Re:

disagree. Diamond Shamrock, Grand River Ohio late 70's, when desiring to chromium plate, would dig pits in the ground and charge CrO3 then when the bath was spent, would cover it with dirt and move to the next hole, result: hexavalent chromium in groundwater.

EPA stopped it. Industry is closely monitored regarding effluent discharges, with fines being typical, and even jail time for violators being possible. Having worked in chem industry 23 years, trust me, its not a government scam. Its freedom of profiteers that needs to be regulated. Example 2, the Cuyahoga river caught fire in the mid 70's, Cleveland was the laughing stock. That river is much cleaner now, last I heard the salmon have returned. Holland Michigan, Lake Macatawa - Heinz or other company in late 70's dumping brine. Doesn't happen any more. The effluents are monitored daily, usually 3-4 times a day and records kept.