On December 9, 2016, Region 10 filed a consent agreement and final order resolving violations of the Clean Water Act by Mr. Robert Paul Rice, Jr. Respondent discharged pollutants to waters of the U.S. without a permit or authorization under NPDES. The South Fork of the Clearwater River is critical habitat for steelhead and bull trout, which are protected under the Endangered Species Act. The South Fork is also essential fish habitat for Chinook and Coho salmon, and is 303(d) listed for sediment. This enforcement action compels individuals to avoid mining in waters without NPDES permits in order to protect sensitive resources present in these waters. Respondent agreed to pay a penalty of $3,600.