Public Comment: Environmental Assessment for decommissioning and disposal of the MH-1A STURGIS Barge

Published Jan. 24, 2014

BALTIMORE (Jan. 24, 2014) - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Baltimore District conducted an Environmental Assessment to evaluate potential ecological, cultural, water, public health and safety and waste management effects associated with the proposed decommissioning and disposal of the MH-1A STURGIS, a former nuclear reactor barge. The Environmental Assessment determined there would be no significant environmental impact as a result of this proposed action.

Before being shutdown in 1976, the STURGIS’ nuclear reactor was used to generate electricity for military and civilian use. The reactor was de-fueled, decontaminated, and sealed before being towed to the James River Reserve Fleet in Fort Eustis, VA; where it is currently stored.

The USACE is evaluating four alternative locations for the decommissioning and dismantling of the STURGIS: Hampton Roads Metropolitan Area, Va.; Baltimore, Md.; Charleston, SC and Galveston, Texas. The Corps plans to hold a public meeting at the chosen location before proceeding with the work, which is anticipated to begin in the summer/fall 2014. All activities will be accomplished in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations. 

You are encouraged to comment on the finding of no significant impact during the public comment period, Jan. 27 to Feb. 25, 2014. More information on the project can be found online at www.nab.usace.army.mil/Missions/Environmental/STURGIS.aspx

Written comments may be submitted by mail, postmarked no later than  Feb. 25, 2014, at the following address: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, ATTN: Andrea Takash, Rm. 11400, 10 South Howard St., Baltimore, MD 21201; or by e-mail to andrea.m.takash@us.army.mil. For more information, please call 410-962-2626. 


Release no. 14-003