MADISON - Enbridge Energy, Limited Partnership has agreed to pay $1.1 million to settle state claims under Wisconsin's waterway and wetland protection and storm water control laws, according to a news release issued by Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen.
The laws applied to Enbridge Energy's pipeline construction across the state in 2007 and 2008, and the judgment resolves charges that Enbridge Energy failed to comply with certain requirements under those laws.
Under Wisconsin law, Enbridge Energy was required to obtain and follow permits that governed its construction of two parallel pipelines through 14 counties in Wisconsin in 2007 and 2008. The complaint charges that Enbridge Energy performed work in and around wetlands and navigable waterways that resulted in violations of its permits, and which impacted wetlands and navigable waterways and public interests in the preservation of and protection of quality water resources. The violations involved activities relating to wetlands, streambeds, bridges, land disturbance and erosion control near navigable waters and wetlands.
According to the stipulation settling the case, Enbridge has resolved the violations contained in the complaint.
In announcing the settlement, Van Hollen stressed the importance of protecting our wetlands and streams in compliance with the law.
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"While some of the individual violations were likely of limited direct impact, the incidents of violation were numerous and widespread, and resulted in impacts to the streams and wetlands throughout the various watersheds," Van Hollen said. "This action will help encourage the proactive protective measures that Wisconsin requires of those who work in or near its waterways and wetlands. The DOJ will continue to work with the DNR to ensure that Wisconsin's citizens and natural resources are protected through compliance with the law."
Assistant Attorney General JoAnne F. Kloppenburg prosecuted the case. Dane County Circuit Court Judge Richard Niess approved the settlement.
