Through the Agency’s investigation, it was discovered that the Renauds conducted earthwork work on their property, which included over 1 acre of earth disturbance, as well as grading and placing fill, including several fill piles, in an area of a contiguous Class II wetland’s 50-foot buffer zone. The Renauds had not obtained coverage under the State’s Construction General Permit for Stormwater for the earth disturbance or a Conditional Use Determination for the activities in the wetland buffer zone.

The matter came to light as a result of a complaint that was investigated by Environmental Enforcement Officer Tim McNamara. After the investigation was completed, the Renauds were notified of the violations, an Administrative Order was issued, and they then agreed to settle the matter.

The settlement was reduced to an Assurance of Discontinuance and was so ordered by the Environmental Court. In it, Michael and Shirley Renaud agreed to refrain from engaging in any unauthorized activity in the Class II wetland or its 50-foot buffer zone without first obtaining a CUD or permit from the Agency. It was also agreed that the Renauds will pay a civil penalty of $7,500.00 to the State of Vermont for the violations.

Involved Environmental Enforcement Officer: Tim McNamara

Involved Programs: Stormwater and Wetlands Programs, Water Quality Division of the Department of Environmental Conservation
For Further Information please contact:
Attorney John Zaikowski at 802-241-3820 or email to john.zaikowski@state.vt.us