The department conducted a complaint investigation on Dec. 28, 2021. The complaint was associated with Republic Foods, a meat processor that was lacking a permit since a change in ownership. Violations were noted, including an illicit discharge of meat processing wastewater into a nearby stream.
The department is aware of the ongoing non-compliance at Republic Foods. The facility has repeatedly been cited for discharges to the nearby stream causing water quality violations, improper land application and numerous operational and maintenance issues, but continues to operate without resolution of the violations. Since the original stream contamination in 2021, the department has issued two Administrative Orders on Consent and a Unilateral Order.
- Republic Foods Facility, ZMDR LLC Abatement Order on Consent (2023-WPCB-1733) - April 13, 2023
- Republic Foods Facility, ZMDR LLC Unilateral Order (2023-WPCB-1792) - Aug. 25, 2023
- Republic Foods Facility, ZMDR LLC Abatement Order on Consent (2023-WPCB-1877) - Feb. 6, 2024
Additionally, the current wastewater treatment system is damaged and inadequate for the strength and volume of wastewater being generated at this facility. Facility representatives have submitted at least two permit applications, but withdrew both after being informed that both applications were inadequate.
We agree that this is a significant issue and, as such, have referred the matter to the Office of the Attorney General (AGO). This referral was deemed necessary as the facility has continued to operate in violation of the Missouri Clean Water law. As escalating enforcement actions have not yet resolved these issues, the department will work with the AGO to address this continuing non-compliance.