The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Air Quality (DAQ) is seeking public input on a proposed air quality permit modification for Columbia Plywood Corporation’s facility in McDowell County.
If approved, the modification would permit Columbia Plywood to add an air curtain incinerator unit. This equipment would be used to burn wood waste generated at the facility. The installation of the incinerator is expected to increase emissions of nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide above major-source thresholds, which means the facility would need a Title V air quality permit from the state.
According to DAQ, air dispersion modeling indicates that toxic air pollutants and particulate matter emissions from the new incinerator are not anticipated to exceed health-based limits. The agency also plans to restrict both throughput and operating hours at the facility as measures to limit hazardous air pollution.
The draft permit outlines conditions aimed at ensuring all pollutant levels beyond the property line meet emission standards, including those based on health guidelines. The facility would also 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″
Additional documents such as the public notice, draft permit materials, review documentation, application details, and a project fact sheet are available online for further review by interested parties.
