Air Force dispute with state environmental regulators could jeopardize new PFAS extraction project

By Tracy Samilton | Michigan Radio | May 25, 2023

Read the full article by Tracy Samilton (Michigan Radio)

"The Air Force and state regulators appear to have reached an impasse on a proposed new PFAS extraction project.

The toxic chemicals have contaminated the former Wurtsmith Air Force base in Oscoda.

The extraction project is meant to keep some of the PFAS from entering Van Etten Lake near the base.

EGLE says the work can't begin unless there is a signed document known as a Substantive Requirements Document (SRD). That document would govern discharge standards for an interim remedial system to stem the flow of PFAS chemicals into Van Etten Lake.

"EGLE believes that SRDs are the appropriate mechanism to do compliance oversight at the (area) at Wurtsmith," the department said in an emailed statement."