Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet
EPPC approves research, development and demonstration permit for Blue Grass Army Depot

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Sept. 30, 2005) - The Kentucky Division of Waste Management (DWM) has approved a permit for construction, testing, and operation of a facility to destroy certain chemical munitions and related waste stored at the Blue Grass Army Depot (BGAD) near Richmond.

The "research, development and demonstration" (RD&D) permit is for the depot and its contractor, Bechtel Parsons Blue Grass. The effective date of the permit will be Oct. 30, 2005.

The permit is only for munitions and related waste with the nerve agent GB. The facility -- the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant - will use neutralization technology. The permit contains a comprehensive compliance schedule requiring submittal of additional information and approvals at set times before processing hazardous waste.

A draft permit was revised with the use of public, facility, and agency comments submitted during a 45-day regulatory comment period and a public hearing that was held Aug. 30 in Richmond.

Copies of the permit are available for public inspection and review at the Blue Grass Chemical Stockpile Outreach Office, 301 Highland Park Drive, in Richmond, and at the Division of Waste Management, 14 Reilly Road, in Frankfort. DWM is an agency of the Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet.