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HiTest is proposing the emissions from their proposed silicon smelter near Newport, Wash., meet the BACT standard. BACT stands for Best Available Control Technology. Trouble is, it’s not actually the best, even though it sounds like it.

Lowest Achievable Emission Rate is better. We “downwinders” in Idaho should do all we can to encourage the Washington Department of Ecology to require LAER standards be met. Although LAER would cost HiTest more to install, it will help ensure that the air we breathe is clean.

If nearby areas were designated Class 1 for air quality, higher standards would possibly be required of the smelter.

STEVE LOCKWOOD

Sandpoint