Salem, OR (7/3/2018) — The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has fined Larry Thomas Matthews $1,944 for operating an onsite (septic) wastewater treatment system without a DEQ permit. The violation occurred at the Scofield Mobile Home Park in Salem.

Matthews’ company, Branmat LLC, previously held a Water Pollution Control Facilities Permit at the site. Matthews did not transfer permit coverage, as required by Oregon law, when the company was administratively dissolved in 2013.

DEQ requires those who operate onsite systems to do so under a Water Pollution Control Facilities Permit. Human sewage contains bacteria and viruses and it must be properly treated to protect human health and the environment. DEQ permits for such facilities ensure that systems are properly operated and maintained.

Matthews has until July 8 to appeal he penalty.

View the enforcement letter: https://www.oregon.gov/deq/nr/070318matthews.pdf

Contact: Katherine Benenati, Public Affairs Specialist, Eugene, 541-686-7997, benenati.katherine@deq.state.or.us