The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has entered into a consent order with Waspy’s Truck Stop after illegal discharges into state waters were discovered. The DNR first became aware of the issue on Sept. 26, 2016 during a routine storm water inspection at the construction site for their new facility in Audubon. Following that visit, Waspy’s was notified of concerns with the site’s silt fencing, storm water controls and sediment migration. According to the DNR, water was flowing into nearby road ditches that feed into the South Skunk and East Nishnabotna Rivers. Inspectors returned in May, June and August of last year and found these issues still remained. To avoid litigation, Waspy’s agreed to a consent order on April 17. The order states all illegal discharges into state waters will cease, the company will comply with all regulations regarding storm water management and pay an administrative penalty. The DNR assessed a $1,000 fine based on economic benefits of noncompliance, $2,000 for the severity of the offense and $2,000 for failure to follow construction regulations. Waspy’s has waived the right to appeal by agreeing to the terms of the consent order.
