PHOENIX, AZ, Nov. 10, 2008 -- Arizona Department of Environmental Quality Director Steve Owens announced that Gringo Pass Inc. will pay $45,000 for leaking underground storage tank (UST) violations at the company's gas station along Highway 85 near Lukeville in Pima County dating back to 1998.
Under the terms of a consent judgment between ADEQ and the company, in addition to the $45,000 payment Gringo Pass Inc. will reimburse ADEQ for 10 percent of the total corrective action costs up to $500,000 and all of the costs that exceed $500,000. The agreement also allows ADEQ and its representatives to enter the facility for corrective actions and inspections.
The fuel that leaked from the USTs contaminated the soil in the area. ADEQ will conduct an investigation to determine whether the contamination also has reached the groundwater
"This agreement ensures that Gringo Pass is being held accountable for the contamination at this site," Director Owens said. "We are committed to protecting Arizona's precious natural resources."
Two of the leaking tanks held 7,500 gallons each and a third held 10,000 gallons. The tanks are no longer in use.
The consent judgment is subject to approval by the Arizona Superior Court.
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