ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. - Beginning Oct. 5, the MD Route 715 gate on Maryland Boulevard will be closed for traffic on Friday evenings and weekends as the installation's Directorate of Public Works conducts unexploded ordnance (UXO) survey operations at the Maryland Pond opposite Ruggles Golf Course.

Motorists will be rerouted to the Route 22 (Harford) gate during these times only. Signs will be posted at the Route 22 gate to direct patrons to the golf course. Additionally, the visitor center and inspection lane will be relocated to the Route 22 gate.

"Old maps have revealed that the pond borders a former demolition area, so before the area is overly developed, we have to go in and ensure it is clear of ordnance," said Rurik Loder, installation restoration program manager.

Loder said extensive safety plans are in place to ensure the safe and secure recovery and demolition of UXOs.

"We do not know if we are going to find anything, but we are prepared to react appropriately if we do," he said.

In case a UXO is found, Loder said, from experience the majority of the time UXO items can be moved down range area to be rendered safe however there is a chance that the UXO item may have to be blown in place, and fortunately, APG is uniquely qualified to conduct these operations.

"Safety is the top priority," he said. "Community members can be assured that Aberdeen Proving Ground houses the Army's top talent in Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), testing and hazardous material disposal. In all cases, we will side with caution and work closely with our military's top EOD experts."

Loder said the initial estimated time for completion is approximately eight weekends, ending Nov. 18, weather permitting.

"We realize that this operation may cause some inconvenience as drivers are rerouted from the 715 gate to the 22 gate during these times, but clear signage will be posted to make it as seamless as possible," said Loder. "We will be communicating with our residents, personnel, visitors and local community through a variety of outlets, including the newspaper, media releases and online."

Updates will continue to be posted in the APG and the installation's social media sites: facebook.com/APGmd; apg.army.mil; apg.armylive.dodlive.mil; twitter.com/USAGAPG; and apgnews.apg.army.mil.

For more information, call Loder at 410-278-6755.