(AP) A south-central Idaho milk processing company has agreed to pay a $170,000 fine for dumping wastewater with acidity levels high enough to damage the wastwater treatment plane of Jerome, ID - a town located close to the facility. The Times-News reports that the Environmental Protection Agency recently announced the agreement with Idaho Milk Products. The agency says the company, between March 2009 and July 2012, exceeded its acidity limit 138 times.
Jerome City Administrator Mike Williams says no damage has been reported concerning the city's wastewater system during that timeframe. Idaho Milk Products in a statement says it has taken steps to make sure future discharges meet standards. Improper acidity levels can cause corrosion, reduce the ability of bacteria to break down sewage, and lead to potential leaks.