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EPA Cites Two West Virginia Salvage Yards for Storm Water Violations

Release Date: 4/21/2000
Contact Information: Roy Seneca (215) 814-5567

Roy Seneca, 215-814-5567

PHILADELPHIA -- In an effort to protect West Virginia waterways from polluted storm water runoff, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today announced that it has cited two salvage yards in the Charleston area for violating the Clean Water Act.

EPA took the action against Smitty’s Used Auto Parts in Charleston and Raleigh Junk Riverside of Glasgow. Smitty’s Used Auto Parts was cited for allegedly allowing salvaged engines to drain onto the ground adjacent to the Wolfpen Branch, which drains into the Kanawha River. Raleigh Junk was cited for alleged careless handling of salvage material that leaked oil and other dangerous chemicals in to the Kanawha River.

"Polluted storm water is a major source of the pollution in streams and rivers that West Virginians use for recreation. Today’s action should send out a clear message that the Clean Water Act’s storm water rules will be vigorously enforced. Clean water depends on it," said Bradley Campbell, regional administrator for the mid-Atlantic region.

According to the complaints, EPA inspections revealed that these facilities either did not have a required discharge permit or they were not abiding by a storm water pollution prevention plan that is required in their permit applications.

Storm water runoff, collected by storm drains or discharged directly into rivers and streams, often contains pollutants such as oil and grease, chemicals, nutrients, and oxygen-demanding compounds. Under the Clean Water Act, owners of industrial or construction operations involving at least five acres must obtain a Clean Water Act permit before discharging storm water runoff into waterways. These permits must contain a storm water pollution prevention plan, which includes pollution-reducing management practices such as oil spill prevention, storage of waste fluids in proper containers sheltered from rainfall, and employee training in how to comply with environmental requirements.

EPA issued its storm water permit regulations in 1990. Since 1992, industrial facilities have been able to apply for coverage under a "general water permit," which includes storm water pollution prevention plan requirements, discharge limitations, and monitoring requirements.

The West Virginia. facilities are among 79 facilities throughout the mid-Atlantic region that EPA is citing for storm water violations.

The parties cited in these complaints have the right to a hearing to contest the alleged violations and proposed penalties.



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