Environment

Massachusetts Pipeline Safety Program Receives Perfect Federal Score

The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) announced it received a perfect score from the federal Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) for its pipeline safety oversight program in 2024. This marks the third consecutive year the DPU has achieved this perfect score, highlighting its effective enforcement of federal pipeline safety standards.

DPU Investigates Utility Bill Charges for Transparency

The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) has opened an investigation into all delivery charges on electric and gas utility bills. This action aims to address energy price volatility and improve bill transparency for Massachusetts ratepayers, aligning with the Governor's priorities.

DPU Municipal Aggregation Plans Save Customers $25 Million

The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) announced that recently approved Municipal Aggregation Plans are projected to save enrolled electric customers approximately $25 million between December 2024 and July 2026. The DPU has streamlined its approval process, leading to faster implementation of these cost-saving plans.

DPU Settlement with Direct Energy for Telemarketing Violations

The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) reached a settlement with Direct Energy Services, LLC, requiring the company to donate over $100,000 and cease telemarketing activities for one year. This action stems from an investigation into Direct Energy's noncompliance with DPU requirements for competitive suppliers regarding marketing scripts.

Ben's Service Center Consent Order - Air Emissions Violations

The Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection issued a consent order against Ben's Service Center for violations of air quality regulations concerning vapor recovery systems. The order requires a $3,200 civil penalty payment within 30 days.

Connecticut DEEP Consent Order to Sugar Hill, LLC

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) issued Consent Order No. 2553 to Sugar Hill, LLC for violations of air pollution control regulations concerning vapor recovery systems. Sugar Hill, LLC has agreed to pay a civil penalty of $2,400.

Connecticut DEEP Consent Order Against Green Fuel, LLC

The Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP) issued a consent order against Green Fuel, LLC for violations of vapor recovery system testing requirements. Green Fuel, LLC must pay a civil penalty of $1,200 within 30 days of the order's issuance.

A & K Service Station, LLC - Consent Order for Vapor Recovery Violations

The Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection issued a consent order against A & K Service Station, LLC for violations of vapor recovery system testing requirements. The company agreed to pay a civil penalty of $1,600.

Zain Food Mart Consent Order - Vapor Recovery Testing

The Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection issued a consent order against Zain Food Mart, Inc. for violations of vapor recovery system testing requirements. Zain Food Mart agreed to pay an $800 civil penalty.

Florida State Parks Adds Shoal River Headwaters State Park

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection announced the addition of Shoal River Headwaters State Park, a new 2,480-acre park west of DeFuniak Springs. The park is now open for passive recreation, with future plans for camping, biking, and paddling to be developed with public input.

Everglades Restoration Project Completion Celebrated

The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD), US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and Florida Department of Environmental Protection celebrated the completion of the Picayune Strand Restoration Project. This project is a key component of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP).

Florida State Parks Offer Free Admission for George Washington's Birthday

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection announced that Florida State Parks will offer free admission from February 13-16, 2026. This initiative commemorates George Washington's birthday and America's 250th anniversary, encouraging visitors to explore historical landscapes.

Olustee Battlefield Reenactment Celebrates America's 250th Anniversary

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection announced the 49th Annual Reenactment of the Battle of Olustee, celebrating America's 250th Anniversary. The event at Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park features historical reenactments, educational programs, and military camps.

Florida Forever Program Secures Largest Conservation Easement

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection announced the acquisition of the largest conservation easement in the Florida Forever Program's 25-year history. The easement protects 61,525 acres of working forestland within the Ocala-to-Osceola Wildlife Corridor, acquired from Weyerhaeuser.

Washington State SHARP Dashboard for Contaminated Sites

The Washington State Department of Ecology has launched the SHARP dashboard, which tracks approximately 6,500 contaminated sites undergoing cleanup. The dashboard provides data on site assessments, scores, and environmental justice concerns, aiming to improve transparency and prioritization of cleanup efforts.

Washington Geothermal Energy Potential Community Workshops

The Washington State Department of Ecology is hosting community workshops to gather public input on the potential development of geothermal energy resources in the state. These workshops are part of a collaborative process to explore opportunities and risks associated with clean energy development.

Hanford Woman History During Cold War Years Discussion

The Washington State Department of Ecology is hosting a virtual discussion on March 18, 2026, about the role of women at the Hanford site during the Cold War years. The event will feature guest speakers and a live Q&A session, with recordings available afterward.

Washington Ecology Offers Funds to Replace Toxic Chemical Lights

The Washington State Department of Ecology is offering up to $20,000 to schools and daycares to replace old fluorescent light fixtures containing toxic polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). This program helps cover inspection, replacement, and disposal costs to mitigate health risks associated with PCB exposure.

Washington Water Supply Update

The Washington State Department of Ecology has issued an update on the ongoing drought conditions, noting critically low snowpack levels for the 2026 water year. The update highlights concerns for future water availability, particularly for the Yakima Basin, and advises water conservation.

DEC Forest Rangers Report on Rescues and Wildfires

New York State DEC Forest Rangers reported on their activities in 2025, including 362 search and rescue missions and 202 wildfires. The report also details specific rescue incidents from February 2026, highlighting the rangers' role in public safety and law enforcement.

DEC Forest Rangers - 2025 Actions and Deployments

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) released a review of Forest Ranger actions in 2025, detailing 362 search and rescue missions, 2025 wildfires, and over 1,100 arrests and tickets. The report also highlights deployments to other states and specific rescue incidents.

DEC Environmental Justice Listening Session Announced

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced an environmental justice listening session to be held in Plattsburgh on March 11, 2026. This session is part of a series aimed at enhancing engagement with communities facing environmental justice concerns and prioritizing future outreach efforts.

DEC Conducts Prescribed Fire at Wilson Hill Wildlife Management Area

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced it will conduct a prescribed burn at Wilson Hill Wildlife Management Area. The burn, planned for February 27, 2026, aims to improve wetland habitat by controlling invasive Phragmites.

DEC Environmental Justice Listening Session in Elmira

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced an environmental justice listening session in Elmira on March 17, 2026. This session is part of an ongoing series to enhance engagement with communities with environmental justice concerns and to prioritize future outreach efforts.

Illinois EPA Funding for Emerging Contaminants in Drinking Water

The Illinois EPA announced over $40 million in grant funding for small or disadvantaged communities to address emerging contaminants like PFAS and Manganese in drinking water. Applications are due by August 31, 2026, with a maximum award of $15 million per applicant.

Illinois EPA Issues Health Advisory for 6:2 FTS in Groundwater

The Illinois EPA has issued a health advisory for 6:2 Fluorotelomer Sulfonic Acid (6:2 FTS) in groundwater, based on sampling of community water supplies. This advisory provides a guidance level for the chemical, which lacks a specific groundwater standard, and supplements existing PFAS advisories.

Illinois EPA Notifies Dupo Water System of PFOS Detection

The Illinois EPA has notified the Village of Dupo Community Water System that recent sampling detected PFOS at 4.5 parts per trillion, exceeding the federal MCL and state groundwater quality standard of 4 ppt. The notice triggers Right-to-Know requirements for the water system to inform its customers of the detection and potential exposure risks.

Illinois EPA Notifies Elburn Water System of PFOA Detection

The Illinois EPA has notified the Elburn Community Water System that PFOA was detected in groundwater samples at levels exceeding federal and state standards. The notice triggers Right-to-Know requirements for the water system to inform its customers about the detection and potential exposure risks.

Illinois EPA Offers $7M for Wastewater Resilience Grants

The Illinois EPA is offering $7 million in grant funding through the Resilient Energy for Wastewater Infrastructure (REWI) Grant Program. Publicly owned wastewater treatment plants can apply for awards ranging from $200,000 to $2,000,000 to enhance energy resilience with solar energy systems and battery storage. The application period closes on April 30, 2026.

MassDEP Fines Company $21,000 for Waste Oil Spill

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has fined N.R. Underwood & Sons Enterprises, Inc. $21,000 for violating waste oil spill reporting and cleanup regulations. The company failed to promptly notify MassDEP of a spill and began cleanup without proper authorization and oversight.

MassDEP Launches Real-Time Ocean Monitoring in Boston Harbor

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has launched a new real-time ocean monitoring system in Boston Harbor. This system, part of the Physical Oceanographic Real-Time System (PORTS) network, will provide data on currents, winds, and weather to aid navigation and prevent oil spills.

Massachusetts Clean Water Trust Approves $41.8M in Loans

The Massachusetts Clean Water Trust approved $41.8 million in new low-interest loans for water infrastructure projects at its February 4, 2026 meeting. These loans will fund projects aimed at improving water quality, ensuring drinking water safety, and protecting public health in communities across the Commonwealth.

MassDEP Fines Geraghty Associates for Illegal Dumping

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has fined Geraghty Associates, Inc. $17,400 for violating solid waste disposal regulations by illegally dumping mattresses. The company, which manages hundreds of apartment units, was caught on surveillance cameras dumping mattresses on city-owned property.

MassDEP and DPH Statement on Trump Administration Climate Finding Rollback

The Massachusetts Departments of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) and Public Health (DPH) issued a joint statement criticizing the Trump Administration's decision to eliminate the endangerment finding for greenhouse gases. The agencies argue this rollback dismantles a key tool for public health protection and will disrupt progress in addressing climate change and improving air quality in Massachusetts.

ISF (USA), LLC Enforcement Action Comment Period

The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality has opened a comment period for a proposed enforcement action against ISF (USA), LLC concerning violations of water control statutes and regulations. The public can submit comments on the proposed Consent Order from February 9, 2026, to March 11, 2026.

Gemini Inc. Enforcement Action Proposed

The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality has proposed an enforcement action against Gemini Incorporated for violations of air pollution control laws. A public comment period is open from February 9, 2026, to March 11, 2026, regarding the proposed Consent Order.

MHF Properties LLC Enforcement Action Comment Period

The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has opened a public comment period for a proposed enforcement action against MHF Properties, LLC. The action concerns alleged violations of water control statutes and regulations at their facility in King William County, Virginia. The comment period runs from February 9, 2026, to March 11, 2026.

Nestle Purina Enforcement Action - Air Pollution Violations

The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality has proposed an enforcement action against Nestle Purina PetCare Company for alleged violations of air pollution statutes and regulations at its King William County facility. A public comment period is open from February 11, 2026, to March 13, 2026, regarding a proposed Consent Order.

Scottsville Estates LLC and Mr. Sunil Kappor Enforcement Action

The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality has proposed an enforcement action against Scottsville Estates LLC and Mr. Sunil Kappor for violations of State Water Control Law and permit regulations. A public comment period is open from February 12, 2026, to March 14, 2026.

California Hazardous Waste Management Plan Approved

The California Board of Environmental Safety has approved the Department of Toxic Substances Control's 2025 Hazardous Waste Management Plan. The plan aims to modernize hazardous waste systems, reduce hazardous waste generation by 40%, and divert waste from landfills through recycling and other circular economy techniques.

DTSC Strengthens Environmental Protections for Ecobat Lead Recycling Facility

The California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) has issued strengthened 10-year operating and post-closure permits for the Ecobat lead recycling facility in Los Angeles County. The decision includes expanded environmental monitoring, facility upgrades, and increased financial accountability, following extensive community input.

DTSC Finds Chiquita Canyon LLC Out of Compliance, Subject to Penalties

The California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) has issued a Determination of Non-Compliance to Chiquita Canyon LLC, Chiquita Canyon, Inc., and Waste Connections US, Inc. The companies face daily fines of $25,000 until they provide an adequate plan to address ongoing environmental threats from the Chiquita Canyon Landfill.

DTSC Orders Emergency Cleanup of Toxic Contamination

The California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) has issued an order to Magellan Aerospace and Market Creek Plaza LLC requiring immediate cleanup of trichloroethylene (TCE) contamination in San Diego. The order mandates vapor mitigation, sampling, and investigation of soil, soil vapor, and groundwater.

TCEQ Approves $1.9 Million in Environmental Fines Against 71 Entities

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) approved penalties totaling $1,909,731 against 71 regulated entities for violations of state environmental regulations. The fines cover various categories including air quality, wastewater discharge, and public water systems.

TCEQ Approves $747,064 in Environmental Fines

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has approved penalties totaling $747,064 against 63 entities for violations of state environmental regulations. The fines cover various categories including air quality, water quality, and waste management. These actions represent final enforcement orders.

TCEQ Fines Totaling $426,198.73 Against 65 Entities

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) approved penalties totaling $426,198.73 against 65 entities for violations of state environmental regulations. The penalties include agreed orders for multi-media, wastewater, and petroleum storage tank violations, as well as default orders for multi-media and solid waste violations.

TCEQ Approves $661,093 in Environmental Fines

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) approved penalties totaling $661,093 against 69 entities for violations of state environmental regulations. The fines cover various categories including air quality, wastewater discharge, and solid waste management.

Environmental Permit Application Advertisement - Billie Piper

The Environment Agency has published an advertisement for an environmental permit application submitted by Billie Piper for a site at Sunnyglade, Haycrafts Lane, Swanage, BH19 3EB. This notice informs the public about the application and the process for commenting.

Environmental Permit Application Advertisement for Rosie Wells-Cole

The Environment Agency has published an advertisement for an environmental permit application submitted by Rosie Wells-Cole for Hardisty's Farm. This notice informs the public about the application and the process for submitting comments.

Sycamores Retreat Environmental Permit Application Advertisement

The Environment Agency has published an advertisement for an environmental permit application submitted by Sycamores Retreat Limited for their facility at LS24 9EP. This notice informs the public about the application and the process for submitting comments.