SAN JUAN ISLANDS, Wash. – A mine on San Juan Island is facing fines for repeatedly ignoring state water quality laws.

The Washington State Dept of Ecology has issued a $53,000 fine against the owner of Egg Lake Quarry, which is a sand and gravel mine on the island.

Inspectors said that hazardous materials were not stored properly, and that leaks and spills were not being cleaned, among other violations.

Department of Ecology officials noted that they have attempted to get the owners of Egg Lake Quarry to comply with state guidelines since at least 2018.

Inspections in 2021 and 2022 showed that few improvements were made.

The mine’s penalty fees will go towards the state’s Coastal Protection Fund, which goes towards water quality restoration projects across the state.