The state Department of Environmental Quality is seeking written public comment on an air contaminant permit for the Georia Pacific mill in Halsey.

The DEQ is proposing to allow the mill to install a new natural gas- or oil-fired boiler as well as a dust control system on the No. 1 paper machine at the plant. The permit would be in effect for five years.

Last week Georgia Pacific said it was in the process of taking steps to secure its operation in case Pope & Talbot's neighboring pulp mill closed. The Pope & Talbot mill supplies water, steam and compressed air through its boiler room operation to the GP site.

Written comments concerning the proposal are due at the DEQ's Salem office by 5 p.m. July 3. Comments should be addressed to Patty Hamman, 750 Front St. N.E., No. 120, Salem, OR 97301-1039.

Copies of the draft permit are at the Harrisburg Public Library and online at www.oregon.gov/DEQ. For more information, contact Jim Boylan at the DEQ at (800) 349-7677 or boylan.jim@deq.state.or.us.

Democrat-Herald