What are the Risks?
Explosion Risk Ammonia is a federally classified hazardous material. It is flammable, explosive, and can react violently with water. One equipment failure or power outage could be catastrophic.
Air Pollution If approved, the plant will legally release 66+ tons of ammonia gas each year, along with other toxic air pollutants that damage lungs, trigger asthma, and harm the environment.
Water Contamination The plant plans to discharge wastewater into the ship channel, threatening sensitive marine life and our coastal ecosystems. Ammonia is highly toxic to fish and aquatic habitats.
No Public Emergency Plan Despite being required to prepare for disasters like hurricanes or power failures, the company has not shared any safety plan with the public.
Communities in the Danger Zone Local homes, schools, and churches fall within the ammonia danger zone. Rescue from ammonia exposure requires specialized hazmat gear — not available to most local responders.
Permits and What’s Happening Now
Before construction begins, Project YaREN must receive multiple permits. These are critical moments for public input. Coastal Watch Association monitors these permits and will put "Calls to Action" out to the community. Details about permits and how to make your voice heard will be posted on our website, social media and newsletters.
Permit #WQ000547 - Wastewater Permit
1. Water Quality and Marine Ecosystem Impact
The proposed discharge of 52.13 million gallons per day of treated wastewater and stormwater into Corpus Christi Bay raises concerns about pollutant levels, salinity changes, and temperature fluctuations that could harm aquatic life. The permit should include more stringent monitoring requirements for ammonia, nitrogen compounds, and heavy metals to protect marine ecosystems.
2. Cumulative Environmental Impact
This project should not be reviewed in isolation--existing industrial facilities in the area already contribute to water and air pollution. A comprehensive environmental impact assessment is needed to evaluate cumulative effects on local water quality, fisheries, and biodiversity.
3. Public Health Risks
Increased salinity and pollutants in Corpus Christi Bay could contaminate local seafood, posing health risks for residents who rely on fishing for food and income. Additional testing should be required to assess potential contamination of public waterways and ensure safety for local communities.
4. Need for Stronger Stormwater Management Plans
The proposal includes stormwater runoff discharge, but it lacks clear details on pollution prevention measures. The permit should require more detailed plans for handling runoff from industrial areas to prevent oil, chemicals, and heavy metals from entering the bay.
Before construction begins, Project YaREN must receive multiple permits. These are critical moments for public input. Coastal Watch Association monitors these permits and will put "Calls to Action" out to the community. Details about permits and how to make your voice heard will be posted on our website, social media and newsletters.
Permit #WQ000547 - Wastewater Permit
1. Water Quality and Marine Ecosystem Impact
The proposed discharge of 52.13 million gallons per day of treated wastewater and stormwater into Corpus Christi Bay raises concerns about pollutant levels, salinity changes, and temperature fluctuations that could harm aquatic life. The permit should include more stringent monitoring requirements for ammonia, nitrogen compounds, and heavy metals to protect marine ecosystems.
2. Cumulative Environmental Impact
This project should not be reviewed in isolation--existing industrial facilities in the area already contribute to water and air pollution. A comprehensive environmental impact assessment is needed to evaluate cumulative effects on local water quality, fisheries, and biodiversity.
3. Public Health Risks
Increased salinity and pollutants in Corpus Christi Bay could contaminate local seafood, posing health risks for residents who rely on fishing for food and income. Additional testing should be required to assess potential contamination of public waterways and ensure safety for local communities.
4. Need for Stronger Stormwater Management Plans
The proposal includes stormwater runoff discharge, but it lacks clear details on pollution prevention measures. The permit should require more detailed plans for handling runoff from industrial areas to prevent oil, chemicals, and heavy metals from entering the bay.