Schellinger Construction has been issued a $15,000 fine for accidentally sending muddy water into Garnier Creek on Aug. 12.

Garnier Creek is a small trout stream adjacent to Tamarack Meadows, which is owned by Schellinger. The muddy water went into the creek as the company was pumping water out of nearby stormwater ponds.

The Flathead Conservation District Board found the spill in violation of the Natural Streambed and Land Preservation Act. The company was pumping water out of the ponds into a sprinkler system when mud plugged a pipe and the water blew a line. It was supposed to drain back into the pond, but a channel was blocked and the muddy water went into the creek, the company explained at the time.

The company said it self-reported the incident.

The creek ran muddy for a few day

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