Environmental Protection Agency March 2011 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents
Results 101 - 150 of 179
Notice of Receipt of Petition From the Government of Canada for Application of the Renewable Fuel Standard Aggregate Compliance Approach
EPA is issuing notice of receipt of a petition for EPA to authorize the use of an aggregate approach for compliance with the Renewable Fuel Standard renewable biomass provisions. This petition was submitted by the Government of Canada. The petition requests that EPA determine that an aggregate compliance approach will provide reasonable assurance that planted crops and crop residue from Canada meet the definition of renewable biomass. EPA has previously determined that the aggregate compliance approach is applicable in the United States. If the petition is approved, crops and crop residue from Canada would not be subject to individual recordkeeping and reporting requirements. This determination could change if EPA later determined, through its annual evaluation of the aggregate compliance approach, that the number of acres of agricultural land in Canada exceeded a baseline number of acres determined to be available under the Act for the production of crops and crop residue meeting the definition of renewable biomass. In this notice, EPA is soliciting comment on all aspects of the petition.
Approval and Promulgation of Implementation Plans; South Carolina: Prevention of Significant Deterioration and Nonattainment New Source Review; Fine Particulate Matter and Nitrogen Oxides as a Precursor to Ozone
EPA is proposing to approve a revision to the South Carolina State Implementation Plan (SIP), submitted by the State of South Carolina, through the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC), to EPA on December 2, 2010, for parallel processing. The proposed SIP revision modifies South Carolina's New Source Review (NSR) Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) and Nonattainment New Source Review (NNSR) programs. The proposed revision makes two changes for which EPA is proposing approval in today's rulemaking. First, the revision incorporates NSR provisions for fine particulate matter (also known as PM2.5) as amended in EPA's 2008 NSR PM2.5 Implementation Rule (hereafter referred to as the ``NSR PM2.5 Rule'') into the South Carolina SIP. Second, the proposed revision addresses a PSD permitting requirement promulgated in the 1997 8-Hour Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) Implementation Rule NSR Update Phase II (hereafter referred to as the ``Ozone Implementation NSR Update or Phase II Rule''). Both changes in the proposed SIP revision are necessary to comply with federal regulations related to South Carolina's NSR permitting program. EPA is proposing approval of the December 2, 2010, proposed SIP revision because the Agency has preliminarily determined that the revisions are in accordance with the Clean Air Act (CAA or Act) and EPA regulations regarding NSR permitting.
Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality Implementation Plans; State of California; Regional Haze State Implementation Plan and Interstate Transport Plan; Interference With Visibility Requirement
EPA is proposing to approve a revision to the California State Implementation Plan (SIP) that addresses regional haze for the first implementation period through 2018. This revision addresses the requirements of the Clean Air Act (CAA or ``Act'') and EPA's rules that require states to prevent any future and remedy any existing anthropogenic impairment of visibility in mandatory Class I areas caused by emissions of air pollutants from numerous sources located over a wide geographic area (also referred to as the ``regional haze program''). States are required to assure reasonable progress toward the national goal of achieving natural visibility conditions in Class I areas. In addition, we are proposing to approve certain portions of this Regional Haze SIP revision and a related SIP revision submitted by California on November 16, 2007, as meeting the requirements of CAA Section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II) regarding interference with other states' measures to protect visibility for the 1997 8-hour ozone and 1997 particulate matter (PM2.5) National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS).
B&B Manufacturing Site; Mobile, Mobile County, AL; Notice of Settlement
Under Section 122(h)(1) of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA), the United States Environmental Protection Agency has entered into a settlement for reimbursement of past response costs concerning the B&B Manufacturing Site located in Mobile, Mobile County, Alabama for publication.
Picayune Wood Treating Site Picayune, Pearl River County, MS; Notice of Settlement
Under Section 122(h)(1) of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA), the United States Environmental Protection Agency has entered into a settlement for reimbursement of past response costs concerning the Picayune Wood Treating Site located in Picayune, Pearl River County, Mississippi for publication.
Notice of Proposed Administrative Settlement Pursuant to the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act
In accordance with Section 122(i) of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, as amended (CERCLA), 42 U.S.C. 9622(i), notice is hereby given of a proposed administrative settlement concerning the Grants Chlorinated Solvents Superfund Site, Grants, Cibola County, New Mexico. The settlement requires the Holiday Cleaners and Laundry to pay a total of $1000.00 as payment of response costs to the Hazardous Substances Superfund plus interest. The settlement includes a covenant not to sue pursuant to Section 107 of CERCLA, 42, U.S.C. 9607. For thirty (30) days following the date of publication of this notice, the Agency will receive written comments relating to this notice and will receive written comments relating to the settlement. The Agency will consider all comments received and may modify or withdraw its consent to the settlement if comments received disclose facts or considerations which indicate that the settlement is inappropriate, improper, or inadequate. The Agency's response to any comments received will be available for public inspection at 1445 Ross Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75202-2733.
Notice of Meeting of the EPA's Children's Health Protection Advisory Committee (CHPAC)
Pursuant to the provisions of the Federal Advisory Committee Act, Public Law 92-463, notice is hereby given that the next meeting of the Children's Health Protection Advisory Committee (CHPAC) will be held March 30 and 31 at the Arlington Court Suites Hotel, 1200 North Courthouse Road, Arlington, VA. The CHPAC was created to advise the Environmental Protection Agency on science, regulations, and other issues relating to children's environmental health.
Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality Implementation Plans; Pennsylvania; Adoption of Control Techniques Guidelines for Flat Wood Paneling Surface Coating Processes
EPA is proposing to approve a State Implementation Plan (SIP) revision submitted by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (Pennsylvania). This SIP revision includes amendments to Chapter 121General Provisions and Chapter 129Standards for Sources of Title 25 of the Pennsylvania Code. Pennsylvania's SIP revision meets the requirement to adopt Reasonably Available Control Technology (RACT) for sources covered by EPA's Control Techniques Guidelines (CTG) standards for flat wood paneling surface coating processes and will help Pennsylvania attain and maintain the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) for ozone. This action is being taken under the Clean Air Act (CAA).
National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Chemical Manufacturing Area Sources
EPA is issuing this final rule to stay the requirement for certain affected sources to comply with the title V permit program during the pendency of the reconsideration process. On June 15, 2010, EPA notified Petitioners that the Agency intended to initiate the reconsideration process in response to their request for reconsideration of certain provisions in the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Chemical Manufacturing Area Sources. Among the provisions EPA is reconsidering is a requirement that certain affected sources obtain a permit. On December 14, 2010, EPA issued a 90-day stay of the requirement for certain affected sources to comply with the title V permit program. Because we believed that the reconsideration process would not be completed within 90 days, we concurrently proposed to stay the provision requiring certain sources to obtain a permit until the final reconsideration rule is published in the Federal Register. After considering the comments received, EPA is promulgating the stay of compliance through this final rule.
Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality Implementation Plans; Virginia; Revisions to the Open Burning Regulations
EPA is taking direct final action to approve revisions to the Virginia State Implementation Plan (SIP). The revisions recodify the open burning regulations which are currently in the Virginia SIP. There are no substantive changes to the rule. EPA is approving these revisions to Virginia's open burning regulations in accordance with the requirements of the Clean Air Act (CAA).
Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality Implementation Plans; Virginia; Revisions to the Open Burning Regulations
EPA proposes to approve the State Implementation Plan (SIP) revision submitted by the Commonwealth of Virginia. The revisions recodify the open burning regulations which are currently in the Virginia SIP. There are no substantive changes to the rule. In the Final Rules section of this Federal Register, EPA is approving Virginia's SIP submittal as a direct final rule without prior proposal because the Agency views this as a noncontroversial submittal and anticipates no adverse comments. A detailed rationale for the approval is set forth in the direct final rule. If no adverse comments are received in response to this action, no further activity is contemplated. If EPA receives adverse comments, the direct final rule will be withdrawn and all public comments received will be addressed in a subsequent final rule based on this proposed rule. EPA will not institute a second comment period. Any parties interested in commenting on this action should do so at this time.
National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Mercury Emissions From Mercury Cell Chlor-Alkali Plants
This action proposes amendments to the national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants (NESHAP) for mercury emissions from mercury cell chlor-alkali plants (Mercury Cell NESHAP). On June 11, 2008, EPA proposed amendments to this NESHAP in response to a petition for reconsideration filed by the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). This action is a supplement to the June 11, 2008, proposal. Specifically, this action proposes two options for amending the NESHAP for mercury emissions from mercury cell chlor-alkali plants. The first option would require the elimination of mercury emissions and thus encourage the conversion to non-mercury technology. The second option would require the measures proposed in 2008. These measures, which included significant improvements in the work practices to reduce fugitive emissions from the cell room, would result in near-zero levels of mercury emissions while still allowing the mercury cell facilities to continue to operate. We are specifically requesting comment on which of these options is more appropriate, and may finalize either option or a combination of elements from them. In addition, this action proposes several amendments that would apply regardless of which option we select. These proposed amendments are provisions of the existing NESHAP that would apply to periods of startup, shutdown, and malfunction (SSM), and corrections to compliance errors in the currently effective rule.
Approval of One-Year Extension for Attaining the 1997 8-Hour Ozone Standard in the Baltimore Moderate Nonattainment Area
EPA is approving the extension of the attainment date from June 15, 2010 to June 15, 2011 for the Baltimore nonattainment area, which is classified as moderate for the 1997 8-hour ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS). This extension is based on the air quality data for the 4th highest daily 8-hour monitored value during the 2009 ozone season. Accordingly, EPA is revising the table concerning the 8-hour ozone attainment dates in the State of Maryland. EPA is approving the extension of the attainment date for the Baltimore moderate ozone nonattainment area in accordance with the requirements of the Clean Air Act (CAA).
Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS); Announcement of Availability of Literature Searches for IRIS Assessments
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing the availability of literature searches for cobalt (CASRN 7440-48-4) and inorganic cobalt compounds, vanadium pentoxide (CASRN 1314-62-1), vinyl acetate (CASRN 108-05-4), and Libby Amphibole asbestos. EPA is requesting scientific information on health effects that may result from exposure to these chemical substances. EPA's IRIS is a human health assessment program that evaluates quantitative and qualitative risk information on effects that may result from exposure to specific chemical substances found in the environment.
Science Advisory Board Staff Office; Notification of a Public Meeting of the Science Advisory Board Committee on Science Integration for Decision Making
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA or Agency) Science Advisory Board (SAB) Staff Office announces a public meeting of the SAB Committee on Science Integration for Decision Making.
National Environmental Justice Advisory Council; Notification of Public Teleconference Meeting and Public Comment
Pursuant to the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA), Public Law 92-463, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) hereby provides notice that the National Environmental Justice Advisory Council (NEJAC) will host a public teleconference meeting on Thursday, March 31, 2011, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Eastern Time. The primary topic of discussion will be EPA's charge to the NEJAC on ensuring long-term engagement of communities in Gulf Coast eco-system restoration efforts. This NEJAC public teleconference meeting is open to the public. There will be a public comment period from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m., Eastern Time. Members of the public are encouraged to provide comments relevant to the topic of the meeting. Specifically, comments should respond to how best to: 1. Engage minority, low-income, and tribal/indigenous communities for input into decisions about Gulf Coast restoration plans, particularly for the impacts of such plans on permitting and how best to facilitate the participation of immigrant populations and communities with potential language barriers. 2. Consider indigenous, cultural, and historical concerns during restoration and recovery. 3. Identify any regulatory and policy hurdles that impede, complicate, or discourage sustained community engagement in decisions about restoration and recovery. For additional information about registering to attend the meeting or to provide public comment, please see the ``REGISTRATION'' and SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION sections below. Due to a limited number of telephone lines, attendance will be on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no fee to attend, but pre-registration is required. Registration for the teleconference meeting closes at 11 a.m., Eastern Time, on Wednesday, March 23, 2011. The deadline to sign-up for public comment, or to submit written public comments, is also March 23, 2011.
Science Advisory Board Staff Office; Notification of a Public Meeting of the SAB Drinking Water Committee Augmented for the Review of the Effectiveness of Partial Lead Service Line Replacements
The EPA Science Advisory Board (SAB) Staff Office announces a public meeting of the SAB Drinking Water Committee Augmented for the Review of the Effectiveness of Partial Lead Service Line Replacements to review technical studies examining the effectiveness of partial lead service line replacements.
Settlement Agreement for Recovery of Past Response Costs; 345 North 700 East, Richfield PCE Site, Richfield, Sevier County, UT
In accordance with the requirements of section 122(i)(1) of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, as amended (CERCLA), 42 U.S.C. 9622(i)(1), notice is hereby given of a Settlement Agreement under Sections 104, 106(a), 107, and 122 of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9604, 9606(a), 9607, and 9622, between the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Jerry Thomas and Katrina Thomas (Settling Parties) regarding the Richfield PCE Site (Site), located at 345 North 700 East, Richfield, Sevier County, Utah. This Settlement Agreement proposes to compromise a claim the United States has at this Site for Past Response Costs, as those terms are defined in the Settlement Agreement. Under the terms of the Settlement Agreement, EPA and the Settling Parties agree that the Settling Parties have no ability to pay and the Settling Parties (1) agree not to assert any claims or causes of action against the United States or its contractors or employees with respect to the Site and (2) agree to record an executed environmental covenant, between Settling Parties, EPA and Utah Department of Environmental Quality, requiring certain activity and use limitations. In exchange, the Settling Parties will be granted a covenant not to sue under section 107(a) of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9607(a), with regard to reimbursement of Past Response Costs. Opportunity for Comment: For thirty (30) days following the publication of this notice, EPA will consider all comments received and may modify or withdraw its consent to that portion of the Settlement Agreement, if comments received disclose facts or considerations which indicate that the settlement is inappropriate, improper, or inadequate. EPA's response to any comments received will be available for public inspection at the Superfund Record Center, EPA Region 8, 1595 Wynkoop Street, 3rd Floor, in Denver, Colorado.
National Priorities List, Proposed Rule No. 54
The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (``CERCLA'' or ``the Act''), as amended, requires that the National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan (``NCP'') include a list of national priorities among the known releases or threatened releases of hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants throughout the United States. The National Priorities List (``NPL'') constitutes this list. The NPL is intended primarily to guide the Environmental Protection Agency (``EPA'' or ``the Agency'') in determining which sites warrant further investigation. These further investigations will allow EPA to assess the nature and extent of public health and environmental risks associated with the site and to determine what CERCLA-financed remedial action(s), if any, may be appropriate. This rule proposes to add 15 sites to the General Superfund section of the NPL. One of the sites included in this proposed rule, MolyCorp, Inc., was previously proposed in May 2000. MolyCorp, Inc. is being re-proposed with a revised HRS score that is based on extensive new sampling data.
National Priorities List, Final Rule No. 51
The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (``CERCLA'' or ``the Act''), as amended, requires that the National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan (``NCP'') include a list of national priorities among the known releases or threatened releases of hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants throughout the United States. The National Priorities List (``NPL'') constitutes this list. The NPL is intended primarily to guide the Environmental Protection Agency (``EPA'' or ``the Agency'') in determining which sites warrant further investigation. These further investigations will allow EPA to assess the nature and extent of public health and environmental risks associated with the site and to determine what CERCLA-financed remedial action(s), if any, may be appropriate. This rule adds ten sites to the NPL, all to the General Superfund Section.
Clean Air Act Proposed Interim Approval of Title V Operating Permits Program; Southern Ute Indian Tribe
The EPA proposes interim approval of the Title V Operating Permits Program submitted by the Southern Ute Indian Tribe (Tribe). The Tribe's Title V Operating Permit Program (Title V Program) was submitted for the purpose of administering a tribal program for issuing operating permits to all major stationary sources, and certain other sources on the Southern Ute Indian Reservation (Reservation).
Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality Implementation Plans; Indiana; Kentucky; Louisville Nonattainment Area; Determination of Attainment of the 1997 Annual Fine Particle Standard
EPA is determining that the bi-state Louisville (Indiana and Kentucky) fine particle (PM2.5) nonattainment area has attained the 1997 annual average PM2.5 National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS). This determination is based upon complete, quality-assured, and certified ambient air monitoring data for the 2007-2009 period showing that the area has monitored attainment of the annual PM2.5 NAAQS. Preliminary data for 2010 available to date are consistent with continued attainment. As a result of this determination, the requirements for the area to submit an attainment demonstration and associated reasonably available control measures (RACM), a reasonable further progress (RFP) plan, contingency measures, and other planning State Implementation Plan (SIP) revisions related to attainment of the standards shall be suspended for so long as the area continues to attain the annual PM2.5 NAAQS.
National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Reciprocating Internal Combustion Engines
EPA is taking direct final action to promulgate amendments to a final rule that provided national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants for existing stationary spark ignition reciprocating internal combustion engines. The final rule was published on August 20, 2010. This direct final action amends certain regulatory text to clarify compliance requirements related to continuous parameter monitoring systems. EPA is also correcting minor typographical errors in the regulatory text to the August 20, 2010, action.
National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Reciprocating Internal Combustion Engines
EPA is taking action to propose amendments to a final rule that provided national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants for existing stationary spark ignition reciprocating internal combustion engines. The final rule was published on August 20, 2010. This action proposes to amend certain regulatory text to clarify compliance requirements related to continuous parameter monitoring systems. EPA is also proposing to correct minor typographical errors in the regulatory text to the August 20, 2010, action.
Fomesafen; Pesticide Tolerances
This regulation establishes tolerances for residues of fomesafen in or on pepper (bell and non-bell), potato, and tomato. Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc. requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA).
SFIREG Environmental Quality Issues Working Committee; Notice of Public Meeting
The Association of American Pesticide Control Officials (AAPCO)/State FIFRA Issues Research and Evaluation Group (SFIREG), Environmental Quality Issues (EQI) Working Committee will hold a 2-day meeting, beginning on April 18, 2011 and ending April 19, 2011. This notice announces the location and times for the meeting and sets forth the tentative agenda topics.
Promoting Community Integrated Pest Management To Prevent Tick-Borne Diseases; Notice of Public Meeting
EPA will host a National Community Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for Preventing Tick-Borne Diseases Conference on March 30 and 31, 2011, under the auspices of EPA's Pesticide Program Dialog Committee (Public Health Work Group). The objectives of the conference are to identify knowledge gaps and barriers to effective community-wide tick control; propose the next steps in addressing knowledge gaps and eliminating barriers; and develop a framework for addressing the highest priority needs. The agenda for this conference will be posted at https://www.epa.gov/pestwise/ and placed in the docket in advance of the meeting.
Potassium Benzoate; Exemption From the Requirement of a Tolerance
This regulation establishes an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of potassium benzoate (Cas No. 582-25-2) under 40 CFR 180.910 when used as an inert ingredient (preservative) in pesticide formulations applied to growing crops and raw agricultural commodities after harvest, and under 40 CFR 180.930 when used as an inert ingredient (preservative) in pesticide formulations applied to animals (used for food). Landis International, on behalf of Whitmire Micro-Gen submitted two petitions to EPA under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), requesting establishment of an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance. This regulation eliminates the need to establish a maximum permissible level for residues of potassium benzoate.
Cambridge Environmental Inc; Transfer of Data
This notice announces that pesticide related information submitted to EPA's Office of Pesticide Programs (OPP) pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) and the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), including information that may have been claimed as Confidential Business Information (CBI) by the submitter, will be transferred to Cambridge Environmental Inc. in accordance with 40 CFR 2.307(h)(3) and 2.308(i)(2). Cambridge Environmental Inc. has been awarded a contract to perform work for OPP, and access to this information will enable Cambridge Environmental Inc. to fulfill the obligations of the contract.
Good Neighbor Environmental Board
Under the Federal Advisory Committee Act, Public Law 92463, EPA gives notice of a meeting of the Good Neighbor Environmental Board (Board). The Board usually meets three times each calendar year, twice at different locations along the U.S. border with Mexico, and once in Washington, DC. It was created in 1992 by the Enterprise for the Americas Initiative Act, Public Law 102-532, 7 U.S.C. Section 5404. Implementing authority was delegated to the Administrator of EPA under Executive Order 12916. The Board is responsible for providing advice to the President and the Congress on environmental and infrastructure issues and needs within the States contiguous to Mexico in order to improve the quality of life of persons residing on the United States side of the border. The statute calls for the Board to have representatives from U.S. Government agencies; the States of Arizona, California, New Mexico and Texas; and Tribal and private organizations to provide advice on environmental and infrastructure issues along the U.S.-Mexico border. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the Board's 14th report, which will focus on the environmental and economic benefits of renewable energy in the border region. A copy of the meeting agenda will be posted at https://www.epa.gov/ocem/gneb.
Science Advisory Board Staff Office; Notification of a Public Teleconference of the Air Monitoring and Methods Subcommittee
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA or Agency) Science Advisory Board (SAB) Staff Office announces a public teleconference of the Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee (CASAC) Air Monitoring and Methods Subcommittee (AMMS) to discuss the AMMS draft report on EPA's draft monitoring documents for Oxides of Nitrogen (NOX) and Sulfur (SOx).
Proposed Consent Decree, Clean Air Act Citizen Suit
In accordance with section 113(g) of the Clean Air Act, as amended (``CAA'' or the ``Act''), 42 U.S.C. 7413(g), notice is hereby given of a proposed consent decree to address a lawsuit filed by WildEarth Guardians in the United States District Court for the District of New Mexico: WildEarth Guardians v. Jackson, No. 6:10-;cv- ;00877-MCA-RHS (D. NM). Plaintiff filed a deadline suit to compel the Administrator to respond to an administrative petition seeking EPA's objection to a CAA Title V operating permit issued by the New Mexico Environment Department, Air Quality Bureau to Williams Four Corners LLC for the Sims (also spelled as ``Simms'') Mesa Central Delivery Point facility. Under the terms of the proposed consent decree, EPA has agreed to respond to the petition by April 29, 2011, or within 30 days of the entry date of this Consent Decree, whichever is later.
Agency Information Collection Activities OMB Responses
This document announces the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) responses to Agency Clearance requests, in compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.). 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 regulations are listed in 40 CFR part 9 and 48 CFR chapter 15.
Approval and Promulgation of Implementation Plans; State of Oregon; Regional Haze State Implementation Plan
EPA is proposing to approve a State Implementation Plan (SIP) revision, submitted by the State of Oregon on December 20, 2010, with supplemental information submitted February 1, 2011, as meeting the requirements of Clean Air Act (CAA) section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(II) as it applies to visibility for the 1997 8-hour ozone and 1997 particulate matter (PM2.5) National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). EPA is also proposing to approve a portion of the SIP submittal, as meeting certain requirements of the regional haze program, including the Federal regulations for best available retrofit technology (BART).
Notice of Issuance of Federal Operating Permit to Great Lakes Gas Transmission Limited Partnership
This notice announces that, on January, 28, 2011, pursuant to Title V of the Clean Air Act, EPA issued a Title V Permit to Operate (Title V permit) to Great Lakes Gas Transmission Limited Partnership (Great Lakes Gas). This permit authorizes Great Lakes Gas to operate three natural gas-fired turbine/compressors and one natural gas-fired standby electrical generator at Compressor Station 5 (CS5) in Cloquet, Minnesota. CS5, which is located on privately-owned fee land within the exterior boundaries of the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indian Reservation, adds pressure to natural gas in Great Lakes' pipeline, causing the natural gas to flow to the next compressor station.
Approval and Promulgation of Implementation Plans and Designation of Areas for Air Quality Planning Purposes; Tennessee; Redesignation of the Knoxville 1997 8-Hour Ozone Nonattainment Area to Attainment for the 1997 8-Hour Ozone Standards
EPA is taking final action to approve a request submitted on July 14, 2010, and amended on September 9, 2010, from the State of Tennessee, through the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC), Air Pollution Control Division, to redesignate the Knoxville, Tennessee 8-hour ozone nonattainment area to attainment for the 1997 8-hour ozone national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS). The Knoxville, Tennessee 1997 8-hour ozone nonattainment area comprises Anderson, Blount, Jefferson, Knox, Loudon, and Sevier Counties in their entireties, and the portion of Cocke County that falls within the boundary of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (hereinafter referred to as the ``Knoxville Area'' or ``Area''). EPA's approval of the redesignation request is based on the determination that the State of Tennessee has met the criteria for redesignation to attainment set forth in the Clean Air Act (CAA or Act), including the determination that the Knoxville Area has attained the 1997 8-hour ozone NAAQS. Additionally, EPA is approving a revision to the Tennessee State Implementation Plan (SIP) to include the 1997 8-hour ozone maintenance plan for the Knoxville Area that contains the new 2024 motor vehicle emission budgets (MVEBs) for nitrogen oxides (NOX) and volatile organic compounds (VOC). This action also approves the emissions inventory submitted with the maintenance plan. As part of this final action, EPA considered the adverse comments received; a response to comments is included in this final action.
Clean Air Act Operating Permit Program; Objection to State Operating Permit for U.S. Steel-Granite City Works
This document announces that the EPA Administrator partially granted and partially denied a petition from the Interdisciplinary Environmental Clinic at the Washington University School of Law submitted to EPA on behalf of the American Bottom Conservancy (Petitioner) to object to the operating permit issued by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency to the U.S. SteelGranite City Works (USS). Sections 307(b) and 505(b)(2) of the Clean Air Act (Act) provide that a petitioner may ask for judicial review in the United States Court of Appeals for the appropriate circuit of those portions of the petition which EPA denies. Any petition for review shall be filed within 60 days from the date this notice appears in the Federal Register, pursuant to section 307 of the Act.
Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission to OMB for Review and Approval; Comment Request; Underground Storage Tank: Information Request Letters, Pacific Southwest Region (Region IX) (New)
In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA)(44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), this document announces that an Information Collection Request (ICR) has been forwarded to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval. This is a request for a new collection. The ICR, which is abstracted below, describes the nature of the information collection and its estimated burden and cost.
Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality Implementation Plans; Illinois; Missouri; Saint Louis Nonattainment Area; Determination of Attainment of the Fine Particle Standard
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing to determine that the Saint Louis PM2.5 nonattainment area in Illinois and Missouri has attained the 1997 annual fine particle (PM2.5) National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS). This proposed determination of attainment is based upon complete, quality assured, quality controlled, and certified ambient air monitoring data, from the 2007-2009 monitoring period, which show that the Saint Louis area has monitored attainment of the 1997 annual PM2.5 NAAQS. EPA also evaluated incomplete data from this period from other monitors in the area, as well as preliminary data available to date for 2010. EPA believes these data support the determination that the area has attained the 1997 annual PM2.5 NAAQS. If this proposed determination is made final, the requirements for this area to submit an attainment demonstration, associated reasonably available control measures (RACM) to include reasonably available control technology (RACT), a reasonable further progress plan, contingency measures, and other planning State Implementation Plans (SIPs) revisions related to attainment of the 1997 annual PM2.5 NAAQS shall be suspended for so long as the area continues to attain the 1997 annual PM2.5 NAAQS. EPA's determination that this area has attained the 1997 annual PM2.5 NAAQS is not equivalent to redesignating the area to attainment. This action does not constitute a redesignation to attainment under section 107(d)(3) of the Clean Air Act (CAA) because the States of Missouri and Illinois have not yet submitted, and EPA has not yet approved, a maintenance plan for the area as required under that section and section 175A of the Act, nor has EPA promulgated a determination that the area has met other requirements for redesignation. The designation status of the area will remain nonattainment for the 1997 annual PM2.5 NAAQS until such time as EPA determines that this area meets the CAA requirements for redesignation to attainment.
Extension of Public Comment Period for Proposed Action on Interstate Transport of Pollution Affecting Visibility and Best Available Retrofit Technology Determination for New Mexico
On January 5, 2011, EPA published in the Federal Register a proposed rule on interstate transport of pollution affecting visibility and Best Available Retrofit Technology (BART) determination for New Mexico and requested comment by March 7, 2011. EPA is extending the public comment period for the proposed rule until April 4, 2011.
A Method To Assess Climate-Relevant Decisions: Application in the Chesapeake Bay
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing the cancellation of a March 11, 2011 external peer review meeting of the draft document titled, ``A Method to Assess Climate-Relevant Decisions: Application in the Chesapeake Bay'' (EPA/600/R-10/096a), announced earlier (76 FR 4345, January 25, 2011). EPA has received the written reviews from the external peer review members as well as public comments received during the public comment period from August 31 to November 1, 2010 (announced in 75 FR 168, August 31, 2010). EPA has concluded that a public peer review meeting is not warranted as the comments from the peer reviewers and the public are not controversial or conflicting and can be readily accommodated. Consistent with EPA practices, we will post all of the peer reviewer's comments and those of the public along with EPA's responses when the final report is released publicly, within the next 120 days.
Revisions to the California State Implementation Plan, Imperial County, Kern County, and Ventura County; Air Pollution Control Districts
EPA is proposing to approve revisions to the Imperial County Air Pollution Control District (ICAPCD), Kern County Air Pollution Control District (KCAPCD), and Ventura County Air Pollution Control District (VCAPCD) portions of the California State Implementation Plan (SIP). We are proposing to approve revisions to local rules that define terms used in other air pollution regulations in these areas under the Clean Air Act as amended in 1990 (CAA or the Act).
Revisions to the California State Implementation Plan, for Imperial County, Kern County, and Ventura County; Air Pollution Control Districts
EPA is taking direct final action to approve revisions to the Imperial County Air Pollution Control District (ICAPCD), Kern County Air Pollution Control District (KCAPCD), and Ventura County Air Pollution Control District (VCAPCD) portions of the California State Implementation Plan (SIP). Under authority of the Clean Air Act as amended in 1990 (CAA or the Act), we are approving local rules that define terms used in other air pollution regulations in these areas.
Texas: Final Authorization of State-initiated Changes and Incorporation by Reference of State Hazardous Waste Management Program
During a review of Texas' regulations, the EPA identified a variety of State-initiated changes to Texas' hazardous waste program under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, as amended (RCRA), for which the State had not previously sought authorization. The EPA proposes to authorize the State for the program changes. In addition, the EPA proposes to codify in the regulations entitled ``Approved State Hazardous Waste Management Programs'', Texas' authorized hazardous waste program. The EPA will incorporate by reference into the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) those provisions of the State regulations that are authorized and that the EPA will enforce under RCRA.
Texas: Final Authorization of State-initiated Changes and Incorporation by Reference of State Hazardous Waste Management Program
During a review of Texas' regulations, the EPA identified a variety of State-initiated changes to its hazardous waste program under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). We have determined that these changes are minor and satisfy all requirements needed to qualify for Final authorization and are authorizing the State-initiated changes through this Direct Final action. The Solid Waste Disposal Act, as amended, commonly referred to as the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), allows the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to authorize States to operate their hazardous waste management programs in lieu of the Federal program. The EPA uses the regulations entitled ``Approved State Hazardous Waste Management Programs'' to provide notice of the authorization status of State programs and to incorporate by reference those provisions of the State statutes and regulations that will be subject to the EPA's inspection and enforcement. The rule codifies in the regulations the prior approval of Texas' hazardous waste management program and incorporates by reference authorized provisions of the State's statutes and regulations.
Stakeholder Input: Listening Session to Provide Information and Solicit Suggestions for Regulations Forthcoming Under the Clean Water Act
The EPA is today announcing plans to hold ``listening sessions'' on March 18 and April 29, 2011, to provide information about the Clean Boating Act (CBA), and to gather recommendations from the public for forthcoming regulation of recreational vessels under the Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 312(o). The listening sessions will be held in Annapolis, MD. EPA may hold additional listening sessions in other locations if there is sufficient interest. The CBA, which was passed by Congress and signed into law in 2008, directs EPA to promulgate regulations to establish management practices and associated standards of performance for discharges incidental to the normal operation of recreational vessels (e.g., bilgewater, ballast water, and graywater). Because these regulations will affect the owners and operators of approximately 17 million recreational vessels, EPA seeks to inform the general public and regulated community of its plans for development of the regulations, and to hear the views of the general public, the recreational boating community, State agencies, and other interested stakeholders.
Lead-Based Paint Renovation, Repair and Painting Activities in Target Housing and Child Occupied Facilities; State of Kansas; Notice of Self-Certification Program Authorization, Request for Public Comment, Opportunity for Public Hearing
This notice announces that on April 19, 2010, the State of Kansas was deemed authorized under section 404(a) of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), to administer and enforce requirements for a renovation, repair and painting program in accordance with section 402(c)(3) of TSCA. This notice also announces that EPA is seeking comment during a 45-day public comment period, and is providing an opportunity to request a public hearing within the first 15 days of this comment period, on whether Kansas's program is at least as protective as the Federal program and provides for adequate enforcement. This notice also announces that the authorization of the Kansas 402(c)(3) program, which was deemed authorized by regulation and statute on April 19, 2010, will continue without further notice unless EPA, based on its own review and/or comments received during the comment period, disapproves the Kansas program application.
Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality Implementation Plans; Pennsylvania; Adoption of Control Techniques Guidelines for Paper, Film, and Foil Surface Coating Processes
EPA is proposing to approve a State Implementation Plan (SIP) revision submitted by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (Pennsylvania). This SIP revision includes amendments to Chapter 121General Provisions and Chapter 129Standards for Sources of Title 25 of the Pennsylvania Code. Pennsylvania's SIP revision meets the requirement to adopt Reasonably Available Control Technology (RACT) for sources covered by EPA's Control Techniques Guidelines (CTG) standards for paper, film, and foil surface coating processes, and will help Pennsylvania attain and maintain the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) for ozone. This action is being taken under the Clean Air Act (CAA).
Updating Cross-References for the Oklahoma State Implementation Plan
In this rule, EPA is making a minor correction to the final rule titled, ``Limitation of Approval of Prevention of Significant Deterioration Provisions Concerning Greenhouse Gas Emitting-Sources in State Implementation Plans'' to correct the regulatory text related to Oklahoma's State Implementation Plan (SIP). Region 6 approved revisions to the Oklahoma SIP that recodified the regulations. This approved recodification took effect on December 27, 2010. This rule updates cross-references in the regulatory text in light of this recodification.
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