News Release
October 10, 2003

Military Munition Slated for Open Detonation on Wednesday

Camp Edwards, Mass. — A mortar round will be destroyed in an open detonation at Camp Edwards on the Massachusetts Military Reservation on Wednesday, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. The detonation will be at least one mile from any residential areas and does not represent a risk to nearby residents.

The 81-millimeter mortar round was found in the Impact Area, the former target area located at the center of the base. The mortar round is being destroyed by open detonation because explosive experts have determined that it may contain explosives and is unsafe to move. Safe-to-move items that potentially contain explosives are taken to a safe storage facility for destruction in a contained detonation chamber. Munitions items that do not contain explosives are recycled as scrap.

Following any open detonation, soil is tested for residual explosives compounds. If any are found, the soil is covered and scheduled for removal and disposal in accordance with applicable regulations.

For further information on Groundwater Study Program activities, log on to www.groundwaterprogram.org.

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For more information, contact:
Christine Dolen, Groundwater Study Program, (508) 968-5629
Todd Borci, EPA New England Region 1, (617) 918-1358 or (888) 372-7341 ext. 81358
Ellie Grillo, MADEP Community Involvement Coordinator, (508) 946-2866