A comprehensive environmental investigation of an active artillery range

The Michigan Department of Military Affairs (MDMA) recently completed an environmental investigation of the 27,000-acre Range 40 artillery and air-to-ground complex located at the Camp Grayling Army National Guard Training Site. The study, commenced in 1992 as part of a consent order agreement between the MDMA and state regulators, is an extensive five-phase investigation designed to measure effects to the environment as a result of over 50 years of military training at this state owned and operated installation. Conducted under a $2.2 million contract awarded to QST Environmental, Inc. (formerly Environmental Science & Engineering, Inc.), this investigation-commonly referred to as the “Range 40 Study”-focused on groundwater, surface waters, wetlands, soils, sediments, and fish in and around the 7,000-acre “impact” area situated in the central northern region of Michigan's lower peninsula.

Findings indicate that surface waters (lakes and streams), lake and stream sediments, groundwater, fisheries, and air quality have not been adversely impacted by explosive-related chemicals. Findings do indicate the presence of low levels of metals in soils, lake and stream sediments, and groundwater. During the workplan process and subsequent investigations, results were obtained and lessons learned that could have implications on national defense readiness and environmental sustainability. This article will present these results and lessons learned, including: