Through the Agency's investigation, it was discovered that the septic system needed maintenance, but the septic needed to be pumped first. The respondent (owner) pumped the tank contents onto the ground and then treated it with lime. Pumping septage onto the ground is a violation of the Vermont Solid Waste Management Rules and presents a threat to human health.

The matter came to light as a result of a citizen complaint that was investigated by Environmental Enforcement office Tim McNamara. After the investigation was completed, Pinecrest Motel, Inc. 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 October 11, 2002. In it, Pinecrest Motel, Inc agreed that a civil penalty of 3,000 would be paid to the State of Vermont for the violations.

Involved Program: Solid Waste Program, Waste Management Division of the Department of Environmental Conservation
Environmental Enforcement Officer: Tim McNamara.
For Further Information please contact:
Attorney Gary Kessler at 802-241 3820