JUSTICE DEPARTMENT PROPOSES SETTLEMENT IN DREDGING CASE

JUSTICE DEPARTMENT PROPOSES SETTLEMENT IN DREDGING CASE    The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a consent decree in federal court resolving claims made by the United States under the National Marine Sanctuaries Act against Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Co.
   The government acted after a vessel owned by Great Lakes allegedly grounded and then dragged a dredging pipe for 13 miles through a Florida Keys marine sanctuary.
   Justice’s consent decree proposes that Great Lakes buy an annuity that will pay the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration $969,000 over five years. NOAA will use the funds to restore the site and pay damage assessment costs.
   Comments on the proposal should be submitted within 30 days.