Lake Superior Barrels

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) was asked to review the potential for human health impacts from barrels dumped in Lake Superior under supervision of the U.S. Army from 1959-1962. MDH’s review of available information, conclusions and recommendations are summarized in a Health Consultation written in 2008.

Due to the unquantifiable low risk associated with these barrels, MDH recommends no further action for the protection of human health in this public health report. The potential impact of the barrels on the environment is outside the scope of this report.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reviewed the document after it was published and provided additional information and clarification on work that was performed at the site. A memo containing their comments is also included below:

Health Consultation, Barrels Disposed in Lake Superior by U.S. Army, March 2008 (PDF)

Comments on Lake Superior Barrel Health Consultation/March 08: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (PDF)