The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency concluded 78 enforcement cases in 35 counties throughout Minnesota during the third quarter of 2012, including one in Austin.

The agency penalized Austin Ready Mix, located at 24019 534th Ave., $3,900 for stormwater violations.

More than a quarter of the cases were for stormwater violations. Improper stormwater management, during or after construction projects, can cause erosion and allow sediment-laden runoff to enter lakes, rivers, streams and wetlands, according to the MPCA. In addition to monetary penalties, stormwater-related cases usually require a series of corrective actions to bring projects back into compliance with state rules and regulations.

Penalties from all 78 cases totaled just over $540,000.