"Late this afternoon, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation responded to a report from the Niagara Falls Water Board of overflows and discharges associated with the Niagara Falls Wastewater Treatment Plant and associated sewage system.  The discharge occurred at a time of heavy rains in the area.  DEC immediately initiated an investigation and officials observed badly discolored water in the Niagara River -- which clearly constitutes a violation of the State’s water quality standards. These continued violations are wholly unacceptable. The NFWB must take immediate corrective measures and DEC will pursue additional enforcement as appropriate as part of our ongoing actions to hold the NFWB accountable and protect water quality. The maximum penalty for violations of the State’s water quality standards are $37,500 per day, per violation. DEC will provide additional information as it becomes available."‎