December 21, 2007

The Department of Environmental Quality has authorized $250,000 for the design and installation of a soil and groundwater treatment system at the former Red Barn Market on Chippewa Highway in Manistee County.

Leaks of gasoline and diesel fuel stored in underground storage tanks at this former gasoline station have caused groundwater contamination that extends 400 feet from the property and reaches a depth of 70 feet, putting residential wells in the area at risk of being contaminated with petroleum products.

The tanks and 12,500 cubic yards of soil have already been removed; however, recent groundwater sampling indicates that the contaminants continue to pose a risk to residences in the area. The DEQ will use the funds to install a soil and groundwater treatment system. Pending the availability of funds, the state plans to continue operating the system until risks to the public are abated.

"The DEQ makes every effort to address sites where contamination poses a threat to the health of the local community," said DEQ Director Steven E. Chester. "Unfortunately, Michigan's cleanup funds are quickly running out and projects like this may no longer be a possibility."

Editor's note: DEQ news releases are available on the department's Internet home page at www.michigan.gov/deq.

"Protecting Michigan's Environment, Ensuring Michigan's Future"

Revised December 21, 2007 by Pat Watson