Energy companies face Colo. penalties for runoff

Energy companies face penalties for runoff from construction sites into Colorado creeks

• On 10:41 am EDT, Thursday October 8, 2009

DENVER (AP) -- Three oil and gas companies face penalties totaling $680,000 for failing to keep runoff from their pipeline construction sites from flowing into western Colorado creeks.

State health officials said Wednesday the companies had stormwater discharge permits but didn't control runoff from sites on the Roan Plateau.

Colorado Attorney General John Suthers sought a court order last year to halt the work, which started in 2006, until the companies stopped the runoff into three creeks. The companies agreed to make changes.

The companies and the penalties they face are: Berry Petroleum Co., $150,000; Enterprise Products Operating LLC, $182,000; and Marathon Oil Co., $98,000.

The state will take comments on the proposed settlements for 30 days.