Some experiments have indicated that Libby asbestos does not remain suspended, so the exposure may be less than is expected. The faster Libby amphibole drops out of the air, the less potential exposure. We may already have the data to address your concern.ĬAG Member Comment - My concern goes to the issues of toxicity and risk. A drop test will be conducted if it would be helpful to assess risk. Response - This issue will be considered in the risk assessment. We do not plan to have a separate memorandum on how long Libby asbestos remains suspended in the air.ĬAG Member Comment - The pathway for asbestos exposure here is breathing, so we need to know how long it remains suspended. These memoranda will address the purpose for the various types of sampling, how samples are taken, and how they are analyzed. Regardless of the approach to the ROD, the public will have a 30-day comment period on the proposed plan.ĬAG Member Question - Will the risk assessment be issued prior to the proposed cleanup plan?ĬAG Member Question - Will EPA conduct a drop test of Libby amphibole?Īnswer - Before the proposed plan is released, EPA will issue a remedial investigation report supported by technical memoranda. The ROD must include a section responding to public comment. We must review a final ROD every 5 yearsĬAG Member Question - Would issuing an interim ROD provide a cushion for public involvement?Īnswer - Public comment follows the issuance of the proposed cleanup plan. We may still issue a final ROD, which can be amended in the future through an ESD. We are trying to decide what is the best approach for Libby. Because the operation and maintenance plan may not be finished, EPA is leaning towards issuing an interim rather than a final ROD. Could you explain why?Īnswer - The ROD could take several forms. Senator Baucus and Secretary Leavitt Visit - John Wardell will be EPA's representative during Senator Baucus' and Secretary Leavitt's visit to Libby tomorrow.ĬAG Member Question - I understand that EPA may issue an interim ROD. Record of Decision - Work continues in Denver on the proposed plan and record of decision (ROD) for the Libby remediation work. Another session will be offered this coming November or December after the construction season ends. Supervisor and Inspector Training - The training session was held on February 22.
Seven residences have been cleaned, and five or six are underway. Peggy Churchill reported for EPA on the following topics.Ĭleanups - Cleanup work has resumed. The CAG agreed to the following agenda for this meeting: A list of the members in attendance is attached below as Appendix 1. Gerald Mueller and members of the Libby Community Advisory Group (CAG) introduced themselves.