MADISON, Wis. (Legal Newsline) - Wisconsin Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen announced on Friday that his office obtained a judgment against Johnson Timber Corporation to resolve allegations it violated state air pollution control laws.
Johnson Timber allegedly violated its Wisconsin air pollution control permit and state air pollution control laws at its Park Falls wood processing facility. The company allegedly exceeded its allowable hourly particulate matter emission rate during a June 2010 emissions stack test and exceeded two of its particulate matter limitations during a June 2011 emissions stack test.
Wisconsin facilities with the potential to emit elevated levels of particulate matter or other air contaminants may be required to obtain an air pollution control permit from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Permits and pollution control regulations minimize emissions through abatement plans, preventative maintenance and control equipment.
Uncontrolled air emissions can threaten the environment and human health. Pollution can impact the human heart and lungs and damage areas of natural habitat.
Johnson Timber cooperated with the DNR to ensure future compliance with its air pollution control permit. An October 2011 emissions stack test found that Johnson Timber was in compliance with its permit.
Under the terms of the judgment, Johnson Timber must pay $17,500 in court costs, surcharges and forfeitures for allegedly violating permit and pollution control laws.
Johnson Timber resolves air pollution allegations
