Re: [CPEO-MEF] Defense memo on Perchlorate

[joelf@cape.com]

Dear Folks:

In response to Lenny's request for policy guidance regarding 
perchlorate (see below), I will outline the actions being taken at 
the Massachusetts Military Reservation on Cape Cod, specifically at 
Camp Edwards, the Army/Army Guard base previously used for extensive 
artillery, mortar, rocket and pyrotechnics activity.

The method detection limit for remedial investigation is 
approximately 0.40 ppb.

Several Bourne town production wells have been affected by 
perchlorate and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental 
Protection (MDEP) has set a safe drinking water level at 1.0 ppb. 
EPA Region 1, after analyzing the special susceptibility of children 
(particularly thyroid  problems), set a limit of 1.5 ppb in drinking 
water.  In practice, EPA Region 1 accepts the MDEP standard of 1.0 
ppb because that is also the National EPA draft reference dose.

These judgements have been made in consultation with many sectors of 
the affected communities. Clearly, the highest priority here is to be 
maximally protective of human health

Plans are now underway for expedited cleanup of the plume 
(perchlorate and RDX) emanating from Demolition Area 1. The working 
goal is removal of all detectable contaminants.

Finally, under EPA Administrative orders, all military activities, 
including use of markers on simulation devices, which involve 
perchlorate have been halted--(it is my opinion that civilian uses, 
such as in fire works should also be stopped).

Joel Feigenbaum, Ph.D.

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