Enviros Want Independent Blackwell Island Study

Item: Corps waiting on Blackwell soil tests: Hagadone missed agency’s target date /Erica Curless, Spokesman-Review

More Info: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is still waiting for the report that is expected to show whether the soil contains toxic heavy metals, such as lead. The corps asked Hagadone to do additional soil tests before it decides whether to issue a dredging permit for the controversial project. Hagadone wants to deepen the channel to allow for larger boats as part of an upgrade to the marina.d

Problem: Representatives from Kootenai Environmental Alliance and the Center for Justice are concerned the public can’t access the full report and use independent professionals to confirm the findings.

Question: Should the Corps of Engineers require an independent study rather than relying on results from the Hagadone Corp?