The University of Georgia could face penalties for polluting a creek that runs through the Athens campus.

State Environmental Protection Division officials are expected to consider the penalties next week regarding Tanyard Creek.

Paint used to decorate the playing field at Sanford Stadium dyed the creek white and red on Nov. 19 when university athletic association workers washed off painting equipment connected to a newly installed drain.

The drain had been mistakenly hooked into a storm sewer, which carries runoff into the creek.

Officials say the drain should have been attached to the sanitary sewer system, which carries waste to a sewage treatment plant.

Contributors: Rickey Bevington

Tags: Athens, University of Georgia, environment, UGA, pollution, EPD, The Center for Campus Fire Safety, Tanyard Creek