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EPA chief says hands tied by Groom Lake court ruling

WASHINGTON -- Environmental Protection Agency Director Carol Browner said Thursday she would like to release reports on her agency's inspections of the classified Air Force base at Groom Lake, but she can't because of a court order.

"I believe the public has a right to know, and I would certainly like to see that happen, but it is not within our authority. This is not an EPA issue per se," Browner said, referring to a federal court order issued Wednesday by U.S. District Judge Philip Pro of Las Vegas.

Pro dismissed a lawsuit by former workers at the Lincoln County base who alleged environmental crimes were committed there. Pro said a trial would risk national security, allowing the government to continue its ban on information about the base, 35 miles west of Alamo.

"Inspections were undertaken (last April) as part of litigation, and there is an agreement for regular inspections," Browner said.

Browner talked about Groom Lake after a meeting Thursday with Sens. Harry Reid and Richard Bryan, both D-Nev., in Reid's office. The senators requested the meeting to discuss air quality in Southern Nevada.

Twice this year, carbon monoxide levels in Las Vegas have exceeded federal standards. But those levels were recorded at only one of 10 air monitoring stations.

Clark County officials have said the station, at East Charleston Boulevard and 29th Street, is an anomaly because nearby trees and structures create a pocket for carbon monoxide.

Browner did not say the EPA would reconsider its use of the monitor.

"We are going to follow up with the local community to make sure that the technical side of this is working properly," Browner said. "It's important that the experts look at what may or may not have been occurring with respect to the monitors individually."

Reid said EPA officials are scheduled to meet Wednesday with Clark County and state officials to discuss the station and other air quality issues.