The Washington State Dept. off Ecology has proposed a fine of $147,000 against Hanson Pipe and Precast, Tacoma, Wash. for alleged violations of its sand and gravel permit and failure to treat contaminated stormwater.

Ecology inspectors cited the company for 27 violations of the pollutant levels specified in its sand and gravel permit from the second quarter of 2007 through the second quarter of 2008.

“We will continue our efforts toward and will cooperate fully with Washington State’s Department of Ecology to rectify this situation," says Clifford Hahne, senior vice president of Hanson Building Products’ West region in a written statement. The company has 30-days to file an appeal. 

 “These are repeat violations.  Hanson has been fined for these practices in the past,” says Kelly Susewind, Ecology’s Water Quality Program manager.

Stormwater from the Hanson property is becoming contaminated from poor housekeeping practices by waste from the manufacturing of its products, including concrete pipes, manholes and catch basins.