Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request on Six Information Collection Requests (ICRs), 11407-11411 [E6-3153]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 44 / Tuesday, March 7, 2006 / Notices Notice of intent to fund down the grant slate for the Recreational Programs. ACTION: SUMMARY: The Secretary intends to use the grant slate developed for the Recreational Programs in Fiscal Year (FY) 2005 to make new grant awards in FY 2006. The Secretary takes this action because a significant number of highquality applications remain on the last year’s grant slate and limited funding is available for new grant awards in FY 2006. Ed Hofler, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW., room 5065, Potomac Center Plaza, Washington, DC 20202–2800. Telephone: (202) 245– 7377. If you use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD), you may call the Federal Relay Service (FRS) at 1– 800–877–8339. Individuals with disabilities may obtain this document in an alternative format (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, or computer diskette) on request to the program contact person listed in this section. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: sroberts on PROD1PC70 with NOTICES Note: The official version of this document is the document published in the Federal Register. Free Internet access to the official edition of the Federal Register and the Code of Federal Regulations is available on GPO Access at: www.gpoaccess.gov/nara/ index.html. Dated: March 2, 2006. John H. Hager, Assistant Secretary for Special Education and Rehabilitative Services. [FR Doc. E6–3175 Filed 3–6–06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4000–01–P ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY Background On February 7, 2005, we published a notice in the Federal Register (70 FR 6428) inviting applications for new awards under Recreational Programs. This notice indicated that the selection criteria, absolute priority, and application requirements contained in the notice would apply to the FY 2005 grant competition only. We received a significant number of applications for grants under Recreational Programs in FY 2005 and made nine new grant awards. Because such a large number of high-quality applications were received, many applications that were awarded high scores by peer reviewers did not receive funding last year. Limited funding is available for new awards under this program in FY 2006. In order to conserve funding that would have been required for a peer review of new applications submitted under the program, we intend to select grantees in FY 2006 from the existing slate of applicants. This slate was developed during the FY 2005 competition using the selection criteria, absolute priority, and application requirements included in the February 7, 2005, notice. No changes to the selection criteria, absolute priority, or application requirements will be required by this action. Program Authority: 29 U.S.C. 775. VerDate Aug<31>2005 Electronic Access to This Document: You may view this document, as well as all other documents of this Department published in the Federal Register, in text or Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF) on the Internet at the following site: www.ed.gov/news/ fedregister. To use PDF you must have Adobe Acrobat Reader, which is available free at this site. If you have questions about using PDF, call the U.S. Government Printing Office (GPO), toll free, at 1– 888–293–6498; or in the Washington, DC, area at (202) 512–1530. 16:39 Mar 06, 2006 Jkt 208001 [EPA–HQ–OW–2006–0138, 0136 and 0139; EPA–HQ–OW–2002–0053 and 0064; and EPA–HQ–OW–2003–0011; FRL–8041–4] Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request on Six Information Collection Requests (ICRs) Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ACTION: Notice. AGENCY: SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), this document announces that EPA is planning to submit a request to renew existing approved Information Collection Requests (ICR) to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Before submitting the ICRs to OMB for review and approval, EPA is soliciting comments on specific aspects of the proposed information collections as described below. DATES: Comments must be submitted on or before May 8, 2006. ADDRESSES: Submit your comments, identified by the Docket ID numbers provided for each item in the text, by one of the following methods: • www.regulations.gov: Follow the online instructions for submitting comments. PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 11407 • E-mail: ow-docket@epa.gov (Identify Docket ID No. in the subject line) • Mail: Water Docket, Environmental Protection Agency, Mailcode: 4203M, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460. Please include a total of three copies. • Hand Delivery: EPA Docket Center, EPA West, Room B102, 1301 Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC. Such deliveries are only accepted during the Docket’s normal hours of operation, and special arrangements should be made for deliveries of boxed information. Instructions: Direct your comments identified by the Docket ID numbers provided for each item in the text. EPA’s policy is that all comments received will be included in the public docket without change and may be made available online at www.regulations.gov, including any personal information provided, unless the comment includes information claimed to be Confidential Business Information (CBI) or other information whose disclosure is restricted by statute. Do not submit information that you consider to be CBI or otherwise protected through www.regulations.gov or e-mail. The www.regulations.gov Web site is an ‘‘anonymous access’’ system, which means EPA will not know your identity or contact information unless you provide it in the body of your comment. If you send an e-mail comment directly to EPA without going through www.regulations.gov, your e-mail address will be automatically captured and included as part of the comment that is placed in the public docket and made available on the Internet. If you submit an electronic comment, EPA recommends that you include your name and other contact information in the body of your comment and with any disk or CD–ROM you submit. If EPA cannot read your comment due to technical difficulties and cannot contact you for clarification, EPA may not be able to consider your comment. Electronic files should avoid the use of special characters, any form of encryption, and be free of any defects or viruses. For additional information about EPA’s public docket, visit the EPA Docket Center homepage at https:// www.epa.gov/epahome/dockets.htm. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lynn Stabenfeldt, Office of Wastewater Management, 4201M, Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460; telephone number: 202.564.0602; fax number: 202.501.2399; e-mail address: stabenfeldt.lynn@epa.gov. E:\FR\FM\07MRN1.SGM 07MRN1 11408 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 44 / Tuesday, March 7, 2006 / Notices What Should I Consider When I Prepare My Comments for EPA? SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: How Can I Access the Docket and/or Submit Comments? EPA has established a public docket for each of the ICRs identified in this document (see the Docket ID. Numbers for each ICR that are provided in the text), which is available for online viewing at www.regulations.gov, or in person viewing at the Water Docket in the EPA Docket Center (EPA/DC), EPA West, Room B102, 1301 Constitution Ave., NW., Washington, DC. The EPA/ DC Public Reading Room is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays. The telephone number for the Reading Room is 202–566–1744, and the telephone number for the Water Docket is 202– 566–2426. Use www.regulations.gov to obtain a copy of the draft collection of information, submit or view public comments, access the index listing of the contents of the docket, and to access those documents in the public docket that are available electronically. Once in the system, select ‘‘search,’’ then key in the docket ID number identified in this document. sroberts on PROD1PC70 with NOTICES What Information Is EPA Particularly Interested in? Pursuant to section 3506(c)(2)(A) of the PRA, EPA specifically solicits comments and information to enable it to: (i) Evaluate whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the Agency, including whether the information will have practical utility; (ii) Evaluate the accuracy of the Agency’s estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used; (iii) Enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and (iv) Minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, including through the use of appropriate automated electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology, e.g., permitting electronic submission of responses. In particular, EPA is requesting comments from very small businesses (those that employ less than 25) on examples of specific additional efforts that EPA could make to reduce the paperwork burden for very small businesses affected by this collection. VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:39 Mar 06, 2006 Jkt 208001 You may find the following suggestions helpful for preparing your comments: 1. Explain your views as clearly as possible and provide specific examples. 2. Describe any assumptions that you used. 3. Provide copies of technical information/data you used that support your views. 4. If you estimate potential burden or costs, explain how you arrived at the estimate that you provide. 5. Offer alternative ways to improve the collection activity. 6. Make sure to submit your comments by the deadline identified under DATES. 7. To ensure proper receipt by EPA, be sure to identify the docket ID number assigned to this action in the subject line on the first page of your response. You may also provide the name, date, and Federal Register citation. What Information Collection Activities or ICRs Does This Apply to? Applications for National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Discharge Permits and the Sewage Sludge Management Permits, EPA ICR No. 0226.18, OMB Control No. 2040–0086; Notice of Intent for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Construction Activity under a NPDES General Permit, EPA ICR No. 1842.05, OMB Control No. 2040–0188; NPDES Storm Water Program Phase II, EPA ICR No. 1820.04, OMB Control No. 2040– 0211; NPDES and ELG Regulatory Revision for Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations, EPA ICR No. 1989.03, OMB Control No. 2040–0250; NPDES Modification and Variance Requests, EPA ICR No. 0029.09, OMB Control No. 2040–0068; NPDES and Sewage Sludge Management State Programs, EPA ICR No. 0168.09, OMB Control No. 2040–0057. Docket ID No. EPA–HQ–OW–2006–0138 Affected entities: Entities potentially affected by this action are publicly owned treatment works (POTWs), privately owned treatment works, new and existing manufacturing and commercial dischargers, storm water dischargers, treatment works treating domestic sewage (TWTDS), and other entities that apply for NPDES permits. Title: Applications for National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Discharge Permits and the Sewage Sludge Management Permits. ICR numbers: EPA ICR No. 0226.18, OMB Control No. 2040–0086. PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 ICR status: This ICR is currently scheduled to expire on June 30, 2006. An Agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information, unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. The OMB control numbers for EPA’s regulations in title 40 of the CFR, after appearing in the Federal Register when approved, are listed in 40 CFR Part 9, and displayed either by publication in the Federal Register or by other appropriate means, such as on the related collection instrument or form, if applicable. The display of OMB control numbers in certain EPA regulations is consolidated in 40 CFR Part 9. Abstract: This ICR calculates the burden and costs associated with permit applications for NPDES discharges and sewage sludge management activities. EPA uses the data contained in applications and supplemental information requests to set appropriate permit conditions, issue permits, and assess permit compliance. EPA maintains certain national application information in databases that assist permit writers in determining permit conditions. For most permits, EPA has developed standard application forms. In some cases, such as requests for additional information and storm water applications from municipal separate sewer systems, standard forms do not exist because standard forms are not appropriate for the information collected or because they have not been developed. Application forms correspond to the different types of applicants, each form requesting information necessary for issuing permits to the associated applicants. Applicants include POTWs, privately owned treatment works, new and existing manufacturing and commercial dischargers, storm water dischargers, TWTDS, and others. Depending on the application form they are using, applicants may be required to supply information about their facilities, discharges, treatment systems, sewage sludge use and disposal practices, pollutant sampling data, or other relevant information. Section 308 of the Clean Water Act authorizes EPA to request from dischargers any information that may be reasonably required to carry out the objectives and provision of the Act. Under this authority, EPA sometimes requests information supplemental to that contained in permit applications. In its burden and cost calculations, this ICR includes requests for information supplemental to permit applications. Other parts of the Clean Water Act and E:\FR\FM\07MRN1.SGM 07MRN1 sroberts on PROD1PC70 with NOTICES Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 44 / Tuesday, March 7, 2006 / Notices federal regulations authorize EPA to collect information that supplements permit applications, such as section 403(c). This ICR calculates the burden and costs for all information collection activities associated with applications for permits. Application information is necessary to obtain an NPDES or sewage sludge permit. Burden Statement: The annual public reporting and recordkeeping burden for this collection of information is estimated to average five hours per response. Burden means the total time, effort, or financial resources expended by persons to generate, maintain, retain, or disclose or provide information to or for a Federal agency. This includes the time needed to review instructions; develop, acquire, install, and utilize technology and systems for the purposes of collecting, validating, and verifying information, processing and maintaining information, and disclosing and providing information; adjust the existing ways to comply with any previously applicable instructions and requirements which have subsequently changed; train personnel to be able to respond to a collection of information; search data sources; complete and review the collection of information; and transmit or otherwise disclose the information. The ICR provides a detailed explanation of the Agency’s estimate, which is only briefly summarized here: Estimated total number of potential respondents: 291,898. Frequency of response: Once every five years. Estimated total average number of responses for each respondent: One. Estimated total annual burden hours: 1,398,737 hours. Estimated total annual costs: $53,546,023. This includes an estimated burden cost of $53,546,023 and an estimated cost of $0 for capital investment or maintenance and operational costs. Further, as part of this ICR renewal, EPA plans to transfer 1,244 burden hours from Milestones Plans for the Bleached Papergrade Kraft and Soda Subcategory of the Pulp, Paper and Paperboard Manufacturing Category, EPA ICR No. 1877.03, OMB Control No. 2040–0202, to this ICR, which would bring the estimated total annual burden hours noted above to 1,399,981. The remaining 174 burden hours from EPA ICR No. 1877.03, will be transferred to NPDES Compliance Assessment/ Certification Information, EPA ICR No. 1427.07, OMB Control No. 2040–0110. EPA ICR No. 1877.03 subsequently will be phased out. VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:39 Mar 06, 2006 Jkt 208001 Docket ID No. EPA–HQ–OW–2003–0011 Affected entities: Entities potentially affected by this action are those which have storm water discharges associated with large construction activity (40 CFR 122.25(b)(14)(x)) to waters of the U.S. Title: Notice of Intent for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Construction Activity under a NPDES General Permit. ICR numbers: EPA ICR No. 1842.05, OMB Control No. 2040–0188. ICR status: This ICR is currently scheduled to expire on June 30, 2006. An Agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information, unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. The OMB control numbers for EPA’s regulations in title 40 of the CFR, after appearing in the Federal Register when approved, are listed in 40 CFR Part 9, and displayed either by publication in the Federal Register or by other appropriate means, such as on the related collection instrument or form, if applicable. The display of OMB control numbers in certain EPA regulations is consolidated in 40 CFR Part 9. Abstract: This ICR calculates the burden and costs associated with the preparation of the Notice of Intent (NOI) for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Construction Activity under a NPDES General Permit, and the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). EPA uses the data contained in the NOIs to track facilities covered by the storm water general permit and assess permit compliance. EPA has developed a form for construction NOIs. The standard one page form is called: Notice of Intent (NOI) for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Construction Activity Under a NPDES General Permit (EPA Form Number 3510–6). The construction NOI form requires the following information to be submitted, signed, and certified to by an authorized representative of the project: —Name, address, phone number of the facility. —Status of the owner/operator (whether federal, state, public, or private). —Name and location of the project (City, State, ZIP, Latitude, Longitude, County). —Whether the facility is located on Indian Country Lands. —Whether a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) has been prepared. —Optional: location for viewing SWPPP and telephone number for scheduling viewing times: Address, City, State, ZIP. —The name of the receiving water. PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 11409 —Estimated construction start date and completion date. —The estimated area to be disturbed (to nearest acre). —An estimate of the likelihood of discharge. —Whether any protected species or critical habitat in the project area. —Which section of part I.B.3.e(2) of the permit through which permit eligibility with regard to protection of endangered species is satisfied. Respondents are required to obtain coverage under the NPDES General Permit for storm water discharges associated with construction activity. Burden Statement: The annual public reporting and recordkeeping burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 38.3 hours per response by large construction NPDES permittees in NPDES-authorized states and territories and 40.5 hours per response for construction activities in states and territories where EPA is the permitting authority. Burden means the total time, effort, or financial resources expended by persons to generate, maintain, retain, or disclose or provide information to or for a Federal agency. This includes the time needed to review instructions; develop, acquire, install, and utilize technology and systems for the purposes of collecting, validating, and verifying information, processing and maintaining information, and disclosing and providing information; adjust the existing ways to comply with any previously applicable instructions and requirements which have subsequently changed; train personnel to be able to respond to a collection of information; search data sources; complete and review the collection of information; and transmit or otherwise disclose the information. The ICR provides a detailed explanation of the Agency’s estimate, which is only briefly summarized here: Estimated total number of potential respondents: 201,259. Frequency of response: Once initially, prior to commencement of construction Estimated total average number of responses for each respondent: Two. Estimated total annual burden hours: 7,920,245 hours. Estimated total annual costs: $264,919,148. This includes an estimated burden cost of $264,919,148 and an estimated cost of $0 for capital investment or maintenance and operational costs. Docket ID No. EPA–HQ–OW–2002–0053 Affected entities: Entities potentially affected by this action are NPDES permittees, including operators of small municipal separate storm sewer E:\FR\FM\07MRN1.SGM 07MRN1 sroberts on PROD1PC70 with NOTICES 11410 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 44 / Tuesday, March 7, 2006 / Notices systems, small construction activity, and industrial facilities identified in 40 CFR 122.26(b)(14)(i)–(ix) and (xi) that qualify for a no exposure exemption. Title: NPDES Storm Water Program Phase II. ICR numbers: EPA ICR No. 1820.04, OMB Control No. 2040–0211. ICR status: This ICR is currently scheduled to expire on June 30, 2006. An Agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information, unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. The OMB control numbers for EPA’s regulations in title 40 of the CFR, after appearing in the Federal Register when approved, are listed in 40 CFR Part 9, and displayed either by publication in the Federal Register or by other appropriate means, such as on the related collection instrument or form, if applicable. The display of OMB control numbers in certain EPA regulations is consolidated in 40 CFR Part 9. Abstract: This ICR calculates the burden and costs associated with the regulation of storm water discharges under Phase II of the NPDES storm water program. Specifically, it calculates the burden for developing and implementing small MS4 storm water permits, small construction (1–5 acres) permits, and submitting a noexposure certification form (EPA form 3510–11). The ICR also specifies the burden on authorized NPDES States to process and administer the Phase II program. Burden Statement: The annual public reporting and recordkeeping burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 21 hours per response. Burden means the total time, effort, or financial resources expended by persons to generate, maintain, retain, or disclose or provide information to or for a Federal agency. This includes the time needed to review instructions; develop, acquire, install, and utilize technology and systems for the purposes of collecting, validating, and verifying information, processing and maintaining information, and disclosing and providing information; adjust the existing ways to comply with any previously applicable instructions and requirements which have subsequently changed; train personnel to be able to respond to a collection of information; search data sources; complete and review the collection of information; and transmit or otherwise disclose the information. The ICR provides a detailed explanation of the Agency’s estimate, which is only briefly summarized here: VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:39 Mar 06, 2006 Jkt 208001 Estimated total number of potential respondents: 327,163. Frequency of response: Varies. Estimated total average number of responses for each respondent: Varies. Estimated total annual burden hours: 4,958,353 hours. Estimated total annual costs: $142,543,556. This includes an estimated burden cost of $142,543,556 and an estimated cost of $0 for capital investment or maintenance and operational costs. Docket ID No. EPA–HQ–OW–2006–0136 Affected entities: Entities potentially affected by this action are owners and operators of Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs). Title: NPDES and ELG Regulatory Revision for Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations. ICR numbers: EPA ICR No. 1989.03, OMB Control No. 2040–0250. ICR status: This ICR is currently scheduled to expire on July 31, 2006. An Agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information, unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. The OMB control numbers for EPA’s regulations in title 40 of the CFR, after appearing in the Federal Register when approved, are listed in 40 CFR Part 9, and displayed either by publication in the Federal Register or by other appropriate means, such as on the related collection instrument or form, if applicable. The display of OMB control numbers in certain EPA regulations is consolidated in 40 CFR Part 9. Abstract: This ICR calculates the burden and costs associated with the NPDES and ELG regulations for Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs). These regulations regulate land application of manure, litter and wastewater generated at CAFO facilities. The rule requires all facilities defined as a CAFO to apply for a NPDES permit. Burden Statement: The annual public reporting and recordkeeping burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 18 hours per response. Burden means the total time, effort, or financial resources expended by persons to generate, maintain, retain, or disclose or provide information to or for a Federal agency. This includes the time needed to review instructions; develop, acquire, install, and utilize technology and systems for the purposes of collecting, validating, and verifying information, processing and maintaining information, and disclosing and providing information; adjust the existing ways to comply with any PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 previously applicable instructions and requirements which have subsequently changed; train personnel to be able to respond to a collection of information; search data sources; complete and review the collection of information; and transmit or otherwise disclose the information. The ICR provides a detailed explanation of the Agency’s estimate, which is only briefly summarized here: Estimated total number of potential respondents: 11,941. Frequency of response: Varies. Estimated total average number of responses for each respondent: Varies Estimated total annual burden hours: 1,890,000 hours. Estimated total annual costs: $7.9 million. This includes an estimated burden cost of $5.0 million and an estimated cost of $2.9 million for capital investment or maintenance and operational costs. Docket ID No. EPA–HQ–OW–2002–0064 Affected entities: Entities potentially affected by this action are NPDES permit applicants that request a variance or modification of the NPDES or sewage sludge management conditions. Title: NPDES Modification and Variance Requests. ICR numbers: EPA ICR No. 0029.09, OMB Control No. 2040–0068. ICR status: This ICR is currently scheduled to expire on November 30, 2006. An Agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information, unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. The OMB control numbers for EPA’s regulations in title 40 of the CFR, after appearing in the Federal Register when approved, are listed in 40 CFR Part 9, and displayed either by publication in the Federal Register or by other appropriate means, such as on the related collection instrument or form, if applicable. The display of OMB control numbers in certain EPA regulations is consolidated in 40 CFR Part 9. Abstract: This ICR estimates the burden and costs associated with modifications and variances made to NPDES permits and to National Sewage Sludge Management Program permit requirements. Prior to permit issuance, a NPDES permit applicant may request a variance from the conditions that would normally be imposed on the applicant’s discharge. Although any interested party may request a variance, such requests are usually made by the applicant. An applicant must submit information so the permitting authority can assess whether the facility is eligible E:\FR\FM\07MRN1.SGM 07MRN1 Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 44 / Tuesday, March 7, 2006 / Notices sroberts on PROD1PC70 with NOTICES for a variance, and what deviation is necessary. Once a NPDES or sludge-only permit is issued, a facility is subject to the permit limits and conditions for the life of the permit. However, events may occur during this period that would render the permit limits or conditions inappropriate. Responding to such events may require a modification of the NPDES or sewage sludge management permit conditions. The causes that can lead to permit modifications are established in 40 CFR 122.62 and 122.63. The regulations specify information a facility must report in order for EPA to determine whether a permit modification is warranted. Each provision requires similar information. Burden Statement: The annual public reporting and recordkeeping burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 23 hours per response. Burden means the total time, effort, or financial resources expended by persons to generate, maintain, retain, or disclose or provide information to or for a Federal agency. This includes the time needed to review instructions; develop, acquire, install, and utilize technology and systems for the purposes of collecting, validating, and verifying information, processing and maintaining information, and disclosing and providing information; adjust the existing ways to comply with any previously applicable instructions and requirements which have subsequently changed; train personnel to be able to respond to a collection of information; search data sources; complete and review the collection of information; and transmit or otherwise disclose the information. The ICR provides a detailed explanation of the Agency’s estimate, which is only briefly summarized here: Estimated total number of potential respondents: 13,137. Frequency of response: On occasion. Estimated total average number of responses for each respondent: Varies. Estimated total annual burden hours: 303,997 hours. Estimated total annual costs: $10,952,021. This includes an estimated burden cost of $10,952,021 and an estimated cost of $0 for capital investment or maintenance and operational costs. Docket ID No. EPA–HQ–OW–2006–0139 Affected entities: Entities potentially affected by this action are States, Territories, and American Indian Tribal Entities. Title: NPDES and Sewage Sludge Management State Programs. ICR numbers: EPA ICR No. 0168.09, OMB Control No. 2040–0057. VerDate Aug<31>2005 16:39 Mar 06, 2006 Jkt 208001 ICR status: This ICR is currently scheduled to expire on November 30, 2006. An Agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information, unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. The OMB control numbers for EPA’s regulations in title 40 of the CFR, after appearing in the Federal Register when approved, are listed in 40 CFR Part 9, and displayed either by publication in the Federal Register or by other appropriate means, such as on the related collection instrument or form, if applicable. The display of OMB control numbers in certain EPA regulations is consolidated in 40 CFR Part 9. Abstract: This ICR estimates the burden and costs associated with NPDES and Sewage Sludge Management State Programs. Under the NPDES program, States, Federally Recognized Indian Tribes, and U.S. Territories, hereafter referred to as States, may acquire the authority to issue permits. These governments have the option of acquiring authority to issue general permits (permits that cover a category or categories of similar discharges). States with existing NPDES programs must submit requests for program modifications to add pretreatment, Federal facilities, or general permit authority. In addition, as Federal statutes and regulations are modified, States must submit program modifications to ensure that their program continues to meet Federal requirements. States have the option of obtaining a sludge management program. This program may be a component of a State NPDES Program, or it may be administered by a separate program. Burden Statement: The annual public reporting and recordkeeping burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 50.3 hours per response. Burden means the total time, effort, or financial resources expended by persons to generate, maintain, retain, or disclose or provide information to or for a Federal agency. This includes the time needed to review instructions; develop, acquire, install, and utilize technology and systems for the purposes of collecting, validating, and verifying information, processing and maintaining information, and disclosing and providing information; adjust the existing ways to comply with any previously applicable instructions and requirements which have subsequently changed; train personnel to be able to respond to a collection of information; search data sources; complete and review the collection of information; PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 11411 and transmit or otherwise disclose the information. The ICR provides a detailed explanation of the Agency’s estimate, which is only briefly summarized here: Estimated total number of potential respondents: 613. Frequency of response: Semiannually, quarterly, on occasion, every five years, on-going. Estimated total average number of responses for each respondent: Varies. Estimated total annual burden hours: 966,966 hours. Estimated total annual costs: $30,169,349. This includes an estimated burden cost of $30,169,349 and an estimated cost of $0 for capital investment or maintenance and operational costs. Dated: February 28, 2006. James A. Hanlon, Director, Office of Wastewater Management. [FR Doc. E6–3153 Filed 3–6–06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6560–50–P ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY [FRL–8041–3] Control of Emissions From New and In-Use Highway Vehicles and Engines: Approval of New Scheduled Maintenance for Diesel Particulate Filters in Certain Applications Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ACTION: Notice. AGENCY: SUMMARY: This notice announces that EPA has established a minimum interval of 80,000 miles (or 2400 hours) for the scheduled maintenance (cleaning) of diesel particulate filters used in some space-constrained truck applications. This minimum interval applies for model years 2007–2009. Diesel particulate filter cleaning is considered critical emission-related maintenance. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: David Dickinson, Compliance and Innovative Strategies Division, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Ariel Rios Building (6405J), 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20460. Telephone: (202) 343–9256. E-mail address: dickinson.david@epa.gov. The Agency adopted new emission standards for heavy-duty diesel engines (HDDEs) in 2001 (66 FR 5002; January 18, 2001). These standards will result in the introduction of new highly-effective SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: E:\FR\FM\07MRN1.SGM 07MRN1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 71, Number 44 (Tuesday, March 7, 2006)]
[Notices]
[Pages 11407-11411]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E6-3153]


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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

[EPA-HQ-OW-2006-0138, 0136 and 0139; EPA-HQ-OW-2002-0053 and 0064; and 
EPA-HQ-OW-2003-0011; FRL-8041-4]


Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; 
Comment Request on Six Information Collection Requests (ICRs)

AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

ACTION: Notice.

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SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) (44 
U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), this document announces that EPA is planning to 
submit a request to renew existing approved Information Collection 
Requests (ICR) to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Before 
submitting the ICRs to OMB for review and approval, EPA is soliciting 
comments on specific aspects of the proposed information collections as 
described below.

DATES: Comments must be submitted on or before May 8, 2006.

ADDRESSES: Submit your comments, identified by the Docket ID numbers 
provided for each item in the text, by one of the following methods:
     www.regulations.gov: Follow the online instructions for 
submitting comments.
     E-mail: ow-docket@epa.gov (Identify Docket ID No. in the 
subject line)
     Mail: Water Docket, Environmental Protection Agency, 
Mailcode: 4203M, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460. 
Please include a total of three copies.
     Hand Delivery: EPA Docket Center, EPA West, Room B102, 
1301 Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC. Such deliveries are only 
accepted during the Docket's normal hours of operation, and special 
arrangements should be made for deliveries of boxed information.
    Instructions: Direct your comments identified by the Docket ID 
numbers provided for each item in the text. EPA's policy is that all 
comments received will be included in the public docket without change 
and may be made available online at www.regulations.gov, including any 
personal information provided, unless the comment includes information 
claimed to be Confidential Business Information (CBI) or other 
information whose disclosure is restricted by statute. Do not submit 
information that you consider to be CBI or otherwise protected through 
www.regulations.gov or e-mail. The www.regulations.gov Web site is an 
``anonymous access'' system, which means EPA will not know your 
identity or contact information unless you provide it in the body of 
your comment. If you send an e-mail comment directly to EPA without 
going through www.regulations.gov, your e-mail address will be 
automatically captured and included as part of the comment that is 
placed in the public docket and made available on the Internet. If you 
submit an electronic comment, EPA recommends that you include your name 
and other contact information in the body of your comment and with any 
disk or CD-ROM you submit. If EPA cannot read your comment due to 
technical difficulties and cannot contact you for clarification, EPA 
may not be able to consider your comment. Electronic files should avoid 
the use of special characters, any form of encryption, and be free of 
any defects or viruses. For additional information about EPA's public 
docket, visit the EPA Docket Center homepage at https://www.epa.gov/
epahome/dockets.htm.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lynn Stabenfeldt, Office of Wastewater 
Management, 4201M, Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania 
Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460; telephone number: 202.564.0602; fax 
number: 202.501.2399; e-mail address: stabenfeldt.lynn@epa.gov.

[[Page 11408]]


SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

How Can I Access the Docket and/or Submit Comments?

    EPA has established a public docket for each of the ICRs identified 
in this document (see the Docket ID. Numbers for each ICR that are 
provided in the text), which is available for online viewing at 
www.regulations.gov, or in person viewing at the Water Docket in the 
EPA Docket Center (EPA/DC), EPA West, Room B102, 1301 Constitution 
Ave., NW., Washington, DC. The EPA/DC Public Reading Room is open from 
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays. 
The telephone number for the Reading Room is 202-566-1744, and the 
telephone number for the Water Docket is 202-566-2426.
    Use www.regulations.gov to obtain a copy of the draft collection of 
information, submit or view public comments, access the index listing 
of the contents of the docket, and to access those documents in the 
public docket that are available electronically. Once in the system, 
select ``search,'' then key in the docket ID number identified in this 
document.

What Information Is EPA Particularly Interested in?

    Pursuant to section 3506(c)(2)(A) of the PRA, EPA specifically 
solicits comments and information to enable it to:
    (i) Evaluate whether the proposed collection of information is 
necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the Agency, 
including whether the information will have practical utility;
    (ii) Evaluate the accuracy of the Agency's estimate of the burden 
of the proposed collection of information, including the validity of 
the methodology and assumptions used;
    (iii) Enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information 
to be collected; and
    (iv) Minimize the burden of the collection of information on those 
who are to respond, including through the use of appropriate automated 
electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or 
other forms of information technology, e.g., permitting electronic 
submission of responses. In particular, EPA is requesting comments from 
very small businesses (those that employ less than 25) on examples of 
specific additional efforts that EPA could make to reduce the paperwork 
burden for very small businesses affected by this collection.

What Should I Consider When I Prepare My Comments for EPA?

    You may find the following suggestions helpful for preparing your 
comments:
    1. Explain your views as clearly as possible and provide specific 
examples.
    2. Describe any assumptions that you used.
    3. Provide copies of technical information/data you used that 
support your views.
    4. If you estimate potential burden or costs, explain how you 
arrived at the estimate that you provide.
    5. Offer alternative ways to improve the collection activity.
    6. Make sure to submit your comments by the deadline identified 
under DATES.
    7. To ensure proper receipt by EPA, be sure to identify the docket 
ID number assigned to this action in the subject line on the first page 
of your response. You may also provide the name, date, and Federal 
Register citation.

What Information Collection Activities or ICRs Does This Apply to?

    Applications for National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System 
Discharge Permits and the Sewage Sludge Management Permits, EPA ICR No. 
0226.18, OMB Control No. 2040-0086; Notice of Intent for Storm Water 
Discharges Associated with Construction Activity under a NPDES General 
Permit, EPA ICR No. 1842.05, OMB Control No. 2040-0188; NPDES Storm 
Water Program Phase II, EPA ICR No. 1820.04, OMB Control No. 2040-0211; 
NPDES and ELG Regulatory Revision for Concentrated Animal Feeding 
Operations, EPA ICR No. 1989.03, OMB Control No. 2040-0250; NPDES 
Modification and Variance Requests, EPA ICR No. 0029.09, OMB Control 
No. 2040-0068; NPDES and Sewage Sludge Management State Programs, EPA 
ICR No. 0168.09, OMB Control No. 2040-0057.

Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OW-2006-0138

    Affected entities: Entities potentially affected by this action are 
publicly owned treatment works (POTWs), privately owned treatment 
works, new and existing manufacturing and commercial dischargers, storm 
water dischargers, treatment works treating domestic sewage (TWTDS), 
and other entities that apply for NPDES permits.
    Title: Applications for National Pollutant Discharge Elimination 
System Discharge Permits and the Sewage Sludge Management Permits.
    ICR numbers: EPA ICR No. 0226.18, OMB Control No. 2040-0086.
    ICR status: This ICR is currently scheduled to expire on June 30, 
2006. An Agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not 
required to respond to, a collection of information, unless it displays 
a currently valid OMB control number. The OMB control numbers for EPA's 
regulations in title 40 of the CFR, after appearing in the Federal 
Register when approved, are listed in 40 CFR Part 9, and displayed 
either by publication in the Federal Register or by other appropriate 
means, such as on the related collection instrument or form, if 
applicable. The display of OMB control numbers in certain EPA 
regulations is consolidated in 40 CFR Part 9.
    Abstract: This ICR calculates the burden and costs associated with 
permit applications for NPDES discharges and sewage sludge management 
activities. EPA uses the data contained in applications and 
supplemental information requests to set appropriate permit conditions, 
issue permits, and assess permit compliance. EPA maintains certain 
national application information in databases that assist permit 
writers in determining permit conditions. For most permits, EPA has 
developed standard application forms. In some cases, such as requests 
for additional information and storm water applications from municipal 
separate sewer systems, standard forms do not exist because standard 
forms are not appropriate for the information collected or because they 
have not been developed. Application forms correspond to the different 
types of applicants, each form requesting information necessary for 
issuing permits to the associated applicants. Applicants include POTWs, 
privately owned treatment works, new and existing manufacturing and 
commercial dischargers, storm water dischargers, TWTDS, and others. 
Depending on the application form they are using, applicants may be 
required to supply information about their facilities, discharges, 
treatment systems, sewage sludge use and disposal practices, pollutant 
sampling data, or other relevant information. Section 308 of the Clean 
Water Act authorizes EPA to request from dischargers any information 
that may be reasonably required to carry out the objectives and 
provision of the Act. Under this authority, EPA sometimes requests 
information supplemental to that contained in permit applications. In 
its burden and cost calculations, this ICR includes requests for 
information supplemental to permit applications. Other parts of the 
Clean Water Act and

[[Page 11409]]

federal regulations authorize EPA to collect information that 
supplements permit applications, such as section 403(c). This ICR 
calculates the burden and costs for all information collection 
activities associated with applications for permits. Application 
information is necessary to obtain an NPDES or sewage sludge permit.
    Burden Statement: The annual public reporting and recordkeeping 
burden for this collection of information is estimated to average five 
hours per response. Burden means the total time, effort, or financial 
resources expended by persons to generate, maintain, retain, or 
disclose or provide information to or for a Federal agency. This 
includes the time needed to review instructions; develop, acquire, 
install, and utilize technology and systems for the purposes of 
collecting, validating, and verifying information, processing and 
maintaining information, and disclosing and providing information; 
adjust the existing ways to comply with any previously applicable 
instructions and requirements which have subsequently changed; train 
personnel to be able to respond to a collection of information; search 
data sources; complete and review the collection of information; and 
transmit or otherwise disclose the information. The ICR provides a 
detailed explanation of the Agency's estimate, which is only briefly 
summarized here:
    Estimated total number of potential respondents: 291,898.
    Frequency of response: Once every five years.
    Estimated total average number of responses for each respondent: 
One.
    Estimated total annual burden hours: 1,398,737 hours.
    Estimated total annual costs: $53,546,023. This includes an 
estimated burden cost of $53,546,023 and an estimated cost of $0 for 
capital investment or maintenance and operational costs.
    Further, as part of this ICR renewal, EPA plans to transfer 1,244 
burden hours from Milestones Plans for the Bleached Papergrade Kraft 
and Soda Subcategory of the Pulp, Paper and Paperboard Manufacturing 
Category, EPA ICR No. 1877.03, OMB Control No. 2040-0202, to this ICR, 
which would bring the estimated total annual burden hours noted above 
to 1,399,981. The remaining 174 burden hours from EPA ICR No. 1877.03, 
will be transferred to NPDES Compliance Assessment/Certification 
Information, EPA ICR No. 1427.07, OMB Control No. 2040-0110. EPA ICR 
No. 1877.03 subsequently will be phased out.

Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OW-2003-0011

    Affected entities: Entities potentially affected by this action are 
those which have storm water discharges associated with large 
construction activity (40 CFR 122.25(b)(14)(x)) to waters of the U.S.
    Title: Notice of Intent for Storm Water Discharges Associated with 
Construction Activity under a NPDES General Permit.
    ICR numbers: EPA ICR No. 1842.05, OMB Control No. 2040-0188.
    ICR status: This ICR is currently scheduled to expire on June 30, 
2006. An Agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not 
required to respond to, a collection of information, unless it displays 
a currently valid OMB control number. The OMB control numbers for EPA's 
regulations in title 40 of the CFR, after appearing in the Federal 
Register when approved, are listed in 40 CFR Part 9, and displayed 
either by publication in the Federal Register or by other appropriate 
means, such as on the related collection instrument or form, if 
applicable. The display of OMB control numbers in certain EPA 
regulations is consolidated in 40 CFR Part 9.
    Abstract: This ICR calculates the burden and costs associated with 
the preparation of the Notice of Intent (NOI) for Storm Water 
Discharges Associated with Construction Activity under a NPDES General 
Permit, and the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). EPA uses 
the data contained in the NOIs to track facilities covered by the storm 
water general permit and assess permit compliance. EPA has developed a 
form for construction NOIs. The standard one page form is called: 
Notice of Intent (NOI) for Storm Water Discharges Associated with 
Construction Activity Under a NPDES General Permit (EPA Form Number 
3510-6). The construction NOI form requires the following information 
to be submitted, signed, and certified to by an authorized 
representative of the project:

--Name, address, phone number of the facility.
--Status of the owner/operator (whether federal, state, public, or 
private).
--Name and location of the project (City, State, ZIP, Latitude, 
Longitude, County).
--Whether the facility is located on Indian Country Lands.
--Whether a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) has been 
prepared.
--Optional: location for viewing SWPPP and telephone number for 
scheduling viewing times: Address, City, State, ZIP.
--The name of the receiving water.
--Estimated construction start date and completion date.
--The estimated area to be disturbed (to nearest acre).
--An estimate of the likelihood of discharge.
--Whether any protected species or critical habitat in the project 
area.
--Which section of part I.B.3.e(2) of the permit through which permit 
eligibility with regard to protection of endangered species is 
satisfied.

    Respondents are required to obtain coverage under the NPDES General 
Permit for storm water discharges associated with construction 
activity.
    Burden Statement: The annual public reporting and recordkeeping 
burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 38.3 
hours per response by large construction NPDES permittees in NPDES-
authorized states and territories and 40.5 hours per response for 
construction activities in states and territories where EPA is the 
permitting authority. Burden means the total time, effort, or financial 
resources expended by persons to generate, maintain, retain, or 
disclose or provide information to or for a Federal agency. This 
includes the time needed to review instructions; develop, acquire, 
install, and utilize technology and systems for the purposes of 
collecting, validating, and verifying information, processing and 
maintaining information, and disclosing and providing information; 
adjust the existing ways to comply with any previously applicable 
instructions and requirements which have subsequently changed; train 
personnel to be able to respond to a collection of information; search 
data sources; complete and review the collection of information; and 
transmit or otherwise disclose the information.
    The ICR provides a detailed explanation of the Agency's estimate, 
which is only briefly summarized here:
    Estimated total number of potential respondents: 201,259.
    Frequency of response: Once initially, prior to commencement of 
construction
    Estimated total average number of responses for each respondent: 
Two.
    Estimated total annual burden hours: 7,920,245 hours.
    Estimated total annual costs: $264,919,148. This includes an 
estimated burden cost of $264,919,148 and an estimated cost of $0 for 
capital investment or maintenance and operational costs.

Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OW-2002-0053

    Affected entities: Entities potentially affected by this action are 
NPDES permittees, including operators of small municipal separate storm 
sewer

[[Page 11410]]

systems, small construction activity, and industrial facilities 
identified in 40 CFR 122.26(b)(14)(i)-(ix) and (xi) that qualify for a 
no exposure exemption.
    Title: NPDES Storm Water Program Phase II.
    ICR numbers: EPA ICR No. 1820.04, OMB Control No. 2040-0211.
    ICR status: This ICR is currently scheduled to expire on June 30, 
2006. An Agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not 
required to respond to, a collection of information, unless it displays 
a currently valid OMB control number. The OMB control numbers for EPA's 
regulations in title 40 of the CFR, after appearing in the Federal 
Register when approved, are listed in 40 CFR Part 9, and displayed 
either by publication in the Federal Register or by other appropriate 
means, such as on the related collection instrument or form, if 
applicable. The display of OMB control numbers in certain EPA 
regulations is consolidated in 40 CFR Part 9.
    Abstract: This ICR calculates the burden and costs associated with 
the regulation of storm water discharges under Phase II of the NPDES 
storm water program. Specifically, it calculates the burden for 
developing and implementing small MS4 storm water permits, small 
construction (1-5 acres) permits, and submitting a no-exposure 
certification form (EPA form 3510-11). The ICR also specifies the 
burden on authorized NPDES States to process and administer the Phase 
II program.
    Burden Statement: The annual public reporting and recordkeeping 
burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 21 
hours per response. Burden means the total time, effort, or financial 
resources expended by persons to generate, maintain, retain, or 
disclose or provide information to or for a Federal agency. This 
includes the time needed to review instructions; develop, acquire, 
install, and utilize technology and systems for the purposes of 
collecting, validating, and verifying information, processing and 
maintaining information, and disclosing and providing information; 
adjust the existing ways to comply with any previously applicable 
instructions and requirements which have subsequently changed; train 
personnel to be able to respond to a collection of information; search 
data sources; complete and review the collection of information; and 
transmit or otherwise disclose the information.
    The ICR provides a detailed explanation of the Agency's estimate, 
which is only briefly summarized here:
    Estimated total number of potential respondents: 327,163.
    Frequency of response: Varies.
    Estimated total average number of responses for each respondent: 
Varies.
    Estimated total annual burden hours: 4,958,353 hours.
    Estimated total annual costs: $142,543,556. This includes an 
estimated burden cost of $142,543,556 and an estimated cost of $0 for 
capital investment or maintenance and operational costs.

Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OW-2006-0136

    Affected entities: Entities potentially affected by this action are 
owners and operators of Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs).
    Title: NPDES and ELG Regulatory Revision for Concentrated Animal 
Feeding Operations.
    ICR numbers: EPA ICR No. 1989.03, OMB Control No. 2040-0250.
    ICR status: This ICR is currently scheduled to expire on July 31, 
2006. An Agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not 
required to respond to, a collection of information, unless it displays 
a currently valid OMB control number. The OMB control numbers for EPA's 
regulations in title 40 of the CFR, after appearing in the Federal 
Register when approved, are listed in 40 CFR Part 9, and displayed 
either by publication in the Federal Register or by other appropriate 
means, such as on the related collection instrument or form, if 
applicable. The display of OMB control numbers in certain EPA 
regulations is consolidated in 40 CFR Part 9.
    Abstract: This ICR calculates the burden and costs associated with 
the NPDES and ELG regulations for Concentrated Animal Feeding 
Operations (CAFOs). These regulations regulate land application of 
manure, litter and wastewater generated at CAFO facilities. The rule 
requires all facilities defined as a CAFO to apply for a NPDES permit.
    Burden Statement: The annual public reporting and recordkeeping 
burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 18 
hours per response. Burden means the total time, effort, or financial 
resources expended by persons to generate, maintain, retain, or 
disclose or provide information to or for a Federal agency. This 
includes the time needed to review instructions; develop, acquire, 
install, and utilize technology and systems for the purposes of 
collecting, validating, and verifying information, processing and 
maintaining information, and disclosing and providing information; 
adjust the existing ways to comply with any previously applicable 
instructions and requirements which have subsequently changed; train 
personnel to be able to respond to a collection of information; search 
data sources; complete and review the collection of information; and 
transmit or otherwise disclose the information.
    The ICR provides a detailed explanation of the Agency's estimate, 
which is only briefly summarized here:
    Estimated total number of potential respondents: 11,941.
    Frequency of response: Varies.
    Estimated total average number of responses for each respondent: 
Varies
    Estimated total annual burden hours: 1,890,000 hours.
    Estimated total annual costs: $7.9 million. This includes an 
estimated burden cost of $5.0 million and an estimated cost of $2.9 
million for capital investment or maintenance and operational costs.

Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OW-2002-0064

    Affected entities: Entities potentially affected by this action are 
NPDES permit applicants that request a variance or modification of the 
NPDES or sewage sludge management conditions.
    Title: NPDES Modification and Variance Requests.
    ICR numbers: EPA ICR No. 0029.09, OMB Control No. 2040-0068.
    ICR status: This ICR is currently scheduled to expire on November 
30, 2006. An Agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not 
required to respond to, a collection of information, unless it displays 
a currently valid OMB control number. The OMB control numbers for EPA's 
regulations in title 40 of the CFR, after appearing in the Federal 
Register when approved, are listed in 40 CFR Part 9, and displayed 
either by publication in the Federal Register or by other appropriate 
means, such as on the related collection instrument or form, if 
applicable. The display of OMB control numbers in certain EPA 
regulations is consolidated in 40 CFR Part 9.
    Abstract: This ICR estimates the burden and costs associated with 
modifications and variances made to NPDES permits and to National 
Sewage Sludge Management Program permit requirements. Prior to permit 
issuance, a NPDES permit applicant may request a variance from the 
conditions that would normally be imposed on the applicant's discharge. 
Although any interested party may request a variance, such requests are 
usually made by the applicant. An applicant must submit information so 
the permitting authority can assess whether the facility is eligible

[[Page 11411]]

for a variance, and what deviation is necessary. Once a NPDES or 
sludge-only permit is issued, a facility is subject to the permit 
limits and conditions for the life of the permit. However, events may 
occur during this period that would render the permit limits or 
conditions inappropriate. Responding to such events may require a 
modification of the NPDES or sewage sludge management permit 
conditions. The causes that can lead to permit modifications are 
established in 40 CFR 122.62 and 122.63. The regulations specify 
information a facility must report in order for EPA to determine 
whether a permit modification is warranted. Each provision requires 
similar information.
    Burden Statement: The annual public reporting and recordkeeping 
burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 23 
hours per response. Burden means the total time, effort, or financial 
resources expended by persons to generate, maintain, retain, or 
disclose or provide information to or for a Federal agency. This 
includes the time needed to review instructions; develop, acquire, 
install, and utilize technology and systems for the purposes of 
collecting, validating, and verifying information, processing and 
maintaining information, and disclosing and providing information; 
adjust the existing ways to comply with any previously applicable 
instructions and requirements which have subsequently changed; train 
personnel to be able to respond to a collection of information; search 
data sources; complete and review the collection of information; and 
transmit or otherwise disclose the information.
    The ICR provides a detailed explanation of the Agency's estimate, 
which is only briefly summarized here:
    Estimated total number of potential respondents: 13,137.
    Frequency of response: On occasion.
    Estimated total average number of responses for each respondent: 
Varies.
    Estimated total annual burden hours: 303,997 hours.
    Estimated total annual costs: $10,952,021. This includes an 
estimated burden cost of $10,952,021 and an estimated cost of $0 for 
capital investment or maintenance and operational costs.

Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OW-2006-0139

    Affected entities: Entities potentially affected by this action are 
States, Territories, and American Indian Tribal Entities.
    Title: NPDES and Sewage Sludge Management State Programs.
    ICR numbers: EPA ICR No. 0168.09, OMB Control No. 2040-0057.
    ICR status: This ICR is currently scheduled to expire on November 
30, 2006. An Agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not 
required to respond to, a collection of information, unless it displays 
a currently valid OMB control number. The OMB control numbers for EPA's 
regulations in title 40 of the CFR, after appearing in the Federal 
Register when approved, are listed in 40 CFR Part 9, and displayed 
either by publication in the Federal Register or by other appropriate 
means, such as on the related collection instrument or form, if 
applicable. The display of OMB control numbers in certain EPA 
regulations is consolidated in 40 CFR Part 9.
    Abstract: This ICR estimates the burden and costs associated with 
NPDES and Sewage Sludge Management State Programs. Under the NPDES 
program, States, Federally Recognized Indian Tribes, and U.S. 
Territories, hereafter referred to as States, may acquire the authority 
to issue permits. These governments have the option of acquiring 
authority to issue general permits (permits that cover a category or 
categories of similar discharges). States with existing NPDES programs 
must submit requests for program modifications to add pretreatment, 
Federal facilities, or general permit authority. In addition, as 
Federal statutes and regulations are modified, States must submit 
program modifications to ensure that their program continues to meet 
Federal requirements. States have the option of obtaining a sludge 
management program. This program may be a component of a State NPDES 
Program, or it may be administered by a separate program.
    Burden Statement: The annual public reporting and recordkeeping 
burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 50.3 
hours per response. Burden means the total time, effort, or financial 
resources expended by persons to generate, maintain, retain, or 
disclose or provide information to or for a Federal agency. This 
includes the time needed to review instructions; develop, acquire, 
install, and utilize technology and systems for the purposes of 
collecting, validating, and verifying information, processing and 
maintaining information, and disclosing and providing information; 
adjust the existing ways to comply with any previously applicable 
instructions and requirements which have subsequently changed; train 
personnel to be able to respond to a collection of information; search 
data sources; complete and review the collection of information; and 
transmit or otherwise disclose the information.
    The ICR provides a detailed explanation of the Agency's estimate, 
which is only briefly summarized here:
    Estimated total number of potential respondents: 613.
    Frequency of response: Semi-annually, quarterly, on occasion, every 
five years, on-going.
    Estimated total average number of responses for each respondent: 
Varies.
    Estimated total annual burden hours: 966,966 hours.
    Estimated total annual costs: $30,169,349. This includes an 
estimated burden cost of $30,169,349 and an estimated cost of $0 for 
capital investment or maintenance and operational costs.

    Dated: February 28, 2006.
James A. Hanlon,
Director, Office of Wastewater Management.
 [FR Doc. E6-3153 Filed 3-6-06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560-50-P
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