste processing facilities are properly designed and constructed. Other technical factors that protect Missouri’s environment are also examined. Prior to acceptance of waste at the facility an operating permit must be issued.
Questions regarding the processing facility or the department’s role in regulating solid waste processing facilities may be sent to the Department of Natural Resources’ Solid Waste Management Program, P.O. Box 176, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0176 or by calling 573-751-5401 or 800-361-4827.
ACTION PLAN TO REDUCE NUTRIENTS TO GULF OF MEXICO
The 2008 Gulf Hypoxia Action Plan, endorsed by federal agencies and several Mississippi River Basin states, was formally approved in New Orleans.
Hypoxia in the Gulf of Mexico results from the introduction of excess nutrients from the Mississippi River Basin into the Gulf of Mexico. Nutrients are important to the environment, but excess nitrogen and phosphorus can harm water quality by feeding algae blooms and creating oxygen-deprived “dead zones” where marine life cannot survive.
The 2008 Action Plan builds upon the 2001 plan by incorporating emerging issues, innovative approaches, and the latest science, including findings from EPA’s Science Advisory Board. Missouri provided input to the 2008 Action Plan and is represented on the Mississippi River/Gulf of Mexico Watershed Nutrient Task Force by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
The value of rivers and streams to the citizens of Missouri is reflected by continued approval of a sales tax dedicated to soil and water conservation, providing an estimated $22 million in annual funding for on-site projects through the Department of Natural Resources Soil and Water Conservation Program. A recent study showed practices supported by the program prevented an estimated 12 million tons of high nutrient soil from being introduced into Missouri waterways from 2004 through 2008.
Missouri has also targeted soil and water conservation program funds towards the Nonpoint Source Special Areas Land Treatment program, also known as AgNPS SALT. This program has supported 72 active watershed projects with an additional 12 proposed for funding this year. More than $50 million in state funding has been allocated to AgNPS SALT projects since the beginning of the program, with $7 million
in funding targeted for 2008. This program has successfully supported activities such as nutrient and pest management plans, soil erosion practices, grazing and pasture improvement practices, animal waste practices and stream protection using measures such as exclusion fencing, watering tanks, stream bank stabilization and establishment of riparian buffers.
In addition, Missouri has taken steps to expand river and stream water quality monitoring stations across the state. The information provided by water quality monitoring stations will be critical for determining the sources of nutrients to rivers and streams and for developing nutrient reduction strategies that are both effective and economically prudent.
“Missouri looks forward to collaboratively working with the other basin states and federal partners to address nutrient pollution in our great rivers,” said Mike Wells, Deputy Director for the department’s Water Resources Center. “The state of Missouri recognizes that significant increases in federal funding will be required to support the broader basin-wide goals defined by the 2008 Gulf Coast Action Plan. Missouri supports the effort to fund nutrient reduction programs, which are of value not only to the citizens of the state, but to all citizens living downstream”.
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
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources provided oversight during 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 June 5 from a tanker car at the Burlington Northern Santa Fe rail yard, 1625 N. Lexington. The car began leaking after receiving a five-foot gash during an accident while switching tracks.
Rain washed much of the sodium hydroxide into a ditch in the rail yard, where crews were applying limestone and citric acid during cleanup efforts. None of the chemical reached Wilson’s Creek, which also borders the yard, nor has any of it left the rail yard.
The department’s Environmental Emergency Response section was contacted June 5 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 including everything 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.
DEPARTMENT OVERSEES CLEANUP OF RAIN-RELATED FUEL RELEASE IN STONE COUNTY
Heavy rains in Stone County on June 28 led to the release of an undetermined amount of fuel from a former gas station site according to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
A state on-scene coordinator with the department’s Environmental Emergency Response section was on-site in Reeds Spring to oversee the cleanup at the former Amoco Smoke House gas station. At least one of several above-ground fuel storage tanks at the site overturned when heavy rains in the area filled the containment area, lifting the tank off the ground.
Because the station has been closed for several years, it was not known how much fuel was in the upended tank or in any of the other tanks in the containment area. However, department staff noticed a strong petroleum odor and a significant sheen both inside and outside the containment area.
The department, working with environmental cleanup contractor Sunbelt Environmental from Springfield, recovered more than 2,500 gallons of petroleum-contaminated water from the containment area and secured the tanks. The Missouri Department of Agriculture, which oversees above-ground storage tanks in Missouri, also responded to the site.
m July 1, 2006, through June 30, 2007, petroleum products accounted for 43 percent of materials released during environmental emergencies.
DEPARTMENT ASSISTS IN DIESEL FUEL CLEANUP FOLLOWING GREENE COUNTY TRUCK ACCIDENT
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources responded to the cleanup of 150 gallons of diesel fuel lost during a truck accident in Springfield on June 28.
The department’s Environmental Emergency Response section was contacted by a Springfield emergency dispatcher concerning a truck wreck on Interstate 44 in Springfield. The accident sheared off one of the truck’s fuel tanks, releasing up to 150 gallons of diesel fuel onto the road shoulder and into the nearby soil and storm drainage ditch.
The department dispatched a state on-scene coordinator from the department’s Southwest Regional Office to the scene of the accident. Working with the Springfield Fire Department, Missouri Department of Transportation and environmental cleanup company Environmental Works Inc., the department was able to stabilize the scene before additional rain further complicated cleanup efforts.
Department responders continued oversight of the cleanup of the area, which was performed by a contractor on behalf of the trucking company, Trans VJ Express, of Ontario, Canada.
From July 1, 2006, through June 30, 2007, vehicle accidents accounted for 15 percent of the
environmental emergency incidents reported to the department, and petroleum products accounted for 43 percent of materials released during
environmental emergencies.
For more information, contact the Department of Natural Resources at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-3443.
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.
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.
For more information, contact the Division of Geology and Land Survey at 800-361-4827 or 573-368-2100.
WELL INSTALLATION BOARD TO MEET AUG. 8
The Missouri Well Installation Board will hold a public meeting at 10 a.m., Aug. 8 at United Way,
430-a Broadway, Cape Girardeau.
For more information, call the Department of Natural Resources’ Wellhead Protection Program at 800-361-4827 or 573-368-2174.
WATER QUALITY COORDINATING COMMITTEE TO MEET AUG. 19
The Missouri Water Quality Coordinating Committee will hold a public meeting at 10 a.m., Aug. 19 at the U.S. Geological Survey Environmental Research Center, 4200 New Haven Road in Columbia.
For more information, call the Department of Natural Resources’ Water Protection Program at
800-361-4827 or 573-751-7428.
HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION TO MEET AUG. 21
The Missouri Hazardous Waste Management Commission will hold a public meeting at 9 a.m., Aug. 21 at a location to be announced.
For more information, call the Department of Natural Resources’ Hazardous Waste Program at
800-361-4827 or 573-751-2747.
MISSOURI SAFE DRINKING WATER COMMISSION TO MEET AUG. 26
The Missouri Safe Drinking Water Commission will hold a public meeting at 10 a.m., Aug. 26 at the Lewis and Clark State Office Building, 1101 Riverside Dr., Jefferson City.
For more information, call the department’s Water Protection Program at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-5331.
MISSOURI AIR CONSERVATION COMMISSION TO MEET AUG. 28
The Missouri Air Conservation Commission will hold a public meeting at the Governor’s Office Building, 200 Madison St., Jefferson City.
For more information, call the Department of Natural Resources’ Air Pollution Control Program at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-4817.
RULES UPDATE
The Rules in Development 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 ended: July 3, 2008 |
Public hearing: Held 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 ended: July 3, 2008 |
Public hearing: Held 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 ended: July 3, 2008 |
Public hearing: Held 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 |
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 |
| 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 ended: 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
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