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EPA Cites 13 Virginia Salvage Yards for Storm Water Violations

Release Date: 4/21/2000
Contact Information: Roy Seneca (215) 814-5567

PHILADELPHIA -- In an effort to protect Virginia waterways from polluted storm water runoff, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today announced that it has cited 12 salvage yards throughout Virginia for violating the Clean Water Act.

"Polluted storm water is a major source of the pollution in streams and rivers that Virginians use for recreation. Today’s action should send out a clear message that the Clean Water Act’s storm water rules will be vigorously enforced. Clean water depends on it," said Bradley Campbell, regional administrator for the mid-Atlantic region.

According to the complaints, EPA inspections revealed that these facilities either did not have a required permit or they were not abiding by a storm water pollution prevention plan that is required in their permit applications. EPA has ordered all companies to correct these violations. The cited facilities are listed on page 3 of this release.

Storm water runoff, collected by storm drains or discharged directly into rivers and streams, often contains pollutants such as oil and grease, chemicals, nutrients, and oxygen-demanding compounds. Under the Clean Water Act, owners of industrial or construction operations involving at least five acres must obtain a Clean Water Act permit before discharging storm water runoff into waterways. These permits must contain a storm water pollution prevention plan, which includes pollution-reducing management practices such as oil spill prevention, storage of waste fluids in proper containers sheltered from rainfall, and employee training in how to comply with environmental requirements.

EPA issued its storm water permit regulations in 1990. Since 1992, industrial facilities have been able to apply for coverage under a "general water permit," which includes storm water pollution prevention plan requirements, discharge limitations, and monitoring requirements.

The Virginia. facilities are among 79 facilities throughout the mid-Atlantic region that EPA is citing for stormwater violations. The Virginia facilities are listed on page 3 of this release.

* (See the next page for the list of cited facilities.)

Auto Salvage Company, Basset, Va.
B & B Auto Salvage, Castlewood, Va.
Berry Iron and Steel Company, Chilowie, Va.
Central Virginia Salvage, Scottsville, Va.
Davis Recycling Company, Harrisonburg, Va.
F & K Auto Parts, Harrisonburg, Va.
Hedge Metal, Inc., Salem, Va.
J & J Recycling, Farmville, Va.
J & R Auto Salvage, Saxe, Va.
Richmond, Bumper, Richmond, Va.
Smith Iron and Metal, Inc., Richmond, Va.
Wise Recycling, Axton, Va.
Wise Recycling, Roanoke, Va.

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