The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Air Quality (DAQ) is currently seeking public input on a proposed modification to the air quality permit for Columbia Plywood Corporation – Columbia Carolina Division, located in McDowell County.
If approved, the modification would allow the facility to install an air curtain incinerator (ACI) unit to burn wood waste generated during plywood manufacturing. The addition of this equipment is expected to increase emissions of nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide beyond major-source thresholds, which means the facility would need a Title V air quality permit from the state.
According to DAQ, air dispersion modeling has shown that emissions from the facility, including toxic air pollutants and particulate matter from the ACI unit, are not anticipated to exceed health-based limits. The draft permit proposes restrictions on both throughput and hours of operation as measures to limit hazardous air pollution emissions.
The draft permit also sets conditions intended to ensure that pollutant levels outside the facility meet all emission standards, including those based on health considerations. In addition, Columbia Plywood would be required to maintain records, submit reports, and undergo regular inspections.
“The Division will consider all public comments before making a final decision on the proposed permit. Comments or requests for a public hearing will be accepted until Sept. 11, 2025. Comments can be emailed to daq.publiccomments@deq.nc.gov with ‘ColumbiaPlywood.24B’ in the subject line, or left via voicemail by calling 919-707-8728. Comments can also be mailed to: NCDEQ Division of Air Quality 1641 Mail Service Center Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1641.”
Copies of relevant documents—including the public notice, draft permit and review materials—are available online for review.
