• eNewsletter Sign-Up
  • Job & Business Opportunities
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Give Feedback
Program Executive Office, Assembled Chemical Weapons Alternatives (PEO ACWA)Program Executive Office, Assembled Chemical Weapons Alternatives (PEO ACWA)Program Executive Office, Assembled Chemical Weapons Alternatives (PEO ACWA)Program Executive Office, Assembled Chemical Weapons Alternatives (PEO ACWA)
  • HOME
  • PEO ACWA
    • ACWA logo

      Program Executive Office, Assembled Chemical Weapons Alternatives (PEO ACWA)

      Mission: Destroy Chemical Weapons Stockpile

      Vision: Chemical Weapons Free by 2023

    • About PEO ACWA
      • Chain of Command
      • Team Biographies
      • Program Timeline
      • Public Involvement
      • Frequently Asked Questions
    • PEO ACWA Media Library
      • PEO ACWA News
      • PEO ACWA Videos
      • PEO ACWA Facts
      • PEO ACWA Press Releases
      • PEO ACWA Briefings, Reports & Downloads
  • BLUE GRASS
    • pcapp_logo
      Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant (BGCAPP)

      BGCAPP is safely destroying the chemical weapons stockpile currently in storage at the Blue Grass Army Depot near Richmond, Kentucky.

    • BGCAPP Homepage
      • Project Stages
      • Destruction Technologies
      • Team Biographies
      • Environmental Activities
      • Public Involvement
      • Operation Swift Solution
    • BGCAPP Media Library
      • News
      • Videos
      • Facts
      • Press Releases
      • Briefings, Reports & Downloads
  • PUEBLO
    • pcapp_logo
      Pueblo Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant (PCAPP)

      PCAPP is safely destroying the chemical weapons stockpile currently in storage at the U.S. Army Pueblo Chemical Depot in Colorado.

    • PCAPP Homepage
      • Project Stages
      • Destruction Technologies
      • Team Biographies
      • Environmental Activities
      • Public Involvement
    • PCAPP Media Library
      • News
      • Videos
      • Facts
      • Press Releases
      • Briefings, Reports & Downloads
  • CONTACT US

BGCAPP News

  • BGCAPP Videos
  • BGCAPP News
  • BGCAPP Facts
  • BGCAPP Briefings, Reports and Downloads
  • BGCAPP Photo Galleries
  • BGCAPP Press Releases
Home Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant (BGCAPP) BGCAPP Media Library BGCAPP News
Filter Categories
All BGCAPP News
Technology
Systemization
Construction
Environment
Events
People
Safety
  • BGCAPP Monthly Recap - March 2020
    READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - March 2020
    March 31, 2020
  • One of the two Agent Neutralization Reactors (ANR) is placed at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant in 2011. The first batch of nerve agent was processed through the ANRs March 13.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Starts Vital System
    March 30, 2020
  • Workers place the first concrete on the Static Detonation Chamber 2000 site at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant March 9, 2020. The placement is for foundation footers for the site's Personnel Support Building.
    READ MORE
    First Concrete Placed at New Site
    March 24, 2020
  • A munitions handler guides a GB nerve agent projectile into a conveyor tray prior to processing at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. The plant made history in January by becoming the only U.S. chemical demilitarization facility to destroy two different chemical agents at the same time.
    READ MORE
    Kentucky Chemical Agent Destruction Plant Makes History
    March 18, 2020
  • BGCAPP Recap February 2020
    READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - February 2020
    March 3, 2020
  • A scientist looks at a thermal dosimeter created specifically to test Metal Parts Treater heating zones at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. The dosimeters react at very specific temperatures to ensure the zones are working correctly.
    READ MORE
    Custom Equipment Created for Plant Testing
    March 3, 2020
  • A surveyor performs initial mapping for the placement of storm sewers at the new Static Detonation Chamber 2000 site at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. Work on the site began Jan. 22.
    READ MORE
    Work Begins on New Destruction Chamber Site
    February 25, 2020
  • A robot moves a drained GB nerve agent projectile to a conveyor tray in preparation for processing through the Metal Parts Treater at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant in January. Now the main plant is processing munitions, its permit has been changed to a standard hazardous waste permit.
    READ MORE
    Plant Permit Status Upgraded
    February 25, 2020
  • BGCAPP Recap January 2020
    READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - January 2020
    February 5, 2020
  • A technician records data from a test of the Explosive Destruction Technology (EDT) emissions system at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. When complete, the test results will help the Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection set the EDT processing rate.
    READ MORE
    Mustard Destruction System Undergoes Test
    January 24, 2020
  • Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant workers place the first 8-inch projectile containing GB nerve agent in a tray to begin the destruction process in the Munitions Demilitarization Building Jan. 16, 2020.
    READ MORE
    Nerve Agent Destruction Begins at Blue Grass Army Depot
    January 24, 2020
  • A technician checks one of the supercritical water oxidation reactors during system validation at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. Using high temperature and pressure, this equipment will process the hydrolysate produced by the destruction of the chemical agent currently stored at the Blue Grass Army Depot.
    READ MORE
    Supercritical State Achieved for First Time
    January 7, 2020
  • BGCAPP Recap December 2019
    READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - December 2019
    December 30, 2019
  • Waste operators band drums containing contaminated secondary waste together in the Waste Transfer Station at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. The waste was shipped Dec. 11 to a licensed and permitted disposal facility in Texas in compliance with state, federal and Army requirements.
    READ MORE
    First Secondary-Waste Shipment Completed
    December 30, 2019
  • The Program Executive Office, Assembled Chemical Weapons Alternatives director of field operations explains a protective canister that is designed to hold punched and drained rocket warheads prior to their destruction at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant at a quarterly public meeting Dec. 11.
    READ MORE
    Experts Announce Changes to Rocket Processing System
    December 24, 2019
  • Karl Slaughenhaupt was named the first principal deputy at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant in November.
    READ MORE
    Project’s First Principal Deputy Named
    December 20, 2019
  • A waste operator practices moving waste drums on pallets at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant Container Storage Facility. The plant’s hazardous waste is regulated by a standard hazardous waste permit through the Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection.
    READ MORE
    Permit Conversion Public Comment Period Open Through Dec. 11
    December 5, 2019
  • BGCAPP Monthly Recap - November 2019
    READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - November 2019
    November 27, 2019
  • Recycling facility workers remove brass rotating bands from scrap 155mm projectiles previously processed at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant and delivered to the recycling facility for smelting. This material is considered clean of chemical agent per U.S. Army standards and is acceptable for recycling.
    READ MORE
    Processed Munitions Bodies Delivered for Recycling
    November 21, 2019
  • A technician attaches an air-sampling tube to a tractor trailer as part of a waste shipment demonstration prior to Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant main plant operations.
    READ MORE
    Mobile Monitoring Supports Shipment Demonstration
    November 21, 2019
  • Waste operators band drums on a pallet at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant Container Storage Facility during a waste shipment demonstration. During operations, contaminated secondary wastes may be shipped off site to a permitted and licensed waste treatment, storage and disposal facility.
    READ MORE
    Workers Perform Waste Shipment Demonstration
    November 19, 2019
  • A worker moves a robot with a forklift at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. Start-up of the main plant has been slightly shifted to provide greater safety to workers removing equipment in support of recent changes to the rocket handling system.
    READ MORE
    Nerve Agent Destruction Scheduled for Early 2020
    October 31, 2019
  • Technicians remove a robot from the Energetics Batch Hydrolyzer room at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. Static Detonation Chamber systems will destroy drained rocket warheads, including the energetics, which reduces risk to the workers.
    READ MORE
    New Rocket Destruction Process Proposed to Reduce Risk
    October 31, 2019
  • BGCAPP Monthly Recap - October 2019
    READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - October 2019
    October 31, 2019
  • Operators perform site work for the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant’s first Static Detonation Chamber (SDC) in 2015. With Temporary Authorization Request approval in early September, workers can now start site preparation for the project’s second SDC.
    READ MORE
    Plant Receives Approval to Begin Site Preparation
    October 2, 2019
  • A worker checks a mask after donning it for an annual emergency preparedness exercise at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant Sept. 18. Plant workers participated in this multi-county exercise, along with city, county, state and federal organizations and personnel.
    READ MORE
    Plant, Community Practice Emergency Preparedness and Response
    September 30, 2019
  • BGCAPP Recap September 2019
    READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - September 2019
    September 30, 2019
  • Three members of the Environmental Action Group Led by Employees, or EAGLE, team pose with team shirts at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. The EAGLE team was created when employees saw an opportunity to focus on potential environmental issues.
    READ MORE
    Sharp Eyes Assist Environmental Efforts
    September 24, 2019
  • Richmond Mayor Robert Blythe and citizens’ advisory commission and community board members listen to a discussion about community planning for Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant closure at a quarterly public meeting Sept. 11.
    READ MORE
    Community Talks Closure at Public Meeting
    September 24, 2019
  • A technician takes down results from carbon filter bank testing at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. A recently completed health assessment regarding plant emissions is now in review with the state’s environmental department.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Health Assessment Shows No Risk to Public
    September 4, 2019
  • A technician takes a reading during the supercritical water oxidation system commissioning process at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. This process checks and tests every operational component in preparation for operations.
    READ MORE
    Secondary Treatment System Undergoes Testing
    September 4, 2019
  • BGCAPP August 2019 Monthly Recap
    READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - August 2019
    September 4, 2019
  • A technician watches as a tray of test projectile bodies moves through the Metal Parts Treater (MPT) for a conveyor alignment check at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. The MPT Surrogate Test Plan was the subject of a recent Class 1 modification to the plant’s hazardous waste permit.
    READ MORE
    Minor Permit Modifications Routine Business for Plant
    August 20, 2019
  • READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - July 2019
    July 31, 2019
  • Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant technicians, left, watch as a Blue Grass Chemical Activity technician directs the marking of a single-round container during integrity testing. The containers are required to be tested every 90 days to be deemed service-ready in the event of a leaking munition in the chemical weapons stockpile in Kentucky. (Photo courtesy Blue Grass Chemical Activity)
    READ MORE
    Noble Gas Helps Make Protective Containers Service-Ready
    July 31, 2019
  • Col. Joseph Kurz, commander, Blue Grass Army Depot, discusses Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant processes with Ron Hink, project manager, Bechtel Parsons Blue Grass. The commander signed his acceptance of a Finding of No Significant Impact generated from a May 2019 environmental assessment for augmentation of plant processing capability July 1.
    READ MORE
    Signature Signals Path Forward for Additional Equipment
    July 25, 2019
  • BGCAPP Monthly Recap – June 2019
    READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - June 2019
    June 28, 2019
  • National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine committee members inspect equipment during a tour of the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. This organization recently completed a study on the plant’s supercritical water oxidation system.
    READ MORE
    Study Released on Secondary Process Performance
    June 28, 2019
  • Dr. Candace Coyle
    READ MORE
    Program Head Introduces New Site Project Manager
    June 26, 2019
  • Munitions handlers place the first 155mm mustard-agent filled projectile slated for destruction into a feed box June 7. The projectile was automatically fed into the Static Detonation Chamber at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant and destroyed the same day. (Image taken from closed-circuit television.)
    READ MORE
    Destruction of Chemical Weapons Stockpile Begins at Blue Grass Army Depot
    June 19, 2019
  • Image: May 2019 BGCAPP monthly recap thumbnail
    READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - May 2019
    June 3, 2019
  • Madison County, Kentucky, residents listen to a presentation about the environmental assessment for the proposed action for processing nerve agent-filled munitions at the Blue Grass Army Depot at a May 21 public meeting. The public comment period for this action ends June 17.
    READ MORE
    Environmental Assessment Public Comment Period Open Through June 17
    May 31, 2019
  • Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell speaks at an event May 29 to mark the start of chemical munitions destruction in Kentucky. The Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant is scheduled to begin destruction of mustard-agent projectiles in the Static Detonation Chamber within the next several weeks.
    READ MORE
    Stakeholders Recognize Start of Kentucky Chemical Weapons Destruction at Event
    May 31, 2019
  • The sun rises over the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant and munitions storage igloos on the Blue Grass Army Depot. The plant is hosting a public event May 29 to mark the start of chemical munitions destruction in Kentucky.
    READ MORE
    Public Welcomed to Event Marking Start of Chemical Weapons Destruction in Kentucky
    May 16, 2019
  • Munitions handlers lower a test projectile into a Static Detonation Chamber (SDC) loading box at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. The SDC is in lockdown mode, where everything is being done as it will be during operations, scheduled to begin in late May.
    READ MORE
    Mustard Agent Destruction Facility Prepares for Operations
    May 16, 2019
  • A plant support specialist explains Static Detonation Chamber details to Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons technical officials at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant April 1.
    READ MORE
    International Team Performs Final Review
    April 30, 2019
  • READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - April 2019
    April 26, 2019
  • Georgia N., medical laboratory technician, Bechtel Parsons Blue Grass, analyzes a blood sample for a cholinesterase baseline at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant.
    READ MORE
    Research by Blue Grass Expert Helped Set Testing Standards
    April 19, 2019
  • READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - March 2019
    March 29, 2019
  • Nick Stamatakis, deputy program executive officer, Assembled Chemical Weapons Alternatives, speaks to attendees at a quarterly community meeting March 13 about the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant’s consideration of adding a second Static Detonation Chamber. This chamber will improve worker safety by being able to process overpacked rockets
    READ MORE
    Plant Considers Adding Destruction Equipment
    March 29, 2019
  • A technician sets up a Depot Area Air Monitoring System, or DAAMS, unit in a perimeter monitoring station on the Blue Grass Army Depot outside the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant footprint. This, and seven other monitoring stations on the depot, are being used to establish perimeter monitoring prior to chemical munitions destruction operations.
    READ MORE
    Plant Conducts Air Monitoring for Historical Record
    March 26, 2019
  • A Blue Grass Chemical Activity forklift driver loads a pallet of test projectiles into an Enhanced On-site Container for delivery to the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. Plant workers are training on the delivery process in preparation for certification as munitions delivery operators. (Photo courtesy Blue Grass Army Depot) (Items in this image have been blurred in accordance with Department of Defense guidelines.)
    READ MORE
    Crews Begin Training for Munitions Movement
    March 20, 2019
  • Technicians weigh a sample of chlorobenzene to calibrate a pump in preparation for surrogate testing at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. The plant is using surrogate chemicals to be able to prove destruction of chemical agent.
    READ MORE
    Plant to Test Equipment with Agent Alternatives
    February 28, 2019
  • BGCAPP Monthly Recap February 2019
    READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - February 2019
    February 28, 2019
  • Munitions handlers secure a conventional munition in a box prior to it being processed in the Static Detonation Chamber at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. This test shot will commission the chamber for use in operations.
    READ MORE
    Crew Tests Equipment, Procedures with Conventional Munitions
    February 27, 2019
  • Monitoring technicians perform a challenge to air-monitoring equipment, known as MINICAMS, during the Agent Monitoring System Systemization Demonstration Test at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant.
    READ MORE
    Demonstration Shows Monitoring System Functions as Designed
    February 14, 2019
  • READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - January 2019
    February 5, 2019
  • A worker directs crane operators as they unload a sideloader truck Jan. 18 that will be used to convey munitions transport containers inside the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant during operations.
    READ MORE
    Specialized Handling Equipment Arrives at Plant
    February 1, 2019
  • A Toxic Area Training participant in Demilitarization Protective Ensembles checks tags on valves in the Munitions Demilitarization Building as part of an exercise at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. This training is now being conducted within the plant to provide realistic scenarios for participants.
    READ MORE
    On-Site Training Prepares Workers for Operations
    January 28, 2019
  • Toxic Area workers listen to a coordinator explaining the details of a training exercise at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. Training is a strong safety focus as the plant ramps up to operations later this year.
    READ MORE
    Managers Look Forward to Active, Safe Year
    January 23, 2019
  • Attendees listen as Terry Staggs, plant support specialist, Bechtel Parsons Blue Grass, discusses the history of the Blue Grass Static Detonation Chamber at a public meeting Dec. 12.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Experience Helps Sister Site in Colorado
    December 28, 2018
  • Jeff Brubaker, site project manager, Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant, and Ron Hink, project manager, Bechtel Parsons Blue Grass, provide a year-in-review update to Kentucky Chemical Demilitarization Citizens’ Advisory Commission and Chemical Destruction Community Advisory Board members Dec. 12.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Managers Track Year’s Progress
    December 28, 2018
  • READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - December 2018
    December 28, 2018
  • A technician performs a smoke test in the Munitions Demilitarization Building at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. This test allowed workers to find and seal air leaks within the building before performing a system demonstration procedure on the ventilation system.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Demonstrates Main Air System
    December 20, 2018
  • A team member looks at processed test munitions in the Static Detonation Chamber scrap conveyor at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant.
    READ MORE
    First Test Munitions Processed in Chamber
    December 14, 2018
  • BGCAPP Monthly Recap: November 2018
    READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - November 2018
    December 6, 2018
  • A team member verifies receipt of Army training rockets at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant Nov. 5. Previously stored at the Blue Grass Chemical Activity on the Blue Grass Army Depot, these rockets will be used to test rocket-handling equipment.
    READ MORE
    Plant Receives Army Training Rockets
    November 27, 2018
  • A worker watches a television as a paramedic takes his blood for a Red Blood Cell Acetylcholinesterase (ChE) baseline record at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. Worker ChE baselines are being prepared in the event a determination is needed for an unlikely chemical agent exposure.
    READ MORE
    Blood Draws Important for Worker Safety
    November 14, 2018
  • READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - October 2018
    October 31, 2018
  • A government shift representative observes as Laboratory staff prepare to conduct a training exercise at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant.
    READ MORE
    Government Representatives Begin Around-the-Clock Shifts
    October 30, 2018
  • An analyst draws a sample of GB hydrolysate for testing purposes at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant Laboratory. The Lab is testing with munitions-grade hydrolysate to prepare for upcoming operations.
    READ MORE
    Laboratory Tests Site-Specific Material
    October 25, 2018
  • A technician poses for a photo during M40 protective mask fitting at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. During operations, workers will be required to wear slung masks and don them in the unlikely event of a chemical-agent release.
    READ MORE
    Protective Masks Issued Ahead of Plant Operations
    October 19, 2018
  • BGCAPP Monthly Recap: September 2018
    READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - September 2018
    October 1, 2018
  • An area supervisor gives technicians instructions on how to operate Static Detonation Chamber (SDC) support equipment at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. SDC staff moved to 24/7 shifts Sept. 17 to support the operation of plant systems.
    READ MORE
    Some Facility Staff Shift to 24/7 Schedule
    September 27, 2018
  • Attendees listen as Jeff Brubaker, site project manager, Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant, provides information on a proposed change to the GB munitions processing order at a public meeting Sept. 12.
    READ MORE
    Manager Proposes Shift in Processing Plans
    September 27, 2018
  • A community advisory group member asks a question at a public meeting Sept. 12 during a discussion about the possibility of using the Blue Grass Static Detonation Chamber to destroy problematic nerve-agent munitions after the mustard munitions are processed.
    READ MORE
    Nerve Agent Testing Proposed for Static Detonation Chamber
    September 26, 2018
  • Jeremy S., training specialist, instructs two operators on the correct way to safely secure waste containers, during an emergency response training session June 27.
    READ MORE
    Joint Venture Company Receives National Safety Award
    September 13, 2018
  • BGCAPP Monthly Recap: August 2018
    READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - August 2018
    August 31, 2018
  • The Blue Grass Explosive Destruction Technology shift plant manager explains the operation of the Static Detonation Chamber to plant staff Aug. 23. This equipment will process the Kentucky mustard munitions stockpile.
    READ MORE
    Static Detonation Chamber Equipment Now Operating in Remote Mode
    August 31, 2018
  • (Inset) Jeff Brubaker, site project manager, Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant (BGCAPP) as an intern with the Program Manager for Chemical Destruction around 1988. Brubaker explains the Munitions Washout System to U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell at BGCAPP in 2013.
    READ MORE
    Project Lead Began Demilitarization Career as Intern
    August 13, 2018
  • BGCAPP Monthly Recap: July 2018
    READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - July 2018
    August 3, 2018
  • Craig Williams, co-chair, Chemical Destruction Community Advisory Board (CDCAB), speaks about the potential for a Plan B for Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant hydrolysate processing at the June 13 Kentucky Chemical Demilitarization Citizens’ Advisory Commission and CDCAB meeting.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Manager, Community Group Discuss Wastewater Plans
    July 30, 2018
  • A technician watches as part of the Rocket Handling System is tested at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. This system was turned over to operations earlier this year.
    READ MORE
    More Than Half of Blue Grass Systems Turned Over to Operations
    July 27, 2018
  • Col. Joseph R. Kurz, left, assumed command of the Blue Grass Army Depot July 10. Lt. Col. Rodney D. McCutcheon, right, assumed command of the Blue Grass Chemical Activity June 14.
    READ MORE
    New Commanders Welcomed at Blue Grass
    July 23, 2018
  • READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - June 2018
    July 2, 2018
  • A specialist works with an inert projectile in a sealed glove box during training exercises prior to a GB sampling operation at the Blue Grass Army Depot.
    READ MORE
    Specialists Conduct Nerve Agent Sampling Operation
    June 26, 2018
  • Jeff Brubaker, site project manager, presents the new Program Executive Office, Assembled Chemical Weapons Alternatives mission and vision statements at the June 13 Kentucky Chemical Demilitarization Citizens’ Advisory Commission and Chemical Destruction Community Advisory Board quarterly meeting.
    READ MORE
    Manager Highlights Vision and Mission at Public Meeting
    June 21, 2018
  • A team lead listens as a Hazard Event Analysis Review Team member provides input to a main process system assessment at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant June 5.
    READ MORE
    Experts Take ‘HEART’ for Blue Grass Process Systems
    June 15, 2018
  • BGCAPP Monthly Recap: May 2018
    READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - May 2018
    June 4, 2018
  • Technicians work on a munitions transfer tray during operations procedure testing for 8-inch inert projectiles at the Munitions Washout System at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant in May.
    READ MORE
    System Starts Processing 8-inch Test Projectiles
    May 25, 2018
  • A worker installs a heating, ventilation and air conditioning system vent cover in the Munitions Demilitarization Building at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant.
    READ MORE
    Team Works to Ensure Critical Balance
    May 18, 2018
  • Technicians prepare the air filtration system for its first run at the Explosive Destruction Technology facility at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant.
    READ MORE
    Technicians Start Air Filtration System for First Time
    May 16, 2018
  • BGCAPP Monthly Recap: April 2018
    READ MORE
    BGCAPP Monthly Recap - April 2018
    May 3, 2018
  • A technician checks the filtration media level in a water demineralization tank at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant.
    READ MORE
    Water Systems Turned Over to Operations
    April 27, 2018
  • A safety team member hands an employee a pin reflecting a safety-culture belief at the first Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant safety fair.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Embraces Workplace Values
    April 24, 2018
  • An attendee evaluates waste items as part of a waste-management exercise at the first annual Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant safety fair.
    READ MORE
    Employee Teams Conduct Safety Event
    April 18, 2018
  • A technician observes as a munitions tray moves down a conveyor before a formal Systemization Demonstration Procedure of the Tray Handling System at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant.
    READ MORE
    Experts: 21 Systems Turned Over to Operations
    March 29, 2018
  • Craig Williams, co-chair, Chemical Destruction Community Advisory Board, provides information on assisting with developing a Plan B for hydrolysate processing at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant at a public meeting March 14.
    READ MORE
    Managers, Community Discuss Hydrolysate Contingency Options
    March 28, 2018
  • Plant managers discuss Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant dual-facility operations at a March 14 public meeting.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Mustard Munitions Destruction Schedule Accelerated
    March 26, 2018
  • Craig Williams, co-chair, Chemical Destruction Community Advisory Board, explains the formation of a new monthly working group to better respond to the faster-paced activities at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant at a public meeting in December 2017.
    READ MORE
    Demilitarization Community Board Forms New Working Group
    March 22, 2018
  • Oversight representatives watch as Control Room operators put the Energetics Batch Hydrolyzer system through its paces during its systemization demonstration procedure at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant in February. (Note: Areas in this image have been blurred in accordance with Department of Defense directives.)
    READ MORE
    Major Neutralization System Passes Demonstration
    March 21, 2018
  • A safety engineer points out potential workplace hazards around a cryogenic nitrogen tank to a team of medical and industrial hygiene personnel at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant.
    READ MORE
    Specialists Protect Plant Workforce from Physical Hazards
    March 7, 2018
  • A technician takes a reading on a thermal camera to determine if Metal Parts Treater (MPT) electromagnetic fields create hot spots in the MPT Room at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant.
    READ MORE
    Key Blue Grass Systems Tested
    February 28, 2018
  • An industrial hygienist tests air within the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant as nitrogen is introduced to plant systems in January.
    READ MORE
    Nitrogen Introduced into Blue Grass Plant for First Time
    February 21, 2018
  • A Blue Grass Army Depot firefighter cleans up a simulated hydrolysate spill at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant Laboratory as observers evaluate the activity Jan. 31.
    READ MORE
    Partners Practice Response in Integrated Spill Drill
    February 14, 2018
  • An engineer adjusts a setting on an aerosol generator that is used to test air filters at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant.
    READ MORE
    Technicians Use Mist and Light to Test Filters
    February 7, 2018
  • A multidisciplinary team participates in the Systemization Demonstration Procedure for the Energetics Neutralization System in the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant's Control Room.
    READ MORE
    Team Completes Demonstration of Key System
    January 30, 2018
  • Carl Reagan, toxic entry supervisor, watches as a toxic area entry trainee performs a task. Training tasks are designed to familiarize workers with wearing protective suits while performing their duties in areas of the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant that will be contaminated during operations.
    READ MORE
    Depth of Experience Critical to Operations Training
    January 23, 2018
  • Support workers assist in positioning a Toxic Area entry trainee on a suit sealing machine to safely seal him into his Demilitarization Protective Ensemble.
    READ MORE
    Protective Suit Sealer Ready for Operations
    December 28, 2017
  • State Agency Opens Permit Public Comment Period
    READ MORE
    State Agency Opens Permit Public Comment Period
    December 27, 2017
  • A maintenance worker in a protective suit climbs the stairs in a simulated work environment during a training session.
    READ MORE
    Specialized Suits Protect Workers from Chemical Agent
    December 21, 2017
  • Attendees listen as Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant managers provide a project update at a public meeting Dec. 13.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Managers Cite Progress, Speak to Goals
    December 21, 2017
  • As they train in Demilitarization Protective Ensembles, maintenance technicians practice moving with their air hoses during the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant’s first Toxic Area Training Nov. 27-30. The training allows employees to practice entries for maintenance and other essential activities into areas of the plant that will be contaminated during operations.
    READ MORE
    First Toxic Area Training at Blue Grass Plant
    December 15, 2017
  • A technician watches as a dummy M55 rocket, in its shipping and firing tube, is positioned on the Rocket Cutting Machine at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. This system will separate the warhead from the rocket motor and deliver the parts for their next steps of processing.
    READ MORE
    Rocket Processing Equipment Put Through Its Paces
    November 30, 2017
  • Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection inspectors and Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant environmental personnel observe as an Enhanced On-site Container munitions transport device is opened Nov. 7.
    READ MORE
    Oversight Agency Checks Munitions Transport Containers
    November 17, 2017
  • A Blue Grass Chemical Activity technician inspects projectiles stored at the Blue Grass Army Depot. To be able to work with the chemical materials, this worker was vetted through the U.S. Army’s Chemical Personnel Reliability Program.
    READ MORE
    U.S. Army Program Keeps Chemical Materials Safe
    November 17, 2017
  • A Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant team member slides a carbon filter into place in one of the Munitions Demilitarization Building filter banks. This filter is designed to trap substances that could otherwise volatilize or evaporate into the air.
    READ MORE
    Organic Air Emissions Topic of Kentucky Public Meeting
    October 30, 2017
  • A pipefitter files a column in preparation for welding a cable-tray support at the Explosive Destruction Technology site at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. The facility is out of lay-up after supplemental funding was received in fiscal year 2017.
    READ MORE
    Experts Renew Efforts at Blue Grass Mustard Destruction Project
    October 26, 2017
  • Guy Campbell, assistant project manager for plant management, Bechtel Parsons Blue Grass, stands outside the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant’s Control and Support Building. Campbell joined the project in July.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Welcomes New Assistant Project Manager
    October 13, 2017
  • Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant team members operate a specialized lifting device to safely load carbon filter trays in the main plant filter banks. The lift system was designed to keep workers safe from this repetitive heavy-lifting task.
    READ MORE
    Specialized System Assists in Repetitive Task
    October 11, 2017
  • Lt. Col. Scott Gould, commander, Blue Grass Chemical Activity, responds to questions during a mock press conference as part of the annual emergency preparedness exercise Sept. 20.
    READ MORE
    Partners Participate in Emergency Preparedness Exercise
    September 27, 2017
  • A Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant startup team member and a contractor test a robot as it moves a hopper in the Explosive Containment Room. The plant has 59 independent systems that must be integrated and tested during the systemization phase.
    READ MORE
    Plant Enhancements Prompt Permitting Updates
    September 26, 2017
  • Control Room operators run the Agent Neutralization System systemization demonstration procedure as government observers take note. The system completed demonstration ahead of schedule on Aug. 30.
    READ MORE
    Team Demonstrates Agent Neutralization System
    September 20, 2017
  • Suzanne Milchling, program executive officer, Assembled Chemical Weapons Alternatives, speaks with community members during the Kentucky Chemical Demilitarization Citizens’ Advisory Commission and Chemical Destruction Community Advisory Board meeting Sept. 13.
    READ MORE
    New Program Leader Meets Kentucky Community
    September 20, 2017
  • Workers install the cap on the ventilation stack for the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant Control and Support Building Filter Bank in 2013. Today, the CSB heating, ventilation and air conditioning system has passed its systemization demonstration procedure and will be turned over to operations.
    READ MORE
    Air-Handling System Passes Test
    September 11, 2017
  • An observer watches a projectile tray move down the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant Tray Handling System as part of a demonstration procedure. This system was turned over to operations Aug. 1.
    READ MORE
    Conveyor System Turned Over to Operations
    August 23, 2017
  • A technician demonstrates a device that will drill and tap projectiles to extract GB agent for Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant Laboratory analytical optimization and development needs.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass to Use Custom Device for Agent Sampling
    August 18, 2017
  • Wade Hollinger, deputy site project manager, Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant, explains the public participation process to an attendee at a July 19 permit modification public meeting.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Holds GB Sampling Public Meeting
    August 18, 2017
  • Suzanne Milchling, program executive officer, Assembled Chemical Weapons Alternatives, asks a question about projectile processing during a Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant tour Aug. 2.
    READ MORE
    New Program Leader Visits Blue Grass Plant
    August 16, 2017
  • Using a scale model for reference, a scientist points out details of a glovebox that will be fabricated and later used to monitor M55 rockets for chemical-agent contamination in the Unpack Area of the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant Munitions Demilitarization Building. The model was constructed to demonstrate the size, function and location of the glovebox within the room.
    READ MORE
    Engineers Design Munitions-Monitoring Equipment
    July 28, 2017
  • A Blue Grass Army Depot firefighter rappels down a wall inside the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant as part of a high-angle rescue training exercise. In the case of a rescue at altitude at the plant, the depot will handle rescue and extraction while plant medical staff will provide medical care.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Emergency Response Teams Train for High-Angle Rescues
    July 17, 2017
  • Blue Grass Chemical Activity workers inspect an igloo housing M55 rockets. The rockets are contained in shipping and firing tubes, which may contain polychlorinated biphenyls, better known as PCBs.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant to Hold Environmental Permitting Meeting July 20
    July 14, 2017
  • A technician uses a glove box to obtain chemical agent samples during Operation Swift Solution in December 2008. Experts will use a glove box much like this to obtain samples from 8-inch GB projectiles for Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant Laboratory monitoring testing purposes.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Submits Request to Sample Munitions
    June 29, 2017
  • A Laboratory technician injects a sample to test Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant filter-bank monitoring equipment in June 2017.
    READ MORE
    Personnel Prepare for Blue Grass Filter Bank Detector Test
    June 27, 2017
  • Community members listen to presentations regarding Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant progress at the Kentucky Chemical Demilitarization Citizens’ Advisory Commission and Chemical Destruction Community Advisory Board meeting June 14.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Leader Outlines Systemization Focus
    June 23, 2017
  • A scientist works on a gas chromatograph machine in the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant Laboratory to perform analysis on a sample being tested for Depot Area Air Monitoring System chemical-agent interference.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Lab Tests Rule Out Chemical Interference
    June 22, 2017
  • Community members look over items no longer needed by the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant, such as new and used tools, at the May 31 public viewing for the project’s first public auction of such items.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Holds First Public Auction of Excess Items
    June 14, 2017
  • Systemization personnel tag Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant Agent Collection System Room piping for ease of identification before performing a System Demonstration Procedure.
    READ MORE
    First Blue Grass Plant Agent System Turned Over to Operations
    June 8, 2017
  • A member of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine’s Committee on Chemical Demilitarization points out electrical conduit in the Munitions Demilitarization Building during a May 10 Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant tour.
    READ MORE
    Scientists Visit Blue Grass Plant
    June 6, 2017
  • An evaluator watches as Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant technicians clean up a simulated caustic leak during an April drill.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Conducts First Caustic Leak Drill
    May 23, 2017
  • A Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant operator opens a valve to allow demineralized water to flow into the plant’s 40,000-gallon Process Water Tank.
    READ MORE
    Portable Purifier Cleans Blue Grass Plant Process Water
    May 23, 2017
  • A Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant systemization team member watches a Metal Parts Treater airlock door operate during testing in March. Thorough testing, observation and notation are key components of the Pilot Test Demonstration Plan, required by regulators before pilot testing can begin.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Team Begins Pilot-Test Plan
    May 9, 2017
  • Craig Williams, co-chair, Chemical Destruction Community Advisory Board, speaks with Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons Executive Council ambassadors at a Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant meet-and-greet event April 4.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass, Partner Organizations Host International Ambassadors
    April 18, 2017
  • The Blue Grass Static Detonation Chamber in lay-up mode. This equipment will destroy the mustard munitions in the Blue Grass stockpile after main plant nerve-agent processing is complete.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Explosive Destruction Technology Receives Safety Approval
    April 13, 2017
  • A Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant technician in the Munitions Demilitarization Building communicates with a Control Room operator as they operate functions of the Rocket Shear Machine for the first time.
    READ MORE
    Technicians Test Blue Grass Rocket Shear Machine
    March 30, 2017
  • A Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant technician observes the rotation of one of the Energetics Batch Hydrolyzer drums during testing March 8.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Processing Equipment Makes First Move
    March 22, 2017
  • Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant instrument and control technicians calibrate instrumentation in the Utility Building to ensure it functions as designed.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Technicians Calibrate Plant Instrumentation
    March 22, 2017
  • Conrad Whyne, program executive officer, Assembled Chemical Weapons Alternatives, center, talks with local community members after a quarterly public meeting in Richmond, Kentucky, March 8.
    READ MORE
    Program Leader Bids Bluegrass Farewell, Offers Advice for Future
    March 17, 2017
  • Terry House, member, Chemical Destruction Community Advisory Board, listens as Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant leadership present an update on project progress at a public meeting March 8.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Management Provides Schedule Update
    March 14, 2017
  • Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant staff listen to Assembled Chemical Weapons Alternatives headquarters and Pueblo Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant employees during a Lessons Learned Summit Feb. 28.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Team Looks to Sister Site, Toward Operations
    March 14, 2017
  • A Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant mechanical fire technician talks to Control Room personnel as he checks electronic signals between the plant and the Blue Grass Army Depot satellite fire station during fire-alarm testing in the Munitions Demilitarization Building west filter house Feb. 21.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Technicians Test Plant Fire-Alarm Systems
    February 24, 2017
  • Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant Acquisition Services personnel check inventory numbers on piping that will be sold at public sales in spring 2017.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Teams Work Together to Reduce Project Costs
    February 22, 2017
  • Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant (BGCAPP) paramedics look at their letters of commendation after receiving U.S. Army Joint Munitions Command recognition Feb. 13 for their response to a medical emergency on the BGCAPP site in November 2016.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Paramedics Earn Army Recognition
    February 17, 2017
  • Workers unpack conventional munitions for a diagnostic scan at the Blue Grass Army Depot.
    READ MORE
    Officials: Kentucky Depot Has Lasting Mission
    January 30, 2017
  • A member of the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant environmental team points out details to Army environmental assessment team members in the Energetics Batch Hydrolyzer Room Jan. 25.
    READ MORE
    Army Environmental Assessment Team Visits Blue Grass Plant
    January 30, 2017
  • Systemization team members are pressure-testing piping systems at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant in preparation for operations.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Team Pressure Tests Plant Piping
    January 23, 2017
  • Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant (BGCAPP) technicians power down the hydraulic system for the Static Detonation Chamber as part of the postponement of the plant’s Explosive Destruction System.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Explosive Destruction Technology Postponed
    December 21, 2016
  • Jeff Brubaker, site project manager, Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant, provides a year-in-review update to Kentucky Chemical Demilitarization Citizens’ Advisory Commission and Chemical Destruction Community Advisory Board members Dec. 14.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Leaders Track Year’s Progress, Preview 2017
    December 21, 2016
  • Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant paramedics practice patient evaluation in the site ambulance.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Medical Staff Goes to 24/7 Response
    December 16, 2016
  • A Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant employee chooses an ornament with a wish-list item written on it from the Soldier’s Angels tree. Chosen items were collected and donated to benefit deployed troops and veterans.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Team Donates to Benefit Soldiers
    December 14, 2016
  • Sharon Valle, government property administrator, Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant, received the Army’s Defense Acquisition Workforce Individual Achievement Award at the Pentagon Dec. 8 for her leadership and direction of the plant’s property management system.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Team Member Receives Army Acquisition Honor
    December 9, 2016
  • A multi-departmental team of Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant technicians discusses programming the simulator that will be used to train Control Room operators.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Team Develops Simulator, Saves Project Funds
    December 7, 2016
  • Wade Hollinger, deputy site project manager, Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant, provides project information to potential vendors at a Nov. 16 vendor forum.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Hosts Vendor Forum
    November 23, 2016
  • A Blue Grass Army Depot firefighter rappels down the side of a Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant storage tank as part of a quarterly training activity.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Partners Perform High-Angle Rescue Training
    November 10, 2016
  • A Control Room operator monitors the initial light-off process of the first Thermal Oxidizer (TOX) unit, part of the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant’s pollution abatement system.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Starts Thermal Oxidizer Light-Off Process
    November 3, 2016
  • A Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant trainee attempts to put out a simulated fire with a laser-equipped extinguisher while a training specialist remotely controls the situation
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Fire Training Goes High Tech
    October 27, 2016
  • A Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant worker demonstrates proper use of a Horizontal Life Line as he pulls cable on a pipe rack during the plant’s construction phase. The HLLs are designed to prevent falls from heights.
    READ MORE
    Team Members Inspect Blue Grass Fall-Protection Equipment
    October 26, 2016
  • Munitions handlers place ACWA Test Equipment training munitions in the Blue Grass Explosive Destruction Technology (EDT) Service Magazine Sept. 1. These dummy projectiles will be used to test equipment, processes and handling techniques before the start of EDT operations.
    READ MORE
    Test Munitions Delivered for Blue Grass Explosive Destruction Technology Training
    September 27, 2016
  • Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant leaders Jeff Brubaker, left, and Ron Hink speak to Kentucky Chemical Demilitarization Citizens’ Advisory Commission and Chemical Destruction Community Advisory Board members during a meeting at Eastern Kentucky University Sept. 14. The advisory groups hold quarterly public meetings to allow community members to stay informed on project progress.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Leaders Report Testing Phase More Than Halfway Complete
    September 22, 2016
  • Michael Bryant, director, Madison County Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness Program (CSEPP), handles emergency response communications during the 2015 CSEPP annual exercise. Photo courtesy Madison County Emergency Management Agency.
    READ MORE
    Kentucky Emergency Preparedness Exercise Set for Sept. 21
    September 19, 2016
  • A Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant munitions handler tries on a Demilitarization Protective Ensemble during a training session. The suit is designed to protect the wearer from chemical agent exposure.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Personnel Start Protective Gear Training
    September 15, 2016
  • The newly completed Blue Grass Army Depot satellite fire station is ready for occupancy to support the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant facilities. Initial staffing of the new station is scheduled for Sept. 19.
    READ MORE
    New Blue Grass Satellite Fire Station Declared Ready for Occupancy
    September 8, 2016
  • READ MORE
    Blue Grass Lab Receives Samples, Prepares for Operations
    August 26, 2016
  • Bill Buchanan, environmental permitting manager, Bechtel Parsons Blue Grass, explains the permitting process during a public meeting Dec. 14, 2015.
    READ MORE
    Regulators Issue Draft Environmental Permits for Blue Grass Explosive Destruction Technology Facility
    August 16, 2016
  • A Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant worker fills an excavated area with crushed limestone on the Waste Transfer Station site. The station will provide a storage and shipping area for waste leaving the plant during operations.
    READ MORE
    Construction Begins on Blue Grass Waste Transfer Station
    August 15, 2016
  • The carbon filtration system for the Explosive Destruction Technology Service Magazine pictured here has been installed and systemized. This filter provides engineering controls for the building and is required for the certification to store chemical weapons.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Completes Explosive Destruction Technology Service Magazine
    August 9, 2016
  • Kelli Schifferer, human resources manager, Bechtel Parsons Blue Grass.
    READ MORE
    New Blue Grass Human Resources Manager Provides Wealth of Experience
    July 28, 2016
  • A Madison County resident reviews supporting data for the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant air permit at the Blue Grass Chemical Stockpile Outreach Office in Richmond, Kentucky.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Clean Air Act Permit Renewal Requested
    July 21, 2016
  • A systemization team member checks the output of one of the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant’s Standby Diesel Generators. The generators will provide back-up power to the plant in the event of a power loss.
    READ MORE
    Start-Up Team Tests Generators at Kentucky Plant
    July 19, 2016
  • A Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant maintenance worker removes an old weather-strip seal from an Enhanced On-site Container (EONC) that will be used to safely transport munitions from storage to the plant during operations. The maintenance team is refurbishing EONCs provided by two destruction facilities that completed their missions.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Refurbishes Munitions Transport Containers, Saves Millions
    June 28, 2016
  • READ MORE
    Blue Grass Welcomes New Commanders
    June 21, 2016
  • Jeff Brubaker, site project manager, Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant, and Ron Hink, project manager, Bechtel Parsons Blue Grass, provide rocket motor disposal information at a June 8 public meeting.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Schedule, Rocket Motor Disposal Focus of Public Meeting
    June 16, 2016
  • A Blue Grass Chemical Activity (BGCA) worker observes as another worker practices loading dummy munitions onto a metal tray for placement in a secure transport container May 25. BGCA workers recently began a comprehensive munitions handling training program to ready them for operations.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Partners Begin Training for Safe Loading of Chemical Munitions
    June 16, 2016
  • Technicians package a Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant (BGCAPP) site groundwater sample for testing. To protect a freshwater aquifer that flows beneath the site, BGCAPP completed groundwater baseline testing in April.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Completes Baseline Groundwater Sampling
    June 9, 2016
  • Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant workers inspect the Munitions Washout System in the Munitions Demilitarization Building. This system is part of a project design change to eliminate the munitions washout process.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Munitions Washout Elimination Study Released
    May 31, 2016
  • Workers inventory excess equipment at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant’s new Richmond Mall property disbursement facility in May.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Moves Property Disbursement to Richmond Mall
    May 25, 2016
  • An Information, Systems and Technology Group (IS&T) worker installs a network telephone on a desk in the Blue Grass Chemical Agent Destruction Pilot Plant’s newly completed office space in the Richmond Mall. The new area hosts approximately 50 workers, specifically engineering and IS&T Group personnel.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Expands Richmond Mall Operations
    May 20, 2016
  • A paramedic checks a worker’s vital signs in the new Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant Medical Facility, which opened for full project support in April. This facility will support occupational screenings, drug and alcohol testing, accident response and decontamination activities in the unlikely event they should be needed.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Medical Facility Now Operational
    April 29, 2016
  • A worker signs for the delivery of three Outside Operations Support Facility modules to the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant April 12. This 12-module building will support the Explosive Destruction Technology mission by providing worker services, including protective-gear issue, changing and locker facilities and a lunch room.
    READ MORE
    First Modules Arrive for Blue Grass Explosive Destruction Technology Support Facility
    April 19, 2016
  • A laboratory monitoring technician opens the door to one of the Depot Area Air Monitoring System perimeter monitoring enclosures. Eight of these enclosures have been placed around the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant site on the Blue Grass Army Depot to provide a record of air samples taken daily in the area.
    READ MORE
    Perimeter Air Monitoring System Installed as Additional Safety Measure at Blue Grass Plant
    April 18, 2016
  • Craig Williams, co-chair, Chemical Destruction Community Advisory Board, and Rep. Rita Smart, D-Ky., address the Kentucky House regarding House Bill 106. This bill, signed into law by the governor April 6, provides a more realistic designation for wastes from the chemical agent destruction process.
    READ MORE
    Kentucky Governor Signs Blue Grass Plant Waste Code Bill into Law
    April 11, 2016
  • U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, center, meets with leadership of the Blue Grass Army Depot and Craig Williams, Chemical Destruction Community Advisory Board co-chair, March 23 at Eastern Kentucky University to receive updates about depot missions.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Managers Update U.S. Senate Majority Leader
    March 30, 2016
  • A Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant systemization team member checks steps on a compressed-air system test procedures checklist. This system will provide pressurized air for instrumentation, plant air and the plant’s Life Support System.
    READ MORE
    Compressed-Air System Testing Underway at Blue Grass Plant
    March 29, 2016
  • A systemization team member tests valving in the Supercritical Water Oxidation Processing Building in March 2016. The Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant has streamlined management for the systemization phase of the project.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Streamlines Start-Up Management for Systemization
    March 23, 2016
  • Chemical Destruction Community Advisory Board (CDCAB) member Rev. Robert Blythe, second from right, asks a question during a Kentucky Chemical Demilitarization Citizens’ Advisory Commission and CDCAB meeting March 9. Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant leaders provided project updates as part of this quarterly public meeting.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Leaders Discuss Project Progress with Community
    March 16, 2016
  • Eastern Kentucky University students discuss hiring opportunities at the Blue Grass plant with Bechtel Parsons Blue Grass representatives at a university job fair March 2.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Partners with Local University for Hiring
    March 4, 2016
  • Tom Edwards, biologist assigned to the Blue Grass Army Depot, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, smiles as he prepares for a prescribed burn of depot native grasslands. This planned and scheduled activity helps the grasslands flourish by burning back non-native species to allow the native ones more access to resources.
    READ MORE
    Biologist Maintains Native Grasslands Around Blue Grass Plant
    February 25, 2016
  • The Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant medical director and medical services coordinator check out a gurney in the project’s new ambulance Feb. 9. A new ambulance purpose-built for the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant arrived Feb. 1.
    READ MORE
    New Ambulance Arrives at Blue Grass Plant
    February 12, 2016
  • A Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant start-up team member communicates with personnel in the Control Room as he checks continuity on Rocket Handling System equipment.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Performs Testing and Verification Activities
    February 2, 2016
  • Katherine Hammack, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations, Energy and Environment, views a monitor in the Control Room during her visit to the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant Jan. 13, 2016. Hammack visited the plant to receive an update on chemical weapons destruction in Kentucky.
    READ MORE
    Assistant Secretary of the Army Visits Blue Grass Plant
    January 21, 2016
  • Howard Logue, director, and Kelley McBride, left, public information officer, both of the Madison County Emergency Management Agency (EMA), inspect equipment that will be installed in the soon-to-be-completed EMA headquarters building.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Welcomes New County Emergency Management Agency Director
    January 19, 2016
  • Jeff Brubaker, Army site project manager, Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Site Project Manager Discusses 2016 Goals
    January 13, 2016
  • Workers install the first structural steel on the Explosive Destruction Technology Enclosure Building (EEB) at the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant Dec. 29, 2015. The EEB will house the Static Detonation Chamber that is slated to destroy the mustard munitions in the Blue Grass stockpile.
    READ MORE
    First Structural Steel Goes Up on Blue Grass Explosive Destruction Technology Enclosure Building
    January 7, 2016
  • A member of the audience studies the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant Year-in-Review presentation during the Kentucky Chemical Demilitarization Citizens’ Advisory Commission and Chemical Destruction Community Advisory Board quarterly public meeting Dec. 9.
    READ MORE
    Community Gets Blue Grass Plant Update, Glance Ahead
    December 23, 2015
  • A Blue Grass Army Depot Quality Recycling Program worker evaluates wire and cable picked up in December from the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant site as part of the plant’s recycling program. The program has brought in almost $100,000 that directly benefits the depot’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation program for Soldiers and their families.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Project Recycling Program Benefits Soldiers
    December 21, 2015
  • A Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant worker checks a pallet of simulated M55 rockets as they are unloaded from a truck into a storage warehouse Dec. 8. These rockets will be used to test the systems and equipment of the plant prior to operations.
    READ MORE
    Test Munitions Arrive at Blue Grass Plant
    December 14, 2015
  • READ MORE
    Blue Grass Team Makes Progress at Explosive Destruction Technology Site
    December 3, 2015
  • A program stakeholder asks a question at a Dec. 16, 2014, public meeting where Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant representatives discussed mitigation of cyanide formation in the munitions neutralization process. A public meeting similar to this one will be held Dec. 14, 2015, at Eastern Kentucky University to discuss project permitting activities.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Project Submits Permit Revision, Encourages Public Involvement
    December 1, 2015
  • John Barton, chief scientist, Bechtel Parsons Blue Grass, holds a sample of supercritical water oxidation (SCWO) effluent while briefing community stakeholders during a Secondary Waste Working Group meeting Nov. 10. A team from the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant is working to ensure the SCWO process functions as intended during operations.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Scientists Provide Update on Supercritical Water Oxidation Activities
    November 18, 2015
  • A Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant employee views test samples in the Laboratory. Edgewood Chemical Biological Center personnel will conduct agent analysis to fulfill Chemical Weapons Convention treaty requirements in a similar on-site laboratory, beginning in 2017.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Team Requests Permit Changes for Treaty Sampling
    November 12, 2015
  • Ron Hink, incoming project manager, Bechtel Parsons Blue Grass (BPBG), left, observes as Doug Omichinski, outgoing project manager, BPBG, points out details in the Control and Support Building during a plant tour Oct. 27, 2015.
    READ MORE
    New Manager Leads Blue Grass Systems Contract
    November 6, 2015
  • An aerial view of the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant on Oct. 16, 2015. The project marks a major milestone with a media day for the completion of construction this month.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Completes Construction Safely, On Schedule
    October 16, 2015
  • READ MORE
    Crews Prepare Site for Static Detonation Chamber
    October 16, 2015
  • An ironworker watches as a concrete form is lifted into position for the second story of the Munitions Demilitarization Building in October 2010. The Blue Grass project’s asset management department works to be good stewards of government assets by transferring items such as these forms to other government agencies, entities or through public auction and return of the money to the project.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Project Saves Government Millions Through Property Transfers
    September 21, 2015
  • Engineer Sandra Davis, quality specialist, helps an eighth-grade student understand the principles of engineering by building a bridge made from Popsicle sticks during Engineers Week in February 2015.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Engineer Sparks Students’ Interest
    September 14, 2015
  • Chuck Mecham, training specialist, provides project workers with safety basics as he prepares to demonstrate how to operate a scissor lift, often used on the Blue Grass site for performing construction and maintenance duties.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Training Department Transitions as Project Does
    August 13, 2015
  • In September 2010, workers placed the third Energetics Neutralization Reactor on its pad in the Munitions Demilitarization Building at the Blue Grass plant. The energetics neutralization system is currently undergoing modification to decrease the formation of hydrogen cyanide in the neutralization process.
    READ MORE
    News from the BGCAPP Construction Site, August 2015
    August 13, 2015
  • Blue Grass engineers and technical personnel volunteer their time in area science, technology, engineering and math-oriented activities such as science fairs, classroom events and robotics.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Engineers Reach Out to Local Students
    August 13, 2015
  • The Blue Grass plant partners with Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection personnel, seen here on an inspection tour of the construction site, to ensure the project meets or exceeds all of the commonwealth’s environmental regulations.
    READ MORE
    Protecting Human Health and Environment is Top Priority
    July 15, 2015
  • Control Room operators monitor the factory-acceptance testing of the Static Detonation Chamber unit at the Dynasafe workshop in Kristinehamn, Sweden.
    READ MORE
    News from the BGCAPP Construction Site, July 2015
    July 15, 2015
  • This postcard shows the destruction from a lightning-induced explosion that occurred at the Lake Denmark Naval Ammunition Storage Depot on the Picatinny Arsenal, New Jersey, on July 10, 1926. This explosion was the impetus for the formation of the Department of Defense Explosives Safety Board, which provides oversight to the United States’ explosive storage and operations.
    READ MORE
    Oversight Helps Reduce Risk at Blue Grass Plant
    July 15, 2015
  • Edgewood Chemical Biological Center (ECBC) technicians prepare a drum to properly receive process waste during the 2008-2009 Operation Swift Solution. ECBC personnel will return to the Blue Grass site to conduct the Explosive Destruction Technology treaty sampling operation.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Plant Partners Planning Ahead to Meet International Treaty Requirements
    June 10, 2015
  • Workers finish columns in the cafeteria area of the Personnel Maintenance Building, where personnel will have lockers, showers and a break room while the project is in operations.
    READ MORE
    News from the BGCAPP Construction Site, June 2015
    June 10, 2015
  • Dr. Doug Hindman, Kentucky Chemical Demilitarization Citizens’ Advisory Commission (CAC) chair, left, chats with Sheila Pressley, CAC member, at a public meeting for the Blue Grass chemial munitions destruction project.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Advisory Commission Chair a Driving Force Behind Community Involvement
    June 10, 2015
  • Stephanie Jakus, instrumentation and electrical maintenance supervisor, right, inspects electrical equipment that has been locked out/tagged out to ensure no power is flowing through those circuits before anyone performs work on them.
    READ MORE
    Workforce Changes as Blue Grass Project Shifts Into Systemization
    May 11, 2015
  • Workers assemble two of the six Medical Facility modules at the Blue Grass construction site. When complete, this building will provide resources to assess and treat patients 24 hours per day, seven days per week during systemization and operations.
    READ MORE
    News from the BGCAPP Construction Site, May 2015
    May 11, 2015
  • James Duncan, Explosive Destruction Technology (EDT) project safety specialist, top right, discusses a storm sewer excavation with Patrick Eidson, EDT civil superintendent.
    READ MORE
    A Day in the Life of a Blue Grass Safety Specialist
    May 11, 2015
  • In 1941, steel was conserved for the war effort, so the Blue Grass Army Depot’s water system pipes were made from white oak planks, similar to the manufacture of barrels or casks, then wrapped with thin bands of steel and coated in asphalt. They were replaced long ago with modern materials.
    READ MORE
    Where Does the Blue Grass Plant Get its Water?
    April 14, 2015
  • A Blue Grass worker grinds the edge of a plenum, a pressurized steel housing that acts as a transition point between Munitions Demilitarization Building blast valves and ductwork. An installed plenum can be seen above his head.
    READ MORE
    News from the BGCAPP Construction Site, April 2015
    April 14, 2015
  • Mechanical Field Engineer Phil Aikele, nicknamed “Turnover Phil,” inspects a motor on the Rocket Cutting Machine. Aikele is part of the turnover team that is responsible for making sure the Blue Grass plant’s mechanical systems are ready to move into the systemization, or testing, phase after their installation.
    READ MORE
    'Turnover Phil' Brings 40 Years of Mechanical Experience to Blue Grass Plant
    April 14, 2015
  • From left, Lt. Col. Andrew “Jack” Morgan, Blue Grass Chemical Activity commander; Ramesh Melarkode, Blue Grass Army Depot representative; Doug Omichinski, Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant (BGCAPP) project manager; and Jeff Brubaker, BGCAPP site project manager, pay attention to a speaker at a quarterly public stakeholder meeting. These men and their respective organizations work as a team toward the safe destruction of the Blue Grass chemical stockpile.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Partners: Shared Mission, Shared Resources
    March 10, 2015
  • Workers install fire-proofing panels in the Container Handling Building. One of the last buildings to be constructed on the Blue Grass site, this building will be the first step into the destruction process for the chemical munitions.
    READ MORE
    News from the BGCAPP Construction Site, March 2015
    March 10, 2015
  • The Bechtel High Angle Rope Rescue Team conducts a confined-space training exercise with the Blue Grass Army Depot Fire Department. The Blue Grass project partners with the depot for enhanced site emergency response.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Army Depot Provides Enhanced Emergency Response
    March 10, 2015
  • Diane Osbourne, small-business advocate, makes notes as she hosts a tour of the Blue Grass project for vendors who wish to service the project. Osbourne and her associates maintain a “mentor to success” mindset to give small and local vendors the best chances of success in bidding on and executing Blue Grass contracts.
    READ MORE
    Blue Grass Small-Business Advocate Mentors Vendors to Success
    February 10, 2015
  • Electricians install a public address speaker in the Munitions Demilitarization Building. This system will allow one-way communications within the building to keep the workforce informed and to facilitate project functionality.
    READ MORE
    News from the BGCAPP Construction Site, February 2015
    February 10, 2015
  • The formerly congested area down the middle of the Blue Grass site looks nothing like it did just a few short months ago, when it was filled with equipment, craft utility sheds and trailers, and other construction-related material. It is now being graded and graveled to a facility apron for storm-water runoff. Water collected here will be funneled into the plant’s managed catch-basin system.
    READ MORE
    The BGCAPP Team’s 2015 New Year’s Resolutions
    January 14, 2015
  • Workers prepare the Blue Grass Entry Control Facility for roof placement. This building, the plant’s security entry control point, will be turned over to the systemization team this year.
    READ MORE
    News from the BGCAPP Construction Site, January 2015
    January 14, 2015
  • The Star Team was responsible for heading up the Voluntary Protection Program recertification effort last year.
    READ MORE
    Safety Culture Leads to Blue Grass Project Recertification
    January 14, 2015

Connect with PEO ACWA

Sign Up for Our Newsletter

Sign up for the Connect with ACWA e-newsletters to have information sent directly to your inbox. It’s a great way to stay connected with destruction plant activities.

Sign Up

Recent Tweets
  • Terms of Use
  • Freedom of Information Act
  • Privacy and Security Policy
  • iSALUTE
  • Archive
  • Welcome to ACWA
  • Home
  • PEO ACWA Pages
    • About PEO ACWA
    • Team Biographies
    • Chain of Command
    • Program Timeline
    • Public Involvement
  • PEO ACWA Media Library
    • PEO ACWA Media Library (Main)
    • PEO ACWA News
    • PEO ACWA Videos
    • PEO ACWA Facts
    • PEO ACWA Press Releases
    • PEO ACWA Briefings and Reports
    • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Blue Grass Pages
    • BGCAPP Homepage
    • BGCAPP Project Stages
    • BGCAPP Destruction Technologies
    • BGCAPP Team Biographies
    • Environmental Activities at BGCAPP
    • Public Involvement at BGCAPP
    • Operation Swift Solution
  • BGCAPP Media Library
    • BGCAPP Media Library (Main)
    • BGCAPP News
    • BGCAPP Videos
    • BGCAPP Facts
    • BGCAPP Press Releases
    • BGCAPP Briefings, Reports and Downloads
  • Pueblo Pages
    • PCAPP Homepage
    • PCAPP Project Stages
    • PCAPP Destruction Technologies
    • PCAPP Team Biographies
    • Environmental Activities at PCAPP
    • Public Involvement at PCAPP
  • PCAPP Media Library
    • PCAPP Media Library (Main)
    • PCAPP News
    • PCAPP Videos
    • PCAPP Facts
    • PCAPP Press Releases
    • PCAPP Briefings, Reports, and Downloads
  • Archive
  • Job and Business Opportunities
  • Contact Us
  • Freedom of Information Act
  • Privacy and Security Policy
Program Executive Office, Assembled Chemical Weapons Alternatives (PEO ACWA)