September 5, 2006

Department of Environmental Quality Director Steven E. Chester today announced that the DEQ has entered into an Administrative Consent Order with Alden Nash Properties, L.L.C. in Montcalm County to resolve violations of water protection laws resulting from multiple sediment discharges to the Flat River dating back to 2004 from Alden Nash’s construction site.

“It is critical to the protection of Michigan’s waters to maintain soil erosion and sedimentation control measures on construction sites,” said Director Chester. “Our agency will continue to take appropriate action to protect the environment and eliminate these harmful discharges.”

The Consent Order requires Alden Nash to pay a civil fine in the amount of $45,000 and to reimburse the DEQ for enforcement costs of the investigation surrounding the violations. As part of the compliance program contained in the Consent Order, Alden Nash has agreed to prepare a work plan in accordance with the Best Management Practices approved by the Montcalm County Enforcing Agency, implement this work plan at Alden Nash’s construction site, and to notify the DEQ on a quarterly basis all BMPs implemented at the construction site.

Editor’s note: DEQ news releases are available on the department’s Internet home page at www.michigan.gov/deq.

“Protecting Michigan’s Environment, Ensuring Michigan’s Future”

Revised September 5, 2006 by Pat Watson