EPA Outlines Goals of Limetree Bay Investigation

ST. CROIX, USVI — Experts from the Environmental Protection Agency may arrive on St. Croix as early as this week to launch an investigation into the Limetree Bay facility. It is their objective to "ensure that the facility operates in compliance with all applicable legal requirements without jeopardizing public health and the environment by its operations."

The investigation is spurred by the recent operational incidents over the last few weeks. Most recently, the facility released excess hydrogen sulfide causing several schools and community vaccine center to close.

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The EPA, in partnership with the Department of Planning and Natural Resources and the Department of Health, will investigate the following:

- the composition of the gasses released
- the amount of gas released and if it exceeded allowed amounts
- the cause of the incident
- what corrective actions have been taken and remain to be taken
- potential health impacts
- how to prevent future incidents

In the meantime, the VI Department of Health is encouraging residents to seek treatment for symptoms that may have been caused by the recent gas release. Potential symptoms include nausea, headaches or respiratory problems. Additionally, residents with questions or concerns can call (340) 773-1082 ext. 2221 or (340) 718-1311 ext. 3709.

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