Temporary Emergency Permit to Detonate Unstable, Deteriorated Dynamite Found in an Abandoned Mine in the Inyo WIlderness Area, Inyo County

Summary

SCH Number
2008078431
Public Agency
Department of Toxic Substances Control
Document Title
Temporary Emergency Permit to Detonate Unstable, Deteriorated Dynamite Found in an Abandoned Mine in the Inyo WIlderness Area, Inyo County
Document Type
NOE - Notice of Exemption
Received
Posted
7/30/2008
Document Description
A temporary emergency Hazardous Waste Treatment Permit has been granted to the United States Bureau of Land Management (BLM), to treat by open detonation less than one case of deteriorated nitroglycerin based dynamite found in an abandoned mine. The dynamite was found east of the Federal White Aggregate Mine area, approximately 2.5 miles north of Dolomite. The dynamite was discovered in late June 2008. Following consultation with the Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) specialists from the Naval Air Weapons Station, China Lake, the BLM determined that the dynamite is deteriorated and unstable and, due to its shock sensitive properties, must be treated on site. The BLM has also determined that the dynamite must be treated soon to avoid the risk of injury to the general public who may be exploring the site. Although the site is remote, it is accessible to the public. The permit is effective form August 4, 2008 to August 8, 2008. The detonation will take place as personnel and weather conditions permit. The activity will take place where the dynamite was discovered. Treatment will be carried out by the Navy EOD, following standard Department of Defense procedures. The area will be secured during the treatment and local fire and emergency medical service agencies will be advised of the situation. Once activities have been completed, the area will be surveyed to determine that no hazardous waste residue remains.

Contact Information

Name
Beverly Rikala
Agency Name
Department of Toxic Substances Control
Contact Types
Lead/Public Agency

Location

Counties
Inyo

Notice of Exemption

Exempt Status
Emergency Project
Type, Section or Code
PRC,Sec.21080(b)(4)
Reasons for Exemption
CCR,Sec.15269(b)(c) This action is necessary to prevent an emergency. Although the dynamite is in a remote location, it is accessible to the public. Due to its location and condition, the BLM, the property managers, and the Navy EOD, explosive specialists, have determined that this dynamite needs to be destroyed on site. Since the dynamite has crystallized and the site is located in mountainous desert terrain remote from paved roads, the material cannot be safely moved. Delay could result in the public finding the material and being severely injured.

Disclaimer: The document was originally posted before CEQAnet had the capability to host attachments for the public. To obtain the original attachments for this document, please contact the lead agency at the contact information listed above. You may also contact the OPR via email at state.clearinghouse@opr.ca.gov or via phone at (916) 445-0613.

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