May 22, 2015 – Fort St. John, British Columbia – Environment Canada
Progress Energy Canada Ltd. pleaded guilty on May 20, 2015, in Fort St. John, British Columbia Provincial Court, and was ordered to pay a total of $250,000 in penalties for an offence under the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994, that occurred on May 3, 2012.
Environment Canada’s investigation determined that migratory birds died as a result of their exposure to condensate, a form of petroleum liquid hydrocarbon. There were no deterrence measures in place to limit the birds access to the open, above-ground, holding tank. In total, 17 Mallard ducks were found dead in the tank.
Of the $250,000 penalty, the company will pay a $5,000 fine, and will make a directed payment of $122,500 to the Environmental Damages Fund (EDF), and another of $122,500 to three charities.
The Environmental Damages Fund (EDF) follows the polluter pays principle to help ensure that those who cause environmental damage or harm to wildlife take responsibility for their actions.
As a result of this conviction, the company’s name will be added to the Environmental Offender’s Registry.
