ENVIRONMENT

Cosmopolis mill owner warned over toxic tank cleanup

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Federal environmental regulators have ordered the owner of the defunct Cosmo Specialty Fibers pulp mill in Cosmopolis, Washington, to start removing hundreds of thousands of gallons of corrosive industrial chemicals or face a federal takeover of the site. The Environmental Protection Agency announced on Saturday, July 11, 2026, that owner Richard Bassett must begin removing hazardous materials, including highly corrosive acids and red liquor, from 47 deteriorating above‑ground tanks by the end of July. If the deadline is missed, the EPA will assume control, conduct the cleanup with federal funds, and seek to recover multimillion‑dollar costs from Bassett and the company.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

For decades Mill provides major local employment
2022 Cosmo Specialty Fibers facility shut down
2022 Mill acquired by businessman Richard Bassett
2022–2026 Site deteriorates, violations accumulate
July 11, 2026 EPA ultimatum publicly announced
End of July 2026 Deadline to begin chemical removal
After missed deadline EPA assumes property control
Subsequently United States seeks cleanup cost recovery

Why This Matters to You

This isn't just about a mill in Washington. It's about the safety of our communities. Hazardous materials can leak, contaminating water and soil. If you live near an industrial site, check local news for updates. Share this with neighbors who should be in the know.

The Bottom Line

The EPA stepping in means the cleanup will happen, one way or another. But it's a reminder: when businesses don't handle waste responsibly, taxpayers may foot the bill. Worth forwarding if you believe in corporate accountability.