Apollo Energy Pleads Guilty For Violating Permit In Atchafalaya Refuge

Apollo Energy could face fines of up to $400,000 for violations of a wildlife refuge special use permit concerning its drilling operations in the Atchafalaya Wildlife Refuge.

The company pleaded guilty to two counts Wednesday.

A plea agreement with the U.S. Attorney's Office, though, outlines possible payments of $25,000 to the Nature Conservatory as well as a total of $65,000 in fines.

The company has been operating in the St. Martin Parish refuge since February 2005.

A court filing shows the U.S. Attorney's office is charging the company with four violations in September 2011.