Curry ruling on open burning

LANL may continue open burning while supplemental permit is filed

December 23, 2010—New Mexico Environment Secretary Ron Curry this week granted a LANL motion allowing the Lab to continue open burning of high explosive residues while a supplemental permit application is prepared and filed.

Curry's ruling, dated December 21st, says the Lab has "shown good cause for a remand and for continued operation of the OB Units during the pendency of the remand proceeding."

LANL and DOE attorneys had asked Curry to reconsider his November 30th denial of the open burning portion of the Lab's new hazardous waste permit.

The Lab and DOE issued a joint statement on Wednesday:

“We’re very appreciative that Secretary Curry granted our motion. It allows us to continue our research on improvised explosive devices—research that saves lives at home and overseas. 

“We agree with the Secretary that allowing the Lab to submit a supplemental permit application is the best use of staff and taxpayer resources.

“We look forward to presenting the studies that clearly show our burning of high explosive residues in the two designated Lab areas poses no threat to human health or the environment. Protecting the environment and completing our global and national security missions go hand in hand, and it’s our commitment to Northern New Mexico.”