Hidden in Plain Sight: The US Government’s Use of the Choctaw Nation as an Environmental Toxics Dumping Ground

Abstract

Non-Indians have long used Indian reservations as dumping grounds for environmental toxics. My preliminary research suggests an urgent need for further study of the impact of the US-government-owned McAlester Army Ammunitions Plant in the Choctaw Nation on the health of my people and homeland. The plant detonates 45,000 pounds of explosives daily, and tests of the soil, water, and air reveal high levels of cancer-causing toxics. Indians in the area experience numerous health problems, including elevated rates of cancer. Additional research would open the door for environmental remediation and prevention of further harm to tribal members and the environment.