Audit finds DEQ negligent in regulating permits that affect pollution levels

Audit finds DEQ negligent in regulating permits that affect pollution levels


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SALT LAKE CITY — Air pollution is a constant concern for Utahns and a new audit says that Utah's sand and gravel pits may be part of the problem.

But we may never find out just how much of the problem.

According to the 30-page public legislative audit, there are issues at the Utah Division of Environmental Quality. Auditors are worried about how the DEQ issues permits to dig in the sand and gravel pits.

"All conditions of each air quality permit have not always been enforced," the report reads.

This includes timeliness of permits.

In one case, auditors couldn't even find a permit for one site in the Salt Lake Valley, but found requests from the same site asking for a production increase.

This means sand and gravel pit operators are likely plowing up more sand and gravel than current permits allow because new permits aren't being processed in a timely manner — or at all.

The audit also mentions management concerns.

"Permit modification files have been lost, allowing for the possibility that operators were negatively impacted," the report stated.

Sand and gravel pits can produce dust, and that adds to pollution. Utah has several big sand and gravel operations all over the state.

On its website, the Division of Air Quality says says it has reviewed the audit and recommendations.

"DAQ will ensure that the compliance inspectors document all non-compliance with the applicable permit conditions and make recommendations that address the circumstances of the violation," wrote the DEQ in a response to the audit on their website. "The Division reviewed these recommendations and has taken concrete actions to ensure that any deficiencies in its permitting program are corrected."

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