IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Updates about Cleanup, Groundwater Quality, and Redevelopment Progress at Former Smelter Site in East Helena to Be Shared at Public Meeting Nov. 6 and Drop-in Session Nov. 7

EAST HELENA, MT (October 30, 2024) – The community is invited to a public meeting November 6 and a drop-in information session November 7 to learn about the status of the cleanup, groundwater quality, and redevelopment at the former ASARCO East Helena Smelter Site. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Montana Environmental Trust Group (METG), Trustee of the Montana Environmental Custodial Trust, are hosting the meeting and drop-in session.

Public Meeting
Wednesday, November 6, 2024, 6:30–8 p.m., in person and virtual
METG Office, 324 Manlove Avenue

 Join meeting online or by phone
Use this Zoom link or https://tinyurl.com/METGmeetings

Call 646-876-9923. Use meeting ID 946 584 8922 and passcode 664564. 

Drop-in Information Session
Thursday, November 7, 2024, 11 a.m.–3 p.m., in person only
METG Office, 324 Manlove Avenue

Refreshments will be available at the meeting and the drop-in session.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

MAPS: Download East Helena maps of METG lands, redevelopment projects, and land sales effective 10-30-2024. See map information below.

This figure shows some of the major redevelopment projects completed (or substantially finished, in the case of Highland Meadows subdivision) so far on former ASARCO lands in East Helena. METG is responsible for the remediation and safe, beneficial reuse of the lands.

SITE BACKGROUND
More than a century of lead smelting left extensive contamination in soil and groundwater at the former ASARCO smelter in East Helena (Site). Soils contaminated with lead, arsenic, and other metals posed a threat to people, migratory birds and other direct-contact receptors. Precipitation leached contaminants from smelter soils into groundwater, and mobilized surface soil contaminants into stormwater runoff. Surface waters from Prickly Pear Creek and two manmade lakes raised groundwater levels under the Site, pushing groundwater through impacted soils and adding contaminants to groundwater, resulting in plumes of arsenic and selenium migrating off-site.

METG
In 2009, the Montana Environmental Custodial Trust was created as part of the ASARCO bankruptcy settlement, with the Montana Environmental Trust Group, LLC (METG) appointed Trustee. METG is responsible for remediating former ASARCO lands in East Helena and facilitating their safe reuse, under EPA oversight and for the benefit of the United States and State of Montana. Greenfield Environmental Trust Group, Inc. is the parent company of METG.

CLEANUP
METG has been managing remedial actions that have included replacing dilapidated smelter buildings with a 62-acre vegetated, sustainable evapotranspiration cover—one of the nation’s largest of its type. Relocating Prickly Pear Creek away from the former smelter and slag pile and draining manmade lakes have lowered groundwater levels at the Site. These corrective measures, together with the excavation of tons of highly contaminated soil, have reduced arsenic and selenium concentrations in groundwater by more than 50 percent since 2016. The new floodplain mitigates downstream flooding and, along with enhanced wetlands, supports diverse wildlife.

This figure shows former ASARCO lands south of Highway 12 that METG has sold, donated, or transferred for beneficial, community-supported reuses. Only 20 acres remain available for sale: see Parcel 2 at corner of Highway 12 and Highway 518.

REDEVELOPMENT
METG has been facilitating the sale and the safe, productive, community-supported redevelopment of approximately 2,000 former ASARCO acres in East Helena. Of that acreage, 1,663 acres have been sold or donated as of October 30, 2024.

So far, redevelopments completed to date include: 2 public schools (Prickly Pear Elementary School and East Helena High School); a community health center; the 26,000-square-foot Town Pump store; significant portions of the 319-home Highland Meadows subdivision; the 8-mile-long Greenway Trail; an intermodal transportation center; an expanded manufacturing center; the new East Helena Valley Rodeo Association rodeo arena; and improved City of East Helena infrastructure. See Redevelopment Projects Implemented to Date on Former ASARCO–METG Lands.

Developments proposed for other sold land include: 2 mixed-use projects that include more than 3,257 new homes (including affordable and low-income housing); a new rail-serviced, light industrial center; a new office building and warehouse; a 70-acre commercial center expected to include restaurants, full-service grocery, banks, and other retail; and parks and open space. Additionally, 136 acres currently under contract are proposed for development as ±1,712 mixed-income housing units, commercial and industrial (incubator) uses, a new elementary school, and parks and open space. Only 20 former ASARCO acres remain available for sale in East Helena. See Current and Former METG Lands South of Highway 12.

Saving Historic Cabin in East Helena

EAST HELENA, MT (October 9, 2024) – The effort to save the oldest building in East Helena achieved a milestone this week as crews dismantled the historic Manlove Cabin as part of plans to relocate, reconstruct, and preserve it on nearby private land and eventually open it to the public.

Volunteers from the Lewis and Clark County Historical Society and Helena Area Habitat for Humanity (Habitat) tagged the pieces of the cabin last week (see photos). Yesterday, Heritage Timber began taking apart the cabin at its current location near the intersection of Highway 12 and Route 518 on property owned by Prickly Pear Estates (see photos).

An employee of Heritage Timber dismantles historic Manlove Cabin Oct. 8 as part of the effort to relocate the structure, restore it locally on nearby private property, and eventually open it to the public.

The de-constructed cabin pieces will be moved to and stored on property Habitat acquired from the Montana Environmental Trust Group, LLC (METG), Trustee of the Montana Environmental Custodial Trust. Once funds are raised to rebuild and restore the cabin, plans call for reconstructing it on property Habitat intends to acquire from METG and develop as a park with trails as part of Habitat’s Rose Hills development.

Habitat and METG have collaborated with the Lewis and Clark County Historical Society, Prickly Pear Estates, the City of East Helena, and, before his death in 2023, the philanthropist Rick Pyfer to find a new home for the 160-year-old cabin where it can be preserved for the benefit of the East Helena community and the public.

Habitat agreed to provide land to host the cabin and has accepted ownership of the structure, which was donated by Prickly Pear Estates. METG worked with stakeholders and contributed funds needed to move the cabin. The Lewis and Clark County Historical Society and preservation professionals will help seek grants to reconstruct and restore the structure, which was built in 1864 by Jonathan and Elmira Manlove.

Cindy Brooks, METG managing principal, said, “We at METG are so grateful to our project partners—Habitat, the City, the County historic preservation staff and volunteers, and our beneficiaries (U.S. EPA and the State of Montana)—for participating in helping to save this historic structure and honor East Helena’s special history.”

Landy Leep, manager of the Prickly Pear Estates development, said, “Prickly Pear Estates is thrilled the Manlove Cabin is being preserved. We thank all those involved with the preservation of this historic structure.”

The cabin’s move will make way for remediation of the structure’s current site by Prickly Pear Estates (PPE) to support commercial uses as part of the larger, mixed-use PPE development.

Marty Folio, East Helena Historical Society president, said he is “so pleased and honestly relieved that the Manlove Cabin will continue to be a part of this wonderful community.”

Prickly Pear Estates (PPE) acquired 731 acres from METG and plans to develop more than 3,000 dwellings, including single-family homes, townhomes, assisted-living facilities, workforce housing, and multi-family homes, as well as a 70-acre commercial development (expected to include grocery stores, restaurants, banks, gas stations, retailers, and potential offices), light industrial uses, parks, and trails.

Helena Area Habitat for Humanity (Habitat) has acquired 72 acres from METG, and it plans to purchase an additional 136 acres to create more than 1,500 diverse, mixed-income homes in East Helena.

Montana Environmental Trust Group, LLC (METG), as the court-appointed Trustee of the Montana Environmental Custodial Trust, is charged with remediating former ASARCO lands in East Helena and facilitating their safe reuse, under U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversight and for the benefit of the United States and the State of Montana. Visit https://www.mtenvironmentaltrust.org for more information.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Community Invited to Hear Cleanup and Redevelopment Updates at EPA and METG Public Meeting about Former ASARCO East Helena Smelter Site Nov. 15

PHOTOS: Visit  East Helena Site Photos and Map 11-2023 to download a map of METG land sales in East Helena, and photos of the slag pile, restored wetlands and floodplain along Prickly Pear Creek, and redevelopment of former ASARCO lands.

INTERVIEWS: METG Managing Principal Cindy Brooks is available for phone interviews on Mon., Nov. 13 (12 noon–5 p.m. MT) and Tues., Nov. 14 (after 2 p.m. MT); and for in-person interviews at the former Smelter Site (METG modular office, 324 Manlove Avenue) on Wed., Nov. 15, 1–4 p.m. MT. For scheduling assistance, contact Christine Amrhine, 540-846-3163, ca@g-etg.com.

A map of METG’s East Helena land sales as of November 2023

EAST HELENA, MT (November 10, 2023) – The Montana Environmental Trust Group, Trustee of the Montana Environmental Custodial Trust, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will hold a public meeting to share updates about the cleanup status and redevelopment progress at the former ASARCO East Helena Smelter Site on Wednesday, November 15.

WHEN: Wednesday, November 15, 2023 – 6 p.m.
WHERE: METG Office, 324 Manlove Avenue, East Helena

The community will have the opportunity to hear updates and ask questions about various topics such as:

  • Site cleanup: METG will provide an update on groundwater quality improvements. Also, the removal of up to 2 million tons of unfumed slag from the 16-million-ton slag pile and its shipment for recycling to South Korea continued in 2023. See Rail cars and slag pile and Slag pile. Restoration of wetlands and floodplain along Prickly Pear Creek was finished in 2023, marking completion of one of the last cleanup actions at the Site. See Prickly Pear Creek restored wetlands and floodplain.
  • Redevelopment: In 2023, METG sold ±900 acres of former ASARCO lands to 4 purchasers for future uses that include an office building, a light-manufacturing center, a warehouse, hundreds of single- and multi-family homes, shopping areas, and parks. In all, ±1,663 former ASARCO acres have been sold or donated by METG (see East Helena land sales map 11-9-2023) for such projects as East Helena High School (see EH High School and EH High School), Prickly Pear Elementary School (see Prickly Pear Elementary School and Prickly Pear Elementary School), the Town Pump mixed-use development (see Town Pump), the Highland Meadows residential subdivision (see Highland Meadows residential subdivision), expanded manufacturing, and the 322-acre Prickly Pear Creek Greenway. METG’s project partners, including Prickly Pear Land Trust, Habitat for Humanity, and Oakland Companies, will share redevelopment progress and plans at the meeting.

Other meeting topics will include: EPA’s residential yard cleanup activities, and Lewis & Clark Public Health’s Lead Education and Assistance Program (LEAP).

The public meeting will start with a presentation, and a question-and-answer period will follow. Light refreshments will be provided.

JOIN VIRTUALLY:

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

SITE BACKGROUND:

More than a century of lead smelting extensively contaminated soil and groundwater at the former ASARCO Smelter Site in East Helena (Site). Soils contaminated with lead, arsenic and other metals posed a threat to people, migratory birds and other organisms that could come into contact with the soil. Precipitation leached through contaminated soils, releasing contaminants into groundwater and stormwater runoff. Surface waters from Prickly Pear Creek and two manmade lakes raised groundwater levels under the former plant and slag pile, driving groundwater through impacted soils and adding contaminants to groundwater that resulted in plumes of arsenic and selenium migrating off-site.

MONTANA ENVIRONMENTAL TRUST GROUP:

In 2009, the Montana Environmental Custodial Trust was created as part of the ASARCO bankruptcy settlement, and the Montana Environmental Trust Group, LLC (METG) was appointed Trustee. METG is responsible for remediating the former ASARCO Smelter Site and surrounding East Helena lands and facilitating safe reuse, under U.S. EPA oversight and for the benefit of the United States and State of Montana. METG has been managing remedial actions that have included construction of a 62-acre sustainable cover system—the nation’s largest of its type—and excavating tons of contaminated material, and relocating Prickly Pear Creek. Greenfield Environmental Trust Group, Inc. is the parent company of METG.

Media Contact: Christine Amrhine, Montana Environmental Trust Group, LLC (METG), 540-846-3163, ca@g-etg.com

You’re Invited: Nov. 15, 2023 Public Meeting

Notice & Invitation
East Helena Smelter Site Public Meeting

November 15, 2023, 6:00 p.m.
METG Office – 325 Manlove Ave.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Montana Environmental Trust Group (METG), Trustee of the Montana Environmental Custodial Trust, are hosting a public meeting on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. MT. EPA, METG and their project partners will review cleanup and reuse progress and plans at the former ASARCO Smelter Site in East Helena, Montana. The meeting will provide the public an important opportunity to learn and ask questions about remediation and redevelopment of the former ASARCO lands in East Helena.

See the flyer here.

ATTEND MEETING IN-PERSON AT METG OFFICE
325 Manlove Ave., East Helena, Montana
See directions below.

JOIN MEETING BY ZOOM OR PHONE
Click here to join online by Zoom
Use meeting ID 946 584 8922 and passcode B8U7EX
Or call 646-876-9923 and use meeting ID 946 584 8922 and passcode 664564

Directions to METG Office
Manlove Ave is near the former ASARCO Smelter Site. It is located south of Highway 12 and parallel to the Highway and the railroad tracks. Manlove Ave. intersects Highway 282 across from American Chemet.

  • From Helena, take Highway 12 east. Go right onto Highway 282 South. Take first right onto Manlove Ave.
  • From Townsend, take Highway 12 west.  Go left onto Highway 282 South.  Take first right onto Manlove Ave.
  • From Montana City, take Highway 282 north.  Go left onto Manlove Ave. (last street before Highway 12).

Look for the green modular building with the METG logo on the left!

Questions?
Please contact Christine Amrhine at 540-846-3163 or ca@g-etg.com or
Anna Novikova at 267-799-3842 or an@g-etg.com

IMMEDIATE RELEASE: U.S. EPA and METG to Hold Public Meeting about Former ASARCO Smelter Site in East Helena December 13

EAST HELENA, MT (December 8, 2022) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Montana Environmental Trust Group (METG), Trustee of the Montana Environmental Custodial Trust, will host a public meeting on Tuesday, December 13 at 6 p.m. to discuss cleanup and redevelopment progress and plans at the former ASARCO East Helena Smelter Site (the Site).

The meeting will provide the community an opportunity to hear updates and ask questions about various topics including:

  • Remediation and restoration of an 80-acre parcel along Prickly Pear Creek (east of Wylie Drive) was recently completed to enhance migratory bird habitat and pave the way for opening the Greenway Trail. See photos 1 and 2.
  • The removal of the temporary bypass channel used to relocate Prickly Pear Creek was substantially completed in 2022 as part of the last remaining cleanup measures at the Site. See photos 3 and 4.
  • The removal and shipment of unfumed slag from the 16-million-ton slag pile for recycling in South Korea continued in 2022 and will be followed by grading and capping of the slag pile as part of final corrective measures to address groundwater contamination. See photos 5, 6 and 7.
  • The sale of more than 900 acres of former ASARCO lands is now in the planning stages, and is expected to culminate with the transfer of at least 880 acres in 2023. See photo (map) 8. So far, 777 acres formerly owned by ASARCO have already been sold or donated for public and private projects, including two public schools, a mixed-used development, a subdivision, expanded manufacturing, and the 322-acre Greenway Trail.

Visit East Helena 2022 photos to find photos of: the recent remediation and restoration of an 80-acre parcel along Prickly Pear Creek near Prickly Pear Elementary School; recent construction near Prickly Pear Creek, including removal of the Temporary Bypass Channel and bridge at the Site; and the ongoing slag removal project.

WHEN:
Tuesday, December 13, 2022 – 6 p.m.

WHERE:
METG Office, 324 Manlove Avenue, East Helena

The public meeting will start with a presentation, and a question-and-answer period will follow. Refreshments will be provided.

JOIN VIRTUALLY:

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

SITE BACKGROUND:
More than a century of lead smelting left extensive contamination in soil and groundwater at the former ASARCO Smelter Site in East Helena (the Site). Soils contaminated with lead, arsenic and other metals posed a threat to people, migratory birds and other organisms that could come into contact with the soil. Precipitation leached contaminants from smelter soils into groundwater and mobilized surface soil contaminants into stormwater runoff. Surface waters from Prickly Pear Creek and two manmade lakes raised groundwater levels under the former smelter and slag pile, driving groundwater through impacted soils and adding contaminants to groundwater that resulted in plumes of arsenic and selenium migrating off-site.

MONTANA ENVIRONMENTAL TRUST GROUP:
The Montana Environmental Custodial Trust (Custodial Trust) was established in 2009 as part of the ASARCO bankruptcy settlement, and the Montana Environmental Trust Group, LLC (METG) was appointed Trustee of the Custodial Trust. METG is responsible for remediating and facilitating safe reuse of the former ASARCO Smelter and surrounding East Helena lands under the oversight of EPA and for the benefit of the United States and the State of Montana.

Contamination at the former smelter has largely been addressed during the last 11 years, as METG has managed remedial actions that have included construction of a 62-acre sustainable cover system—the largest of its type in the country—and excavation of tons of contaminated material. Moving Prickly Pear Creek away from the smelter and the slag pile and draining the manmade lakes have lowered groundwater levels under the former plant.  These measures dramatically reduced the volume of groundwater flowing through contaminated soils, preventing its contamination. Groundwater contamination has been further reduced by removing select areas of highly contaminated soils that were a source of contamination to groundwater.

Greenfield Environmental Trust Group, Inc. is the parent company of METG.

Media Contact: Christine Amrhine, Montana Environmental Trust Group, LLC (METG), 540-846-3163, ca@g-etg.com

 

Invitation: Dec. 13, 2022 Public Meeting

Notice & Invitation
East Helena Smelter Site Public Meeting

Tuesday, December 13, 2022, 6:00 p.m.
METG Office – 325 Manlove Ave.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Montana Environmental Trust Group (METG), Trustee of the Montana Environmental Custodial Trust, are hosting a public meeting on Tuesday, December 13, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. MT.  EPA and METG representatives will review cleanup and redevelopment progress and plans at the former ASARCO Smelter Site in East Helena, Montana. The meeting will provide the public an important opportunity to learn and ask questions about remediation and restoration along Prickly Pear Creek, the East Helena slag removal project, and property development activities.

Download the flyer here.

ATTEND MEETING IN-PERSON AT METG OFFICE

325 Manlove Ave., East Helena, Montana
See directions below.

JOIN MEETING BY ZOOM OR PHONE

Click here to join online by Zoom
Use meeting ID 946 584 8922 and passcode B8U7EX
Or call 646-876-9923
Use meeting ID 946 584 8922 and passcode 664564

Directions to METG Office

Manlove Ave. is near the former ASARCO Smelter Site.  It is located south of Highway 12 and parallel to the Highway and the railroad tracks.  Manlove Ave. intersects Highway 282 across from American Chemet.

  • From Helena, take Highway 12 east. Go right onto Highway 282 South. Take first right onto Manlove Ave.
  • From Townsend, take Highway 12 west. Go left onto Highway 282 South. Take first right onto Manlove Ave.
  • From Montana City, take Highway 282 north. Go left onto Manlove Ave. (last street before Highway 12).

Look for the green modular building with the METG logo on the left!

Questions? Please contact us.

Christine Amrhine – 540-846-3163 or ca@g-etg.com
Anna Novikova – 267-799-3842 or an@g-etg.com
Mark Rhodes (Hydrometrics) – MRHODES@hydrometrics.com

IMMEDIATE RELEASE: EPA and METG to Hold Virtual Public Meeting about Former ASARCO East Helena Smelter Facility, Dec. 8

On-site overland conveyor for the unfumed slag reprocessing project at the former ASARCO East Helena Smelter Facility.

East Helena, MT (December 2, 2021) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the MontanaEnvironmental Trust Group (METG), Trustee of the Montana Environmental Custodial Trust, will host a virtual public meeting on Wednesday, December 8, 2021 to update the community on cleanup and redevelopment progress at the former ASARCO East Helena Smelter Facility.

The meeting will provide the public with an important opportunity to hear updates and ask questions about improvements in groundwater quality, water infrastructure projects, remediation and restoration of areas along Prickly Pear Creek, the East Helena slag removal project, and property development activities.

Who:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
The Montana Environmental Trust Group, LLC (METG), Trustee of the Montana Environmental Custodial Trust (the Custodial Trust)

When:
Wednesday, December 8, 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Mountain Time

Where:
Due to COVID-19, the meeting will be held virtually on Zoom and by phone.

Join Online:Use this Zoom linkor enter http://tinyurl.com/EastHelenaMeeting into your browser

Join by Phone:Call 646-876-9923Enter meeting ID 816 5567 5621# and passcode 781655#

Please see the notice linked here for more information on joining the virtual meeting.

For More Information

About the Montana Environmental Trust Group

The Montana Environmental Trust Group, LLC (METG) is trustee of the Montana Environmental Custodial Trust (the Custodial Trust), which was established in 2009 as part of the global ASARCO bankruptcy settlement.

METG, as trustee of the Custodial Trust, has responsibility for owning, administering and remediating two federal and two state hazardous waste sites in Montana: the 2,000-acre East Helena RCRA Corrective Action and Superfund Site as well as mine-scarred lands at the Upper Blackfoot Mining Complex/Mike Horse Mine, the Black Pine Mine and the Iron Mountain/Flat Creek mining area. In 2009, the Custodial Trust received $138 million to remediate and facilitate reuse of the four Montana sites that were previously owned by ASARCO. The Custodial Trust has been managing remedial actions that have included construction of a sustainable cover system—the largest of its type in the country—and excavation of tons of contaminated material, as well as relocation of Prickly Pear Creek.

The Custodial Trust’s primary role is to protect human health and the environment in partnership with its beneficiaries—the United States (acting through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Forest Service, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, and the U.S. Department of Interior) and the State of Montana (acting through the Montana Department of Environmental Quality and the Montana Department of Justice, Natural Resource Damage Program)—and with community stakeholders.

Greenfield Environmental Trust Group, Inc. is the parent company of METG.

Media Contact: Christine Amrhine, Montana Environmental Trust Group, LLC (METG), Trustee of the Montana Environmental Custodial Trust (Custodial Trust), 540-846-3163, ca@g-etg.com

Invitation: Dec. 8, 2021 East Helena Site Virtual Public Meeting

Notice & Invitation
East Helena Smelter Site Virtual Public Meeting
 

Online via Zoom or by Phone
December 8, 2021, 7:00 p.m. Mountain Time

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Montana Environmental Trust Group (METG), Trustee of the Montana Environmental Custodial Trust, are sponsoring a virtual Public Meeting on Wednesday, December 8, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. MT.  Representatives from EPA and METG will review cleanup and redevelopment progress and plans at the former ASARCO Smelter Site in East Helena. The meeting will provide the public with an important opportunity to receive information and ask questions about improvements in groundwater quality, water infrastructure projects, remediation and restoration of areas along Prickly Pear Creek, the East Helena slag removal project, and property development activities.

PLEASE JOIN US ON WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2021 at 7:00 P.M.

Join Online:
Use this Zoom link
or: http://tinyurl.com/EastHelenaMeeting

Join by Phone:Call 646-876-9923
Enter meeting ID 816 5567 5621# and passcode 781655#

Questions?
Please contact Christine Amrhine at 540-846-3163 or ca@g-etg.com or Anna Novikova at 267-799-3842 or an@g-etg.com.

See our recent fact sheets here: Project Update Fact Sheet and Unfumed Slag Removal Fact Sheet.

Transfer of 322 Acres to Prickly Pear Land Trust Puts East Helena Greenway Project on the Path to Reality

Prickly Pear Land Trust (PPLT) announces it has acquired 322 acres of former ASARCO lands from the Montana Environmental Trust Group (METG). From left to right: Betsy Burns, EPA; John Beaver, PPLT Board Chair; Mary Hollow, PPLT; Scott Walter, East Helena Public Schools Board Chair; Kelly Harris, East Helena City Council; Peter Elverum, East Helena City Attorney; Don Dahl, East Helena City Council. Photo Courtesy of PPLT.

East Helena, MT (December 31, 2020) —The East Helena Greenway Project, which was first envisioned by the community 10 years ago, is now on the path to full-fledged reality as a result of the transfer of 322 acres of former ASARCO lands to Prickly Pear Land Trust (PPLT). On December 30, after years of multi-stakeholder coordination and collaboration, the Montana Environmental Trust Group, LLC (METG) conveyed title to 242 acres along the reconstructed Prickly Pear Creek (PPC) corridor south of Highway 12 and approximately 80 acres along PPC near Kennedy Park in East Helena to PPLT for development of an 8-mile trail system on remediated and revitalized former ASARCO lands. PPLT will work with the State of Montana Natural Resource Damage Program (NDRP) on design, construction and maintenance of the Greenway recreational access and educational amenities, using the $3.2 million allocated to the Greenway Project in the NRDP East Helena Natural Resource Restoration Plan that Governor Steve Bullock approved in 2019.

As 2020 comes to a close, the Greenway Project offers a new beginning for lands and waters in East Helena. The Greenway Project exemplifies how a community can honor its industrial past while positioning itself for economic opportunity, community health and quality of life. The former smelter lands near the newly constructed East Helena Public Schools (EHPS) elementary and high schools will be transformed into a trail system that will connect East Helena to Montana City. Once the Greenway trail and amenities are fully developed, PPLT will transfer the 322 acres to the East Helena Public Schools (EHPS) that has agreed to serve as the long-term steward of the Greenway land. Where possible, the trail will be Americans with Disabilities Act- (ADA) accessible to encourage people of all ages and abilities to enjoy this community asset.

The land transfer to PPLT culminates a 10-year partnership between local, state and federal governments—including the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the US Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS), the Montana NRDP, the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ), Lewis and Clark County and the City of East Helena—as well as PPLT, EHPS, METG and the private sector.

“I want to congratulate the City of East Helena, the East Helena School District, the Prickly Pear Land Trust, and the Montana Environmental Trust Group on this significant milestone in the redevelopment and conservation of the former ASARCO smelter site and Prickly Pear Creek corridor,” Gov. Bullock said. “This land transfer helps position the Greenway project for success in what will no doubt be a tremendous asset to East Helena citizens, students and businesses for decades to come.”

Mary Hollow, PPLT Executive Director, said that, “Ten years ago, the City of East Helena asked Prickly Pear Land Trust to help envision trails and public access on this land. It’s incredible to celebrate this project coming to life. This community – with new schools, businesses, and now the Greenway Trail – is poised for a strong future. A project of this magnitude only happens with incredible partnerships, I commend those who have made this possible. With access to 322 acres of new outdoor space, we know that when kids achieve a greater connection to the outdoors, they experience happier and healthier lives. What an incredibly smart move for this forward-thinking community.”

East Helena Mayor Jamie Schell believes that “The Greenway project honors the hard-working, proud and dedicated people that built this community. The effort and dedication it took to make this project come to fruition by so many organizations and stakeholders cannot be understated. In an area where tales of trespass and memories of a few can be environmentally transformed and enjoyed by so many is a wonderful achievement. Leaving the Greenway for generations of families and visitors to safely enjoy for decades to come is something to be really proud of and I thank all of those that made it happen. History should never be forgotten, only built on. The legacy of the ASARCO smelter stands tall here in East Helena; it always has and with projects like this, always will.”

EHPS Superintendent Ron Whitmoyer said that “EHPS is thrilled to see this project moving forward – what an awesome educational resource this will be for our community.”

METG Managing Principal Cindy Brooks said “The Greenway Trail is the centerpiece of the future redevelopment of the former ASARCO lands in East Helena. PPLT’s willingness to assume responsibility for land ownership and trail construction and management is a testament to the leadership of a small, but powerful organization and its commitment to ensuring that this revitalized land will be an asset to the community of East Helena for generations. The Greenway Project reflects the strong partnership formed by PPLT, the City of East Helena, the East Helena Public Schools, EPA, the State of Montana and METG.”

Betsy Burns, EPA Project Manager for the East Helena Superfund site, said “the transfer of this land to PPLT for the Greenway Trail represents the culmination of more than ten years of shared vision, partnership and community collaboration. In 2010, PPLT first visited the East Helena site to explore the possibility of a trail. The following year, at an EPA-hosted design charette, the community’s vision for future redevelopment of former ASARCO property included a trail along PPC. With the support of all three levels of government, as well as METG, East Helena Public Schools, private land owners, local businesses and PPLT, the community’s vision is becoming reality.”

Kicking off in 2021, the Greenway project will be the latest and most ambitious project in Prickly Pear Land Trust’s Community Conservation portfolio. “The Greenway trail will provide public access to the reconstructed PPC corridor – which has not been accessible to the public in over 100 years – and another reason to celebrate East Helena’s heritage and encourage recreation, tourism and outdoor learning opportunities,” said Burns.

Next steps will be outlined by PPLT in early 2021. PPLT is a non-profit community land trust committed to the belief that open space is essential to the well-being of all communities. Spacious views, abundant wildlife, and recreational opportunities renew and revitalize its spirits. Maintaining traditional agricultural lands preserves Montana’s cultural heritage. PPLT seeks to preserve and protect the rural character of the Prickly Pear Valley and adjoining lands in Lewis and Clark, Jefferson, Broadwater and Powell counties through voluntary and cooperative means. Further, PPLT strives to connect people to their natural surroundings though trails and access to public lands. Sign up for PPLT’s newsletter to watch this project unfold by visiting www.pricklypearlt.org.

For more information or questions, contact Mary Hollow (mary@pricklypearlt.org).

METG is Trustee of the Montana Environmental Custodial Trust. For more information about METG and cleanup of the former ASARCO smelter, see: https://www.mtenvironmentaltrust.org.

This map shows the parcels conveyed to the Prickly Pear Land Trust for development of the Greenway Project 8-mile trail system.

Contact:
Mary Hollow (PPLT), 406-240-4907, mary@pricklypearlt.org
Mayor Jamie Schell (City of East Helena), 406-227-5321, mayorschell@easthelenamt.us
Ron Whitmoyer (East Helena Public Schools), 406-227-7700, rwhitmoyer@ehps.k12.mt.us
Cindy Brooks (METG), 617-448-9762, cb@g-etg.com
Betsy Burns (EPA), 406-457-5013, burns.betsy@epa.gov

Download a PDF of this press release here.

Download a PDF of the East Helena Greenway Project Fact Sheet, December 2020, here.

EPA and METG to Hold Virtual Public Meeting about Former ASARCO East Helena Smelter Facility, Dec. 8

East Helena, MT (December 7, 2020) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Montana Environmental Trust Group (METG), Trustee of the Montana Environmental Custodial Trust, will host a virtual public meeting on Tuesday, December 8, 2020 to update the community on cleanup and redevelopment activities at the former ASARCO East Helena Smelter Facility.

What:
Virtual public meeting to provide updates about the former ASARCO East Helena Smelter Facility

Who:
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
The Montana Environmental Trust Group, LLC (METG), Trustee of the Montana Environmental Custodial Trust (the Custodial Trust)

When:
Tuesday, December 8, 2020, 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. MT

Where:
Join by phone or online:

–           Phone:  1-301-715-8592, Meeting ID# 897 632 7748, or

–           Online: Join via Zoom at https://zoom.us/j/8976327748

Due to COVID-19 guidance, the meeting will be held virtually on Zoom and by phone.

Please see the flyer linked here for directions on how to join the meeting by phone, computer, or other device.

About the Montana Environmental Trust Group
The Montana Environmental Trust Group, LLC (METG) is trustee of the Montana Environmental Custodial Trust (the Custodial Trust), which was established in 2009 as part of the global settlement of the ASARCO bankruptcy.

METG, as trustee of the Custodial Trust, has responsibility for owning, administering and remediating two federal and two state hazardous waste sites in Montana: the 2,000-acre East Helena Superfund Site as well as hundreds of mine-scarred acres at the Upper Blackfoot Mining Complex/Mike Horse Mine, the Black Pine Mine and the Iron Mountain/Flat Creek mining area. The Custodial Trust received $138 million to remediate and facilitate reuse of the four sites. The Custodial Trust has been managing remedial actions that have included construction of a sustainable cover system—the largest of its type in the country—and excavation of tons of contaminated material, as well as relocation of Prickly Pear Creek.

The Custodial Trust’s primary role is to protect human health and the environment in partnership with its beneficiaries—the United States, acting through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the State of Montana, acting through the Montana Department of Environmental Quality—and with community stakeholders.

Greenfield Environmental Trust Group, Inc. is the parent company of METG.

Media Contact: Christine Amrhine, Montana Environmental Trust Group, LLC (METG), trustee of the Montana Environmental Custodial Trust (Custodial Trust), 540-846-3163, ca@g-etg.com

Download the PDF of this press release.