EPA, New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau Sign Pact to Expand Support for Sustainable Farming

 U.S. EPA News Release:

EPA, New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau Sign Pact to Expand Support for Sustainable Farming

 

Media contacts: Jennah Durant at r6press@epa.gov or 214 665-2200

 

DALLAS – (June 30, 2021) Recently, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau (NMF&LB) signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to expand joint activities supporting the agencies’ shared goal of well-managed, sustainable farms. The agreement is the first among states in EPA Region 6, which also includes Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas.

The MOU formalizes a partnership between the two agencies to expand collaboration communication, education and outreach, and promoting training on agricultural practices that are good for business and the environment. The agencies will also work to recognize and promote examples of environmental stewardship within the agriculture community and to the general public.

“This agreement will strengthen the partnership between EPA and the New Mexico agriculture community and expand areas of collaboration,” said Acting Regional Administrator David Gray. “Finding more common ground will bring us closer to the goal of prosperous, well-managed farms and ranches that incorporate sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.”

“We are excited to join this collaboration with EPA as we work to share information between organizations on how best to support economically viable and sustainable agricultural practices,” said Chad Smith, NMF&LB CEO. “Farmers and ranchers have a vested interest in the protection and improvement of water and soil resources, and this partnership will move us towards this shared goal.”

Under the MOU, the agencies intend to:

• Enhance coordination and communication by holding annual meetings to discuss priorities, activities, effective approaches and opportunities to collaborate; share updates throughout the year on relevant programs, policies and activities and coordinate on areas of common interest
• Promote education and outreach to foster open dialog between EPA and the agriculture community; identify success, challenges and opportunities to work together
• Recognize agriculture environmental stewardship by developing a new program for these efforts; highlight these achievements to the public and broader agricultural communities.

EPA and NMF&LB also plan to collaborate on an annual report highlighting collective achievements as a result of the MOU and plans for the following year.

Connect with EPA Region 6:

On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eparegion6 

On Twitter: https://twitter.com/EPAregion6

Activities in EPA Region 6: https://www.epa.gov/aboutepa/epa-region-6-south-central

 

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U.S. Navy enters agreement with U.S. EPA to upgrade Pearl Harbor-Hickam Wastewater Treatment Plant

 U.S. EPA News Release:

U.S. Navy enters agreement with U.S. EPA to upgrade Pearl Harbor-Hickam Wastewater Treatment Plant
Agreement will prevent plant’s elevated toxic pollutants from entering Pearl Harbor

HONOLULU – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a Federal Facility Compliance Agreement (FFCA) with the U.S. Navy to complete major upgrades to the Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Wastewater Treatment Plant. The plant treats domestic and industrial wastewater from the Navy’s Pearl Harbor facilities and has exceeded its discharge limits to the Pacific Ocean under the Clean Water Act.

“The Navy’s lack of proper operation and maintenance of the treatment plant has led to excessive toxic pollution discharges into Pearl Harbor and unacceptable worker safety risks,” said Amy Miller, EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Director of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “EPA is pleased with the Navy’s commitment to improving wastewater infrastructure and protection of coastal waters.”

The plant is owned and operated by the U.S. Navy and provides service for up to 40,000 people. EPA has found that the plant has exceeded its discharge limits under the Clean Water Act for cadmium, zinc, oil and grease, pH, and total effluent toxicity. Additionally, the plant has had numerous operation and maintenance violations, including algae growth, warped and disconnected parts, cracked concrete tanks, and severely corroded equipment.

In October 2019, the U.S. Navy found structural defects from an excessively corroded and thinned concrete floor in the outflow pump station. The station is a critical component of the plant that requires regular maintenance. Failure of the pump station could result in uncontrolled discharges of effluent and could damage treatment systems, as well as compromise worker safety.

Under today’s agreement with EPA, the U.S. Navy must replace, repair, or refurbish the plant’s three primary clarifiers, five of the six secondary clarifiers, and the effluent pump station by December 31, 2024. In addition, the U.S. Navy must develop a plan to prevent and respond to potential infrastructure failures at the plant. This work will allow the plant to come into and remain in full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations related to the discharge of treated wastewater into the ocean.

Caption: Corroded center baffle on secondary clarifier. Photograph by K. Kirkeby.

This settlement furthers EPA’s National Compliance Initiative to reduce the number of U.S. facilities that are in significant non-compliance, and to improve surface water quality by ensuring dischargers comply with permit requirements.

For more information on this initiative, please visit: https://www.epa.gov/enforcement/national-compliance-initiative-reducing-significant-non-compliance-national-pollutant.

Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and on Twitter.

Comparing the electric Ford F-150 Lightning to the Tesla Cybertruck

EPA, District of Columbia Leaders Discuss Lead in Drinking Water

 U.S. EPA News Release:

EPA, District of Columbia Leaders Discuss Lead in Drinking Water

PHILADELPHIA (June 25, 2021) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency hosted a roundtable with organizers representing Washington, D.C., to highlight the experience of this community with lead in drinking water. This roundtable discussion, along with nine others being held across the country, is vital to informing EPA’s review of the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) revisions to ensure that the rule is grounded in the experience of communities that are most at-risk of exposure to lead in drinking water.

“While the number of the District’s children testing high for lead-in-blood levels has been dramatically reduced over the past decade, the Bowser Administration’s goal is to get to zero and I believe we have a path to get there,” said Tommy Wells, Secretary of D.C.’s Department of Energy and Environment.

“DC Water has taken many important steps—from locating lead service lines and making their locations publicly available to removing lead pipes from DC communities,” said Acting EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Diana Esher. “Addressing lead in drinking water requires partnerships and I want to thank the community groups that organized this roundtable for their leadership.”

Participants included local officials, D.C. Water, the D.C. Department of Energy and Environment, D.C. Environmental Network, the Natural Resources Defense Council, and Earthjustice.

Additional information on the virtual roundtable, including how to watch a recording, is available at: https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/lead-and-copper-rule-revisions-virtual-engagements.

Background

Lead can cause irreversible and life-long health effects, including decreasing IQ, focus, and academic achievement. EPA is committed to following the best science to address lead in the nation’s drinking water and will take the appropriate time to review the LCR Revisions and make sure communities that have been impacted the most are protected. In March of this year, EPA announced an extension of the effective date of the Revised Lead and Copper Rule so that the agency could seek further public input on the rule. The agency hosted virtual public listening sessions on April 28, 2021, and May 5, 2021. On May 26, 2021, EPA announced the 10 communities that were selected for virtual roundtable discussions on EPA’s LCR Revisions. Members of the public may also submit comments via the docket at: http://www.regulations.gov, Docket ID: EPA-HQ-OW-2021-0255 until July 30, 2021.

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 U.S. EPA News Release:

Former Asbestos Contractor Sentenced for Theft of Federal Program Funds

 

DALLAS, TX –  U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MARC A. VICTORIANO “VICTORIANO”, age 46, of Covington, Louisiana, was sentenced today before United States District Court Judge Lance M. Africk to five years probation with 8 months of home confinement for theft from a program receiving federal funds.  He was also ordered to pay a mandatory $100 special assessment fee and $212,618.00 in restitution to the victim, Terrebonne Parish School Board.  

According to court records, from 2015 to 2017, VICTORIANO and his company, Professional Safety Consultants, LLC, ("PSC") provided asbestos inspections for the Terrebonne Parish School Board ("TPSB") as mandated by the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act ("AHERA").  VICTORIANO submitted 56 invoices to TPSB with fraudulent asbestos laboratory reports including false air monitoring and false asbestos testing reports.  VICTORIANO also submitted nine invoices to TPSB for AHERA reports with forged signatures and accreditation information.  As a result, TPSB paid VICTORIANO approximately $212,618.26 to which he was not entitled, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 666(a)(1)(A).

“Financial Crime is a despicable felony that impacts many citizens, said U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. “However, this scheme to defraud Terrebonne Parish Schools, that placed students and staff in a potentially dangerous situation and financially victimized taxpayers, exponentially aggravated this crime.  Our office commits to continue our local, state and federal partnerships to seek justice for our community, especially our most vulnerable populations.”

“The defendant was responsible for the safe and legal removal of material containing asbestos,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher Brooks of EPA’s criminal enforcement program in Louisiana. “The defendant knowingly ignored regulations on the safe management of asbestos, putting workers, the general public, and most alarmingly school children, at risk.  This resulted in the Terrebonne Parish (Louisiana) School Board being defrauded out of $212,618.”

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Environmental Protection Agency, Criminal Investigation Division; the Louisiana State Police; Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, Criminal Investigation Section and the Louisiana Environmental Crimes Task Force, for their investigation of matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Julia K. Evans is in charge of the prosecution.

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EPA fines East Oahu Plant over Clean Air Act violations

 U.S. EPA News Release:

EPA fines East Oahu Plant over Clean Air Act violations

HONOLULU – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a settlement with AES Hawaii, LLC over Clean Air Act and Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act violations at its coal-fired electrical power generating plant in Kapolei, Hawaii. The facility will pay a $199,725 penalty.

“Companies must take actions such as replacing corroded pipes and training staff on emergency shutdown procedures to reduce the risk of releases of hazardous substance to nearby communities and the environment,” said Amy Miller, EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Director of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “Facilities that do not comply with chemical accident prevention requirements will face significant fines.”

In January 2020, EPA performed an inspection of the facility and found violations of the Clean Air Act’s Risk Management Program requirements and the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act. Many of the violations were associated with insufficient documentation, reporting, and proper labeling of the plant’s anhydrous ammonia system. The inspection also found failures associated with process hazard analysis and physical distance safeguards, as well as problems with corroded piping and equipment. Other failures included insufficient staff training, as employees were not provided written normal and emergency shutdown procedures.

In addition to paying the civil penalty as part of the settlement, AES has addressed the violations at the facility.

To find information on the Clean Air Act’s Risk Management Program, visit: https://www.epa.gov/rmp/fact-sheet-clean-air-act-section-112r-accidental-release-prevention-risk-management-plan-rule

To find more information on the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act program, visit: https://www.epa.gov/epcra/what-epcra.

Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and on Twitter.

East Coast Diesel of Jonestown, Pa. settles alleged violations involving aftermarket devices for diesel trucks

 U.S. EPA News Release:

East Coast Diesel of Jonestown, Pa. settles alleged violations
involving aftermarket devices for diesel trucks
 

PHILADELPHIA (June 22, 2021) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced today that East Coast Diesel, a vehicle parts distributor in Jonestown, Pennsylvania, will pay a $20,000 penalty for allegedly selling aftermarket devices that were designed to defeat the emissions control systems of heavy-duty diesel engines.

The company’s actions allegedly violated the Clean Air Act’s prohibition on the sale of so-called “defeat devices,” which are designed to “bypass, defeat or render inoperative” a motor vehicle engine’s air pollution control equipment or systems. The facility is located at 529 Shirksville Road in Jonestown, and the company also operates a website for sales of aftermarket diesel truck performance upgrade products.

Illegally modified vehicles and engines contribute substantial excess pollution that harms public health and impedes efforts by EPA, tribes, states and local agencies to attain air quality standards.

Clean Air Act penalties take into account various factors such as the seriousness and duration of the violations, size of the business, the penalty’s impact on the business, compliance history, good faith efforts, and economic benefit of past non-compliance.

As part of the settlement, the company has certified it is now in compliance with applicable requirements.

This enforcement action is part of EPA’s National Compliance Initiative for Stopping Aftermarket Defeat Devices for Vehicles and Engines.

Today’s vehicles emit far less pollution than vehicles of the past. This is made possible by careful engine calibrations, and the use of filters and catalysts in the exhaust system. Aftermarket defeat devices undo this progress and pollute the air we breathe. EPA testing has shown that a truck’s emissions increase drastically (tens or hundreds of times, depending on the pollutant) when its emissions controls are removed.

For more information on this initiative, visit: https://www.epa.gov/enforcement/national-compliance-initiative-stopping-aftermarket-defeat-devices-vehicles-and-engines .

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EPA Announces $569 Million WIFIA Loan for Flood, Climate Resilience in the Fargo-Moorhead Metropolitan Area

 U.S. EPA News Release:

EPA Announces $569 Million WIFIA Loan for Flood, Climate Resilience in the Fargo-Moorhead Metropolitan Area

Nationally, 52 WIFIA loans are financing $23 billion in water upgrades, creating 54,000 jobs

 

WASHINGTON (June 18, 2021) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a $569 million Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) loan for a project to increase climate resilience for communities in the Fargo-Moorhead metropolitan area by reducing flood risks. This project will provide critical health and the environmental protections and create thousands of jobs while EPA’s WIFIA loan will save the community hundreds of millions of dollars.

“This project illustrates that strong partnerships can be forged through investments in water infrastructure,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Through water infrastructure, we can address local challenges while creating good paying jobs. Programs like WIFIA and the State Revolving Funds have a track record of success and could be scaled up to benefit more communities under President Biden’s American Jobs Plan.”

“Today’s action will accelerate the diversion project’s timeline, save hundreds of millions of dollars for taxpayers and protect North Dakota’s largest metro area from catastrophic flooding, while also providing a national model for how a major flood protection project can be accomplished with local, state, federal and private sector collaboration,” said North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum. “We’re deeply grateful to the EPA, our congressional delegation and all the partners whose hard work helped us reach this milestone.”

“Proper flood protection is key to growing the economy and protecting the livelihood of North Dakotans in the Red River Valley,” said U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer. “The Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act loan announced today will go toward bolstering the water infrastructure in Fargo-Moorhead so they can be better prepared during flood seasons. I am grateful to Administrator Regan and the EPA officials who have been working on this effort for years, and I look forward to working with state and local leaders as the project progresses.”

“EPA’s WIFIA loan will serve as a low-cost, flexible funding source that better enables the project developers to move forward on building permanent flood protection in the Red River Valley, while reducing costs to local taxpayers,” said U.S. Senator John Hoeven. “We worked hard to ensure WIFIA was available for this critical flood control project, and we welcome this important milestone today.”

The Fargo-Moorhead Metropolitan Area Stormwater Diversion Channel Project includes two components to manage uncontrolled stormwater that can affect the metro area. The stormwater diversion channel component includes the construction of a 30-mile channel to re-direct and temporarily store surplus stormwater flows safely away from the metropolitan area. The in-town levee project includes modifications to 13 levees and 27 stormwater lift stations in the Cities of Fargo, North Dakota and Moorhead, Minnesota. By managing the flow of spring snow melt and summer stormwater, the project will protect 245,000 residents from flooding risks.

The Metro Flood Diversion Authority (MFDA) employed an innovative procurement approach to advance this important project by utilizing a public-private partnership (P3) model. WIFIA’s flexible loan repayment features were key in facilitating the P3 structure. This project will cost $1.3 billion and EPA’s WIFIA loan will finance nearly half of that figure. The remaining project costs will be funded by a combination of an $81 million North Dakota Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan, and over $650 million in private financing. Project construction and operation are expected to create an estimated 4,000 jobs.

“The WIFIA Loan we finalized today is an essential element of our effort. The way it is structured is a major benefit to regional taxpayers and a boost to our economy, adding benefits that extend beyond removing the ongoing stormwater threat from spring storms that coincide with early or excessive snow melt,” said MFDA Chair and Moorhead Mayor Shelly Carlson.

“This is a real job creator for our regional economy, particularly for us in Fargo and Cass County,” added MFDA Vice Chair and Cass County Commissioner Chad Peterson.

“This very important project illustrates that communities across our nation face unique challenges with respect to water infrastructure needs—from climate risks, to lead in drinking water, to wastewater management,” said Darcy O’Connor, Senior Advisor to EPA’s Acting Region 8 Administrator. “EPA is proud to support Fargo-Moorhead by providing financing that will save the community an estimated $438 million throughout the life of the loan.”

EPA’s WIFIA loan for the Fargo-Moorhead Metropolitan Area Stormwater Diversion Channel Project was announced at an event with North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum; U.S. Senator John Hoeven; Darcy O’Connor, Senior Advisor to EPA’s Acting Region 8 Administrator; and additional distinguished guests. With this WIFIA loan closing, EPA has announced 52 WIFIA loans that are providing nearly $10.5 billion in credit assistance to help finance more than $23 billion for water infrastructure while creating approximately 54,000 jobs and saving ratepayers nearly $4.5 billion.

Background on WIFIA
Established by the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act of 2014, the WIFIA program is a federal loan and guarantee program administered by EPA. WIFIA’s aim is to accelerate investment in the nation’s water infrastructure by providing long-term, low-cost supplemental credit assistance for regionally and nationally significant projects. The WIFIA program has an active pipeline of pending applications for projects that will result in billions of dollars in water infrastructure investment and thousands of jobs.

EPA is accepting Letters of Interest for FY 2021 until July 23, 2021. Approximately $6.5 billion in financing is available. For more information about the FY 2021 selection process, visit: https://www.epa.gov/wifia/wifia-funding-currently-available .

For more information about the WIFIA program’s accomplishments through 2020, visit: https://www.epa.gov/wifia/wifia-annual-report .

For more information about the WIFIA program, visit: https://www.epa.gov/wifia .

EPA Announces Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes to Receive $300,000 in Brownfields Cleanup Funding

 U.S. EPA News Release:

EPA Announces Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes to Receive $300,000 in Brownfields Cleanup Funding

The grant awards help underserved communities across the country Build Back Better and address Environmental Justice concerns

 

Media contacts: Jennah Durant at r6press@epa.gov or 214 665-2200

 

DALLAS – (June 17, 2021) Recently, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes are among the 151 recipients of 154 grant awards totaling $66.5 million in Brownfields funding through its Multipurpose, Assessment, and Cleanup (MAC) Grants. The Tribes plans to use their $300,000 cleanup grant for Building 138 on the Concho School property in Concho, Oklahoma. Constructed in 1967, the property was used as the boys’ dormitory of the Concho School from 1969 until 1981, when it was closed due to federal funding cuts and the need for several repairs. The site has been unoccupied and dormant for several years and is contaminated with inorganic materials and heavy metals.

 

This funding will support underserved and economically disadvantaged communities across the country in assessing and cleaning up contaminated and abandoned industrial and commercial properties. Approximately 50 percent of selected recipients are receiving EPA Brownfields grant funding for the first time and more than 85 percent serve small communities.

 

“Through our Brownfields Program, EPA is delivering on the Biden Administration’s commitment to lifting up and protecting overburdened communities across America, especially communities that have experienced long periods of disinvestment and decay,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “These assessment and cleanup grants will not only support economic growth and job creation, but they will also empower communities to address the environmental, public health, and social issues associated with contaminated land.”

 

“The Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes remain a strong partner in brownfields work through thoughtful planning that helps leverage funding for greater benefits,” said Acting Regional Administrator David Gray. “Cleanup of the abandoned Concho School property will help turn the site into an asset for the tribal community.”

 

“My main concern for Tribal members and the public when they come to Concho is to keep them safe, and to provide a healthy environment for all to enjoy,” said Governor Reggie Wassana. “The cleanup activities at the school will improve the community of Concho and continue our work to revitalize the site.”

 

Today’s grant announcement includes:

 

• $8.8 million for 11 Multipurpose Grants, which will provide funding to conduct a range of eligible assessment and cleanup activities at one or more brownfield sites in a target area. 

 

• $42.2 million for 107 Assessment Grants, which will provide funding for brownfield inventories, planning, environmental assessments, and community outreach.

 

• $15.5 million for 36 Cleanup Grants, which will provide funding to carry out cleanup activities at brownfield sites owned by the recipient.

 

The list of the fiscal year 2021 applicants selected for funding is available here: https://www.epa.gov/brownfields/applicants-selected-fy-2021-brownfields-multipurpose-assessment-and-cleanup-grants

 

EPA anticipates that it will award the grants once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied by the selected recipients.

 

Since its inception in 1995, EPA's Brownfields Program has provided nearly $1.76 billion in grants to assess and clean up contaminated properties and return them to productive reuse. This has led to significant benefits for communities across the country. For example:

 

• To date, communities participating in the Brownfields Program have been able to attract more than $34.4 billion in cleanup and redevelopment funding after receiving Brownfields funds. This has led to over 175,500 jobs in cleanup, construction, and redevelopment.

 

• Based on grant recipient reporting, recipients leveraged on average $20.13 for each EPA Brownfields dollar and 10.3 jobs per $100,000 of EPA Brownfield Grant funds expended on assessment, cleanup, and revolving loan fund cooperative agreements.

 

• In addition, an academic peer-reviewed study has found that residential properties near brownfield sites increased in value by 5% to 15.2% as a result of cleanup activities.

 

• Finally, analyzing data near 48 brownfields, EPA found an estimated $29 million to $97 million in additional tax revenue for local governments in a single year after cleanup—2 to 7 times more than the $12.4 million EPA contributed to the cleanup of those brownfield sites.

 

For more on the Brownfields Grants: https://www.epa.gov/brownfields/types-epa-brownfield-grant-funding

 

For more on EPA’s Brownfields Program: https://www.epa.gov/brownfields
 

 

Connect with EPA Region 6:

On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eparegion6 

On Twitter: https://twitter.com/EPAregion6

Activities in EPA Region 6: https://www.epa.gov/aboutepa/epa-region-6-south-central

 

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U.S. EPA fines California auto parts companies for selling ‘defeat’ devices, harming air quality

 U.S. EPA News Release:

U.S. EPA fines California auto parts companies for selling ‘defeat’ devices, harming air quality
Over $280,000 in penalties paid for violating Clean Air Act

SAN FRANCISCO – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced settlements with four automotive parts distributors for violations of the Clean Air Act. The companies illegally manufactured or sold aftermarket auto parts that bypass or disable required emissions control systems, otherwise known as defeat devices. The companies paid $282,926 in penalties.

“These settlements are a very significant step toward our goal of stopping the sale of illegal defeat devices that cause harmful pollution in our communities,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Director of the Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division, Amy Miller. “We will continue to investigate and penalize anyone who manufactures, sells, or installs these types of illegal products.”

The practice of tampering with diesel and gasoline powered vehicles by installing defeat devices can bring about the emitting of large amounts of NOx and particulate matter, both of which contribute to serious public health problems in the United States. These include premature mortality, aggravation of respiratory and cardiovascular disease, aggravation of existing asthma, acute respiratory symptoms, chronic bronchitis, and decreased lung function. Numerous studies also link diesel exhaust to increased incidence of lung cancer.

Today’s announcement highlights four separate settlement agreements:

AutoAnything, Inc. sold aftermarket exhaust systems designed to defeat the emissions control systems on motor vehicles and motor vehicle engines. The firm also sold products, commonly known as ‘tuners,’ which enable the user to easily turn off emission controls installed and certified by vehicle manufacturers to comply with the Clean Air Act. The company, headquartered in San Diego, Calif., paid a $125,000 penalty.

No Limit Enterprises Inc., doing business as No Limit Fabrication and No Limit Diesel, manufactured and/or sold tuner-related products and other components that bypass, defeat, or render inoperative emission controls installed and certified by vehicle manufacturers to reduce vehicle emissions. The company, headquartered in Moorpark, Calif., paid a $150,000 penalty, which was reduced due to financial hardship.

Integrated Strategic Resources, Inc., doing business as Andy’s Auto Sport, sold aftermarket exhaust systems designed to defeat the emissions control systems on motor vehicles and motor vehicle engines. The company, headquartered in Monterey, Calif., paid a $5,000 penalty. The penalty amount was reduced due to financial hardship.

T&R Performance Solutions sold aftermarket parts designed to defeat the emissions control systems of motor vehicles and motor vehicle engines. The company, headquartered in Simi Valley, Calif., paid a $2,926 penalty. This agreement was reached under EPA’s expedited settlement policy, which is only used in certain circumstances to address minor, easily correctable violations.

Vehicles are a significant contributor to air pollution, and aftermarket defeat devices that disable emission controls exacerbate this problem. To address that, EPA has developed a National Compliance Initiative that focuses on stopping the manufacture, sale, and installation of defeat devices on vehicles and engines. Today’s actions are part of this initiative. To learn more, visit: https://www.epa.gov/enforcement/national-compliance-initiative-stopping-aftermarket-defeat-devices-vehicles-and-engines

If you suspect someone is manufacturing, selling or installing illegal defeat devices, or is tampering with emissions controls, tell the EPA by writing to tampering@epa.gov.

Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and on Twitter.

EPA proposed settlement with Phoenix Petroleum resolves Clean Water Act violations at North Dakota oil production facilities

 U.S. EPA News Release:

EPA proposed settlement with Phoenix Petroleum resolves

Clean Water Act violations at North Dakota oil
production facilities

 

Company agrees to penalty associated with an inadequate spill prevention plan and field implementation of the plan at two tank batteries

 

DENVER (June  17, 2021)- Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a Clean Water Act (CWA) proposed settlement with Phoenix Petroleum, LLC (Phoenix) in which the company has agreed to pay $50,000 for alleged Clean Water Act violations. These violations include failure to comply with Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) requirements at the AB Ericson 1-A Tank Battery and the Arlo Moberg 3 Tank Battery in North Dakota.

EPA compliance inspections of the AB Ericson 1A Crude Oil Tank Battery in Divide County, North Dakota and the Arlo Moberg Tank Battery in Williams County, North Dakota found Phoenix had an inadequate facility-wide SPCC Plan, inadequate secondary containment measures for the storage tanks, and other technical deficiencies at both tank batteries. Following the inspections, EPA worked with the company regarding the identified deficiencies. In January 2021, Phoenix submitted an acceptable SPCC Plan and photographic evidence confirming the necessary  technical corrections had been made at the two facilities.

Discharges from the facilities have the potential to impact White Earth Creek as well as one of its tributaries. White Earth Creek is a tributary to the White Earth River.

"Adequate spill prevention plans include important requirements and measures that protect public health and the environment," said Suzanne Bohan, director of EPA Region 8’s Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division. "EPA will ensure facilities like these tank batteries comply with the federal requirements that safeguard our communities and our rivers and streams.”

The Oil Pollution Prevention requirements of the Clean Water Act are intended to prevent discharges of oil and facilitate responses if discharges occur. Facilities with 1,320 gallons of oil that have the potential for a spill to reach waters of the United States are required to have SPCC Plans. The Oil Pollution Prevention requirements of the Clean Water Act are administered by the EPA and the Coast Guard.

The $50,000 penalty will be deposited into the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund, a fund used by federal agencies to respond to discharges of oil and hazardous substances. Since the 2015 inspection, Phoenix has submitted an SPCC plan that satisfies regulatory requirements and has documented they have corrected the technical deficiencies found during the inspections.

This proposed settlement is subject to a 30-day public comment period ending June 26, 2021 and final approval by the EPA’s Regional Judicial Officer. To access and comment on the Consent Agreement, visit: https://www.epa.gov/nd/opportunity-comment-proposed-consent-agreement-phoenix-petroleum-llc-alleged-violations-oil

For more information on the Clean Water Act, visit EPA's compliance web page: http://www.epa.gov/compliance/civil/cwa/index.html 

For more information on SPCC and FRP regulatory requirements visit EPA's compliance web page: http://www.epa.gov/oil-spills-prevention-and-preparedness-regulations

Help EPA protect our nation's land, air, and water by reporting violations: http://www.epa.gov/tips/

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EPA Work Continues at the Former Exide Technologies Facility in Laureldale, PA

 U.S. EPA News Release:

EPA Work Continues at the Former Exide Technologies Facility in Laureldale, PA

PHILADELPHIA (June 16, 2021) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is continuing cleanup work at the former Exide facility in Laureldale, Pa., despite the recent bankruptcy of the property’s corporate owner. 

In May 2020, Exide Technologies LLC filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy. As a result of the bankruptcy settlement in October 2020, Exide dissolved, and the court established an   Environmental Response Trust to address the environmental liabilities at the Laureldale site.  Contamination at the facility consists of elevated levels of lead and specific heavy metals in soils, sediment, and groundwater.

EPA and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP) are working with the Trustee to allocate the limited amount of money in the Trust to maintain the facility and to ensure that human health and the environment are protected. 

EPA is conducting a Superfund removal action at the facility and site evaluation to determine if hazardous substances pose threats which warrant prompt response actions to protect human health and the environment. Five baghouses and associated ductwork containing high concentrations of hazardous substances are prioritized for removal response actions. The removal work is currently in the startup phase, which includes mobilizing personnel and equipment, working on health and safety and field sampling/air monitoring plans, and considering options for decontamination and demolition operations. The work to remove the five baghouses is expected to begin in mid to late June.

While that work is ongoing, EPA will continue to evaluate threats and determine whether additional response actions are required to mitigate imminent and substantial endangerment to the community.

EPA works to help facilities in need of cleanup to locate opportunities for safe and sustainable reuse. A Wisconsin developer, an affiliate of Phoenix Investors (“Phoenix”), has expressed interest in purchasing the former Exide Laureldale property and redeveloping a portion of it into a warehouse distribution center and potentially some light manufacturing. If Phoenix were to purchase the property, the cleanup and redevelopment of the site will proceed under the PADEP Land Recycling Program, also known as the Act 2 program. Phoenix will determine the feasibility of acquiring the property after the completion of EPA’s evaluation of the property. 

A public/virtual meeting will occur by the end of the summer to present the activities and status of the former Exide facility.

For more information on EPA’s cleanup activities at the former Exide Technologies facility go to:

https://www.epa.gov/hwcorrectiveactionsites/hazardous-waste-cleanup-exide-trust-reading-aka-former-exide-technologies

EPA Announces Winners in New York and New Jersey for the 2021 Green Chemistry Challenge Awards

 U.S. EPA News Release:

EPA Announces Winners in New York and New Jersey for the 2021 Green Chemistry Challenge Awards

Five winners recognized nationwide for innovative technologies that decrease hazardous chemicals, improve community health, reduce costs, and spur economic growth

 

NEW YORK (June 15, 2021) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the winners of the 2021 Green Chemistry Challenge Awards, including New York organization Bristol Myers Squibb and New Jersey organization Merck & Co.  Green chemistry is the design of chemical products and processes that reduce or eliminate the generation and use of hazardous substances.

“Green chemistry is one way to provide solutions to some of the significant environmental challenges we’re facing today, like exposure to toxic chemicals, dependence on non-renewable sources, and climate change,” said EPA Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator Michal Freedhoff. “The innovative technologies we celebrate today are great examples of how green chemistry is protecting our environment, preventing pollution at its source, and keeping U.S. business globally competitive by creating more sustainable products.”

The 2021 Region 2 winners are:

• Bristol Myers Squibb, New York, for a new class of sustainable reagents – substances used to cause a chemical reaction. These new reagents use less solvents and are derived from limonene, a waste product from discarded citrus peels, which increases sustainability and decreases environmental impact. They also can tolerate air and moisture better than traditional reagents, eliminating the need for expensive technology and specialized shipping and storage.
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• Merck & Co., New Jersey, for developing a green and sustainable manufacturing process for a drug used to treat chronic coughs. By incorporating green chemistry techniques into the manufacturing process, the team not only replaced two highly toxic and hazardous chemicals, it also reduced carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide emissions. Life-cycle assessment data shows that these changes are expected to decrease the carbon footprint of manufacturing this drug by more than 80 percent.

EPA recognized the winners today during the virtual American Chemical Society Green Chemistry & Engineering Conference. This year’s awards have special meaning because it’s also the 25^th anniversary of the Green Chemistry Challenge Awards. During the quarter century of the Green Chemistry program, EPA and the American Chemical Society, which co-sponsor the awards, have received more than 1,800 nominations and presented awards for 128 technologies that decrease hazardous chemicals and resources, reduce costs, protect public health and spur economic growth. Winning technologies are responsible for annually reducing the use or generation of hundreds of millions of pounds of hazardous chemicals and saving billions of gallons of water and trillions of BTUs in energy.

An independent panel of technical experts convened by the American Chemical Society Green Chemistry Institute formally judged the 2021 submissions and made recommendations to EPA for the 2021 winners.

More information: https://www.epa.gov/greenchemistry

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

 

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