EPA Settles with Northeast Dredging

Northeast Dredging Equipment Company, LLC has completed the installation of two cleaner diesel engines on a floating crane as part of a legal settlement for alleged violations of the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act, EPA said in its latest release. 

As part of the settlement – reached in April 2017 – Northeast Dredging LLC invested at least $250,000 to replace two old diesel engines from its floating crane with cleaner models, resulting in improved water and air quality. The crane operates in or around the New York/New Jersey Harbor.

In addition, Northeast Dredging paid a $100,000 penalty, EPA said.

“These newer engines, which have been installed, are reducing the amount of air pollution being released into the densely populated New York/New Jersey Harbor area,” said EPA Regional Administrator Pete Lopez. “The outcome of this settlement benefits air quality and underscores the importance of proper disposal in protecting our public waters. It’s a win-win.”

Among the alleged violations were placement of dredged materials in an unauthorized location in the Atlantic Ocean.

Background

In September 2011, Northeast Dredging entered into a contract with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to perform dredging work in the Arthur Kill Channel, along the northern shore of Staten Island.

In 2012, Northeast Dredging began its dredging work without full inclusion of the Army Corps to discuss ocean placement requirements.

Shortly thereafter, Northeast Dredging disposed of dredged material in an area that was not designated for disposal.

In March 2013, Northeast Dredging transported and then disposed of the contents of five vessels loaded with dredged materials.

The disposal was done without adequate photographic evidence of their contents. All three of these actions were violations of the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act.