Logger Faces Penalties

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Created on Tuesday, 18 November 2014 21:46

Written by Victoria Nicoletta

AROUND THE NEK - A logger from Orleans is going to pay $60,000 in civil penalties for going against Vermont's water quality as well as heavy cut timber laws.

Reginald Riendeau has admitted to not following the Acceptable Management Practices for Logging. He caused pollution to state waters in the towns of Wheelock and Albany. Riendeau participated in logging in an area that was part of a protected wetland and its buffer zone. He also, heavy cut more than 40 acres without the approval of the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation.

The court-approved settlement entails that Riendeau follows a harvest plan for any new logging activities and to make the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation aware of any new logging for the next three years. He is also being required to pay $60,000 in civil penalties. Attorney General Bill Sorrell said there is no excuse for not protecting the quality of water while on logging jobs. "Our forests are a vital part of our environment and economy. Following good management practices is critical to protecting our forests and keeping state waters clean."

The Director of Forests at the Department, Steven Sinclair is encouraged by the settlement that has been reached. He feels that it sends a message to people who work in the forest industry that ignore state statutes. Sinclair said, "Requiring a harvest plan will ensure that future logging by Reginald Riendeau will follow state laws."