IP Explosion: Neighborhood Cleanup Almost Two-Thirds Complete

February 1, 2017

International Paper officials said Tuesday that their neighborhood cleanup efforts are about 64%, or nearly two-thirds, complete.

Here is the latest update on the International Paper explosion cleanup in Cantonment:

Cleanup work continues

  • As a result of the Jan. 22 digester incident at the Cantonment mill, partially digested wood pulp material was released in the surrounding area.
  • Cleanup is underway at approximately 64% of the affected properties.
  • Crews in the field are wearing clean-up clothing as they complete their work assignments. It should be noted these are not hazmat suits.
  • Unified Command representatives are collecting daily air, water and soil samples from various locations in the impacted area and presenting the data to the environmental unit, which is comprised of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Escambia County, the Florida Department of Health and International Paper.
  • A long-term environmental monitoring plan is being produced and will be implemented after active cleanup efforts have been completed.

Outreach continues in affected areas

  • EPA representatives were in neighborhoods today addressing concerns from residents.
  • On the ground teams are canvassing the area to ensure we are maintaining open and direct communications with all property owners impacted.
  • Residents who believe their property may have been affected by the material released as a result of the incident and would like further information should call the Joint Information Center available 24/7 at 1-850-968-4208.
  • The U.S. Coast Guard is here on behalf of the EPA to ensure that operational plans are followed and to enhance the health and safety of those working in the field.
  • Nearly 200 individuals are working the clean-up site. Approximately 100 homes and businesses have experienced varying degrees of impact. Residents who believe their property may have been affected by the material released as a result of the incident and would like further information should call the Joint Information Center available 24/7 at 1-850-968-4208.
  • The Unified Command Team has been made aware businesses are contacting community members potentially impacted by the Cantonment Digester Incident and offering various services including water testing, pressure washing and carpet cleaning for a fee. Please be aware International Paper, through the Unified Command Team, is not currently coordinating with any businesses other than Cotton and CTEH, who are managing the community cleanup. All community questions and concerns should be coordinated directly through the UC’s Joint Information Center available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-850-968-4208.

This update was provided by the Unified Command Team, comprised of International Paper, Escambia County EMA/Public Safety, Florida Department of Health, Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Comments

2 Responses to “IP Explosion: Neighborhood Cleanup Almost Two-Thirds Complete”

  1. Wow. on February 2nd, 2017 11:51 am

    A little greedy? Any compensation should depend on the damages.

  2. Duke of Wawbeek on February 1st, 2017 9:42 am

    I feel that appraised market value, relocating expenses and duress are the minimum elements of fair compensation, to/for the victims of this event.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under News