EUGENE, Ore., July 15, 2025 – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced on Monday that J.H. Baxter has been added to the Superfund National Priorities List. As a Superfund site, the EPA will evaluate the property and surrounding areas to determine the extent of the contamination and the risks associated with the pollution. Cleanup work is expected to begin this fall.

Beyond Toxics has been an active member of the J.H. Baxter Core team, working closely with the Oregon Health Authority and Department of Environmental Quality as well as residents affected by the pollution. Our goal is to support and uplift the needs of community members most impacted by environmental injustices, especially in marginalized communities.

“This is a step in the right direction to protect the community and ensure a healthier future for the families in Bethel,” said Beyond Toxics Executive Director Jennifer Davis. “We’re grateful that the EPA is stepping in to ensure a thorough cleanup of the site, and proud of the community for voicing their concerns and advocating for their safety throughout this process.”

While neighbors and community members have seen some progress over the last few years, remediation efforts have been slow. Legal action, in the form of a fine of $1.5 million and a 90-day jail sentence for J.H. Baxter CEO Georgia Baxter, seems inadequate in comparison to the dozens of residents impacted by dioxin pollution. To some, the Superfund site designation is a necessary evil.

“Having a Superfund site in your neighborhood isn’t a good feeling,” said Arjorie Arberry-Baribeault, Beyond Toxics’ West Eugene Community Organizer. “But it is reassuring to know this site will receive the resources it needs to get cleaned up.”

The EPA is hosting a public meeting July 16 from 6-8 p.m. at Cascade Middle School. The EPA and DEQ will share information on next steps and community involvement in the Superfund process. Beyond Toxics staff will be in attendance as well.