In conjunction with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has issued a ban prohibiting boaters from dumping sewage into Seneca Lake and Cayuga Lake. The ruling also extends to the Seneca River, which flows out of Seneca Lake, as well as to any other connected tributaries big enough for boats.
This action resulted after DEC petitioned the EPA to establish “no discharge zones” in April, 2015, in an effort to further eliminate sewage from the many waterways of New York, due to DEC’s concern that sewage in the water raises the levels of chemicals and can also transmit diseases, harming both people and wildlife. Drinking water is pumped from both Seneca Lake and Cayuga Lake, and the flora, fauna and marine life that live in the lakes exist are affected by the presence of the additional chlorine and formaldehydes usually found in sewage.
After reviewing the proposal and the areas surrounding the lakes, the EPA determined that boats have access to plenty of designated waste facilities to dump their sewage and do not need to dispose of waste directly into the water. The EPA determined that pump-out stations are located at strategic and convenient points around both lakes, allowing boaters to dispose of sewage and waste in a way that does not threaten the environment.
Effective immediately after the September ruling, Lakes Seneca and Cayuga were added to the Federal Register as protected “no dumping” zones. Other protected New York waterways include Lakes Erie and Ontario, the Hudson River, Lake Champlain and Lake George. The New York State Canal System is also protected as well as several other minor waterways.
New Jersey Environmental Compliance Lawyers at Michelman & Bricker, P.C. Stay Up to Date on Clean Water Law and Assist Clients with Environmental Compliance
At Michelman & Bricker, P.C., our New Jersey environmental compliance lawyers closely monitor local issues involving environmental compliance and commercial violations. We offer legal counsel and representation with regard to compliance under all relevant environmental statutes. Our team can help you negotiate a fair settlement to reduce your exposure if a violation has occurred, and to help you conduct your business operations to limit your exposure. We previously represented the owner of a conference center in negotiations with local municipal sewage authority to prevent degradation of water quality in a lake from effluent discharges from construction of new sewer treatment plant
If you are concerned that your business activity may be in violation of illegal dumping rules, stormwater management rules, or water quality rules, contact a New Jersey environmental compliance lawyer today. We stay up to date on state laws and regulations governing pollutants and can offer both advice and representation should to help you stay in compliance and to address any activity which may be non-compliant. Please call 215-557-9440 or contact us online today to schedule your consultation at our offices in Cherry Hill, New Jersey or Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where we serve clients throughout the surrounding area.