Holden, Mass. Construction Company Faces Penalty for Storm Water Permit Violations

A construction company in Holden, Massachusetts faces $6,150 in penalties for failing to obtain coverage under EPA’s Storm Water Permit for Construction Activities as well as other storm water related violations. EPA conducted an unannounced inspection of the G.M. Bergeron, Inc. Site in February 2007, and discovered that the company failed to have storm water permit coverage for the site; the storm water pollution prevention plan for the site lacked several required elements; and routine inspections of the site were not documented.

Storm water from the site discharges to storm drains which immediately discharge to the Warren Tannery Brook, which ultimately flows into the Wachusett Reservoir. At the time of the inspection, the site was frozen and there was no evidence of erosion, silt or debris being carried to the brook.

“Storm water controls are very important in protecting New England’s waters, especially among builders and developers whose construction activities can have significant environmental impacts if done improperly,” said Robert W. Varney, regional administrator of EPA’s New England Office.

Rainwater running off construction sites can carry sediments, oil and various other pollutants into nearby streams, ponds and rivers. Erosion from a one-acre construction site could discharge as much as 20 to 150 tons of sediment in one year if not properly managed. Sediments reduce the storage capacity of drains and waterways, causing flooding, and adversely affect water quality and fish habitat. Sediments and chemicals can also contribute to fish die-offs, toxic algae blooms, contaminated shellfish beds and closed swimming beaches.

EPA is working hard to bring developers and builders into compliance with storm water runoff regulations. The effort includes extensive compliance assistance activities, including workshops and training materials, as well as an enforcement sweep.

EPA is developing written materials, web sites, workshops, and other products to help those involved in construction projects understand how to comply with storm water laws.