Environment and Conservation
February 2, 2007

The environmental clean-up of the former military site at St. Anthony is now completed. The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Environment and Conservation, today announced the completion of environmental remediation efforts at the former USAF Pinetree Site.

"Officials from my department met with representatives from the Town of St. Anthony and presented a report to the town about the final clean-up and remediation efforts," said the minister. "The final phase of the environmental clean-up was awarded to Marine Contractors of Pasadena in the amount of $363,425 and work was completed in November 2006."

The work involved the excavation and removal of 300 tonnes of PCB contaminated soil and debris. The total amount of contaminates removed since the start of the remediation efforts in 2004 was approximately 1,500 tonnes of soil and 200 tonnes of debris.

"Government acknowledges the importance of assessing and cleaning up contaminated sites like the former military site in St. Anthony, and we will continue to address contaminated sites around the province on a priority basis," said Minister Jackman. "We remain committed to protecting our natural environment and creating healthier communities."

In Budget 2006 government announced funding to complete the environmental clean-up at St. Anthony. Approximately $1 million was spent at the former military site in 2005 bringing the total cost of the environmental remediation to more than $3 million.

The Honourable Trevor Taylor, MHA for The Straits and White Bay North, said the completion of remediation efforts is welcome news for the people of St. Anthony. "Cleaning up this former military site has been a pressing issue for the residents of the area and I am pleased to see that the necessary work has been completed to address this environmental issue."

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