The controversy over a proposed chemical test in northern Oklahoma has been suspended by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security following organized opposition by residents.
The DHS made the announcement Thursday saying it suspended its plans to release chemicals on the Chilocco Indian School campus as part of a test for a biological attack. The opposition from residents around Newkirk as well as far north as Arkansas City, Kansas apparently sparked the government to postpone things.
Homeland Security issued a statement, stating, “During the public comment period, DHS received many comments objecting to the proposed tests at the Chilocco Indian Agricultural School. Based on the comments received from tribes, states, and local governments, as well as the concerns expressed from residents in the proposed test area, DHS is suspending plans to perform the proposed tests. While the work remains very important for the security of our nation, further evaluation will be conducted to identify the best location for future testing. ”
Word of the proposed test was announced last month but residents petitioned against it. And the Council of Confederated Chilocco Tribes also came out formally against the project.
The DHS indicated it planned to release inert chemicals that it said were harmless to humans. The experiment was designed to see how residents and structures might withstand a possible chemical attack by terrorists.