DEQ wants cleanup of Isley Field
The Division of Environmental Quality will press the U.S. Army Corps to cleanup the Isley Field area which has been contaminated with several drums of used oil dumped by the U.S. Navy.
DEQ is still waiting for the complete report of California-based Montgomery laboratory, which was hired by the agency to analyze the contents of the drums and determine how long have the US military dumped the used oil.
Preliminary results of the testing showed the absence of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) in the contaminated area. Test results, however, show the presence of hydrocarbon compound.
Recently, 24 55-gallon drums of illegally dumped used oil were discovered in the property of businessman Joe Reyes in Dandan while they were clearing the area for a private hangar. An inspection of drums showed the markings U.S. Navy. Illegal dumping of used oil or any hazardous material carries a maximum fine of $25,000 a day for each day of the violation.
DEQ has expressed concern on the potential adverse effects of illegal dumping of used motor oil in the environment specifically the possible contamination to groundwater and surface water. It may also result in the destruction of vegetation, loss of soil fertility, endanger human health and wildlife.
Last month, Saipan-based PR Trading was assisted by DEQ in collecting several 55-gallon drums of used oil dumped in five different locations on the island to prevent the contamination of the environment.
The company will then be responsible in shipping it off to a recycling company in the Philippines.
DEQ discovered illegally dumped used oil in Finasisu, Marpi, Tanapag, Santa Lourdes and As Teo. In Finasisu and As Teo areas alone, the agency found 14 drums of 55-gallons of used oil, some of which were already leaking.
