Hill AFB looking at fuel cleanup options

Hill AFB looking at fuel cleanup options
The Associated Press
Posted : Wednesday Dec 17, 2008 10:07:36 EST

AIR FORCE BASE -- Hill Air Force Base is still working to clean up two external fuel tanks dumped in the Great Salt Lake by an F-16 pilot.

The pilot dropped the tanks Friday about three miles north of Antelope Island after the plane's sensors indicated a fire condition shortly after take off. The pilot landed safely.

Col. Linda Medler, 75th Air Base Wing commander, says in a statement that Hill Air Force Base initially planned to burn off the jet fuel but weather stalled the plan. Hill is now looking at whether to try the burn again, bring in equipment to pump the fuel out or let it degrade naturally.

Jeff Salt, director of the Great Salt Lakekeeper, says much of the fuel will probably evaporate, but the rest could pose a threat to birds in the area.


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