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The Yellowstone River: Emergency Response to Protect Precious Natural Resources
When a 10-car freight train derailed on a bridge crossing the Yellowstone River, our emergency response team got to work protecting the surrounding ecosystem.Byline: BTB Editor
September 20, 2024 / Time to read: 5 minIn June 2023, a freight train derailed on a Montana bridge crossing the Yellowstone River. The bridge collapsed and 10 tanker cars carrying asphalt materials plummeted into the river. The incident called for swift and meticulous emergency response to safeguard people, property and the environment. Republic Services was at the forefront of the cleanup operations.
The Incident
The derailment near Billings, MT prompted an immediate reaction. Tens of thousands of gallons of liquid asphalt and molten sulfur were leaking into the Yellowstone River from damaged rail cars, necessitating a comprehensive and coordinated emergency response to mitigate environmental damage. Within hours of the accident, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enlisted the help of emergency response teams from various organizations, including Republic Services.
Our Response
Republic Services mobilized more than 150 members of our
Our response team deployed specialized equipment and implemented a range of environmental protection strategies to address the spill. Efforts were not just about removing the contaminants; they focused on ensuring the health and safety of the surrounding ecosystem.
Emergency Response Services
Republic Services provides a wide array of emergency response capabilities. With 50 land-based and 15 marine-based teams, we address various environmental incidents, including oil spills, chemical releases and natural disasters. We’ve designed our treatment and disposal capabilities to offer environmentally responsible solutions, such as prioritizing the reuse and recycling of spilled materials. For instance, oil recovered from spills can be re-refined or blended into industrial fuels.
Our emergency response services include:
Emergency Response : available 24/7 with certified experts and specialized equipment for incidents on land, water and railDisaster Response: planning and response strategies to minimize the impact of natural and catastrophic events on customer operationsHigh Hazard Response : expertise in handling highly hazardous and volatile incidents, such as train derailments, well and pipeline emergencies, and industrial firesBiohazardous Decontamination : customized solutions to reduce the risk of exposure to infectious diseasesOil Spill Response : leading commercial Oil Spill Removal Organization (OSRO) services to meet federal requirements for spill responses in rivers, canals, and oceans
Commit to Safety
The Yellowstone River cleanup exemplifies Republic Services’ commitment to protecting communities and the environment. It’s just one instance of the many emergencies our specialized response teams handle every year. Our dedication to safety and environmental stewardship ensures we’re always ready to tackle emergency situations effectively.
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