Today's settlement resolves the government's complaint that Hudson's Berlin plant repeatedly discharged wastewater with illegal levels of fecal coliform, phosphorus,nitrogen, ammonia and other pollutants into Kitts Branch. Kitts Branch flows into Trappe Creek, Newport Bay and Chincoteague Bay. Fecal coliform is an indicator of the presence of sewage pollution and associated disease-carrying pathogens. EPA regulates fecal coliform to reduce the risk of illnesses such as intestinal, skin, ear and eye infections. Excessive levels of phosphorus and nitrogen can overstimulate algae growth and reduce crab and fish populations.
Ammonia is toxic to fish.
The U.S. alleges that Hudson violated permit requirements for monitoring, sampling and notification. These requirements include ensuring that testing equipment is accurate, lab tests are performed properly, and sampling records are up to date. To preserve the law's deterrent effect, however, the SEP policy requires a penalty in excess of the amount the defendant saved by delaying its compliance with environmental requirements. This enzyme helps chickens to better absorb phosphorus in their diet and reduces the amount in their waste. Studies indicate that phytase may reduce the phosphorus content of chicken litter by 30 percent.