EPA v. Grindstone Indian Rancheria Referral to DOJ

Case summary

On September 29, 2020, EPA Region 9 referred the Grindstone Indian Rancheria Public Water System (System) case to the Department of Justice for violations of the Safe Drinking Water Act, an administrative order on consent issued in 2017, and an emergency order issued in 2019. Underlying violations include ongoing failure to adequately disinfect its surface water source, conduct required monitoring and reporting, retain qualified operators, and distribute public notification. The System serves approximately 150 residents of Grindstone Indian Rancheria in Glenn County, California. On April 9, 2024, DOJ lodged a consent decree that requires the Tribe to take immediate action to address issues, including the provision of alternative water.

Defendants (1)

• Grindstone Indian RancheriaNamed in complaintNamed in settlement

Facilities (2)

• GRINDSTONE INDIAN RANCHERIA

  3600 COUNTY RD 305 #13A, ELK CREEK, CA, 95939

  Registry ID: 110066851142

• GRINDSTONE INDIAN RANCHERIA (PWSS ID 02092017)

  3600 COUNTY RD 305 UNIT 13A, ELK CREEK, CA, 95939

  Registry ID: 110066851142

Statutes cited

• SDWA 1431-PWS — Emergency Powers/PWS

Enforcement conclusions (1)

• Grindstone Indian Rancheria Referral to DOJentered 2024-11-19

  Primary law: SDWA

  Federal penalty: $8,963

Timeline (6 milestones)

• 2020-09-29Referred To Dept Of Justice
• 2020-09-29Referred To Headquarters
• 2020-09-29Enforcement Action Data Entered
• 2024-04-08Complaint Filed With Court
• 2024-04-09Final Order Lodged
• 2024-11-19Final Order Entered