Associated Press - September 16, 2009 5:14 AM ET

HERCULANEUM, Mo. (AP) - The public has an opportunity Wednesday night to learn about a state proposal to expand the area affected by lead emissions from the Doe Run Co. in eastern Missouri.

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources scheduled a public meeting on the issue at Herculaneum High School beginning at 6 p.m.

The Doe Run plant in Herculaneum is the nation's only primary lead smelter, converting lead ore to lead metal.

The company has said it will meet a new, stricter federal health standard for airborne lead. Areas identified as not meeting the standards are expected to take measures to improve their air quality.

DNR is recommending that the communities of Pevely, Festus and Crystal City - in addition to Herculaneum - be listed as falling within the area not attaining the lead standard.

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