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DEQ probes oil dumping incident
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Posted on Oct 28 1999
The Division of Environmental Quality is investigating the illegal dumping of approximately 220 gallons of used motor oil in San Antonio.
According to a press release, DEQ searched the premises of a resident in San Antonio, where the agency’s staff found substantial amount of what appeared to be oil buried beneath 12 inches of loose, sandy oil. DEQ’s move was prompted by a tip received by the office.
Subsequent excavation revealed even larger amounts of dark liquid. A preliminary test determined that the contaminant also contained chlorine.
Because the investigation is continuing throughout the week, a decision regarding the issuance of a citation or fine has not been made.
“We will make the determination when we have collected all the data and information,” said DEQ Director Ignacio V. Cabrera. “We will give our report to the court and then we’ll decide whether to issue an administrative order or court order.”
He said, “Any practice or activity that threatens to harm our limited groundwater is not acceptable.”
If found guilty, those responsible will be liable for costs incurred from the clean-up of the area plus fines or penalties. The maximum fine allowable under the Environmental Amendment Act is $25,000 per day.
