Contractor Fined $5,000 For Illegal Dams
A construction company in Cochrane has been convicted for discharging sediment into Lillabelle Lake, north of Cochrane.
M.J. Labelle Co. Limited pleaded guilty and was fined a total of $5,000 for constructing a dam without authorization and allowing sedimentation to discharge into a lake contrary to the Lakes and Rivers Improvement Act.
The court heard that in May 2011, the company opened a water course that flowed into Lillabelle Lake and resulted in sediment being discharged into the lake. In an attempt to prevent further sedimentation, the company constructed an earthen dam which subsequently washed out and was replaced by another dam. The company had no authorization to construct either dam.
Prior to the court appearance, the company voluntarily completed work to rehabilitate the stream and prevent future erosion and sediment discharge.
Justice of the Peace Delores Boyuk heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Cochrane, on June 14, 2012.
To report a natural resources violation, call 1-877-TIPS-MNR (847-7667) toll-free any time or contact your local ministry office during regular business hours. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
