Michigan's crusade against environmental negligence continues, as Attorney General Dana Nessel secures settlement deals with both former and current operators of a White Pigeon paper mill implicated in the release of toxic PFAS chemicals. In an effort underscored by the imperative to deliver clean water and a healthy environment, a lawsuit initiated in October 2024 against Ox Paperboard WP, LLC and White Pigeon Mills, LLC culminated in a comprehensive action plan to remediate ongoing environmental contaminations, the Michigan Department of Attorney General reported.
The stringent remediation strategy mapped out for Ox Paperboard involves the proper shuttering of a problematic former wastewater lagoon, also an evaluation meant to upgrade its wastewater treatment system is on the books addressing PFAS contamination in stormwater, and the prevention of any future unauthorized discharges, a comprehensive approach that will put an end to additional polluting while addressing past compliance lapses, for their part, Ox Paperboard is on the hook for $95,200.00 in civil fines and the coverage of Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy's (EGLE) previous costs and legal fees.
In addition to that settlement, the state also closed ranks with the past mill owner, Artistic Carton, now known as Grove 1935, which had overseen the mill's operation from 1976 to 2019. This legal maneuver resulted in nearly $1.2 million earmarked predominantly for site cleanup. "Ensuring Michigan residents have clean water and a healthy environment is one of our top priorities, and companies that pollute our waters will face consequences," Nessel said, per the Michigan Department of Attorney General. EGLE Director Phil Roos accentuated the state's commitment to holding polluters accountable and the protection of Michigan's natural treasures.
The assistance of Special Assistant Attorneys General (SAAGs), hired to grapple with intricate PFAS-related legal proceedings, was crucial in reaching these accords. These settlements are part of a larger commitment from Nessel's office to address the scourge of PFAS contamination, with the state currently litigating three more PFAS-related cases under the auspices of the SAAG contract in federal court. Michigan's uncompromising stance on environmental protection is clear, and these settlements signal a determined effort to preserve the region's resources while ensuring small-town communities like White Pigeon are not overlooked in the broader environmental justice narrative.
