News Release
Governor and EPA Announce Expansion of Cleanup Activities
5/9/2002
Todd O'Hair
406-444-3111
tohair@state.mt.us
"We are committed to the people of Libby, both at the state and federal levels," said Governor Martz. "Last December, I announced that I would utilize Montana's one and only 'silver bullet' in designating Libby a Superfund site. Today I am pleased to announce that the EPA is moving forward quickly on their promise to me that they will ensure a clean and healthful environment for Libby's residents by removing asbestos insulation from affected homes and soils in the area."
This unusual step on EPA's part is due to the uniqueness of the widespread and pervasive asbestos contamination in the mining town of 6,000 residents.
"I am deeply concerned about the serious ongoing public health issues related to asbestos contamination in Libby," said Governor Whitman. "When I visited Libby in September of last year, I told citizens we were with them for the long haul."
Noting work continuing at the site, the Administrator directed Region VIII to expand the cleanup activities in Libby to address all sources of asbestos where significant exposure may still take place, including vermiculite insulation in targeted buildings and homes. This action is necessary because EPA and the Agency for Toxic Substance and Disease Registry investigation indicate that people in Libby have been chronically exposed to asbestos by multiple exposure 'pathways' and that cumulative exposures may be contributing to asbestos-related health effects - some 14 routes of exposure, including home insulation, gardens, driveways, tracked-in material, house dust above occupational routes, baseball fields, running tracks, and usual climate and geography with air inversions that trap air masses.
"In my conversations with Administrator Whitman, she re-emphasized her commitment to Libby, and today's decision proves the depth of her commitment," said Governor Martz. "As Governor, I will continue to explore all avenues in an attempt to bring physical, emotional and economic health back to the people of Libby."
While Governor Martz expressed appreciation for the quick actions taken, she also added that this should not be the final action taken for the community.
"While this is a significant step forward, much more needs to be done, especially concerning the long-term health care needs of Libby residents. I continue to work with our congressional delegation and federal agencies to address the local health care concerns."
In January 2002 Governor Martz submitted written confirmation of her designation of Libby as the state's highest priority for cleanup and requested that the site be included on the EPA's National Priorities List; the Agency proposed the site to the NPL on February 26. According to the EPA, the Libby project should help their agency and others determine if this comprehensive removal approach is appropriate for future sites discovered with heavy contamination.
"I extend my sincere appreciation as well to the members of the Community Action Group in Libby, the County Commissioners, the medical community and representatives from our Department of Public Health and Human Services, along with the EPA," said Governor Martz. "These individuals and groups continue to speak to the need for a quick cleanup of the area, while addressing the long-term healthcare needs of local residents."
###
