Salem, Oregon – The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality took enforcement action against eight organizations in January, issuing a combined $169,583 in civil penalties for violations tied to air, water, and waste regulations across the state.
The fines, which ranged from $3,300 to $70,991, stem from a variety of alleged infractions. In some cases, companies failed to meet reporting requirements. In others, regulators cited lapses involving hazardous materials, underground storage systems, and asbestos rules. A full breakdown of the violations is available through DEQ’s enforcement records online.
The largest penalty, $70,991, was issued to United Parcel Service for issues connected to underground fuel storage tanks at facilities in The Dalles and Tualatin. BNSF Railway Co. in Portland was fined $28,966 for failing to submit required greenhouse gas reports and comply with clean fuels regulations.
Other penalties addressed air quality and waste concerns. Apex Anodizing Inc. in Portland received an $8,433 fine for air quality violations, while Emerald Forest Products Inc. in Drain was assessed $9,000 for similar issues. Highline-Warren LLC in Millersburg was fined $11,200 related to hazardous waste management.
In Coos Bay, Reid Flooring LLC, operating as Modern Floors Floor Covering Co., was penalized $16,800 for failing to follow asbestos requirements. Thomas Fulcher of Canyonville was issued a $20,893 penalty tied to solid waste violations. United Site Services of Nevada Inc. in Clackamas received the smallest fine—$3,300—for issues involving onsite septic wastewater.
Under state rules, recipients of civil penalties must either pay the assessed amount to the state treasury or file an appeal within 20 days of receiving notice. In some cases, a portion of a fine may be redirected toward a supplemental environmental project designed to benefit Oregon’s natural resources.
DEQ officials say enforcement is only one part of their broader mission. The agency works with thousands of businesses and individuals each year, offering technical assistance and education aimed at preventing violations before they occur. When problems arise, however, regulators can issue warnings, corrective orders, or financial penalties to halt ongoing harm and discourage repeat offenses.
Through a mix of guidance and accountability, DEQ continues its oversight of activities that affect Oregon’s air, land, and water stepping in when standards meant to safeguard the environment are not met.
