EPA, HUD, and DOT Partner with States to Meet Growth, Development Goals

Press release:


EPA, HUD, and DOT Partner with States to Meet Growth, Development Goals
Release Date: 07/31/2012

Contact Information: Latisha Petteway (News Media Only), petteway.latisha@epa.gov, 202-564-3191, 202-564-4355

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) announced today they will partner with the Governors’ Institute on Community Design to provide enhanced technical guidance to governors seeking to tackle housing, transportation, environmental, and health challenges facing their states.

The partnership, a part of the Federal Partnership for Sustainable Communities, is designed for states seeking to spur economic growth and development while addressing these issues.

“The Governors’ Institute on Community Design helps states address local challenges in ways that are cheaper and more effective, making it an important part of the Obama Administration’s commitment to communities,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “The EPA has been proud to be a part of the program since it was created in 2005. We look forward to working with our colleagues at HUD and DOT as well as Smart Growth America to continue supporting the Institute's workshops, and help states achieve their economic, environmental and public health goals."

“With this effort, our three agencies are providing the cutting-edge technical assistance states need to create healthier, more livable communities,” says HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan. “Just as importantly, we are demonstrating once again that the key to more affordable housing, transportation and access to jobs is providing partnership at the federal level that supports innovation at the local level.”

DOT Secretary Ray LaHood adds, “By working with HUD and EPA over the last three years, we’ve made significant progress to help communities across the country become safer, healthier, and better connected.” “We’re excited to expand our collaboration by working directly with the Governors’ Institute to increase state transportation options.”

Established in 2005, the Governors’ Institute brings together leading practitioners and academics in government, design, development, and regional economics to help governors and their state executive teams make informed choices about growth and development in their states. At the request of a governor, the Governors’ Institute conducts a workshop that pairs the governor and his or her cabinet with planning experts to identify strategies that spur development and help communities achieve their economic, public health, and environmental goals. Governors also receive follow-up assistance on technical issues.

The Governors’ Institute is coordinated by Smart Growth America and is led by former Governor Parris N. Glendening of Maryland and former Governor Christine Todd Whitman of New Jersey. Tom Ridge, former governor of Pennsylvania; Chet Culver, former governor of Iowa; and James Lee Witt, former head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, serve as advisors. In June, EPA awarded Smart Growth America a five-year cooperative agreement to administer the institute. This funding builds upon support provided previously by the National Endowment for the Arts, which brought to the fore issues of community design and art in public places.

The partnership, which celebrated its third anniversary in June, works to provide communities with faster, more streamlined access to federal programs and resources, and works closely with other federal agencies, states, and local governments to ensure that partnership programs use federal resources as efficiently as possible.

More information on the Governors’ Institute: http://www.govinstitute.org

More information on the Partnership for Sustainable Communities: http://www.sustainablecommunities.gov

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EPA Identifies Substitutes for Toxic Flame Retardant Chemical

Press release:


EPA Identifies Substitutes for Toxic Flame Retardant Chemical
Release Date: 07/30/2012
Contact Information: Latisha Petteway (News media only), petteway.latisha@epa.gov, 202-564-3191, 202-564-4355 Dale Kemery (News media only), kemery.dale@epa.gov, 202-564-7839, 202-564-4355

WASHINGTON - In its quest to identify possible substitutes for a toxic flame retardant chemical known as decabromodiphenyl ether (decaBDE), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released a draft report on alternatives. This comprehensive assessment, developed with public participation under EPA’s Design for the Environment (DfE) program, profiles the environmental and human health hazards on 30 alternatives to decaBDE, which will be phased out of production by December 2013.

DecaBDE is a common flame retardant used in electronics, vehicles, and building materials. It can cause adverse developmental effects, can persist in the environment and can bioaccumulate in people and animals. This technical assessment can help manufacturers identify alternatives to decaBDE. In addition, EPA will continue to work with manufacturers to investigate both chemical and non-chemical alternatives for flame retardants.

“EPA is using all of its tools to reduce the use of hazardous flame retardant chemicals like decaBDE and identify safer, functional substitutes to protect people’s health and the environment,” said Jim Jones, acting assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention (OCSPP). “Virtually everyone agrees that EPA needs updated authority under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) to more effectively assess and regulate potentially harmful chemicals like flame retardants. As EPA continues to stress the need for comprehensive legislative reform to TSCA, we are also targeting actions on a broader group of flame retardants to reduce human and environmental risks."

Today’s draft report is the latest in a series of actions the agency is taking to address flame retardants made with bromine. Other actions include:


On June 1, 2012, EPA released a TSCA work plan of 18 chemicals which the agency intends to review and use to develop risk assessments in 2013 and 2014, including three flame retardant chemicals. EPA is currently developing a strategy, scheduled for completion by the end of this year that will address these three and a broader set of flame retardant chemicals. This effort will aid the agency in focusing risk assessments on those flame retardant chemicals that pose the greatest potential concerns. EPA anticipates initiating the risk assessments on this category of chemicals in 2013.
On April 2, 2012, EPA proposed actions under TSCA that will require manufacturers, importers, and processors of polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) flame retardants to submit information to the agency for review before initiating any new uses of PBDEs after Dec 31, 2013. Those who continue to manufacture, import, or process after December 31, 2013, would be subject to a testing requirement under TSCA. EPA is accepting comments on this proposal until July 31, 2012.
In 2009, EPA developed action plans on PBDEs (including pentaBDE, octaBDE, and decaBDE) and hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) that summarized available hazard, exposure and use information; outlined potential risks; and identified the specific steps the agency is pursuing under the TSCA. The alternatives analysis for decaBDE was included in the action plan.

The alternatives to decaBDE characterized in the report are already on the market and will be used increasingly as decaBDE is phased out. The alternatives have differing hazard characteristics and are associated with trade-offs. For example, some alternatives that appear to have a relatively positive human health profile may be more persistent in the environment. Some alternatives appear to be less toxic than decaBDE. Preliminary data suggests that these flame retardants may have a lower potential for bioaccumulation in people and the environment. It is important to understand that these health and environmental profiles are largely based on computer-model generated estimates, and that the models are limited in their ability to predict concern. Laboratory testing and ongoing environmental monitoring is necessary to fully understand the potential for concern associated with these chemicals.

EPA’s Design for the Environment Alternatives Assessment Program helps industries choose safer chemicals and offers a basis for informed decision-making by providing a detailed comparison of the potential public health and environmental impacts of chemical alternatives. Throughout the partnership, stakeholders, including chemical suppliers, product manufacturers, and non-government organizations have provided valuable information to support the development of these draft reports. EPA is seeking stakeholder and public input on this draft report for 60 days.

More information on the DfE Alternatives Assessment Program and the draft report: http://www.epa.gov/dfe

More information on other actions on brominated flame retardants:
http://www.epa.gov/oppt/existingchemicals/pubs/workplans.html#2013

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Hopewell, Va., Company to Pay $175,000 Penalty to Settle Clean Air Act Violations at Manufacturing Facility

Press release:

Hopewell, Va., Company to Pay $175,000 Penalty to Settle

Clean Air Act Violations at Manufacturing Facility

PHILADELPHIA (July 31, 2012) -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Justice today announced that Hercules Incorporated has agreed to pay a $175,000 penalty to settle alleged violations of federal environmental laws in the processing of cellulose fiber at its Hopewell, Va., plant.

According to the United States' complaint, Hercules allegedly failed to adequately demonstrate compliance with the national emission standard for hazardous air pollutants for cellulose products manufacturing and violated related regulations on leak detection and repair.

Cellulose fiber is the main raw material used in the manufacturing processes conducted at the facility, located at 1111 Hercules Road. The cellulose is treated with various chemicals, and gaseous and particulate by-products are vented and treated by air pollution control devices. However, leakage of hazardous air pollutants into the environment can occur at different points along the manufacturing process, for example, at valves and vents.

Under a consent decree that was lodged with the U.S. District Court in Richmond, Va. on July 2, 2012, Hercules is required to comply with the Clean Air Act standard of "maximum achievable control technology" (MACT) . This standard protects public health and improves air quality by requiring facilities to use state-of-the-art technology for reducing hazardous air pollutants. Hercules will spend approximately $200,000 on the consent decree requirements, resulting in an estimated 150 tons of hazardous air pollutants reduced per year. As part of the settlement, Hercules has agreed to conduct additional testing, update its operating permit to document testing and monitoring activities, and engage in a two-year enhanced leak detection and repair program. The proposed settlement is subject to a 30-day public comment period and court approval.

This agreement is part of an EPA national initiative to target and reduce illegal emissions of air toxics and reduce excess emissions for facilities that have a significant impact on air quality and health in residential areas. Industrial and commercial facilities are required to implement leak detection and repair programs to prevent the escape of hazardous air pollutants.

For more information, please go to: http://epa.gov/ttn/atw/cellulose/cellfact.pdf.

EPA Awards $75,000 to the Choctaw Nation to Support Its Water Quality Program

Press release:

EPA Awards $75,000 to the Choctaw Nation

to Support Its Water Quality Program

(DALLAS – July 31, 2012) The Environmental Protection Agency has awarded the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma $75,000 to provide continued support for the tribe’s water pollution control program. The funds will be used to take water samples to assess surface water quality on tribal lands, compile data which may show changes over time and determine if a more thorough watershed management program is needed. Sampling data will determine whether water quality standards are being met, note any changes in the quality or condition of the Choctaw Nation’s water and provide planning tools to improve the function and health of stream ecosystems.

The mission of the EPA is to protect public health and the environment. The EPA supports our nations’ tribes in all aspects of the work needed to improve the water quality of tribal land watersheds. This cooperative spirit supports work to protect water quality that ensures the health of watersheds that cross state and tribal boundaries.

Additional Information on EPA grants is available at http://www.epa.gov/region6/gandf/index.htm

More about activities in EPA Region 6 is available at http://www.epa.gov/aboutepa/region6.html

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Federal, State and Local Officials Celebrate Continuing Redevelopment of Downtown Oklahoma City

Press release:

Federal, State and Local Officials Celebrate Continuing Redevelopment

of Downtown Oklahoma City

(DALLAS – July 30, 2012) At the Oklahoma City Union Station this afternoon, the Environmental Protection Agency, Oklahoma Office of the Secretary of Environment, Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality, Oklahoma Corporation Commission and Oklahoma City celebrated the continuing redevelopment of the Oklahoma City area through EPA’s Brownfields program.

The event highlighted the recent EPA Brownfields assessment grant of $350,000 to perform environmental site assessments at the future MAPS3 Downtown Public Park site. The land was once a prime location for commercial and industrial businesses such as auto repair shops and gas stations, salvage yards, dry cleaners, oil producers and processors, and battery manufacturers.

“Revitalizing former industrial and commercial sites is a smart way to keep our cities great places to live,” said EPA Acting Regional Administrator Sam Coleman. “EPA is committed to putting both people and property back to work and turning problem properties into community assets.”

The future Downtown Public Park consists of a 40-acre upper section and a 30-acre lower section connected by the Oklahoma City SkyDance pedestrian bridge that spans I-40. The park is within the boundaries of Hudson Avenue on the west, Robinson Avenue on the east, the future Oklahoma City Boulevard on the north and the Oklahoma River to the south.

“Oklahoma City’s Brownfields program has assisted in redevelopment of several key sites in Oklahoma City’s urban core.  We appreciate EPA’s funding support of the MAPS 3 Downtown Park and will continue to leverage these resources to improve the quality of life for our citizens,” Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett said.

The project will be completed in three phases. The first phase of the upper section will include landscaping along the new Oklahoma City Boulevard and access to the new Oklahoma City SkyDance pedestrian bridge. The second phase of the upper section will include amenities related to the planned programming of the park and the lower section will be completed in the final phase.

“The accomplishments of the Brownfields Program are many in Oklahoma, and the Downtown Public Park will be another success. The funding made possible through the Brownfields program will go toward environmental assessments to determine the scope of work to clean up the property and prepare it to become an Oklahoma City attraction,” said Oklahoma Secretary of Environment Gary Sherrer.

“The mission of the Brownfields program is to revitalize derelict properties and return them to productive use. The Downtown Public Park is an excellent example of the work accomplished through the program. This effort illustrates government working for the people,” said DEQ Executive Director Steven A. Thompson.

The EPA Brownfields program has partnered with the ODEQ, the OCC, Oklahoma Energy Resources Board and the city to assess and remediate many key sites in Oklahoma City such as the Devon Energy site, the Skirvin, Dell Center, Bricktown Fire Station, American Indian Cultural Center, First National Building and Dowell Center.

The EPA’s Brownfields program empowers states, communities, and other stakeholders to work together to prevent, assess, clean up and sustainably reuse brownfields. A brownfield site is real property, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant or contaminant. In 2002, the Small Business Liability Relief and Brownfields Revitalization Act was passed to help states and communities around the country clean up and revitalize brownfields sites. Under this law, the EPA provides financial assistance to eligible applicants through four competitive grant programs: Assessment grants, Revolving Loan Fund grants, Cleanup grants, and Job Training grants. Additionally, funding support is provided to state and tribal response programs through a separate mechanism.

More information on EPA’s brownfields program is available at http://www.epa.gov/brownfields/

More about activities in EPA Region 6 is available at http://www.epa.gov/aboutepa/region6.html

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EPA Public Hearing on Wetland Fill Permit Application for County Road 595 in Marquette, Michigan

Press release:

For Immediate Release              No. 12-OPA 058

EPA Public Hearing on Wetland Fill Permit Application for County Road 595 in Marquette, Michigan

CHICAGO (July 30, 2012) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will hold a public hearing on August 28th to take comments on the Marquette County Road Commission’s application for a wetland fill permit for the construction of County Road 595. EPA scheduled the hearing at the request of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality.

The Road Commission has proposed a new 21.5-mile primary county road, running north-south between U.S. Highway 41 and County Road Triple A, through Champion, Ely, Humbolt and Michigamme Townships. According to the application, construction would affect 25.81 acres of wetlands and would require the building of 22 stream crossings.

MDEQ has the authority to issue permits for projects under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act for wetlands, lakes and streams. EPA’s role is to ensure that proposed projects comply with federal guidelines. At the hearing, EPA will take comments on two issues: (1) whether there are practical, alternate routes for the road which would have less impact on aquatic resources; and (2) proposals to mitigate damage to wetlands and streams.

Oral and written comments will be taken at the public hearing. EPA will hold an informational question-and-answer session immediately before the public hearing -- at 6 p.m. on Aug. 28. The public hearing begins at 7 p.m. Both will be held at Northern Michigan University, Don H. Bottums University Center, Ontario/Michigan/Huron Rooms, 1401 Presque Isle Ave., Marquette.

The public comment period started on July 27 and concludes on Sept. 4, 2012. Comments should be addressed to Melanie Haveman, U.S. EPA (WW-16J), 77 W. Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL 60604-3590 or r5_cr595_comments@epa.gov. For questions or additional information, call EPA toll-free at 800-621-8431, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.,week days. Related documents and information about the public hearing are available on EPA’s website at www.epa.gov/region5/water/cr595.

The official records are also available at the Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, 317 N. Main St., Ishpeming.

EPA Awards $173,400 for Maryland Student Initiatives

Press release:

EPA Awards $173,400 for Maryland Student Initiatives

(PHILADELPHIA - July 27, 2012) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has awarded $173,400 to the Maryland Coastal Bays Program for student initiatives on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. EPA Regional Administrator Shawn M. Garvin provided opening remarks and presented a check today at the Maryland Coastal Bay Program’s “Get Out, Get Green, Get Paid” youth summit in Ocean City, Md.

“This initiative creates new opportunities for students to pursue environmental careers that make the world a better place,” said Garvin. “These programs not only expand the conversation on environmentalism, they empower young people to achieve their dreams.”

The funding will support educational, research, and career-related activities focused on green infrastructure, including marine and science programs, internships, and environmental stewards. Today’s announcement brings EPA’s total funding to more than $600,000 for this initiative, which includes youth from the Coastal Stewards program, the Upward Bound program, and students from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES).

The initiative is a partnership between EPA, Maryland Department of the Environment, Maryland Department of Natural Resources, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, and the Maryland Coastal Bays Program.

The objectives of the program are:

-          Increasing minority participation in environmental science and related fields;

-          Restoring Maryland Coastal Bays;

-          Promoting an environmental stewardship ethic at all educational levels;

-          Performing sound research; and

-          Fulfilling the goals of the Coastal Bays Program.

The summit, with young people ranging in age from 14-25 from the lower Eastern Shore of Maryland includes students enrolled in UMES, Upward Bound, Coastal Stewards, Youth Conservation Corps, Maryland Conservation Job Corps and other organizations. 

The purpose of the summit is for young people to learn more about the importance of getting outside, taking steps to be more green, and learning about green jobs. They heard inspiring stories from visionaries who have brought change to their communities, their workplace, their lives and beyond by following their passion for the environment.

EPA Awards Over $1.6 Million to the State of Oklahoma to Support Environmental Programs

Press release:

EPA Awards Over $1.6 Million to the State of Oklahoma to Support Environmental Programs

(DALLAS – July 27, 2012) The Environmental Protection Agency has awarded $1,603,137 to the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality to assist with environmental permitting, enforcement and facility inspections. This Performance Partnership Grant will also be used to perform outreach and education, accreditation of training providers and certification of firms and individuals performing lead-based paint abatement activities.

The EPA and states share responsibility for protecting human health and the environment. This unique relationship is the cornerstone of the nation's environmental protection system. Working together, we have made enormous progress in protecting our air, water and land resources. Under traditional environmental program grants, states receive funds to implement the various water, air, waste, pesticides and toxic substances programs.

Additional Information on EPA grants is available at http://www.epa.gov/region6/gandf/index.htm

More about activities in EPA Region 6 is available at http://www.epa.gov/aboutepa/region6.html

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EPA Awards Over $11 Million to the Oklahoma Water Resources Board to Support the Clean Water State Revolving Fund Program

Press release:

EPA Awards Over $11 Million to the Oklahoma Water Resources Board to Support

the Clean Water State Revolving Fund Program

 (DALLAS – July 27, 2012) The Environmental Protection Agency has awarded $11,419,000 to the Oklahoma Water Resources Board to support the Clean Water State Revolving Fund program. The funds will be used by the state of Oklahoma to provide loans and other types of financial assistance to local communities and intermunicipal and interstate agencies for wastewater improvements. The loans will be used to improve water quality in streams, lakes and rivers benefiting aquatic life, drinking water sources and eliminating diseases caused by raw sewage discharges.

 The Clean Water State Revolving Fund program is authorized by the federal Clean Water Act to provide an innovative method of financing a range of environmental projects. Under the program, the EPA provides grants to all 50 states and Puerto Rico to capitalize state loan funds. The states, in turn, make loans to communities, individuals and others for high-priority water quality activities. As money is paid back into the revolving fund, new loans are made to other recipients to maintain water quality.

 Additional Information on EPA grants is available at http://www.epa.gov/region6/gandf/index.htm

 More about activities in EPA Region 6 is available at http://www.epa.gov/aboutepa/region6.html

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Illinois Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Clean Air Act Violations Involving Asbestos

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 26, 2012


Illinois Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Clean Air Act Violations Involving Asbestos

WASHINGTON – Duane “Butch” O’Malley, 59, of Bourbonnais, Ill., who was convicted by a federal jury on September 26, 2011, for the illegal removal, handling and disposal of asbestos from a Kankakee building in August 2009, was sentenced to 10 years in prison by Federal District Court Judge Michael McCuskey. O’Malley was also ordered to pay restitution of $47,086 to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) related to the clean-up of illegally disposed asbestos and ordered to pay a fine of $15,000. Asbestos is a mineral fiber that has been used commonly in a variety of building construction materials. When asbestos-containing materials are damaged or disturbed by repair, remodeling or demolition activities, microscopic fibers become airborne and can be inhaled into the lungs, where they can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer and mesothelioma.

“Asbestos must be removed in a safe and legal way in order to protect people's health and reduce the risk of exposure,” said Cynthia Giles, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “The defendant’s actions endangered the health of his workers and the surrounding community and the sentence shows that those who violate critical environmental safeguards will be prosecuted.”  

“To increase his profits, a jury found that O’Malley knowingly disregarded federal environmental laws that require asbestos-containing materials be safely removed and properly disposed,” said U.S. Attorney Jim Lewis, Central District of Illinois. “This sentence is a consequence of the defendant’s flagrant disregard for his workers, the public, and the environment in exposing them to dangerous airborne asbestos fibers.”

During O’Malley’s trial, the government presented evidence that O’Malley, owner and operator of Origin Fire Protection, was hired by Michael J. Pinski in August 2009 to remove asbestos-containing insulation from pipes in a five-story building in Kankakee, Ill. that was owned by Pinski through his company, Dearborn Management, Inc. Evidence was presented that neither O’Malley nor his company was trained to perform the asbestos removal work and that O’Malley agreed to remove the asbestos insulation for an amount that was substantially less than a trained asbestos abatement contractor would have charged to perform the work. Further, O’Malley arranged for James A. Mikrut to recruit and oversee workers to remove the asbestos.

The government’s evidence showed that various provisions of the Clean Air Act (CAA) and EPA regulations were violated, including, failure to properly notify the EPA, failure to have trained on-site representatives present, failure to ensure the asbestos insulation was adequately wetted while it was being stripped and removed, failure to mark vehicles used to transport the asbestos containing waste material and failure to deposit the asbestos in a waste disposal site for asbestos. Instead, the asbestos insulation was stripped from the pipes while dry, and then placed in more than 100 large, unlabeled plastic garbage bags. The bags were then dumped in an open field in Hopkins Park, resulting in soil contamination and exposing the workers hired by O’Malley to dangerous asbestos-laden dust.

Under the CAA there are requirements to control the removal, handling and disposal of asbestos, a hazardous air pollutant. Any owner or operator of a renovation or demolition activity which involves removal of specified amounts of asbestos-containing material must comply with the EPA regulations.    

O’Malley was charged in June 2010 with five felony violations of the CAA, along with Michael J. Pinski, 42, of Kankakee, Ill., and James A. Mikrut, 49, of Manteno, Ill. Pinski entered a plea of guilty on Aug. 19, 2011, to one count of violation of the Clean Air Act. Mikrut pleaded guilty on Aug. 24, 2011, to five counts of violation of the CAA. The sentencing hearings for Pinski and Mikrut will be scheduled at a future date.  

The charges were investigated by EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division, with assistance from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Superfund Division. Assistant United States Attorney Eugene L. Miller and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney James Cha are prosecuting the case.

More information about EPA’s criminal enforcement program: http://www.epa.gov/oecaerth/criminal/index.html


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EPA Extends Public Comment Period for Visibility rule at three Ariz. Power Plants

Press release:

For Immediate Release: July 26, 2012

Contact:  Margot Perez-Sullivan, (415) 947-4149, perezsullivan.margot@epa.gov

EPA Extends Public Comment Period for Visibility rule at three Ariz. Power Plants

Proposed rule would improve visibility at 18 National Parks and Wilderness Areas

SAN FRANCISCO – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency extended the public comment period for a rule proposed earlier this month that would require additional pollution controls for nitrogen oxide at three power plants in eastern Ariz. The rule would improve visibility and human health at 18 national parks and wilderness areas, including the Grand Canyon, Saguaro National Park and the Petrified Forest.

EPA is soliciting public comments on the proposal through September 18, and will host two additional public hearings in Ariz. The hearings will be held on August 14, 2012 at 6 PM at Northland Pioneer College (Tiponi Community Center Conference Room) in Holbrook, Arizona, and on August 15, 2012 at 6 PM at Cochise College (Rooms 113 and 115) in Benson, Arizona. The deadline for final EPA action remains November 15, 2012.
On July 2, EPA proposed to approve Arizona’s plan that controls emissions of sulfur dioxide and coarse particles from older boilers at the Apache Generating Station, Coronado Generating Station and the Cholla Power Plant. In addition, EPA proposed a federal plan to limit nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions at these plants. Specifically, the proposal is designed to cut NOx emissions by 7,800 tons per year at the Cholla Power Plant, 4,700 tons/year at the Apache Generating Station, and 4,500 tons/year at the Coronado Generating Station.
Under the Clean Air Act, Congress set a long-term goal of restoring natural visibility conditions in numerous national parks and wilderness areas throughout the United States, known as Class 1 Areas. One of the strategies for achieving this goal is the use of Best Available Retrofit Technology at older power plants that cause or contribute to visibility impairment at Class I areas. The three power plants impact 18 of these areas.
For additional information on the proposed rulemaking and opportunities to provide input, please go to: http://www.epa.gov/region9/air/actions/az.html#all

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EPA APPROVES WISCONSIN’S PHOSPHORUS PROGRAM

Press release:

For Immediate Release           No. 12-OPA057

EPA APPROVES WISCONSIN’S PHOSPHORUS PROGRAM

Chicago (July 25, 2012) -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has approved Wisconsin’s program to reduce phosphorus levels in the Great Lakes and Wisconsin's inland waters.      

"EPA and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources are working together to improve water quality by reducing phosphorus levels," said Regional Administrator/ Great Lakes National Program Manager Susan Hedman. "This will reduce harmful algal blooms and ensure oxygen levels support fish and other aquatic life."

Wisconsin's program allows permit holders to meet phosphorus discharge requirements through partnership arrangements with others who release phosphorus. Permit holders can make such arrangements to achieve phosphorus reductions more economically. This allows communities and other permit holders to save money while still ensuring overall phosphorus levels are reduced in the watershed.

More information is available on EPA’s Website:

www.epa.gov/region5/newsevents/

EPA to Hold Public Meeting on Plan for the White Chemical Corporation Superfund site in Newark, New Jersey

Press release:

EPA to Hold Public Meeting on Plan for the White Chemical Corporation Superfund site in Newark, New Jersey

Contact: Elias Rodriguez, 212-637-3664, rodriguez.elias@epa.gov

(New York, N.Y. – July 25, 2012) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is proposing a plan to clean up contaminated ground water beneath the White Chemical Corporation Superfund site in Newark, New Jersey. The ground water was contaminated with volatile organic compounds by past industrial activities at the site. Volatile organic compounds can cause serious damage to people’s health and the environment. The proposed plan calls for the injection of chemicals into the ground water that will break down the contamination. The ground water will be monitored and its use will be restricted. The EPA will hold a public meeting on August 2, 2012 to explain the proposed plan and is encouraging public comments. The meeting will be held at 7:00 p.m. at the Newark City Hall Council Chambers, 920 Broad Street, Newark. Comments will be accepted until August 21, 2012.

The former White Chemical Corporation site, which covers 4.4 acres, is located at 660 Frelinghuysen Avenue in Newark, and is surrounded by many residential, commercial and industrial properties. Beginning in the 1930s, portions of the site were used by multiple businesses for industrial activities including the manufacture of acid chlorides and fire retardants. The White Chemical Corporation operated a chemical manufacturing facility at the site from 1983 to 1990 and was cited by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection for multiple environmental violations before the company abandoned the facility. Thousands of drums were left behind, with many of them leaking hazardous chemicals. The site was added to the federal Superfund list of the country’s most hazardous waste sites in 1991.

Because of the nature and complexity of the contamination at the site, the investigations and cleanups have been divided into three phases. The proposed plan announced today is for the third phase of the long-term cleanup.

The first phase of the work alleviated immediate threats to the surrounding community. The work was complex and dangerous and included removing drums of potentially explosive chemicals, addressing leaking chemicals throughout the site and decontaminating some buildings. In all, the EPA supervised the removal of about 9,000 drums, 12,500 chemical containers, 50,000 gallons of liquid contained in process tanks and addressed many other hazards at the facility. Some of the hazardous materials were treated on-site to neutralize the contamination. Others were removed for re-use or disposed of at off-site facilities with permits to receive them.

Under phase two of the cleanup, the EPA focused on ongoing sources of harmful vapors that could impact the surrounding area, including contaminated buildings and soil and abandoned storage tanks. In this phase, the EPA excavated and removed 23,000 cubic yards of contaminated soil from the site, demolished nine buildings and removed an above ground storage tank. The EPA then placed clean soil over the contaminated areas and placed a stone cover over the entire property to prevent erosion.

The third phase and final phase of the cleanup announced today addresses the contaminated ground water. After extensive study, the EPA has concluded that it is not technically feasible to pump out and treat the contaminated ground water because of the complex rock formations underlying the site. The depth, nature and variety of the rock formations would present extreme technical challenges.

Instead, the proposed plan calls for bioremediation, the injection of chemicals into the ground water to promote the breakdown of the pollutants. The specific process to be used to inject the chemical additive will be determined by the EPA as part of the design of the cleanup. Once the process has begun, the EPA will collect samples to confirm that the bioremediation is effective. The EPA is proposing to install additional monitoring wells to monitor the ground water and to put into place restrictions that will prevent its use as a source of drinking water in the future.

The EPA is requiring periodic collection and analysis of ground water samples to verify that the level and extent of contaminants are declining and that people’s health and the environment are protected.

To date, the EPA has spent about $20 million on the cleanup of the White Chemical site. The estimated cost of the proposed final phase of the cleanup is $25 million.

Written comments may be mailed or emailed to:

Ray Klimcsak, Remedial Project Manager

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Region 2

290 Broadway - 19th Floor

New York, N.Y. 10007-1866

(212) 637-3916

klimcsak.raymond@epa.gov

           

For more information on the White Chemical Superfund site, please visit: http://www.epa.gov/region02/superfund/npl/whitechem.

Follow EPA Region 2 on Twitter at http://twitter.com/eparegion2 and visit our Facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/eparegion2.

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Shenango, Inc. Settles Air and Water Pollution Violations with EPA, Pennsylvania and Allegheny County

Press release:

Shenango, Inc. Settles Air and Water Pollution Violations with EPA, Pennsylvania and Allegheny County

(PHILADELPHIA – July 25, 2012) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP) and the Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD) have reached a settlement with Shenango Inc. (Shenango) resolving alleged air and water pollution violations at the company’s coke manufacturing plant on Neville Island, Allegheny County, Pa. The consent decree requires the company to pay $1.75 million in civil penalties and make significant upgrades to the plant, which is located about five miles north of downtown Pittsburgh.

Manufacturing coke involves heating coal at high temperatures in an industrial oven until it forms a residue. This residue, known as coke, is used in steel manufacturing as a fuel in blast furnaces, which are used to refine iron ore into steel. Coke manufacturing also produces gases and particles, some of which are hazardous, that are regulated by the federal Clean Air Act.

The Shenango facility has a history of noncompliance with federal, state and county regulations protecting public health from air pollution. In 2000, the previous owner of the plant entered into a consent decree with EPA and ACHD to bring the facility into compliance.

Since that time, the violations including emissions of sulfur and visible emissions of particulate matter have continued. As part of this settlement, the company must take actions to reduce visible particulate emissions to meet Clean Air Act standards by making repairs to the plant’s coke ovens.

The governments’ complaint also alleges numerous violations of the Clean Water Act including: exceeding the pollutant limits of the facility’s permit for discharging wastewater for several years; failure to properly operate and maintain the facility’s wastewater treatment plant; and unpermitted discharges of polluted runoff from the coal pile directly to the Ohio River.

The part of the consent decree between EPA, PADEP and Shenango resolving Clean Water Act violations requires the company to take remedial actions including:

• Building a new biological wastewater treatment plant;
• Implementing immediate upgrades to its current treatment processes while the new treatment facility is being constructed; and
• Constructing a coal pile runoff management system.

The civil penalties in the proposed consent decree include $1.25 million to be divided equally between the United States and Allegheny County for the facility’s Clean Air Act violations. The company has also agreed to pay Clean Water Act civil penalties of $500,000 divided equally between the United States and Pennsylvania. The consent decree is subject to federal court approval, after a 30 day public comment period.

EPA Completes Drinking Water Sampling in Dimock, Pa.

Press release:

EPA Completes Drinking Water Sampling in Dimock, Pa.

PHILADELPHIA (July 25, 2012) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced today that it has completed its sampling of private drinking water wells in Dimock, Pa. Data previously supplied to the agency by residents, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and Cabot Oil and Gas Exploration had indicated the potential for elevated levels of water contaminants in wells, and following requests by residents EPA took steps to sample water in the area to ensure there were not elevated levels of contaminants. Based on the outcome of that sampling, EPA has determined that there are not levels of contaminants present that would require additional action by the Agency.

“Our goal was to provide the Dimock community with complete and reliable information about the presence of contaminants in their drinking water and to determine whether further action was warranted to protect public health,” said EPA Regional Administrator Shawn M. Garvin.  “The sampling and an evaluation of the particular circumstances at each home did not indicate levels of contaminants that would give EPA reason to take further action.  Throughout EPA's work in Dimock, the Agency has used the best available scientific data to provide clarity to Dimock residents and address their concerns about the safety of their drinking water.”

EPA visited Dimock, Pa. in late 2011, surveyed residents regarding their private wells and reviewed hundreds of pages of drinking water data supplied to the agency by Dimock residents, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and Cabot.  Because data for some homes showed elevated contaminant levels and several residents expressed concern about their drinking water, EPA determined that well sampling was necessary to gather additional data and evaluate whether residents had access to safe drinking water.

  

Between January and June 2012, EPA sampled private drinking water wells serving 64 homes, including two rounds of sampling at four wells where EPA was delivering temporary water supplies as a precautionary step in response to prior data indicating the well water contained levels of contaminants that pose a health concern.  At one of those wells EPA did find an elevated level of manganese in untreated well water.  The two residences serviced by the well each have water treatment systems that can reduce manganese to levels that do not present a health concern.

As a result of the two rounds of sampling at these four wells, EPA has determined that it is no longer necessary to provide residents with alternative water.  EPA is working with residents on the schedule to disconnect the alternate water sources provided by EPA.

Overall during the sampling in Dimock, EPA found hazardous substances, specifically arsenic, barium or manganese, all of which are also naturally occurring substances, in well water at five homes at levels that could present a health concern. In all cases the residents have now or will have their own treatment systems that can reduce concentrations of those hazardous substances to acceptable levels at the tap.  EPA has provided the residents with all of their sampling results and has no further plans to conduct additional drinking water sampling in Dimock.

For more information on the results of sampling, visit: http://www.epa.gov/aboutepa/states/pa.html .

Penobscot Indian Nation Receives Grant of nearly $149,000 to Improve Water Quality

News Release
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
New England Regional Office
July 25, 2012

Contact: David Deegan, (617) 918-1017

Penobscot Indian Nation Receives Grant of nearly $149,000 to Improve Water Quality

(Boston, Mass. – July 25, 2012) – The Penobscot Indian Nation has received a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for $148,924 to help reduce nonpoint source water pollution on their tribal lands.  The grant was selected in a competitive review process among 52 proposals.  A total of 20 grants were funded by EPA.

The grant will be used to improve and protect water quality in the Penobscot River and Little Alder Stream. The Penobscot River watershed consists of approximately one-third of the state of Maine.

“EPA is very pleased to provide much-needed funding to help the Penobscot Nation do some very important work that will have a real impact improving water quality and habitat within the Penobscot River,” said Curt Spalding, regional administrator of EPA’s New England regional office.

“Clean water and protection of aquatic habitat is of great importance to the Penobscot Nation,” said Dan Kusnierz, Penobscot Nation’s Water Resources Program Manager. “The Tribe greatly appreciates this commitment from EPA that will enable us to significantly reduce eroding soils and thereby protect the quality of waters on and adjacent to tribal lands.”

The EPA funding will assist the Penobscot Nation to reduce sediments and nutrients from entering the Penobscot River by stabilizing portions of an eroding riverbank and re-establishing nearby vegetation. This portion of the project will also complement ongoing efforts by the Penobscot Indian Nation to restore and improve habitat for migratory fish (including the federally endangered shortnose sturgeon and Atlantic salmon, and 10 other species).

The Tribal government will also use EPA funding to reduce sediments and nutrients from entering Little Alder Stream and its tributaries by installing “best management practices” (BMPs) on an all-terrain vehicle trail system leading to a sensitive high elevation lake with a native brook trout fishery.  Installing BMPs on portions of the trail that are in close proximity to streams leading to Little Alder Stream will help protect water quality in these sensitive waters.

More information:

Non-point source water pollution:  http://water.epa.gov/polwaste/nps/whatis.cfm

Tribal non-point source grant projects: http://water.epa.gov/polwaste/nps/tribal/index.cfm

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Talisman Energy to pay $62,000 penalty for violations at 52 natural gas facilities in Pa.

Press release:

Contact: Roy Seneca seneca.roy@epa.gov  215-814-5567

Talisman Energy to pay $62,000 penalty for violations at 52 natural gas facilities in Pa.

PHILADELPHIA (July 25, 2012) -- Talisman Energy USA Inc. will pay a $62,457 penalty to settle alleged violations of hazardous chemical reporting requirements at 52 hydraulic fracturing facilities throughout Pennsylvania that include natural gas well sites and compressor stations, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced today. Talisman discovered the violations and self-disclosed them to the EPA.

The Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) requires companies that store specified amounts of hazardous chemicals to submit material safety data and lists of chemicals on site with state and local emergency response agencies and the local fire departments. The safety data describes health risks associated with the chemicals and safe handling instructions. The lists of chemicals set forth the types and quantities of chemicals present on site.

Compliance with these requirements is important for the health and safety of facility occupants and first responders in the event of discharge or accidental exposure to hazardous chemicals. The required information also provides valuable information to emergency planners.

The settlement reflects Talisman’s good faith cooperation with EPA, and its compliance efforts in self-disclosing and swiftly correcting the violations. As part of the settlement, the company neither admitted nor denied the alleged violations.

In a consent agreement with EPA, the company has agreed to pay the $62,457 penalty for failing to file required chemical information for one or more of the past three years at each of the facilities included in the settlement.  

For more information on EPCRA and EPA’s toxic chemical reporting program, visit http://www.epa.gov/emergencies/content/epcra/index.htm .

Lincoln University Hosts Boot Camp Graduation for High School and College Students Interested in Water Industry Careers

Press release:

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 7

901 N. Fifth St., Kansas City, KS 66101

Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and Nine Tribal Nations

Lincoln University Hosts Boot Camp Graduation for High School and College Students Interested in Water Industry Careers

Contact Information: EPA - Kris Lancaster, 913-551-7557, lancaster.kris@epa.gov; or Missouri American Water - Ann Dettmer, 314-623-3822, ann.dettmer@amwater.com

Environmental News

NEWS MEDIA ADVISORY

(Kansas City, Kan., July 24, 2012) - EPA and Lincoln University (LU) officials will gather Friday, July 27, in Jefferson City, Mo., to present graduation certificates to high school and college students who have participated in a week-long water industry boot camp training session.

The training, which began Monday, July 23, was offered to students from LU and local high schools, including Jefferson City High School and Helias Catholic High School. Students have learned about essential concepts of water quality and treatment, and the operations and responsibilities of water utilities and professionals who protect public health by providing clean, safe, potable water.

Lincoln University, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, and Missouri American Water Company have provided experts in the water industry to serve as teachers during the boot camp. The educational sessions have included lectures, group activities, laboratory tasks, tours of facilities, field trips, information about Geographic Information Systems, and water meter testing.

WHAT: Water Industry Boot Camp Graduation Ceremony

WHERE: Lincoln University, Memorial Hall, Room 114, 818 Chestnut, Jefferson City, Mo. 65101

WHEN: 2:00 p.m., Friday, July 27, 2012

WHO: Karl Brooks, EPA Region 7 Administrator, and Steve Meredith, LU Dean of Agricultural and Natural Sciences

LU is a historically black college located in the capital city of Missouri, Jefferson City. LU was founded in 1866 by the men of the 62nd and 65th United States Colored Infantries and their white officers, for the special benefit of freed African-Americans. LU strives to address the under representation of African-Americans in science, finance, mathematics, information technologies and environmental specialist fields, and encourages the participation of minorities in national environmental programs.

EPA oversees the protection of water quality and public health. The Agency is working with universities, water industry professionals and the public to meet the growing needs and demands of limited water resources.

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EPA Region 7 and Contractors Begin Removal of Underground Storage Tank at Former Strehlow Garage in Omaha, Neb.

Press release:

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 7

901 N. Fifth St., Kansas City, KS 66101

Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and Nine Tribal Nations

EPA Region 7 and Contractors Begin Removal of Underground Storage Tank at Former Strehlow Garage in Omaha, Neb.

Contact Information: Chris Whitley, 816-518-2794 (Blackberry), 913-551-7394 (office), whitley.christopher@epa.gov

Environmental News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(Kansas City, Kan., July 24, 2012) - EPA Region 7 and its contractors have begun work to remove an underground storage tank from a former automotive garage in Omaha, Neb., as one step of clearing the way for city authorities to redevelop the property as part of a planned $5 million low-income housing project.

The former Strehlow Garage, at 2107 N. 16^th Street in Omaha, is currently owned by the Omaha Housing Authority (OHA), which plans to transfer ownership of the property to the Omaha Economic Development Corporation (OEDC) for inclusion in the housing project after the tank removal and related environmental assessment work is completed. The removal work is necessary to allow for the sampling of subsurface soil and groundwater beneath the tank.

Funding for removal of the tank and the other site assessment work, totaling approximately $60,000, is being provided by EPA Region 7’s Targeted Brownfields Assessment Program. The program is designed to assist states, tribes and local governments to minimize the uncertainties of contamination often associated with brownfields properties.

Brownfields are those properties, the expansion, redevelopment, or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant. Cleaning up and reinvesting in these properties protects the environment, reduces blight, and takes development pressures off greenspaces and working lands.

The former Strehlow Garage property was recommended to EPA by the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality (NDEQ). NDEQ, along with OHA and OEDC, applied to EPA Region 7 for funding to conduct a dual-phase environmental site assessment. That assessment includes removal of the underground tank, screening the garage building for asbestos, lead and other hazards; and environmental sampling of subsurface soil and groundwater.

EPA Region 7’s Storage Tanks and Oil Pollution branch has worked with the region’s Targeted Brownfields Assessment Program to prepare for the tank’s removal and facilitate with NDEQ when necessary.

Contractors working under the supervision of EPA staff will prepare the site today for the removal of the tank, which is presumed to have stored gasoline, oil or other petroleum products while the automotive garage was in operation. The process of removing the tank and conducting the environmental assessment work at the site should be completed by the end of the week.

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