Bismarck, ND - The Hazardous Chemicals Preparedness and Response Program, administered by the North Dakota Department of Emergency Services (NDDES) collected more than $129,000 in chemical storage fees during reporting year 2008. These fees are divided equally between NDDES to cover program expenses and Local Emergency Planning Commissions (LEPCs) located in each county. The LEPCs may use the money to enhance emergency management capabilities in areas such as training, exercising, equipment, response and salaries.

On a yearly basis, facility owners and operators are required to report the inventory of hazardous and toxic chemicals stored across North Dakota. Typical facilities reporting are bulk fuel plants, anhydrous ammonia plants, propane plants, agricultural processing plants and energy and oil producing sites.

Revenues are anticipated to increase an average of around five percent per year. This growth is mostly due to continuing growth and changes in North Dakota's agricultural, manufacturing and energy industries.

Program Quick Facts:

• More than $129,000 collected during 2008 program year
  
• More than 3,500 facilities comprised of over 900 different entities report yearly
  
• 519 spill incidents reported
  
• 70 incidents required emergency response
  
• Common materials involved were ammonia, gasoline, diesel fuel, fertilizer spills, crude oil, sulfur dioxide, motor oil, chemical fires and hydraulic fluid