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EPA Cites Virginia Company for Violations of Federal Oil Spill Prevention Regulations

Release Date: 10/31/2001
Contact Information: Donna Heron, (215) 814-5113

Donna Heron, (215) 814-5113

PHILADELPHIA – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has cited George Morton Sr., owner of Morton Transportation Services Inc. of Phenix, Va., for violating oil spill prevention regulations. EPA’s complaint seeks a $12,535 penalty for the facility’s failure to have a required oil spill prevention, control and countermeasure (SPCC) plan.

With millions of gallons of oil stored throughout the U.S. at any time, oil leaks and spills pose a constant threat to land and water resources. Under the Clean Water Act, owners of fuel facilities (including storage tanks, pipelines, and transfer stations) are required to develop and implement SPCC plans to protect public health and the environment from this danger.

The Morton Transportation Services facility includes one 1,000-gallon and two 550- gallon above-ground fuel storage tanks. The facility is located a quarter mile of Terry Creek, a tributary of Cub Creek and the Roanoke River.

Mr. Morton may request a hearing to contest the alleged violation and proposed penalty.