The developer of a controversial property in Beaverdam was cited by Buncombe County recently for what officials say was a failure to prevent erosion at its Bartramís Walk housing development.

Inspectors say mud had washed away following grading at the property. The countyís Planning and Development Department issued the notice of violation of county law last month.

Opponents of the project had warned that development of steep slopes off Town Mountain and Wolfe Cove roads likely would lead to environmental problems.

Bartramís Walk was approved after several votes by county officials amid strong community opposition and several technical and engineering changes to the plan.

County law requires that developers sow grass or plants or put up fencing when grading or doing other work on an acre or more that might contribute to runoff. Failure to correct violations can result in fines as high as $5,000 per day.

The county has not issued a fine and erosion inspector Shane Briggs said the developer is being cooperative.

The violation notice was sent to Mike Zyboyovski, a partmer in the Beaverdam Land Conservancy, which is developing the land.

The Buncome County Planning Board approved the project, which will build 74 lots on about 156 acres.