August 3, 2007

Department of Environmental Quality Director Steven E. Chester announced today that the DEQ has entered into an Administrative Consent Order with J & H Oil Company in Kent County to resolve civil violations of Michigan's water protection laws and violations of its Groundwater Discharge Permit that occurred at the company's aboveground sewage disposal system. These violations include an unauthorized discharge of wastewater to the storm sewer, unauthorized discharges to the ground, failure to submit Sanitary Sewer Overflow forms, and failure to employ a certified operator to operate and maintain the aboveground sewage disposal system.

"Michigan's groundwater provides a source of safe, clean drinking water for almost half of our state's citizens," said Director Chester. "When unlawful discharges threaten groundwater supplies, the DEQ will take action to resolve the violations and ensure our waters remain protected."

The Consent Order entered into between the DEQ and the company resolves the violations and requires J & H Oil to pay a civil fine in the amount of $18,632 and reimburse the DEQ for enforcement costs associated with resolving the violations. As part of the compliance program contained in the Consent Order, the company has agreed to update the Operation and Maintenance Manual for the aboveground sewage disposal system and submit to the DEQ any modifications proposed for the system.

Editor's note: DEQ news releases are available on the department's Internet home page at www.michigan.gov/deq.

"Protecting Michigan's Environment, Ensuring Michigan's Future"

Revised August 3, 2007 by Pat Watson