0287-PORT_Lapel-Pin_brown_partnershipVANCOUVER, Wash. – The Port of Vancouver USA announced on January 24, 2014 that the commission has approved a remediation agreement between the port and Nustar Terminals Serives, Inc. and Nustar Terminals Operations Partnership L.P. to address contamination located on Nustar’s leasehold. 

Nustar’s predecessors handled bulk chlorinated solvents that resulted in releases to the environment. The port and Nustar have been individually addressing remediation efforts at the former Swan and Cadet Manufacturing site for several years under the guidance of the Washington State Department of Ecology (Ecology).

In July 2012, the port and Nustar discussed the possibility of a partnership that would address creative solutions to remediation efforts as well as strategize for exploring future business expansion opportunities.

“When responsible parties work together, it really expedites the process and it helps us all save some money,” said Rebecca Lawson, Ecology’s regional section manager with the toxic’s cleanup program. “We applaud [the port’s and Nustar’s] efforts to step up and clean up this contamination and protect an important aquifer that supplies drinking water for this community, and finally Ecology really values the strong working relationship with the port and Nustar. We look forward to finishing this cleanup together.”

NuStar is one of the largest independent liquid terminal and pipeline operators in the country and has been doing business at the Port of Vancouver since 2007, handling the shipment of various chemicals.

Under the settlement agreement, both parties agree to work collaboratively to produce a joint feasibility study, identifying options and a preferred alternative for cleanup of contaminated groundwater, soil, air and sediments. Ecology will use the study to create a Cleanup Action Plan. Each party is responsible to fund their respective costs.

Ecology has indicated that they will require a public comment period for the feasibility study, Cleanup Action Plan, consent decree and previous remedial investigation reports for the Nustar, Swan and Cadet sites.

“This settlement agreement supports the port’s strategic goal to generate and sustain diversified revenues while promoting environmental stewardship, leadership and partnership,” said Patty Boyden, the port’s director of environmental services. “We look forward to working with Nustar and Ecology to create and maintain a healthy waterfront.”

– POV –

The Port of Vancouver USA is one of the major ports on the Pacific Coast, and its competitive strengths include available land, versatile cargo handling capabilities, vast transportation networks, a skilled labor force and an exceptional level of service to its customers and community. For more information, please visit us at www.portvanusa.com.