Ready Mixed Concrete Co. v. Salazar, Water Pollution, Colorado 1999

Denver, CO – Ready Mixed Concrete Company was sentenced to a $150,000 federal fine in April 1999 after being convicted of knowingly violating the Clean Water Act. The case, stemming from illegal discharges into the South Platte River, highlights ongoing concerns regarding industrial pollution and environmental enforcement in Colorado.

According to court documents, Ready Mixed Concrete, a Denver-based concrete manufacturer, repeatedly discharged wastewater from its concrete delivery trucks directly into the South Platte River. This wastewater contained pollutants associated with concrete production, posing a potential threat to aquatic life and water quality. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) initiated an investigation that ultimately led to criminal charges.

The company was initially indicted on April 21, 1988, facing seven counts of violating the Clean Water Act, specifically 33 U.S.C. § 1319(c)(2)(A). This section of the CWA addresses the knowing violation of permit conditions or regulations related to wastewater discharge. Prosecutors argued that Ready Mixed Concrete was fully aware of the regulations and deliberately circumvented them, prioritizing cost savings over environmental compliance.

Following a legal battle, Ready Mixed Concrete was found guilty on all counts on January 19, 1999. The sentencing, delivered on April 9, 1999, included a $150,000 fine. While the fine represents a significant penalty, critics argue that it may not be substantial enough to deter similar offenses by other companies. Environmental advocacy groups have long called for stricter penalties and more proactive enforcement of environmental regulations.

The South Platte River serves as a vital water source for communities throughout Colorado, and its health is crucial for both ecological and economic reasons. Illegal discharges like those committed by Ready Mixed Concrete can have lasting impacts on the river’s ecosystem and the quality of drinking water for downstream users. The EPA continues to monitor industrial facilities along the South Platte and other waterways to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

This case serves as a reminder of the importance of corporate responsibility and the potential consequences of environmental crimes. While the legal proceedings have concluded, the long-term effects of the pollution on the South Platte River remain a concern. GrimyTimes will continue to follow developments in environmental enforcement cases across the country.

Table of Contents

Key Facts

Defendant: Ready Mixed Concrete Company
Location: Denver, Colorado
Crime: Violation of the Clean Water Act
Statute Violated: 33 U.S.C. § 1319(c)(2)(A) – Knowing violation of CWA regulations.
Indictment Date: April 21, 1998
Conviction Date: January 19, 1999
Sentence: $150,000 federal fine
Pollutant: Wastewater from concrete delivery trucks discharged into the South Platte River.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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