Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Lime Pond Project topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission staff says MPCA contact pending as Lime Pond sludge sampling is planned
Summary
Staff reported efforts to coordinate lime‑sludge sampling with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency; MPCA had not responded to an earlier email and staff said they need an MPCA‑approved lab and warmer conditions to collect samples.
Staff updated the commission on the Lime Pond project and said the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) had not yet responded to an earlier inquiry about required testing and acceptable laboratories.
"I finally sent another email yesterday and she . . . she claims that she never saw the first email, but she's going to get back to us," staff member Steve said. He said the commission needs to confirm an MPCA‑approved laboratory before collecting samples so results will be acceptable to the agency.
Steve also said winter temperatures may delay sampling; if the pond and sludge remain frozen or difficult to access, staff may wait for 30–40° days to safely collect and ship samples. He noted uncertainty about how easy it will be to get samples in current conditions and that the commission will monitor the calendar and MPCA guidance.
No testing firm was named at the meeting and no sampling or disposal decision was finalized; the discussion was framed as preparatory work and a coordination update with MPCA staff expected to advise on lab approval and protocol.
Staff said they will follow up once MPCA confirms an approved laboratory and sampling window.
