EPA Victoria has fined a Lang Lang dairy farmer $2035 after officers discovered effluent flowing into the Lang Lang River.
EPA officers made the discovery during a special operation focusing on effluent management and drainage on dairy farms last month.
Officers allege a pump had been installed at the point where effluent was collected, and the surrounding area was covered with effluent and was very boggy. From there, a culvert was taking liquid under a track, across a paddock and into the Lang Lang River.
EPA issued an improvement notice requiring the farmer to engage an expert assessment of the dairy effluent system on the farm, and to install interim controls to prevent any additional spills. The expert's report is likely to guide any additional work on the property.
The fine referred to the deposit of more than 1000 litres of dairy effluent into the Lang Lang River, an offence under Section 115 of the Environment Protection Act.
Under the Environment Protection Act 2017 and the Infringements Act 2006, the farmer has the right to have the infringement notice reviewed or be considered by a court.
Members of the public can report pollution by calling EPA's 24-hour hotline on 1300 372 842 or providing details online at epa.vic.gov.au/report-pollution/reporting-pollution