Mohawk Estates Penalized for Wastewater Violations in Heath

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) assessed a $22,425 penalty to Mohawk Estates Property Owners Association (Mohawk Estates) of Heath for violations of Title 5 regulations.

Mohawk Estates failed to repair leaking septic system tight tanks discovered by the Board of Health. The leaks caused the discharge of untreated sewage to the groundwater, failing to protect public health, safety and the environment. Mohawk Estates later made repairs before a permit was approved and began installing and using new tanks without final approval or inspection from MassDEP.

A consent order requires Mohawk Estates to submit documentation from its consultant that the tight tank is installed in compliance with the state regulations and that Mohawk Estates completed the required permit process and requested a certificate of compliance for the repairs. The negotiated agreement suspends $18,425 of the penalty contingent upon full compliance with the order.

"Timely and proper repair or replacement of the tanks was necessary to prevent the discharge of untreated sewage to the groundwater and to protect public health and the environment." said Michael Gorski, director of MassDEP's Western Regional Office in Springfield. "The order requires Mohawk Estates to take appropriate actions to ensure the system will comply with all regulatory requirements."

###