Terminal operator at Tacoma port settles lawsuit that alleged polluting of Puget Sound

Husky Terminal and Stevedoring LLC has settled a significant lawsuit with Communities for a Healthy Bay, which accused the terminal of polluting Puget Sound beyond permissible limits set by its National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits. The nonprofit organization alleged that the terminal failed to meet critical monitoring and reporting requirements, complicating accountability efforts. As part of the settlement agreement signed by a U. S. District judge, Husky Terminal committed to fully complying with its NPDES permits and improving its stormwater management practices.

The terminal will pay $150,000 to the Puyallup Tribe of Indians and $50,000 to the Rose Foundation for environmental projects, in addition to $100,845 to Communities for a Healthy Bay for litigation expenses. While Husky Terminal did not admit liability, the company expressed a desire to focus on quality service and environmental stewardship. Communities for a Healthy Bay's executive director, Melissa Malott, commended the cooperative approach of the terminal during the negotiations, highlighting the positive outcome for all parties involved. The settlement underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing environmental concerns in the region. Moving forward, Communities for a Healthy Bay will continue to monitor pollution levels and hold companies accountable for compliance.