Attorney General Kelly A. Ayotte and Department of Environmental Services ("DES") Commissioner Thomas S. Burack announce that the Merrimack County Superior Court has approved a settlement between the State of New Hampshire and Watermark Navigation Systems, Inc. of Gilford, New Hampshire regarding alleged violations of the State's wetlands laws.

The State alleged in a lawsuit filed in Merrimack County Superior Court that Watermark violated the State’s wetlands laws by unlawfully disposing of boulders and other materials in Lake Sunapee on July 29, 2008 in violation of conditions contained in wetland permits issued by the Department of Environmental Services. Watermark denies that it committed any violations of the State’s wetlands laws, but agreed to the settlement.

The court-approved agreement imposes a $12,500 civil penalty, with $5000 suspended as long as Watermark remains in compliance with the wetland laws and regulations for one year.

“We are pleased with the settlement agreement as it continues to demonstrate the State’s commitment to protecting New Hampshire’s wetlands and water bodies.” Attorney General Ayotte stated.

Copy of the Consent Decree  

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