The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) have announced a formal plan for cleaning up the Columbia Falls Aluminum Company (CFAC) Superfund site in Columbia Falls, Montana. This announcement comes in the form of a Record of Decision (ROD), marking a significant step towards addressing contamination at the site.
"This cleanup plan reflects years of collaboration and is a crucial step in finalizing a comprehensive set of cleanup actions that will protect the health of the community and the environment," stated EPA Regional Administrator KC Becker. "In partnership with Montana DEQ and the Columbia Falls community leaders, we have worked to ensure public participation and transparency throughout the process."
DEQ Director Sonja Nowakowski added, "DEQ's highest priority, for any Superfund site in Montana, is that the selected remedy be protective of human health and the environment. We are confident that the plan announced today will meet those criteria."
The ROD marks a shift from investigation to cleanup implementation at CFAC, informed by scientific research and public engagement. It outlines future actions to protect the Flathead River and reduce risks to local communities.
EPA and DEQ will work on finalizing a consent decree with potentially responsible parties to ensure planned cleanup actions proceed. The decree will include detailed work plans open for public comment before being finalized. Cleanup activities are expected to take two to four years once initiated.
Both agencies emphasize ongoing collaboration with local communities through information sessions, updates, discussions, and technical assistance programs.
The Record of Decision can be accessed publicly at ImaginIF Library in Columbia Falls or online on EPA’s CFAC Superfund Site webpage.