The U.S. Army is announcing a 30-day public review and comment period of the engineering evaluation/cost analysis for the non-time-critical removal action for the Crow’s Nest Impact Area Munitions response site, associated with former artillery training that occurred from the early 1800s to the early 1930s.
Eight artillery range fans, including a testing range that originated on the east side of the Hudson River (West Point Foundry), were oriented toward the former Crow’s Nest Impact Area. Comprehensive investigations were conducted at the munitions response site under the Military Munitions Response Program to address any potential explosives hazards, human health and environmental issues resulting from past use of the area. Investigation included hand-held metal detector and digging surveys. Multiple munitions and explosives of concern items and munitions debris were found during the investigations.
The U.S. Army has determined that there is a potential threat to human health or welfare due to the threat of fire or explosion resulting from the potential presence of munitions and explosives remaining on-site at the Crow’s Nest Impact Area. Possible exposure is limited to on-site workers who may disturb the sites during utility or construction activities and unauthorized trespassers.
The purpose of the engineering evaluation/cost analysis was to evaluate two alternatives: (1) No Action and (2) Land Use Controls, for mitigation of potential risks posed to human health at the on-post munitions response site. The evaluation was conducted in accordance with the comprehensive environmental response, compensation and liability act guidelines for non-time-critical removal actions for addressing the risks during the interim while the Military Munitions Response Program progresses, and more permanent actions are investigated and implemented.
Based on the evaluation of alternatives for the Crow’s Nest Impact Area Munitions response site, the U.S. Army has identified Land Use Controls as the preferred alternative recommended for the non-time-critical removal action in the engineering evaluation/cost analysis. Land Use Controls include institutional controls (dig permits, site use restrictions in the West Point master plan, and public advisories) and engineering controls (markers/signs and fences). The preferred alternative identified by the U.S. Army will protect human health by minimizing human exposure to munitions and explosives of concern and reduce the explosive hazards from munitions remaining at the Crow’s Nest Impact Area Munitions response site and allow for the current use of the area while more permanent actions are evaluated.
Site investigated and subject to removal action
The Crow’s Nest Impact Area Munitions response site, which is recommended for Land Use Controls, is located within the boundaries of the U.S. Army Garrison West Point main post area in Orange County, New York.
Public comment period: Nov. 6 through Dec. 5, 2023
The U.S. Army welcomes the public’s comments on the removal action for the Crow’s Nest Impact Area Munitions response site that is described in the engineering evaluation/cost analysis. The recommendations presented in the engineering evaluation/cost analysis may be modified based on public input or new information.
The final decision will be documented in an Action Memorandum decision document that will include a summary of any public comments received during the comment period and the U.S. Army’s responses to those comments.
The U.S. Army is also petitioning interest for a possible public meeting to present a summary of the alternatives. If you are interested in attending a public meeting, please respond via email during the public comment period. A copy of the engineering evaluation/cost analysis and reports of the comprehensive investigations are available for review at the Highland Falls Library located at 298 Main Street, Highland Falls, New York 10928 and on the internet at https://home.army.mil/westpoint/about/environmental-management-division (See announcements on the green menu on the right side).
The public may submit written comments during the 30-day comment period (Nov. 6 to Dec. 5, 2023). Comments must be postmarked by Dec. 5, 2023, and sent to Mr. Paul Dunaev, U.S. Army Garrison West Point, ATTN: AMM-MLP-E, 667A Ruger Road, West Point, NY 10996-1592 or emailed to paul.v.dunaev.civ@army.mil by midnight on Dec. 5, 2023.