Lessons likely learnt over illegal dumping stoush

THE company that dumped construction material in the Clutha River following incorrect advice from the regional council has declined to say whether it will appeal its infringement notices.

Meanwhile, Otago Fish & Game says it appears lessons will be learnt by both the council and the company.

An investigation into the issue by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began in March after a Balclutha resident saw a truck with Andrew Haulage’s logo dumping waste building materials down the riverbank behind the Balclutha Aerodrome.

The Otago Regional Council passed the investigation on to the EPA to ensure impartiality after it was found that council staff had advised the company over the dumping.

The council admitted, after further questioning this week, it had been issued with a warning for permitting the company to dump the material.

Otago Fish & Game officer Bruce Quirey said it was advised of the outcome of the investigation, including the fact regional council staff had provided wrong advice to Andrew Haulage, by the EPA.

It appeared the investigation process — which led to the company being issued two infringement notices — had been thorough, he said.

‘‘We are confident the regional council and the company will learn from this experience.’’

Fish & Game supported the EPA’s view that more staff training for river management was required at the regional council and at an industry level.

‘‘The EPA has suggested that Fish & Game could assist the regional council and we look forward to working alongside them to make that happen.’’

Mr Quirey said the council took appropriate action by requesting the EPA investigate.

The appeal process for the investigation is expected to end by early September.