Story perspectives

Great Lakes Cheese Faces 20 Violations Impacting Wildlife

9/15/2025

35 4

Summary

Story summary

Great Lakes Cheese has incurred 20 discharge permit violations since November 2024, as reported by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).
DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton noted these violations have negatively impacted water quality and wildlife in Ischua Creek, resulting in a die-off.
The DEC is assessing enforcement options and may seek natural resource damages.
Production at Great Lakes Cheese ceased on August 29, with mobile wastewater treatment trailers deployed on-site.
NYS Senator George Borrello expressed frustration over learning about the violations via media but remains confident in DEC's accountability.

1 of 1

Story summary

Great Lakes Cheese has incurred 20 discharge permit violations since November 2024, as reported by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).
DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton noted these violations have negatively impacted water quality and wildlife in Ischua Creek, resulting in a die-off.
The DEC is assessing enforcement options and may seek natural resource damages.
Production at Great Lakes Cheese ceased on August 29, with mobile wastewater treatment trailers deployed on-site.
NYS Senator George Borrello expressed frustration over learning about the violations via media but remains confident in DEC's accountability.