EPA seeks fines against Pacific

PONDERAY — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is proposing fines against Pacific Hide & Fur for violations of the federal Clean Water Act.

The agency is seeking a $19,618 penalty against Pacific, which does business as Pacific Steel & Recycling. Pacific’s facility on Triangle Drive is covered by the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System’s stormwater multi-sector general permit. Clean Water Act violations include stormwater pollution prevention plan deficiencies, failures to monitor and failures to review control measures or add corrective actions before July 16, 2015.

Further information about the alleged violations was not immediately available on Wednesday. EPA officials in Seattle did not respond to requests for elaboration on the alleged violations.

The EPA is gathering public comments on the proposed penalties until Sept. 4. Anyone wishing to comment on or participate in this proceeding must notify the regional hearing clerk within 30 days. Provide your name, complete mailing address, and any comments you have on this action and direct your remarks to Teresa Luna, regional hearing clerk, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 10 (ORC-113), 1200 Sixth Avenue, Suite 900, Seattle, WA. 98101-3140. Luna can be reached at 206-553-1632

Information: Chris Gebhardt gebhardt.chris@epa.gov or 206-553-0253