Landscape architects and landscape contractors work hand-in-hand. When it comes to site development, erosion control often plays a role and compliance to National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) practices must be followed. Certified professionals in erosion and sediment control (CPESC) may be consulted to assure that procedures are properly followed on site.

The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has just learned what happens when those procedures aren?EUR??,,????'???t adhered to. The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) levied a $240,000 fine against a California contractor hired by ODOT to straighten a curving stretch of U.S. 20. The fine is for 61 violations of state water quality laws. It is the largest storm water management fine ever issued against a company by the state.

The construction company excavated 160 acres of steep slopes, including felling trees and stump removal. It?EUR??,,????'???s alleged the contractor did not install erosion control measures to protect streams. When heavy rains hit in September 2006, mud entered the salmon-bearing streams.

ODEQ also issued a $90,000 fine this spring against ODOT for failing to ensure that the Yaquina River and several of its tributaries were protected from the sediment.

ODEQ said both parties were responsible for the erosion problems, but the larger fine for the contractor indicates greater blame.

An ODOT spokesperson said the agency should have monitored the site to assure proper erosion control measures were in place.

In a statement, the contracting company said it prided itself on environmental responsiblility and is working to control the site?EUR??,,????'???s erosion and sediment.

ODOT expected work on the $130 million job, the largest the agency has ever put out for bid, would finish by 2009. The work is now suspended to study landslide problems along the route. It could be years before work starts up again.

?EUR??,,????'??+ Stephen Kelly