THIRTV-FIFTII BIENNIAL REPORT 53 



POLLUTION DETAIL 



By Paul A. Shaw 



In order to cope with increased sources ot" pollution and with 

 public demand for the maintenance of cleaner waterways, the pollu- 

 tion detail was expanded during the biennium for a three- to an eight- 

 man unit. The Division toxicologist is in charge with a senior warden 

 liandling enforcement. Three recently appointed wardens, two assist- 

 ant wardens, and a laboratory man complete the assignment. Due to 

 the rapid expansion of the work, it appears desirable to record this 

 activity in considerable detail. 



The problem of pollution control is fundamentally one of law 

 enforcement and therefore a function of tlie Bureau of Patrol. How- 

 ever, the establishment of scientific facts and the application of proper 

 engineering principles to the correction of existing conditions are 

 equally important problems which necessitate the assignment of 

 specially trained men for effective investigation and remedial action. 



Preliminar^y investigation in response to complaints, or conditions 

 observed on regular patrol, are reported in detail and followed up by 

 any research or technical data necessary to ascertain the facts. 

 Samples, pictures, statements of witnesses and other pertinent facts 

 are also essential features of the investigation. Upon completing the 

 evidence, notices of inspection may be issued indicating the violation 

 and condition to be corrected. 



The nature of the violation and the attitude of the offender deter- 

 mines the manner of procedure; the general policy being to secure 

 a remedy through cooperative effort in so far as possible. Problems 

 common to an industry are often approached through a group repre- 

 sentative with the thought of establishing approved methods of prac- 

 tice relative to w^aste disposal. If suitable preventative measures have 

 not been developed, the industry is urged to instigate research work 

 and, in the event of active cooperation, time is granted to develop 

 and install proper equipment rather than to force temporary methods 

 that might prove unsatisfactory and costly. The staff of the pollu- 

 tion detail aids in such programs and in many instances are able to 

 suggest proper procedures at a considerable saving to the industry. 

 Cooperative progTams of this type are in progress with the major oil 

 companies, commercial fishing interests, the Canners' League, "Wine 

 Institute, Gold Producers of California and others. 



Failure to accomplish the desired result through educational and 

 cooperative effort necessitates active enforcement. However, immedi- 

 ate action is indicated when substances specifically prohibited by law 

 are discharged or when the discharge of waste is know^n to be detri- 

 mental or causes visible damage to aquatic life. Even in such instances, 

 the enforcement action may consist in notification to remedy the condi- 

 tion at once, for, in the final analvsis. the goal is to secure correction 



