EPA v. Vega Baja Municipal Solid Waste Landfill, Vega Baja

Case summary

Based on EPA inspection findings of improper design and operation, location within a floodplain and within or adjacent to a wetland, past CWA violation and enforcement (filling in wetlands), and uncontrolled stormwater and leachate releases, EPA determined the Vega Baja MSWLF Facility may present an imminent and substantial endangerment to human health and the environment. The Puerto Rico Land Authority as owner of the Vega Baja MSWLF Facility has in the past contributed to and is now contributing to the handling and disposal of solid waste at the Facility. EPA orders the landfill to be capped and closed with post-closure care of at least 30 years.

Defendants (3)

• Vega Baja Municipal Solid Waste Landfill Vega BajaNamed in settlement
• AR Waste Disposal Enterprises IncNamed in settlement
• Municipality of Vega Baja, Puerto RicoNamed in settlement

Facilities (1)

• LA VEGA BAJA MUNICIPAL LANDFILL

  PR 692, BO CIBUCO, VEGA BAJA, PR, 00693

  Registry ID: 110028183604

Statutes cited

• RCRA 3008H — Interim Status Corrective Action Order
• RCRA 3002 — Standards Applicable to Generators of Hazardous Waste
• RCRA 7003 — Imminent Order: Solid or Hazardous Waste

Enforcement conclusions (1)

• Vega Baja Municipal Solid Waste Landfill, Vega Baja Puerto Ricoentered 2007-06-20

  Primary law: RCRA

Timeline (3 milestones)

• 2007-06-20Enforcement Action Closed
• 2007-06-20Final Order Issued
• 2007-07-25Enforcement Action Data Entered