EPA proposes fine against well service for groundwater pollution

Regulatory Matters - 3/20/2003 12:11:16 PM

CHICAGO — The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued an administrative complaint against Rocky Well Service Inc. of Centralia, IL, proposing a fine of $107,817 for alleged violations of the underground-injection-control regulations of the Safe Drinking Water Act.

The alleged violations are related to the operation of six underground injection wells in Clinton, Effingham, Jefferson and Wayne counties in Illinois, EPA said in a news release.

The wells are used for the disposal of fluids from oil and gas production, EPA said.

Rocky Well Service, which holds the well permits, and Edward J. Klockenkemper, who conducts the day-to-day operations, would be subject to the fine, EPA reported.

Underground-injection-control regulations are designed to assure that underground injection fluids do not endanger drinking water, the agency said.

EPA alleged that the company and Klockenkemper failed to test the mechanical integrity of the wells every five years and failed to submit annual reports as required.

Rocky Well Service was notified by the state and EPA of the alleged permit violations prior to the administrative complaint, according to the agency.