Letter to the Editor
County Takes Action on TCE
Dear Harrison County, Home & Public Health, and Harrison County Times Readers, I would like to express my gratitude to Harrison County Home & Public Health for advancing the “TCE and Well Water Testing Statement” for Harrison County, Iowa, and for committing to participate in the Restoration Advisory Board upon its formation.
The RAB is a critical resource for the U.S. Army Corps. of Engineers, ensuring the public has a formal platform to address the remediation of contaminated areas.
While the affected area was initially reported as 289 acres, the Iowa DNR informed me on Jan. 16 that the contamination now encompasses about 2,500 to 3,000 acres — a figure the USACE has confirmed. Given that TCE is present and mobile within our aquifers, this county statement is essential for all residents.
The USACE has identified the Offutt Atlas D Missile Site 3 in Missouri Valley, Iowa, as one of the 10 most contaminated sites in the United States. For context, there are about 1,340 active Superfund sites on the EPA’s National Priority List.
After working toward solutions for our community’s health and land for nearly a year, I cannot overstate the importance of this development. This statement will serve as a vital tool for grant applications, insurance claims, and other formal requirements.
People seeking further information or formal documentation regarding the impact of TCE on our community can find USACE records at the Missouri Valley Public Library. I also remain available to continue this dialogue, as education is fundamental to our community’s success.
Marilyn J Mentzer, Candidate
District 15, Iowa House of Representatives
