Missouri DNR Calls for Public Hearing

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources will hold a public meeting on Doe Run Co.’s proposed haul routes through Herculaneum Sept. 12.

As part of the Settlement Agreement between the Missouri DNR and the Doe Run, the company must periodically assess and propose modifications to the haul route.  The first proposal was due July 31, 2002.

The purpose of the new haul route is to limit concentrate truck traffic to one route in an effort to minimize contact with occupied residences. Doe Run has proposed three haul routes for approval by the DNR and the city of Herculaneum.

The Department of Natural Resources will discuss criteria for evaluating the proposed routes and the advantages and disadvantages of each proposed route. The Doe Run Company has offered the first round of voluntary buyouts to the residents with children 72 months and younger. The Doe Run Company will begin the second round of voluntary buyouts, within the buyout zone, by the end of this year. Revision of the haul route may be a factor in prioritizing second-round buyouts.

The Department of Natural Resources and the City of Herculaneum would like comments on the proposed haul routes. The department will accept written comments until Sept. 30, 2002.