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EPA CITES PENNDOT FOR WETLANDS PERMIT VIOLATIONS IN BUCKS COUNTY

Release Date: 3/31/1999
Contact Information: Bonnie J. Smith (215) 814-5543

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has cited the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) for failing to obtain a permit before filling in protected wetlands in Bensalem and Warringtown, Pennsylvania.

According to EPA, PennDOT filled in protected wetlands in June to September, 1998 while replacing culverts near Street Road in Bensalem and Limekiln Pike in Warrington. The complaint alleges that PennDOT filled in these wetlands without obtaining a permit from the Army Corps of Engineers.   EPA is seeking a $10,750 penalty for this violation.

Under the Clean Water Act, a permit is required before dredged or fill material may be discharged into wetlands areas.  The permit requirement is designed to minimize the destruction of wetlands, which serve a number of critical environmental and economic functions -- including flood control, water filtration, and wildlife habitat.

  PennDOT has the right to a hearing to contest the alleged violations and proposed penalties.


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