San Diego Coastkeeper

Sea World / Anheuser Busch to Apply for Fireworks Discharge Permit

SAN DIEGO, CA - August 22, 2006 – Anheuser Busch’s Sea World Adventure Park has announced its intention to cease its fireworks displays until it secures appropriate discharge permits from the San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board. This decision comes in response to San Diego Coastkeeper’s June 26, 2006 filing of a 60-day Notice of Intent (NOI) to bring litigation to enforce the Clean Water Act’s mandate that a permit be obtained for displays that release potentially dangerous chemicals into Mission Bay. Given the announcement by Sea World’s attorneys, Coastkeeper will forego litigation it expected to file in early September.

“Under the federal Clean Water Act, any company that discharges pollutants into waters must first apply for and receive a discharge permit,” noted Marco Gonzalez of Coast Law Group LLP, which represents Coastkeeper. “Instead of wasting time and resources in litigation, Sea World has agreed to do the right thing. We applaud their efforts to comply with the law and secure the required permit.”

Each summer, Sea World discharges fireworks from a barge in Mission Bay during its “Sky Blast” show. Despite nearly 150 fireworks displays annually, Sea World has never secured an (NPDES) discharge permit from the Regional Water Board.

When fireworks are shot off over Mission Bay, chemicals found in those fireworks fall into the Bay, as does paper trash (firework casing) that is potentially laden with chemicals. Some of the hazardous compounds found in fireworks and potentially in Mission Bay include: perchlorate salts, arsenic, chromium, copper, strontium, mercury, cadmium, lead and zinc.

“Fireworks contain dangerous chemicals that can make their way into our bays and onto our beaches,” stated Coastkeeper Executive Director Bruce Reznik. “We must ensure that fireworks are used responsibly, potential impacts are appropriately monitored, and that all necessary permits are obtained.”

The impacts of fireworks displays on water quality are not well known, and regulation of these activities could result in further monitoring and research in this area.

“We think Sea World is taking a leadership role in the responsible use of firework displays,” added Gonzalez. “We hope other agencies that use firework displays will follow their lead.”

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Founded in 1995, San Diego Coastkeeper protects the region’s bays, beaches, watersheds and ocean for the people and wildlife that depend on them. We balances community outreach, education, and advocacy to promote stewardship of clean water and a healthy coastal ecosystem.

Coastkeeper is represented by Marco Gonzalez of Coast Law Group, a community-conscious law firm providing innovative solutions and practical advice to assist clients in achieving their personal goals and business objectives.