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EPA cites unlawful filling of wetlands at Chesapeake, Va. housing site

Release Date: 9/9/2004
Contact Information: Roy Seneca (215) 814-5567

Contact: Roy Seneca (215)814-5567
PHILADELPHIA – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has cited the owner of a housing development site in Chesapeake, Va, for unlawfully filling protected wetlands.

EPA alleges that Lester V. Moore unlawfully filled in wetlands during construction of the “Great Bridge Estate” housing development on Draughon Road in Chesapeake. Moore is owner of the property.

Under the Clean Water Act, a Corps of Engineers 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, wildlife habitat, and recreation.

According to EPA, Moore’s development activity included excavation of drainage ditches and the discharge of fill material into wetlands and waterways at the site. This activity impacted about 3.5 acres of forested wetlands adjacent to the Poplar Branch, a headwater of the Elizabeth River and part of the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

EPA seeks a $27,500 penalty for this alleged violation. Moore may request a hearing to contest the alleged violation and proposed penalty.

For more information about wetlands and permitting requirements, visit https://www.epa.gov/owow/wetlands/ . Compliance assistance to landowners is also available at
https://www.epa.gov/owow/wetlands/landasst.html.

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