Community group collaborates with EPA to restore Smurfit Stone Mill site in Montana

The Smurfit Stone Community Advisory Group convened on May 1, 2025, in Missoula, Montana, to discuss ongoing efforts related to the environmental restoration of the former Smurfit Stone Mill site. The meeting, attended by community members and stakeholders, served as a platform for sharing updates and concerns regarding the Superfund process aimed at returning the site to a healthy ecological state.

The meeting commenced with a brief history of the site, highlighting its closure in December 2009, which resulted in significant job losses for the community. The speaker, a long-time resident and community advocate, emphasized the emotional impact of the mill's closure and the subsequent uncertainty surrounding the site's future. Over the past eight years, the advisory group has met regularly to facilitate communication between the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Montana Department of Environmental Quality, and the local community.

Key discussions included the identification of potentially responsible parties (PRPs) for the site’s contamination, which currently include International Paper, WestRock, and O2 Grange. The speaker noted that these companies acquired parts of Smurfit Stone during its bankruptcy proceedings and are now held accountable for the cleanup efforts. The group expressed a commitment to ensuring that the site is thoroughly cleaned before any new development occurs, reflecting a collective hope for economic revitalization through future job creation.

The meeting also addressed the need for ongoing community engagement and transparency in the cleanup process. A recent visit from EPA regional administrator Casey Becker was mentioned, during which she acknowledged the need for improved trust between the EPA and the community. The advisory group reiterated its role as a liaison, voicing community concerns and advocating for a comprehensive cleanup strategy.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the community's resilience and determination to see the Smurfit Stone site restored. The advisory group plans to continue its efforts to engage the public and ensure that the site is remediated effectively, paving the way for future economic opportunities. The next meeting is scheduled for the first Monday or Thursday of the month, where community members are encouraged to participate and stay informed about the ongoing developments.