U.S. EPA orders northern California operator Cemex to comply with federal Clean Water Act regulations

SAN FRANCISCO, CA, Oct. 16, 2009 -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has ordered Marina, Calif-based Cemex to comply with the federal Clean Water Act.

Under federal law, sand and gravel mines are required to file for coverage under California's General Industrial Activities Storm Water Permit. Cemex failed to file for coverage and therefore discharged stormwater without authorization -- a violation of the federal Clean Water Act.

The facility is required to take the following actions:

1. File for coverage under California's General Industrial Activities Storm Water Permit, if the Facility has not already done so;
2. Develop and implement a stormwater pollution prevention plan for the facility;
3. Develop and implement a stormwater monitoring plan for the facility;
4. Complete specified interim corrective measures, e.g. cover lubricants; and
5. Complete additional tasks identified in the order, within the time specified by the order.

The EPA discovered the violations during a September inspection at the sand and gravel mine operated by Cemex, Inc, located along Lapis Road.

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