Through the Agencys investigation, it was discovered that J. Hogan Refrigeration & Mechanical Co., Inc. was hired to replace an old condenser unit and its associated piping which are part of the ice making system at the rink. In order to do so, it was necessary to drain some of the ammonia from the system and three, 55 gallon drums of ammonia and water were emptied into a floor drain. This drain connects to the Barre City storm drain system that discharges into Gunners Brook. The ammonia discharge resulted in a fish kill in a 1,000 foot section below the storm drain outlet.

The matter came to light as a result of several citizen complaints about ammonia odors which were investigated by Environmental Enforcement Officer Sean McVeigh. His inspection revealed the illegal discharge into state waters. After his investigation was completed, J. Hogan Refrigeration & Mechanical 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 June 16, 2003. In it, J. Hogan Refrigeration & Mechanical Co., Inc. agreed to fund a $12,000 supplemental environmental project.

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

Environmental Enforcement Officer: Sean McVeigh
For Further Information please contact:
Attorney Catherine Gjessing at 802-241-3820 or email to catherine.gjessing@anr.state.vt