Introduction to the Mississippi Phosphates Superfund Site

The Mississippi Phosphates Corporation (MPC) Superfund site in Pascagoula, Mississippi, has been a focal point of environmental concern for years. Once a thriving fertilizer manufacturing facility, the site was added to the Superfund National Priorities List in January 2018 due to severe contamination from phosphate ore processing operations. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been actively involved in cleanup efforts, but the challenge of managing toxic wastewater remains a significant issue.

Background on the Contamination

MPC operated from the late 1950s until its bankruptcy in October 2014, producing DAP fertilizers using phosphoric and sulfuric acid plants. This process led to soil contamination by heavy metals, radium-226, and low pH levels. Groundwater beneath the facility also contains elevated metal concentrations and low pH, posing a long-term environmental threat[1].

Current Cleanup Efforts

The EPA has proposed a new cleanup plan for Operable Unit 3 (OU3) of the site, focusing on constructing a new on-site wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) to prevent toxic wastewater from impacting Bayou Casotte. This initiative follows successful treatment methods used since 2018, which reduce fluoride, phosphorous, and nitrogen compounds, as well as residual acidity in leachate, allowing for safe discharge into the bayou[1].

Key Features of the Proposed Cleanup Plan:

• New Wastewater Treatment Plant: The plan involves building a new WWTP adjacent to the East Gypsum Stack to treat wastewater long-term. This is crucial as the existing WWTP's location is slated for redevelopment by Seven Seas Terminals, LLC, which purchased the former MPC manufacturing plant area in 2023[1].
• Treatment Methods: The proposed WWTP will utilize methods that have been effective since 2018, focusing on reducing harmful compounds to ensure safe discharge[1].
• Public Engagement: A public meeting is scheduled for April 7, 2025, at the Pascagoula Senior Center, with a 30-day comment period from March 24 to April 23, 2025[1].

Challenges Ahead

Despite progress, the site still faces significant challenges:

• Ongoing Leachate Generation: Even after the gypsum stacks are closed and capped, they will continue to generate leachate for years, necessitating long-term wastewater management[1].
• West Gypsum Stack: This stack, closed by MPC in the mid-2000s, still produces an estimated 20,000 gallons of wastewater daily, requiring continuous treatment[1].
• Environmental Impact: The toxic wastewater has proven harmful to fish and other wildlife in Bayou Casotte, emphasizing the need for effective treatment solutions[1].

Economic and Job Creation Aspects

The cleanup and redevelopment efforts are expected to create jobs. Demolition and construction work will take several years but will generate employment opportunities, with estimates suggesting 25 to 30 jobs once completed[2]. This economic aspect is crucial for the local community, providing both environmental benefits and economic stimulus.

Conclusion

The cleanup of the Mississippi Phosphates Superfund site is an ongoing process that requires sustained effort and public engagement. While progress has been made, the persistent issue of toxic wastewater underscores the complexity of environmental remediation. As the EPA continues to work towards a safer environment, it is clear that the legacy of industrial activities will take time to fully address.