The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has fined Higher Dimension Materials, Inc. $22,088 for hazardous waste violations at the company’s textile manufacturing facility in Oakdale.
During an inspection on Dec. 9, 2025, MPCA staff observed approximately half an inch of hazardous waste buildup on two five-foot by two-foot grates, the edges and legs of two cleaning troughs, one flammable cabinet, a solvent tank, and areas on the floor and walls. This type of buildup presents a fire risk and can also adhere to the boots of employees, providing a pathway for the release of hazardous materials into the environment.
MPCA staff also found multiple violations regarding proper storage and labeling of hazardous waste. In addition, the company had failed to document whether employees with hazardous waste-related duties were thoroughly familiar with proper handling and emergency procedures. The facility had also failed to obtain an industrial stormwater permit or a no exposure certification.
In addition to paying the fine, Higher Dimension Materials has submitted documentation showing that all areas found to contain hazardous waste buildup have been cleaned and that hazardous waste containers stored at the facility have been properly labeled. The company will also apply for an industrial stormwater permit or no exposure certification and certify that the necessary requirements for such a permit have been implemented.
The MPCA is committed to protecting human health and the environment by enforcing rules and regulations and limiting pollution and discharges from facilities. When facilities fail to fully comply with regulatory requirements, the resulting pollution can be harmful to people and the environment. Since 2019, the MPCA has issued 8,419 enforcement actions, amounting to more than $24 million in penalties. Penalty payments go into the MPCA's general fund, which enables the MPCA to protect communities and the environment from harmful pollution.
When calculating penalties the MPCA considers a number of factors including the seriousness of the violation, the potential for harm to human health or the environment, history of noncompliance, and the economic benefit the company gained by failing to comply with environmental laws.