EPA v. CHS Inc. - Walla Walla

Case summary

On August 3, 2017, Region 10 filed an expedited settlement agreement which both initiated and concluded an administrative action against the CHS, Inc. in Walla Walla, Washington for violations of CAA 112(r) Risk Management Program requirements. Respondent failed to comply with several risk management program requirements that apply to its use of anhydrous ammonia and aqua ammonia (concentration 20%) as a fertilizer. Most importantly, CHS, Inc.?s anhydrous ammonia storage tank failed to meet anhydrous ammonia storage and handling industry design standards in the use of anhydrous ammonia in preventing an ammonia release that could impact the community surrounding the facility. A plan provides important information to emergency responders and planners that includes accurate chemical quantities, emergency contacts and demonstrate operation and maintenance of the anhydrous ammonia and aqua ammonia (concentration 20%) storage processes at the agricultural fertilizer facility. The company agreed to pay a penalty of $8,500.

Defendants (1)

• CHS Inc. - Walla WallaNamed in complaintNamed in settlement

Facilities (1)

• WALLA WALLA FARMERS COOP - WALLA WALLA

  111 N 9TH AVE, WALLA WALLA, WA, 99362

  Registry ID: 110000573638

Statutes cited

• CAA 112[R][7] — Prevention of Accidental Release/Risk Management Plans (RMPs)

Enforcement conclusions (1)

• CHS Inc. - Walla Wallaentered 2017-08-03

  Primary law: CAA

  Federal penalty: $8,500

Timeline (4 milestones)

• 2017-05-22Enforcement Action Data Entered
• 2017-08-03Complaint Filed/Proposed Order
• 2017-08-03Final Order Issued
• 2017-08-15Enforcement Action Closed