SPECIALTY MINERALS INC
Parent Company: MINERALS TECHNOLOGIES INC
400 SECOND ST GATE 3, INTERNATIONAL FALLS, Minnesota 56649
Pollution Risk
26Based on 3 TRI facilities in zip code 56649
Water Quality
9295 violations recorded
Air Quality
51County-level EPA AQS data for KOOCHICHING
Facility Information
Water Quality in 56649
Total Violations
95
Health Violations
53
Contaminants Found
3
Water Safety Score
92/100
Contaminants Detected:
Should You Be Concerned About SPECIALTY MINERALS INC?
SPECIALTY MINERALS INCis registered in the EPA's Toxic Release Inventory (TRI). This means the facility reports handling, releasing, or transferring toxic chemicals as part of its operations. The area's environmental safety score is 57/100 — moderate, suggesting some cumulative environmental burden from industrial activity in the area.
Water quality in zip code 56649 is good (92/100), suggesting that despite the TRI facility, drinking water hasn't been significantly impacted.
This zip code has 3 total TRI facilities, which contributes to the area's pollution profile.
What you can do: Check your home's water quality with an annual test kit, monitor local air quality alerts, and review the full Minnesota pollution report for broader context. MINERALS TECHNOLOGIES INC operates this facility — check if they have a public environmental responsibility report.
Other TRI Facilities in 56649 (2)
Health Considerations for Residents Near SPECIALTY MINERALS INC
Living near a Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) facility in INTERNATIONAL FALLS, Minnesota (56649) means potential exposure to industrial pollutants through air, water, and soil. While not every facility creates immediate health risks, long-term proximity warrants awareness and proactive steps.
Water Testing
Even with acceptable municipal water scores, homes near industrial sites should test annually for contaminants that may leach through groundwater. This is especially important for homes built before 1990 or those on well water in the 56649 area. Testing kits are available through your county health department or certified labs.
Air Quality Monitoring
Monitor daily AQI (Air Quality Index) at airnow.gov, particularly on hot, stagnant days when ground-level pollutants concentrate. If you notice unusual odors or visible emissions from SPECIALTY MINERALS INC, report them to Minnesota's environmental agency.
When to Consult a Doctor
Speak with your physician if you experience persistent respiratory symptoms (chronic cough, wheezing, shortness of breath), unexplained headaches, skin irritation, or unusual fatigue — particularly if these worsen when you're at home. Mention your proximity to a TRI facility so they can order appropriate screening. Vulnerable populations — children, elderly, pregnant women, and those with asthma — should be especially vigilant.
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Data sources: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI), EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS), EPA Air Quality System (AQS). Facility ID: 56649PFZRS400SE. Last updated: August 2026.