EPA grants extension for study on storm water runoff at Marbo Cave

There's still no administrative officer to oversee KEPCO and Samsung E&C America Inc.'s appeal to Guam EPA's notice of violation. It was in July of last year an NOV was issued to the company for failing to implement their erosion and sediment control plan.

As a result, storm water runoff not only flowed into adjacent properties, but it left one of Guam's prized freshwater sites, Marbo Cave, a mud pit. Samsung has been waiting since August of last year for a hearing to be held on their appeal.

In the meantime, GEPA spokesman Nic Lee informed KUAM that they've granted a one-week extension for the hydrological study that was ordered by the GEPA. "The study is meant to determine if the basins are going to be adequate enough to handle the property storm water runoff including water that may be infiltrating from outside of the site," said Lee.

GEPA will conduct an assessment once the study is completed, and determine whether any other modifications to the site need to be done. In a separate matter, the Attorney General continues to seek legal action against Samsung and KEPCO, alleging the company was well aware of the dangers of failing to implement the approved sediment and erosion control plan.

Trial is set for November 30.