This is a tough but not uncommon story. The owner of an old, multi-generational gas station in a rural community is facing the high cost of not only owning an aging UST system, but having to close it out and face potential high costs if contamination is found. I know this area in Washington and have driven by this site a number of times over the years. It’s the proverbial mom and pop general store/gas station. It’s also off the beaten path and likely has served as a de facto community center for many years.
The classic gas station business model began after World War II as Americans became more mobile and little gas stations popped up all over the country, many of them novelty-themed like Teapot Dome Service Station. There have been a number of boom and bust cycles where larger companies moved in and consolidated things, then gotten out of the business, then gotten back in again. Through it all these little businesses have persevered, although in dwindling numbers. Statistically speaking, the original 2.2 million tank population has diminished by 75% nationwide.
In my 35 years in the UST industry, first as state regulator for pollution prevention and cleanup, then as a UST consultant/trainer, I’ve spoken to hundreds — probably thousands — of folks in this particular situation. And even after all these years, my heart still goes out to the folks trying to eke out a living while safely managing fuel.
If you identify as a small business owner with USTs, here’s what I’ve learned over the years:
- It’s expensive to own and operate a UST system these days. No way around that.
- Managing a UST system involves a fair amount of continuous risk awareness training (that’s what we do for Class A/B and C UST operators).
- UST equipment continues to improve and can reduce the risk of leaks and spills.
- Because human error is often the root cause of a UST problem, you can reduce your risks by outsourcing many tasks to third party companies or software solutions.
- There’s a plethora of available resources at your disposal: trade shows and journals, local experts, web-based communities. Stay informed and networked.
Based on my own career over the decades, and now with my team of helpers, we strive to make sure small businesses continue the enduring tradition of the neighborhood gas station. We’re happy to give you any free advice anytime so give us a call at (866) 301-8265 or email me personally at [email protected]
