SPARTA, Wis. (WFRV) – A dairy farm in western Wisconsin will pay over $200,000 in fines for violating state wastewater laws at a concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFO) they own and operate.
According to a release from the Wisconsin Department of Justice, Attorney General Josh Kaul announced that Phil Mlsna and Mlsna Dairy Supply Inc. will pay $209,641.47 for allowing the Wisconsin Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit for their CAFO to expire in 2015.
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“The WPDES permitting system is in place for a very good reason: to protect clean water,” said AG Kaul. “As this case highlights, violations of our wastewater laws can result in significant penalties.”
Mlsna Dairy Supply reportedly continued operating its large CAFO without a permit for years, during which time it was not subject to the laws the other legally permitted CAFOs within the state are required to follow.
“Wisconsin’s wastewater laws are in place to protect our environment and ensure safe, clean water for Wisconsinites. Violations of those laws are serious offenses, as they can contaminate our waters, harm wildlife, and jeopardize public health,” said Wisconsin DNR Assistant Deputy Secretary Mark Aquino. “We appreciate the efforts of the Wisconsin DOJ to hold violators accountable and protect our natural resources.”
Additionally, Mlsna Dairy Supply constructed a sand separation system without plans and specifications approved by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Mlsna Dairy Supply was found liable for all 2,501 days on which the state alleged that they violated Wisconsin’s wastewater laws.
Judge Mark Goodman held a court trial from November 6, 2023, to November 8, 2023, to receive evidence regarding the forfeiture he should assess for Mlsna Dairy Supply’s violations.
On May 16, 2024, Judge Goodman issued an order requiring defendants to pay a total of $209,641.47 in forfeitures, surcharges, court costs, and attorney fees.
