In a move to curb pollution and protect Apra Harbor’s delicate marine ecosystem, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a formal order to Cabras Marine Corporation, calling for immediate improvements to the ship repair facility’s hazardous waste management practices.

The order, announced today under the authority of the Clean Water Act, comes after a February 2025 inspection revealed serious lapses in how the company handles and stores hazardous materials. The most alarming finding? Sandblasting debris spilling outside containment areas, potentially entering storm drains and washing into the harbor, home to vibrant coral reefs and native marine life.

“We’ll take action under federal law when we see a facility mismanaging waste that puts human health and the environment at risk,” said Amy Miller, Director of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance for the EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. “This agreement will strengthen protection of coral reef and aquatic life in Guam.”

That inspection also turned up an accumulation of oily and hazardous waste including oxidizers and flammable substances stored together without proper labeling or separation, creating what officials described as a significant fire hazard. Shockingly, investigators say these unsafe practices have been an issue at the facility since at least 2017.

Now, Cabras Marine has agreed to a legally binding Administrative Order on Consent which outlines specific steps the company must take to clean up its act, literally.

Under the agreement, Cabras Marine must:

• Remove and properly dispose of all stored oily and hazardous waste
• Build new storage units that are clearly labeled and designed for safe segregation of hazardous materials
• Install secondary containment systems to catch potential spills
• Implement twice monthly inspections of the facility
• Train staff on safe handling and storage of hazardous waste
• Conduct a technical evaluation for collecting and treating oily wastewater from ships, also known as bilge

Despite the violations, the facility will be allowed to continue day to day operations, so long as it complies with the EPA’s terms.

The EPA says this kind of enforcement isn’t just about following rules, it’s about protecting Guam’s communities and its environment for the long haul. Apra Harbor, known for its ecological richness, plays a vital role in the island’s economy and culture.

For now, eyes will be on Cabras Marine to ensure that future operations are cleaner, safer, and aligned with federal environmental standards.