BALTIMORE (Dec. 09, 2009) – The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) today announced 3 recent enforcement actions against entities in the tri-county area.
Oak Tree Landing – Prince Frederick, Calvert County: On November 10, 2009, MDE executed a Site Complaint and Order to resolve alleged violations of stormwater and sediment control laws that included the failure to install and maintain erosion and sediment controls per the approved plan, thereby causing sediment pollution and placing sediment in a position likely to pollute. Oak Tree Landing must immediately begin bringing the site into compliance with the approved plans and complete all corrections within 30 days.
Eddie Guy, Inc. – St. Mary’s County: On November 19, 2009, MDE issued an Administrative Complaint and a $52,000 penalty for alleged violations of sediment control and sediment pollution laws and water pollution, including failure to follow the sediment and erosion control plan during earth-moving and other construction activity at the Avonlea Farm Subdivision.
The Estate of Steven B. Hatchik – Newburg, Charles County: On November 5, 2009, MDE executed a Settlement Agreement and Consent Order to resolve alleged violations of tidal wetlands laws, including unauthorized construction over tidal waters. The Estate removed the unauthorized structures and will pay a $10,000 penalty to the Tidal Wetlands Compensation Fund.
“The Maryland Department of the Environment’s top priority is to protect public health,” said MDE Secretary Shari T. Wilson. “A consistent baseline of enforcement actions, which we are publicizing widely, not only helps prevent further risks to public health but also deters future violations. In addition, as MDE works to improve the Chesapeake Bay, a key component is the protection of our wetlands and waterways.”