Idaho Couple Sues Simplot Over 2023 Spill

Idaho ranchers Lynn and Glenna Rasmussen are suing Simplot for allegedly causing a major toxic spill from a phosphate slurry pipeline, which they claim devastated their cattle operation.  The lawsuit alleges that agribusiness giant downplayed the volume and toxicity of the September 2023 spill in the Caribou National Forest, which the couple claims contaminated local water sources with hazardous substances like arsenic, cadmium, and lead.

According to Capital Press, biopsies of cattle revealed severe health issues linked to the contamination, yet the meat was reportedly sold for human consumption.  The plaintiffs also accuse state regulators and the EPA of failing to enforce environmental laws or properly investigate the incident.

The Rasmussens claim seeks $29.5 million in direct damages and $250 million in punitive damages for Simplot’s “deliberate and outrageous conduct.”  They argue the spill has left their once-profitable ranch insolvent and threatens the survival of a seven-generation family legacy.

Click Here to read the entire Capital Press article.

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