Title : Clean-up of old Palmer Type : Antarctic EAM NSF Org: OD / OPP Date : January 24, 1991 File : opp93018 DIVISION OF POLAR PROGRAMS OFFICE OF SAFETY, ENVIRONMENT AND HEALTH 202/357-7766 MEMORANDUM Date: January 24, 1991 From: Environmental Officer, DPP Subject: Environmental Action Memorandum (Clean Up of Old Palmer Station) To: File S.7 (Environment) On January 2, 1991, the Ocean Projects Manager, DPP prepared and submitted the following information which forms the basis for this Environmental Action Memorandum: PREPARER: Alexander Sutherland, Ocean Projects Manager, Polar Operations Section, Division of Polar Programs, National Science Foundation. RESPONSIBLE ENTITY FOR PROJECT: Antarctic Support Associates. PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Clean up of all debris surrounding old Palmer Building; removal of 10,000 gallons of diesel fuel and fuel bladder, removal of building and all contents. ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING: Old Palmer Station, Arthur Harbor, Anvers Island (see attachment sketch). ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF THE PROJECT: o Hazardous and toxic items such as diesel fuel, tar cans and asbestos material will be removed from the site; o Some minor scraping of lichens on rocks and disturbance of local plants may be associated with the cleanup and removal process; and o The building is located at least 100 yards from local wildlife (e.g., Adelie Penguin and Skua Gull Nest Areas) and generally is considered far enough away not to cause a significant disturbance. There may be some disruption of wildlife habits due to presence of people and their work in removal of debris and the building. -2- MITIGATING MEASURES PROPOSED TO MINIMIZE ANY IMPACTS: o Hazardous and toxic materials will be properly packaged and labelled and will be temporarily stored at Palmer Station. The fuel in the bladder (which has already been removed) is being used at Palmer Station. o workers will be instructed to avoid any close approach of wildlife and to minimize disturbance of local lichen and plant life. ALTERNATIVES TO PROPOSED ACTION: o No action. This is not an acceptable option because it is not consistent with the SEH Initiative or with international agreed measures. CONCLUSION: Recommended the project be completed as planned. Sidney Draggan cc: Safety, Environment and Health Officer, DPP Environmental Engineer, DPP Ocean Projects Manager, DPP