Ellsworth to hold fuel spill exercise Wednesday

ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. — The 28th Bomb Wing will conduct a major fuel spill exercise on Wednesday, July 14. The exercise will evaluate the ability to quickly respond to a major fuel spill and mitigate potential environmental impacts.

Residents on base and in surrounding areas can be expected to hear loudspeaker announcements, sirens, and see emergency response vehicles.

Lakes and ponds on base may be dyed green to simulate fuel; the dye is non-toxic and will dissipate.

Those traveling on to the installation should plan to arrive early, calling in advance to ensure appointments and services are not affected.

Vehicles will be allowed to enter at the Bismarck (commercial) Gate but will encounter a detour via Twining Street and George Drive. This will help avoid traffic around the emergency response on Ellsworth Street.