EPA Proposes Multiple Underground Injection Permits in Central Michigan
EPA will accept public comments on the proposed permits through September 30 and host a public hearing on September 29
Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency proposed permits and permit modifications to allow Michigan Potash Operating LLC to inject non-hazardous salt water underground at proposed injection wells in Osceola County and Mecosta County, Michigan. EPA is accepting public comments through September 30.
The three draft permits would allow the company to inject non-hazardous salt water from a proposed potash mining and processing facility for disposal into Class I wells. The modifications for two existing permits include fluid injection into an additional rock formation, and a lower maximum injection pressure calculated from the depth of injection. EPA issued the draft permits following extensive review of permit applications and modification requests. The proposed injection zone is about 4,000 feet deep, and the nearest underground source of drinking water is about 600 feet deep. All Class I wells must be cased and cemented to prevent the movement of fluids into or between underground sources of drinking water.
The Safe Drinking Water Act requires EPA to protect the quality of underground sources of drinking water by regulating the injection of fluids into wells. EPA’s underground injection permits play a key role in our nation’s economic future by protecting underground water supplies and ensuring that materials from industrial and energy projects are safely stored underground.
Federal regulations require operators of Class I wells to inject waste into deep, confined rock formations below the deepest underground source of drinking water. Permits require active monitoring to confirm safe operation of the wells.
A public comment period on the three new draft permits and modifications to two existing permits is open until September 30. Comments can be submitted online or during the EPA public hearing on September 29.
Public hearing information:
- When: September 29, 2026
- Time: 7 to 9 p.m.
- Where: Osceola Community Building (within the Osceola County Fair Grounds), 101 Recreation Ave., Evart, Michigan
Read more information on industrial waste disposal wells.
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