The state obtained an injunction Wednesday against a property owner in La Salle County's panhandle.

The Illinois Attorney General's office, on behalf of the state Environmental Protection Agency, went to court against William Shawback, owner of Madison Recovery & Services, 206 W. Washington St., Dana. During visits April 29, 2008 and April 15, 2009, a state inspector saw much waste on Shawback's property, including a dilapidated boat, drywall, appliances, mattresses, paper, glass, a gutted bus, mobile homes and about 250 tires.

The state said the rubbish was a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other "nuisance organisms," and was a hazard to children who apparently live nearby, as well as to the overall public health. Further, the rubbish posed a risk of contaminating the ground. At least half the property was unfenced. Shawback said he would clear up the site.

However, by April 15, the state said little progress had been made and gave Shawback an agreement to sign allowing the state access to the land to clean up and charge Shawback. On April 20, Shawback replied he would not agree. The Illinois EPA then said it learned May 12 Shawback was moving the waste to "undisclosed sites in La Salle County."

On Wednesday, Chief Judge James Lanuti ordered Shawback to allow the state access and to not move any more waste. A status hearing is set for Wednesday, June 3.