Possible plans discussed for toxins in Kirksville groundwater

KIRKSVILLE – Officials from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have met with residents in northern Missouri who are concerned about toxins from the former Kirksville Air Force Base.

Traces of the chemical, trichloroethene (TCE), have been found in groundwater plumes in the area. TCE was likely used as a degreaser at the base and has been linked to cancer after long-term exposure.

About 10 residents attended a meeting at Truman State University on Thursday and voiced concerns about safety and cleanup.

The engineers said they're leaning toward a plan that involves injecting fluid into the site to lower the concentration of contamination. A cleanup date hasn't been set, but the process is expected to begin in a year or two.

The cleanup would cost about $2.5 million.