A power company recently settled with EPA and the state for hazardous waste violations at its petroleum refinery in Jamestown, New Mexico.

According to EPA, the refinery had multiple violations stemming from its storage and treatment of hazardous waste containing benzene. EPA and NMED together brought these violations to the attention of Western and the facility engaged in meetings with EPA and NMED to resolve the violations.

The company agreed to pay a fine of $734,008, cease all discharges of benzene in the aeration lagoons, and close the two aeration lagoons that received hazardous waste. In addition, it will construct an upgraded wastewater treatment facility and dismantle all benzene air strippers once the wastewater treatment facility is complete.

INFO: Contact EPA's Dave Bary at 214-665-2200.