From Developer Sues DOD Over Cleanup Costs for Unexploded Munitions in Colorado

How could the range usage in Arapahoe County affect the National Guard Bureau?

Possible What happens if… A possibility worth considering, not a forecast.

National Guard Bureau may face increased oversight due to range contamination issues The Air National Guard's use of the Lowry Bombing and Gunnery Range in Arapahoe County is situated on land with a history of unexploded ordnance (UXO). Reports detail that the site, which was active from 1937 to around 1963, required extensive cleanup efforts, including the discovery of 5,739 targets and 274 items during a 2020 cleanup. This ongoing risk and the associated legal disputes over cleanup costs could necessitate increased administrative oversight and regulatory attention from the National Guard Bureau regarding the Air National Guard's operational procedures in the area.

Reported by 1 independent outlet Written Friday

Effect: Mild negative
How direct: Stated in the reporting
When: Over the long term
The story: No new developments lately

How it reaches National Guard Bureau

Reported by news outlets

The Lowry Range site in Arapahoe County contains historical munitions, leading to a lawsuit filed against the Department of Defense regarding cleanup costs. The site required risk reduction before development could proceed, and cleanup efforts found items like a rocket warhead and over 424 lbs of.50 caliber ammunition. As the National Guard Bureau provides structural oversight and leadership for the Air National Guard, the documented history of UXO and ongoing cleanup disputes at the operational range could lead to increased administrative and regulatory scrutiny of the Air National Guard's activities in the county.

1 report connects these two. Brind only summarizes; follow a link to read the reporting itself.
- westword.com Oct 29

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The facts so far

As reported. Each one links to where it comes from.

The Lowry Bombing and Gunnery Range served as an active military range from 1937 to around 1963.westword.com
Cleanup efforts in 2020 allegedly found 5,739 targets and 274 items considered safe.westword.com
The cleanup included items such as a rocket warhead, a fuze, and over 424 lbs of.50 caliber ammunition.westword.com
A lawsuit was filed against the DOD to force payment for cleaning up unexploded bombs and unused munitions.westword.com

Why it matters

For the National Guard Bureau, which oversees the Air National Guard, the operational use of contaminated sites presents a persistent administrative and legal risk. The historical presence of unexploded ordnance and the associated disputes over cleanup costs and liability require continuous federal management and oversight, potentially diverting resources and attention from other strategic missions.

This is not an isolated issue; the reports note that other locations in the Denver metro area, such as William F. Hayden Park, also have signs warning hikers of potential artillery shells, indicating a broader, regional challenge regarding legacy military munitions in Colorado.

What we don't know yet

What specific regulatory changes, if any, will be implemented by the DOD or CDPHE regarding range usage on contaminated land?
Will the National Guard Bureau require specific operational changes or additional risk assessments for Air National Guard units using this range?

What would change this answer

The DOD agrees to reimburse Southshore Recovery Acquisition, LLC for cleanup costs.The immediate legal pressure and financial dispute surrounding the site would lessen, potentially reducing the administrative burden on the National Guard Bureau.

The CDPHE issues a new, stricter mandate on munitions handling at the range.The National Guard Bureau would likely need to enforce new, more rigorous operational standards across Air National Guard units using the site, increasing oversight requirements.

Who else could feel it

Other possible ripples from the same event.

Reporting

westword.comOct 29

Keep going

The full eventDeveloper Sues DOD Over Cleanup Costs for Unexploded Munitions in Colorado Everything aboutNational Guard Bureau

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