Mesquite, N.M.-A mixture of interested citizens, including those who live close to Helena Chemical Co.’s fertilizer warehouse here, was on hand last week for a hearing on whether Helena should be able to operate without a state air quality permit. “There were a number of concerned neighbors and community members, I am told by people who went,” New Mexico Environmental Department (NMED) spokeswoman Marissa Bardino told Green Markets. While some contended the fertilizer-mixing operation produces odors and poses a public health threat, others supported the company, which has clashed since 2008 with state regulators over operating without the permit. Although Helena has maintained that independent data shows the Mesquite plant is well within state and federal air quality standards, NMED officials have refused to allow a waiver, citing the $400,000-plus in fines and penalties assessed to Helena over the years. State Environmental Secretary Ron Curry remarked, “I continue to be baffled by the actions this company continues to take.” The denial resulted in Helena appealing to the independent seven-member New Mexico Environmental Improvement Board, which has already has conducted three days of hearings in Santa Fe, where only one member of the public attended. At the Mesquite hearing last week that attracted 50 or more people, some declared that Helena is important to local farmers and their crops, with one agriculture official urging the board to “carefully consider the collateral damage that would occur if Helena is denied what they’re asking for.” An elementary school teacher claimed Helena’s plant is responsible for groundwater contamination that caused students to suffer nosebleeds. The hearings resume next Wednesday, and one attorney close to the process told the local press that the board likely will hand down a ruling within the next 90 days.
Transparency Across the Fertilizer Value-Chain