Richmond Register
April 11, 2003

EQC AWARDS

The Kentucky Environmental Quality Commission is recognizing the Berea-based Chemical Weapons Working Group for its efforts to research and demonstrate alternative technologies for the destruction of nerve and other chemical agents stored at the Blue Grass Army Depot.

The group's director, Craig Williams, said he will accept the Earth Day award at a ceremony Monday afternoon at the Governor's Mansion in Frankfort. Fifteen award winners, including Berea College President Larry Shinn, will be recognized during a celebration of the 33rd anniversary of Earth Day.

EQC's staff nominated the group. Eric Siegel, the commission's assistant director, said awards are typically given to organizations and individuals nominated by outside people, but EQC wanted to recognize the Chemical Weapons Working Group for its efforts.

"The award is going to the Chemical Weapons Working Group, but I'll be accepting it on behalf of the thousands of people, most of whom reside in Madison County, who have worked with us to ensure that the chemical weapons stored here are disposed of in the safest and most environmentally protected manner," Williams said. "It's one award to one group, but it represents a broad effort by citizens in Central Kentucky to stand up and not allow these dangerous weapons to be incinerated."

CWWG was formed in 1990, when representatives met in Richmond for the first time. The group includes 65 member organizations and about 170 affiliates from across the United States, the Pacific and Russia.

"We are obviously honored to be recognized by the commission," Williams said. "We are in very good company with others who are also receiving awards."