Press Release  MassDEP Fines Equipment Supplier for Environmental Violations in South Hadley

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has issued a $22,000 penalty to Quality Fleet Service, Inc., for hazardous waste, air pollution control, and wetlands violations at its facility located at 548 and 550 New Ludlow Road in South Hadley. 

MassDEP inspected the facility in response to a complaint alleging impacts to wetlands and improper hazardous waste management. During the inspection, MassDEP identified multiple violations, including improper hazardous waste storage and management practices, burning waste oil in a boiler without required approval, and unauthorized work within a protected bordering vegetated wetland.  

"Environmental regulations are in place to protect communities, neighborhoods, public health and the environment," said Michael Gorski, director of MassDEP's Western Regional Office in Springfield. “MassDEP expects full compliance with these important requirements and will take enforcement action when they are not met." 

Under the terms of a consent order with MassDEP, the company has agreed to pay $13,000 of the penalty. The remaining $9,000 balance will be suspended pending compliance with the order. The company has also agreed to correct the violations, complete restoration work within the impacted wetland, and implement measures necessary to achieve and maintain compliance with applicable environmental regulations.  

###