The Darigold Inc. dairy of Issaquah, Wash., has settled an environmental pollution case stemming from a 2009 ammonia discharge, prosecutors said.
The firm admitted to the mistake that led to an ammonia solution flowing from a refrigeration unit to the roof of the plant and from there to the Issaquah Creek, Seattlepi.com reported Thursday.
Staff from the Department of Fish and Wildlife were on the creek in October 2009, conducting a fish study, when they noticed the ammonia smell and dead fish.
The state said Darigold would pay a $10,000 fine and $60,000 toward preservation of the watershed. In addition, the firm's 13 plants are to follow a new environmental compliance plan.
The company said it would also publish an apology in the local Issaquah Press newspaper.
"Issaquah Creek is a place where children learn the importance of protecting our small creeks and watersheds. To protect our heritage, corporations must make environmental protection a priority," U.S. Attorney Jenny Durkan said in a statement.