University of Florida Settles Hazardous Waste Violations with Environmental Protection Agency
During a 2008 compliance inspection at the University of Florida's main Gainesville campus, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) allegedly observed Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) violations by the university. The most serious alleged violation involved improper disposal of a cleaning solvent used to clean the engines of grounds keeping machinery.
The cleaning solvent contained twenty to thirty percent tetrachloroethylene (PCE). Soil samples collected near the maintenance area had concentrations of PCE that exceeded the FDEP Soil Cleanup Target Level for leachability. Groundwater from near the area was also tested and found to have a concentration of PCE exceeding the FDEP Groundwater Cleanup Target Level.
The US Environmental Protection Agency has announced that they have entered into an agreement with the University of Florida to remediate the contamination. The University will also pay a civil penalty of $175,000. While it is unfortunate that this dangerous contamination occurred, it is good to see the FDEP and the University of Florida work together to remedy the situation.
The health of Florida's citizens and its precious water resources are both at stake. Find out more about the alleged environmental violation by the University of Florida and the remediation plans at EPA and University of Florida Sign Consent Agreement Settling Hazardous Waste Violations.
If you own or operate a business in the Jacksonville, Orlando or Gainesville, Florida areas, please contact Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A. for legal counsel.
