The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality has approved The Dow Chemical Co.'s plans to inform the public about dioxin and its potential health risks and is requiring an array of pamphlets and materials be developed, printed and erected at public riverside locations. Some also will be distributed to homes and businesses, and placed at libraries and township halls.

The plans are considered immediate response activities intended to keep people from exposure to the chemical manufacturing byproduct until a permanent solution is in place. Completion of the DEQ-assigned tasks are a requirement of the company's operating permit issued in June 2003.

"This plan will help the citizens of Midland and other regional communities stay informed about dioxins and learn what they can do to reduce potential exposure to themselves and their families," DEQ Director Steven E. Chester said. "This is a positive step forward in efforts to address the issue and keep the community healthy."

Dow already has posted temporary signs at parks, and has set up handwashing stations for parkgoers.

"We're glad to be able to move forward with this," said Dow spokeswoman Anne Ainsworth. "We've always felt that good information is in the best interest of the community to enable them to make informed decisions."

Dow will contract with the Saginaw Bay Watershed Initiative network to develop the literature expected to be in place at community information centers, including the Grace A. Dow Memorial Library, by Dec. 1.

Pamphlets will contain background information on dioxins and furans, information about the corrective action process and health information from the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization and others. Homeowners will be told how regulations affect their property and how to handle the movement or disposal of contaminated soils.

Additional materials will detail how residents can reduce exposure at home, and how workers and visitors can reduce exposure during projects or recreation on the flood plain.

The DEQ and Michigan Department of Community Health will take the lead on the development of contamination warning signs for sites including Caldwell Boat Launch, Imerman Memorial Park, West Michigan Park, Freeland Festival Park, Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge and others. Local governments, including the City of Midland, will be asked to approve access to the sites.