February 29, 2024

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality announced Wednesday that they have terminated the General Air Quality Permit for Minerals Research, Incorporated in Cottonwood.

State administrative code does allow the company to continue to operate its Birch Street facility as ADEQ reviews their application for a more stringent Individual Air Quality Permit, which was submitted last October. Operations must be conducted in accordance with state and federal Clean Air Act requirements, and ADEQ will continue onsite inspections to ensure compliance.

The company failed to meet strict emission limits based on a January 31st test; but a second test conducted February 8th showed they were meeting the requirements.

The Department continues monitoring air, soil and water quality near the site; and they will hold an informal community meeting and a formal public hearing in Cottonwood prior to making a final permit decision.

Josh Freeman | KAZM News Director | josh@mellowmountainradio.com