CHINA TOWNSHIP, Mich -- A New York-based environmental group is taking DTE to court in Canada, claiming the utility is polluting the environment with mercury.

The allegations surround DTE's Belle River-St. Clair coal-fired power plant in China Township.

The United States does not regulate mercury emissions in the Clean Air or Clean Water acts. But the laws are different across the border.

The Waterkeeper Alliance said it tested water and soil samples near the plant and found significant levels of mercury that may violate Canada's Fisheries Act.

Scott Edwards, a member of the environmental group, told Local 4 "these coal-fired power plants are poisoning our environment," adding that while DTE is not the only source of mercury emissions in the area, "the company's stacks are the most significant source."

DTE said it has not yet received a summons from the Canadian court.

"From what we've heard in the media, these allegations are baffling. All DTE power plants, including Belle River, operate in full compliance with state and federal emissions regulations. It should be noted that we are currently spending $1 billion to reduce mercury and other emissions from our operations," said utility spokesman Scott Simons.

If DTE is found guilty of the violations, it could face fines that reach $1 million a day.