Press Release  MassDEP Fines Dispensary Company for Environmental Violations in Sterling

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has assessed a $7,730 penalty to The Botanist, Inc., for violating air quality, hazardous waste and industrial wastewater regulations at its cannabis cultivation facility in Sterling.

MassDEP identified multiple violations including failure to submit an air emissions plan application for the Sterling facility, failure to register as a generator of waste oil, and failure to submit proper certifications for wastewater holding tanks. The facility was also found to have discharged industrial wastewater into the onsite septic system. 

"Manufacturing operations must comply with state air quality and hazardous waste regulations to protect public health and the environment," said John Beling, director of MassDEP’s Central Regional Office in Worcester. "The Botanist, Inc., has a responsibility to manage its air emissions, waste oil and wastewater, and take the necessary steps to return to compliance."

Under MassDEP's Administrative Consent Order with Penalty, the company must pay $7,730 and conduct the actions required to return to compliance, including submitting an air plan for facility emissions, registering as a generator of waste oil, submitting certifications for facility wastewater holding tanks, and ceasing the discharge of industrial wastewater to the onsite septic system. 

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