Attorney General Kelly A. Ayotte and Commissioner Thomas S. Burack of the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (“DES”), announce that the Sullivan County Superior Court (Arnold, J.) approved a settlement between the State and Paul G. Blouin to resolve violations of the State’s wetland and terrain alteration laws. The settlement includes a total civil penalty of $150,000 and a requirement to restore the impacted wetlands to the State’s satisfaction.

In its lawsuit, the State alleged that Mr. Blouin violated State laws by stumping, dredging, and filling a large area of forested wetland to create a trout pond, useable adjacent uplands, and an access road on his property in Unity, New Hampshire. The total estimated impact to wetlands and streams was over 183,000 square feet, or more than four acres. The settlement agreement requires the defendant to pay a $20,000 cash penalty, restore the impacted wetlands, and provide financial surety for the completion of the restoration. The remaining cash penalty, in the amount of $130,000 will be suspended for a period of three years.

Attorney General Kelly Ayotte stated, “This agreement signifies the importance of restoring wetlands to ensure their preservation for all of New Hampshire’s citizens. We are pleased that Mr. Blouin has agreed to take responsibility for his actions.” Commissioner Burack said, “This settlement acknowledges that wetlands are a critical part of New Hampshire’s natural environment. We look forward to working with Mr. Blouin to ensure that the wetlands in this case are properly restored.”

For further information, please contact Assistant Attorney General Esther B. Piszczek at (603) 271-3679.