Minnesota Ammunition Maker to Pay $349,000 for Clean Air Act Violations

The US Environmental Protection Agency announced a settlement with Federal Cartridge Co. of Anoka, Minnesota, for alleged violations of the Clean Air Act.

Federal Cartridge is one of the largest manufacturers of sporting ammunition in the world.

The EPA estimates the settlement will reduce air emissions by more than 1,700 pounds of particulate matter per year and more than 400 pounds of lead per year. Under the settlement, Federal Cartridge will have to reduce lead and particulate emissions and pay penalties of $349,471. Federal cartridges are melted down and the processes lead to the manufacture of ammunition.

In 2022, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency installed an ambient air monitor at the facility after lead emissions were found to be above allowable levels. The results showed lead concentrations exceeding Minnesota’s ambient air quality standards of 0.15 micrograms per cubic meter for lead in ambient air.

Air quality was assessed based on a 3-month moving average with concentrations exceeding air quality standards from December 2022 to June 2023. The EPA issued notices of violation to Federal Cartridge, alleging the facility failed to meet air pollution control equipment requirements and violated the ambient air quality standard for lead.

As part of the settlement, Federal Cartridge agreed to take steps to limit the facility’s lead and particulate matter emissions.

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