Scrap yard operator fined over oil disposal violations

A US scrap yard operator has been fined after violating oil disposal regulations.

LeRoy Howell of Kamiah, Idaho was ordered to pay almost $33,000, after Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) inspectors found evidence of oil leaking into soil and rusting containers.

Mr Howell's facility is located near the Seven Mile Creek, which is home to endangered species such as the steelhead salmon.

Ed Kowalski, director of the office of compliance and enforcement at the EPA's Seattle office, said that running a scrap yard and operating large pieces of machinery "requires a certain amount of housekeeping".

"Spilled oil can pollute Idaho's groundwater, lakes and streams and damage salmon habitat," he added.

In related news, the EPA recently announced plans to offer $200,000 worth of grants to Oregon residents clean up brownfield sites which have been contaminated by chemicals and pollutants.