In 1982, the Cape Cod aquifer was designated as the sole or principal source of drinking water for Cape Cod, according to the EPA. senators - Democrats Elizabeth Warren and Edward Markey - about potential negative environmental impacts. The proposed gun range has also drawn concerns from neighbors, environmental activists and state and federal lawmakers including the state’s two U.S.
The range has won other key federal approvals. no federal dollars would be allowed for the project. If the agency makes a final finding that the machine gun range is hazardous. If the aquifer were to become contaminated, surrounding areas might need to construct and operate expensive advanced drinking water systems, overburdening communities that already face economic hardships, according to the EPA. The federal Safe Drinking Water Act mandates a strong preventative approach where a drinking water supply is highly dependent on a single aquifer, the agency said.
The EPA study included a 20-month scientific review of the design and operational plans for the proposed site, according to the agency.
Those studies found that small-arms fire currently conducted at Camp Edwards does not impact the aquifer, the guard said. The guard also said it has commissioned research over the past decade to ensure their military training is environmentally compliant. “The Massachusetts National Guard remains deeply committed to upholding environmental protections while providing our personnel with a range that serves our complex training needs and enhances soldier readiness,” the guard said in a written comment. In a statement Thursday, the Massachusetts National Guard said it is aware of the EPA’s draft findings and will provide “a robust response” during the public comment period. The EPA launched a review of the project in August 2021. The Massachusetts Army National Guard has proposed building the new 138-acre gun range at Joint Base Cape Cod. The agency said it will accept public comment on the proposed machine gun range through June 26, and will hold a public hearing on May 24. “However, the risk of irreparable damage to the only drinking water source on Cape Cod is too significant,” he added.
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