Minnesota Ammunition Manufacturer to Pay $349K Over Clean Air Act Violations

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced a settlement with Federal Cartridge Co. in Anoka, Minnesota, for alleged Clean Air Act violations.

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

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 be required to reduce lead and particulate matter emissions and pay $349,471 in penalties. Federal Cartridge melts and processes lead to manufacture ammunition.

In 2022, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency installed an ambient air monitor at the facility after lead emissions were found to be above permitted levels. Results showed lead concentrations exceeding the Minnesota 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 rolling average with concentrations exceeding air quality standards from December 2022-June 2023. 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 has agreed to take steps to limit the facility’s lead and particulate matter emissions.