Coast Guard Assures Oberstar That Live Fire Exercises Have Been Suspended

Thursday, September 14, 2006


WASHINGTON--As a result of a meeting late this afternoon between Congressman James L. Oberstar and Admiral Thad Allen, Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, live firing by the Coast Guard on Lake Superior will be suspended during the current public outreach period. The outreach period will include public hearings or town hall meetings throughout the Great Lakes region, including in Duluth.

"The Admiral heard my comments at this morning’s Coast Guard Subcommittee hearing, and he told me that the Coast Guard should have handled the situation differently. He expressed to me that the public had not been properly notified and the mission was not made clear to area residents," said Oberstar. "The Coast Guard’s priority is to protect public safety; therefore they have committed to provide public notice before any future live firing exercises, so that boaters will know to avoid the area."

At this morning’s hearing, Oberstar questioned a Coast Guard witness regarding the Coast Guard’s inconsistent actions of asking for public comment while they continued to conduct their live fire exercises. As a result of today’s meeting, Admiral Allen assured Oberstar that the Duluth-area media will be notified prior to the resumption of live fire exercises.

"I also suggested to Admiral Allen that the Coast Guard should request that the Environmental Protection Agency’s Environmental Research Lab in Duluth evaluate the effect of lead bullets on sediments and water quality in Lake Superior in the firing zone," concluded Oberstar. "I feel confidant that this is a satisfactory resolution of the matter."

News release courtesy of Oberstar's office