The ECLD prosecutes defendants who are accused of environmental violations both criminally and civilly in a wide range of fields, including illegal handling or disposal of hazardous waste, water pollution, air pollution, natural resources destruction, timber harvesting, public nuisance, workers safety and others. The ECLD works closely with local, state and federal law enforcement and resource protection agencies to provide a coordinated and comprehensive response to violations of environmental laws.
Since its establishment in December, 1989, the ECLD has procured misdemeanor and felony convictions as well as civil judgments and injunctions against numerous individuals and corporations resulting in the imposition of jail time, criminal or civil penalties, agency costs reimbursement, site clean ups, resource restoration and funds for environmental education, habitat restoration and environmental enforcement efforts.
In addition to environmental prosecutions, the ECLD has joined with both government, community, and industry groups to provide education, training and, in some instances, financial assistance to local business and property owners in order to assist them in complying with the complex range of environmental laws and regulations in effect in Sonoma County.
