Assessing the Legacy of an Old Aluminum Smelter

The last step in figuring out how much damage the former Columbia Falls smelter has caused to nature is now ready. A plan written by state and federal agencies, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, and other partners will examine the site again and decide how to repair or pay for long‑term harm.

Beyond EPA & CFAC Tests

Forever Chemicals (PFAS):
The original studies didn’t check for these hard‑to‑breakdown substances. A former plant engineer believes the smelting process could produce them.
Data Collection Challenges:
Gathering old data is difficult, but once collected it must be shared with the trustees who oversee Superfund projects.

Focus on Water Dynamics

Groundwater & Surface Water Interaction:
Staff will collect samples from seeps that feed into the Flathead River.
Cyanide & Fluoride Levels:
Past tests found high levels near old waste piles; river water itself shows lower contamination. The new work will confirm whether those numbers still hold.

CFAC’s Position

CFAC, the former smelter owner, has not joined the damage assessment. In March 2024 letters it stated:

It is being asked only to pay, not to help.
The effort is premature and outside its scope.

Despite this, the assessment will proceed at a pace that balances speed with scientific rigor.

Separation from Cleanup

Cleanup Timeline: 2027
Key Actions:
Move contaminated soil to a landfill.
Build a slurry wall around the old sludge pond.
Stop cyanide from leaching into groundwater.
Approval & Cost: Approved by the EPA; estimated at $57 million.

Objectives of the Damage Assessment

Recover Losses: For people, wildlife, and tribal communities.
Past Settlements: Ranged into the millions; sometimes involved land swaps (e.g., 322 acres turned into public parkland in Helena).

Implications for Development

Housing Project: Plans to build over 400 units on the property’s east side remain unaffected.
Human Health Risks: Not directly addressed; findings would be forwarded to the EPA if found.

Next Steps

Review all data, identify gaps, and quantify environmental harm.
Trustees decide on restoration actions that restore public services and replace lost ecological or cultural benefits for tribal members.