Through the Agency's investigation, it was discovered that Morrisville Light and Water Department left the gate open on the hydro dam in anticipation of a rain event. When the rain was less than anticipated, the impoundment completely drained. This resulted in the draining of Class II wetlands, a discharge of silt into the Lamoille River, failure to maintain minimum flows, and the killing of fish that had lived in the impounded waters.

The matter came to light as a result of a citizen complaint to Environmental Enforcement Officer Sean McVeigh that Lake Lamoille had been drained. After McVeigh's investigation was completed, Morrisville Light and Water was notified of the violations and agreed to settle the matter.

The settlement was reduced to an assurance of discontinuance and was so ordered by the Environmental Court on March 26, 2004. In it, Morrisville Light and Water Department agreed to maintain minimal flows on the river and has taken steps to prevent the reoccurrence of this event. It was also agreed that a civil penalty of $4,500 will be paid to the State of Vermont for the violations and that a $12,500 supplemental environmental project will be funded.

Involved Program: Water Quality Division of the Department of Environmental Conservation

Environmental Enforcement Officer: Sean McVeigh
For Further Information please contact:
Attorney Gary Kessler at 802-241-3820 or email to gary.kessler@anr.state.vt.us