BOISE, Idaho -- Many Idaho gas stations are in violation of federal underground storage tank (UST) requirements meant to protect drinking water, reported the Associated Press.
Inspections were conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in recent weeks of 79 stations and convenience stores in Idaho.
They found that 42% met U.S. standards for leak prevention and detection, an improvement over the 34% two years ago.
The EPA levied fines of more than $14,000 for 90 violations.
In 2003, the EPA stepped up enforcement in Idaho. It is the only state without its own tank inspection program.
With 95% of Idaho's drinking water coming from groundwater, officials said it is important to bring stations in line with rules to protect public health.
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