Albany, Oregon – Volbeda Dairy Inc. has been convicted of illegally discharging pollutants into U.S. waterways, according to records filed with the Oregon Department of Justice. The case, stemming from repeated violations in early 2009, highlights ongoing concerns regarding environmental compliance at Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) within the state.
The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) initiated investigations at the 350-acre Volbeda Dairy following multiple complaints from concerned citizens. Inspections conducted throughout January and February of 2009 revealed consistent unlawful discharges. ODA inspectors utilized both visual observation and analytical testing to confirm the presence of pollutants entering navigable waters on January 27th, 28th, 29th, and February 4th, 12th, and 26th. The dairy operates under National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit Number 01, issued in 2003, which outlines specific regulations for waste management and discharge.
Investigation & Prosecution
On December 13, 2010, the Oregon Department of Justice formally filed charges against Volbeda Dairy Inc., alleging seven counts of unlawful water pollution in the second degree – an unclassified misdemeanor under Oregon Revised Statute (ORS) 468.943. The charges detailed the repeated, unauthorized release of pollutants, posing a potential threat to water quality and aquatic life.
Guilty Plea & Sentencing
After months of legal proceedings, Volbeda Dairy Inc. entered a guilty plea to three counts of the aforementioned misdemeanor on April 11, 2011. The sentencing, also delivered on that date, included a probationary period of 36 months and a substantial financial penalty. Volbeda Dairy was ordered to pay a $30,000 fine to the state of Oregon. A critical condition of their probation mandates full compliance with the terms of their existing CAFO NPDES permit, ensuring future adherence to environmental regulations.
Ongoing Scrutiny of CAFOs
This case underscores the challenges associated with regulating large-scale animal feeding operations and the importance of diligent oversight. Citizen complaints played a crucial role in prompting the initial investigation, demonstrating the value of public awareness and reporting in environmental enforcement. While Volbeda Dairy has accepted responsibility for its actions and is subject to probationary oversight, environmental watchdogs continue to advocate for stricter regulations and more frequent inspections of CAFOs to prevent future incidents of water pollution.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Volbeda Dairy, Inc.
- Location: Albany, Oregon
- Crime: Unlawful Water Pollution (ORS 468.943)
- Dates of Violations: January & February 2009
- Penalty: 36 months probation & $30,000 fine
- Special Condition: Compliance with CAFO NPDES permit
- Investigation Trigger: Citizen Complaints
GrimyTimes will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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