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EPA and Lake Cadjaw Association Settle Wetlands Complaint

Release Date: 2/16/2000
Contact Information: Donna Heron (215-814-5113)

Donna Heron, 215-814-5113

HONESDALE, Pa. -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has settled its administrative complaint against Lake Cadjaw Association for unlawfully filling in protected wetlands in Honesdale, Cherry Ridge Township, Wayne County, Pa.

According to EPA, the association of lakefront property owners filled in over a half-acre of wetlands in October 1998 through June 1999 while dredging the lake to improve boat access. The association did not obtain a required Clean Water Act permit to deposit the dredged material on the adjoining wetlands.

Under the Clean Water Act, a U.S. Army 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, and wildlife habitat.

Under the terms of the settlement, Lake Cadjaw Association has agreed to pay a $500 penalty for this violation, a figure that takes into account the non-profit organization’s limited finances and its restoration of the damaged wetlands.


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