A large chemical and petroleum tank farm in St. Rose is projected to play an integral part in a $4.5 billion "blue" ammonia complex proposed for St. Charles Parish, part of a wave of new industrial development for the state.

But the tank farm, International Matex Tank Terminals, has become another flashpoint in a familiar conflict over heavy industries trying to coexist with fenceline Mississippi River communities.

In recent weeks, residents and activists, many of whom already oppose the St. Charles Clean Fuels complex, have opposed the renewal of a standard, five-year air permit for IMTT.

Though the permit would cut emissions of volatile organic compounds by 10% as well as some toxic chemicals, it would also authorize four new refrigerated ammonia storage tanks for St. Charles Clean Fu

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