Wind kicks up the dust on the slag pile, creating an air pollution problem.
According to Kraege, some of the violations were due to damaged or deteriorated air pollution control equipment. She said a follow-up inspection at Northwest Alloys revealed that the last remaining problem is the particulate pollution from the slag pile. Ecology is preparing an enforcement order to require the company to solve the problem. Northwest Alloys may apply to Ecology for relief from this penalty within 15 days or appeal the fine to the Pollution Control Hearings Board within 30 days.