Northern Iron Update April 2024

April 23, 2024

• Economic Development and Business
,
• Neighborhood

In February 2024, the MPCA received new information on estimated lead and particulate matter emissions at the facility. New air modeling, or computer estimates, indicate that the foundry’s lead and particulate matter emissions are highly likely exceeding national ambient air quality standards.

The new owner of Northern Iron has been working with the MPCA to address lead and particulate emission exceedances. On April 16, 2024, the MPCA issued an administrative order to Northern Iron. The agency is requiring Northern Iron to reduce its emissions of lead and particulate matter and to demonstrate how it can operate without exceeding air quality standards within the next 30 days.  To provide updated and ongoing information about the level of air pollution and protect the health and well-being of Payne-Phalen residents, the MPCA also installed air quality monitors to measure actual lead and particulate matter in the air.   

The MPCA will host a public meeting in May to discuss Northern Iron and to address community concerns.    https://www.pca.state.mn.us/local-sites-and-projects/st-paul-northern-iron