Zinke Reacts to Washington, D.C., EPA Decision on CFAC

Press Release

Today, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced they are placing the Glencore-owned Anaconda Aluminum Co. Columbia Falls Reduction Plant in Columbia Falls on the National Priorities List (NPL) as a Superfund site despite ample local opposition to the proposed listing. Zinke's office was told by local EPA agents that the decision was made without any warning or input.

"I grew up in the Flathead. I know how vibrant the Columbia Falls community and economy can be. EPA bureaucracy in Washington, D.C., is betting against Columbia Falls and taking away our local control," said Zinke. "I stand with county commissioners who say we need to hold the company accountable but we also need to retain our right to do what we see is fit for the land. Once communities are put on the National Priorities List as a Superfund site, they rarely come off. That stigma remains. It draws down property values and hinders investment and future economic development. For a community that just lost a hundred timber jobs, I don't think that's something we can afford. I'm very disappointed in the EPA's decision and will be working with community leaders to figure out ways to revitalize the area and bring jobs back to the Flathead."

Flathead County Commissioner Phil Mitchell slammed the decision saying: "There's no need to do this at this time. Glencore has completely funded all cleanup work for two years. The EPA negated all the cooperation to date, and essentially said big government knows best."

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