Project XL

Mr. Robert Hickmott
Director, Congressional Liaison Division
Environmental Protection Agency
8th Floor, West Tower
401 M Street, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20460

Dear Mr. Hickmott:

I am writing regarding a project proposal submitted by Arcadian Fertilizer, L.P. to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for the "Reuse of Phosphogypsum and Organic Waste as a Soil Enhancer". The proposal was submitted under "Project X-L" on April 11, 1996.

It is my understanding that approval of the project would provide an efficient alternative to expensive stacking of phosphogypsum in high piles, while reducing run-off into the Mississippi River. The project would also benefit Louisiana sugar cane, rice and cotton crops because, when mixed with compost, it would add humus to the soil, reducing the need for additional chemical fertilizers.

According to Mr. Darrell Evers, Manager of Advanced Technologies at Arcadian Fertilizer, EPA acknowledgment of their proposal was received in May of 1996 and since then additional data has been supplied by the company in response to EPA requests. It has been eight months since submission and no decisions have been made. I ask that this proposal be given every appropriate consideration within federal guidelines. Given the amount of time that has elapsed since the application was first filed, any information that you could provide as soon as possible regarding the status would be greatly appreciated. Your replay may be forwarded to the attention of Ashley Dabadie.

Thank you for your attention and assistance.

Sincerely,

JOHN BREAUX

United States Senator