Tester calls for putting CFAC on Superfund list

The following letter about the Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. smelter site was sent to Environmental Protection Agency administrator Gina McCarthy by Sen. Jon Tester on Jan. 8, 2015.

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I am writing regarding the recent decision by Glencore to withdraw from negotiations with the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (MTDEQ) about the remediation for the Columbia Falls Aluminum Company site in Columbia Falls, Montana. I am deeply troubled by this recent development.

Your regional office has been conducting remedial investigations on the site in Columbia Falls. This investigation has revealed cyanide and minerals leaching into the groundwater at the location, which abuts the Flathead River.

This situation is of great concern to the community. It is time to begin the process to return the site to a productive state. Absent agreement from Glencore and the Columbia Falls Aluminum Company to accept responsibility for their role in the cleanup efforts, I encourage the Environmental Protection Agency to proceed with a national priority listing under national Superfund laws. Such a designation would meet the community’s desire to move the project forward while creating jobs.

The community of Columbia Falls is adjacent to the “crown jewel” of the National Park System, Glacier National Park. The Park hosts over two million visitors annually. It is imperative that we not allow Glencore’s refusal to negotiate with MTDEQ to threaten the watershed and surrounding communities.

I urge you and Governor Bullock to list this project on the Superfund priority listing so work can begin to ensure this site can be returned to a productive and safe state. Please don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions.