AP Features, November 3rd, 2007
The discovery of a toxic material called "the dew of death" at Rocky Mountain Arsenal Wildlife Refuge has forced the closure the refuge and the cancellation of four wildlife, natural and photo programs this weekend.
Sherry James, a park ranger, told the Rocky Mountain News that about 150 people were expected to take part.
The refuge was closed Wednesday after a blistering chemical weapon developed and produced during both World Wars, called Lewsite, was found in a restricted area near the refuge. State officials said it could be a week to months before the refuge re-opens while the area is examined.
Lewsite, also called lewisite, had the fragance of geraniums. First attempts to develop it as a weapon occurred during World War I, but it was not used. It was not used in World War II, either.
The chemical is used with mustard gas and can cause vomiting, pulmonary edema and other effects, eventually leading to death. The chemical can penetrate rubber and clothing.
Workers were digging a trench around the Lime Basins site connected to the 1943 production of the deadly chemical, which is an oily, colorless liquid in its pure form, when air monitors detected traces of it.
"This work was in an area of the arsenal that was known for disposal of chemical agents," Dr. Ned Calonge, Colorado Chief Medical Officer said in a statement Thursday. "The closure of the refuge is the appropriate precautionary measure until we are certain there is no risk to human health."
Workers, who were wearing protective clothing, were decontaminated and none showed any symptoms of coming into contact with the blistering agent.
