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EPA Cites Northshore Mining for Clean-Air Violations

02/16/2006 -  

Feb. 16, 2006 — U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has cited Northshore Mining Co. for alleged clean-air violations at the company's taconite ore processing plant in Silver Bay, Minn.

Nitrogen oxides contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone, or smog. Smog, which is formed when a mixture of air pollutants is baked in the hot summer sun, can cause a variety of respiratory problems. People with asthma, children and the elderly are especially at risk.

Inhaling high concentrations of particulates can affect children, the elderly and people with heart and lung diseases the most.

When carbon monoxide enters the bloodstream, it reduces delivery of oxygen to the body's organs and tissues. Exposure to high levels of carbon monoxide can impair vision, hand movement, learning ability and performance of complex tasks, and can cause death.

EPA alleges that Northshore and its predecessor, Cyprus Minerals Co., modified three furnaces at the Silver Bay plant without installing the best available technology to control releases. According to the EPA, the modifications caused significant increases in emissions of nitrogen oxide, particulates (smoke, dust, ash), and carbon monoxide.

These are preliminary findings of violations. To resolve them, EPA may issue a compliance order, assess an administrative penalty or bring suit against the company. Northshore has 30 days from receipt of the notice to meet with EPA to discuss resolving the allegations.