Former military munitions areas identified on Columbus AFB

  • Published
  • By Shane Reed
  • 14th Civil Engineer Squadron Environmental Element
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  Three former military munitions areas were recently identified on Columbus AFB. These sites are part of the Air Force Military Munitions Response Program. The MMRP evaluates sites affected by spent military munitions at closed ranges, to include Morale Welfare and Recreation Trap and Skeet Ranges.

Historical maps, records and personal interviews concluded that there are three sites that require evaluation. Two of the sites, a 37 acre MWR Trap and Skeet Range and a 15 acre 1000-inch firing range were once located in a section of what is now Magnolia Village Housing Area.

The former Trap and Skeet Range was used for MWR purposes in the late 1940s and early 1950s. The former 1000-inch firing range was used by AT-9, AT-10 and B-25 trainers during the early days of pilot training at Columbus Army Flying School. By the mid-1950s, both the Trap and Skeet Range and the 1,000-inch firing range were closed and the area was developed into Military Family Housing.

The third site is another former MWR skeet range identified in the northeastern portion of the airfield. This range was closed in the late 1970s due to the construction and close proximity of the outside runway Live Oak, routinely used by T-38 and T-1 aircraft.

Based on the activities conducted at these former ranges, the main environmental concern is lead and hydrocarbons in the soil. Lead is contained in the bullets and shotgun pellets and hydrocarbons are contained in clay targets typically used at the skeet ranges.

As part of the MMRP, soil testing at all three former ranges will begin this summer. Every yard, park and common area affected will be methodically tested. Housing residents will be notified at least 45 days prior to sampling. Results from this sampling will determine if there is a need for additional action, such as soil remediation.

"We want to ensure former munitions areas are safe for their current and future uses," said Lt. Col. Mike Harner, 14th Civil Engineer Squadron commander. "Our number one priority is the health and well-being of our airman and their families."