SMC PRECIOUS METALS SMELTER & BASE METALS REFINERY
Parent Company: STILLWATER MINING CO
COLUMBUS INDUSTRIAL PARK 1ST AVE SOUTH, COLUMBUS, Montana 59019
Pollution Risk
25Based on 2 TRI facilities in zip code 59019
Water Quality
5026 violations recorded
Air Quality
25County-level EPA AQS data for STILLWATER
Facility Information
Water Quality in 59019
Total Violations
26
Health Violations
0
Contaminants Found
15
Water Safety Score
50/100
Contaminants Detected:
Should You Be Concerned About SMC PRECIOUS METALS SMELTER & BASE METALS REFINERY?
SMC PRECIOUS METALS SMELTER & BASE METALS REFINERYis 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 just 34/100 — a concerning level that warrants attention from residents, particularly families with young children or individuals with respiratory conditions.
Residents in zip code 59019 should be aware of potential environmental exposure from industrial operations.
This zip code has 2 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 Montana pollution report for broader context. STILLWATER MINING CO operates this facility — check if they have a public environmental responsibility report.
Other TRI Facilities in 59019 (1)
Health Considerations for Residents Near SMC PRECIOUS METALS SMELTER & BASE METALS REFINERY
Living near a Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) facility in COLUMBUS, Montana (59019) 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
Given the water quality score of 50/100 for zip code 59019, we recommend annual water testing for heavy metals, VOCs, and industrial contaminants — especially if you use well water. Testing kits are available through your county health department or certified labs.
Air Quality Monitoring
Air quality in this area scores 25/100 — below average. 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 SMC PRECIOUS METALS SMELTER & BASE METALS REFINERY, report them to Montana'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: 59019STLLW1209L. Last updated: August 2026.