SLC Trib: Probe Dugway plans

[NVMojo]

President Ronald Reagan made popular the phrase, “Trust, but verify.” He was referring to arms control agreements with the Soviet Union, but Utah should take the same approach toward the Army's plans for expanded testing at Dugway Proving Ground.
The Army plans to double its biological and chemical weapons defense testing over the next seven years at the remote and secretive base in Tooele County. It also apparently is seeking to add to the size of the base by acquiring adjacent federal lands.
It is natural that in the wake of terrorist attacks against the United States, and reports that enemies of our nation may be trying to acquire chemical or biological weapons, the Army is stepping up research and training on countermeasures.
Trouble is, public information about these activities is scarce. While it is understandable that the Army does not wish to advertise exactly what biological and chemical agents or countermeasures it is testing at Dugway, the Utah government has a duty to protect public health and safety.
The state used to have a Federal Research Committee that kept an eye on federal facilities, including Dugway. Born during the battle over proposed MX Missile basing in western Utah during the Carter administration, that committee lapsed in the 1990s. Sen. Gene Davis, D-Salt Lake City, believes it is time to resuscitate it. We agree.

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http://www.sltrib.com/portlet/article/html/fragments/print_article.jsp?article=2517174

[struggle4progress]

1. Still more hypocrisy. eom