Oil Spill
House backs BP fines plan
RESTORE Act would direct money to Gulf Coast states
Clarion Ledger
WASHINGTON — The House Thursday endorsed a bipartisan effort to steer
billions of dollars in fines from the BP oil spill to Gulf Coast
communities still recovering from the April 2010 disaster.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120217/NEWS/202170330/House-backs-BP-fines-plan
Oil spill fine amendment through House but much work remains
Published: Friday, February 17, 2012, 7:33 AM Updated: Friday, February
17, 2012, 8:21 AM
By George Altman, Washington Bureau , Press Register
WASHINGTON -- The U.S. House of Representatives approved language Thursday
calling for 80 percent of civil fines resulting from the 2010 oil spill,
which could amount well into the billions of dollars, to be reserved to
help Gulf states rebound from the disaster.
http://blog.al.com/live/2012/02/oil_spill_fine_amendment_throu.html
Restore Act measure to boost BP cleanup passes U.S. House
Sun Herald
By MARIA RECIO
WASHINGTON -- The House approved an amendment Thursday pushed by Gulf State
lawmakers to dedicate 80 percent of the fines collected from the BP oil
spill to a trust fund for coastal restoration of Mississippi, Florida,
Alabama, Louisiana and Texas.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/16/v-print/3758736/restore-act-measure-to-boost-bp.html
House votes to direct 80 percent of Deepwater Horizon fines to Gulf states
The Hill
By Pete Kasperowicz - 02/16/12 05:45 PM ET
The House on Thursday afternoon approved an amendment that would require 80
percent of all fines assessed against BP for the Deepwater Horizon oil
spill be directed to a Gulf coast restoration fund.
http://thehill.com/blogs/floor-action/house/211259-house-votes-to-direct-80-percent-of-deepwater-horizon-fines-to-gulf-states
State News
Ribbons cut on new sewage treatment plants
By Jeremy Pittari
The Picayune Item
PEARL RIVER COUNTY — After six and a half years of work, the Pearl River
County Utility Authority is now the first in Mississippi to have not one,
but two, state of the art computerized waste water treatment facilities up
and running.
On Wednesday, representatives from the Utility Authority's board of
directors, Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality and some
officials from both cities turned out to officially announce completion of
the facilities.
Both sewage plants, one each in Picayune and Poplarville, use ultraviolet
light as part of the waste water treatment process. MDEQ Executive Director
Trudy Fisher said Pearl River County's is the first Utility Authority in
Mississippi to get not one, but two of the state of the art computerized
facilities constructed and operational. She said she hopes other Utility
Authorities in the state will follow suit.
http://picayuneitem.com/local/x1049390588/Ribbons-cut-on-new-sewage-treatment-plants
DeSoto Co. asks EPA to alter ozone listing
Officials object to plan calling for "nonattainment"
AP
HERNANDO -DeSoto County has formally objected to the Environmental
Protection Agency's plan to list it as "nonattainment" on ozone levels.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120217/NEWS/202170327/DeSoto-Co-asks-EPA-alter-ozone-listing
EPA orders Mississippi Phosphates to correct corrosive water issue at
Pascagoula plant
Published: Thursday, February 16, 2012, 3:15 PM Updated: Thursday,
February 16, 2012, 3:40 PM
By April M. Havens, The Mississippi Press
PASCAGOULA, Mississippi -- Mississippi Phosphate Corp. is being ordered by
the Environmental Protection Agency to take immediate action on a corrosive
water issue discovered last year, the agency announced today.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2012/02/epa_orders_mississippi_phospha.html
Pontotoc aldermen seek emergency sewer funding
by David Helms
The Pontotoc Progress
02.16.12 - 02:19 pm
The Pontotoc Board of Aldermen passed two resolutions last week in ongoing
efforts to secure $350,000 in emergency funds from the Mississippi
Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) to repair dire sewer problems in
the East Valley Drive neighborhood of Green Valley Subdivision.
http://nems360.com/view/full_story/17557691/article-Pontotoc-aldermen-seek-emergency-sewer-funding?instance=secondary_stories_left_column
Waste-water facility expansion gets nod
$1 million in federal funds available
Commercial Appeal
By Henry Bailey
Friday, February 17, 2012
With just more than $1 million available from the Corps of Engineers in
fiscal 2012, the DeSoto Regional Utility Authority board has voted to
proceed with its expansion of the Short Fork Waste Water Treatment Facility
on the county's eastern side.
http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2012/feb/17/waste-water-facility-expansion-gets-nod/?print=1
Presley gets subpoenaed water bylaws
by Emily Le Coz
NEMS Daily Journal
02.17.12 - 06:15 am
TUPELO - Water associations that withheld their bylaws from Northern
District Mississippi Public Service Commissioner Brandon Presley now are
complying after getting subpoenaed, Presley said.
http://nems360.com/view/full_story/17563810/article-Presley-gets-subpoenaed-water-bylaws?instance=secondary_stories_left_column
Fee policy reversal keeps events at rez
Clarion Ledger
Instruments and paddles will go up at the Ross Barnett Reservoir in May
after all.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120217/NEWS/202170331/Fee-policy-reversal-keeps-events-rez
National News
Barges collide on Mississippi River, spilling oil
Published: Friday, February 17, 2012, 8:09 AM Updated: Friday, February
17, 2012, 8:13 AM
By The Associated Press
LAPLACE, La. — The U.S. Coast Guard says an oil tanker barge collided with
another barge on the Mississippi, spilling oil and leading officials to
close a five-mile stretch of the river.
http://blog.al.com/wire/2012/02/barges_collide_on_mississippi.html
House and Senate GOP seek to overrule regulations on power plant pollution,
union elections
By Associated Press, Published: February 16
WASHINGTON — Republicans in Congress launched bids Thursday to nullify
Obama administration rules that would speed up union elections and set the
first national air pollution standards for toxic mercury pollution from the
nation's power plants.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/federal-government/house-and-senate-gop-seek-to-overrule-regulations-on-power-plant-pollution-union-elections/2012/02/16/gIQAAs30HR_print.html
Business groups launch legal, Capitol Hill attacks on EPA mercury rule
The Hill
By Ben Geman - 02/16/12 05:18 PM ET
Major industry groups have stepped up efforts to scuttle new EPA rules that
require curbs on emissions of mercury and other air toxics from coal-fired
power plants.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/211241-business-groups-launch-legal-capitol-hill-attacks-on-epa-mercury-rule
Inhofe to force vote on killing EPA's power plant mercury rule
The Hill
By Ben Geman - 02/16/12 01:01 PM ET
Sen. James Inhofe (R-Okla.) announced plans Thursday to force a Senate vote
on killing new Environmental Protection Agency rules to curb emissions of
mercury and other air toxics from coal-fired power plants.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/211167-inhofe-to-force-vote-on-killing-epas-power-plant-mercury-rule
White House begins gas 'fracking' rule review
The Hill
By Ben Geman - 02/16/12 09:50 AM ET
The White House Office of Management and Budget has begun vetting upcoming
Interior Department rules that will toughen regulation of the controversial
natural-gas drilling method called hydraulic fracturing.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/211093-white-house-begins-fracking-rule-review
Payroll deal spares EPA boiler rules
The Hill
By Andrew Restuccia - 02/16/12 09:23 AM ET
The compromise agreement to extend the payroll tax cut does not include a
provision to delay and soften Environmental Protection Agency boiler
pollution regulations, according to a Capitol Hill aide familiar with the
final deal.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/211083-payroll-deal-spares-epa-boiler-rules
UPDATE 1-U.S. EPA probing Navistar diesel-engine production
Reuters
Thu, Feb 16 2012
Feb 16 (Reuters) - Navistar International Corp confirmed on Thursday it
received notice the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is investigating
its diesel-engine production in a probe that could lead to as much as $285
million in fines.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/02/16/navistar-engines-idUSL2E8DGBY920120216
Press Releases
EPA Orders Mississippi Phosphates Corporation of Pascagoula, MS to
Correct Problems at their Facility
Contact Information: Dawn Harris-Young, (404) 562-8421,
harris-young.dawn@epa.gov
ATLANTA – The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued an
Administrative Order on Consent to Mississippi Phosphates Corporation
(MPC) in Pascagoula, MS that requires expedited corrective measures be
taken at the facility to ensure the protection of public health and the
environment. EPA issued the order under Section 7003 of the Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), which provides statutory authority
to address an imminent and substantial endangerment to human health at
facilities.
EPA believes that an imminent and substantial endangerment to human
health and the environment exists at the facility due to corrosive water
discovered by the facility outside the West Stack perimeter dike in
January 2011 and September 2011. This order further directs MPC to
continue to perform corrective actions that were included in a previous
September 2009 Unilateral Order. The 2009 order was issued to MPC due to
the EPA's discovery of uncontrolled leaks and spills of sulfuric acid
and untreated discharges from sulfuric acid plants to the adjacent
bayou; and uncontrolled spills and leaks of phosphoric acid to unlined
ditches at the MPC facility in August 2009.
MPC began operation in the late 1950s and was a subsidiary of
Mississippi Chemical Corporation (MCC) from the early 1990's through
2004. On May 15, 2003, MCC filed for bankruptcy and MPC was acquired by
creditors. On December 21, 2004, MPC emerged from bankruptcy and is now
owned by Phosphate Holdings, Inc, a publicly traded corporation. MPC
manufactures sulfuric acid and phosphoric acid at the site and produces
diammonium phosphate (DAP), a phosphate-based fertilizer.
Some of the work required of MPC in the 7003 Order includes: the
submission of a revised plan to repair and replace degraded containment
around sulfuric acid plants (SAPs); the continued implementation of the
groundwater investigative and remediation work plan for the SAPs, DAP
plant and construction area southwest of SAPs; daily visual assessment
of seepage from west stack perimeter dike; and the submission of a west
gypsum stack system improvement plan. As MPC addresses the requirements
of this order, the EPA and Mississippi Department of Environmental
Quality will continue to work jointly to oversee MPC's compliance with
environmental laws, regulations and permits.
###
EPA Issues Permit for Stormwater Discharges from Construction Sites
New permit includes more protections for waterways, shaped by important
public and stakeholder feedback
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is issuing a
new permit, in accordance with the Clean Water Act, that will provide
streamlined permitting to thousands of construction operators, while
protecting our nation's waterways from discharges of polluted stormwater
from construction sites. Stormwater discharges from construction sites can
contain harmful pollutants, such as nutrients, that contaminate waters,
increase drinking water treatment costs, and damage aquatic ecosystems. The
new permit was shaped by important input from the public and stakeholders
to ensure that it provides important protections for waterways, while also
providing flexibility to operators.
The 2012 construction general permit (CGP) is required under the Clean
Water Act and replaces the existing 2008 CGP, which expired on February 15,
2012. The new permit includes a number of enhanced protections for surface
waters, including provisions to protect impaired and sensitive waters.
Under the Clean Water Act, national pollutant discharge elimination system
(NPDES) permits are typically issued for a five-year period, after which
time EPA generally issues revised permits based on updated information and
requirements, as is the case with today's announcement. NPDES permits
control water pollution by including limits on the amount of pollutants
that can be discharged into waterways by specific sources. The permit also
provides new flexibilities for operators. For example, it allows for
emergency projects (e.g., restoration following a flood or other natural
disaster) to begin immediately without permit authorization from EPA, while
still retaining full authority for EPA to ensure that the project proceeds
in an environmentally responsible manner once it has commenced. The permit
also enables operators of already permitted projects flexibility where
compliance with a new permit requirement is economically impracticable.
The 2012 CGP updates include steps intended to limit erosion, minimize
pollution sources, provide natural buffers or their equivalent around
surface waters, and further restrict discharges to areas impaired by
previous pollution discharge.
Many of the permit requirements implement new effluent limitations
guidelines and new source performance standards for the construction and
development industry that became effective on February 1, 2010, which
include pollution control techniques to decrease erosion and sediment
pollution.
The permit will be effective in areas where EPA is the permitting
authority: Idaho, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Washington,
D.C., and most U.S. territories and in Indian country lands.
EPA invited the public to comment on the draft permit. The agency also had
a webcast to introduce owners and operators of construction sites, members
of the public, and State or Tribal permitting authorities to the new
requirements of the proposed CGP.
More information on the proposed construction general permit:
http://cfpub.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater/cgp.cfm
Commission for Environmental Cooperation Announces Funding to Address
Environmental Problems in North America
WASHINGTON – Today, Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC) council
members including U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lisa
P. Jackson announced the winners of more than $1.3 million of grants under
the CEC's North American Partnership for Environmental Community Action
(NAPECA) program. The grants will support community efforts to promote
healthy communities and ecosystems, encourage activities that address
climate change through the transition to a low carbon economy, and advance
innovative projects that could assist in greening the economies of the
three countries.
Eighteen projects were chosen from 500 proposals received last year as part
of a new initiative announced at the CEC Council's meeting held in
Montreal. The successful projects span the eco-regions of North America and
support environmental action at the community level from the sub-arctic
tundra, to the grasslands of the Great Plains, to the tropical forests of
Mexico. Projects address issues ranging from the effects of climate change
on Woodland Caribou and the Athabaskan Peoples in Canada, to
citizen-powered air quality testing in Louisiana, and protecting the health
of women and children through the adoption of better clean energy cook
stoves in Mexico.
The 18 projects were selected based on their significance for addressing
community and North American environmental issues, their innovation and
technical or scientific approaches, their emphasis on promoting
partnerships and demonstration of a plan to produce clear and tangible
results. The projects represent an extremely broad base of hands-on groups
and organizations, representing tribal nations, indigenous peoples,
community organizations, environmental groups, and academic institutions.
The CEC council members include the environment ministers of the three
NAFTA countries: Canada's Environment Minister Peter Kent, Mexico's
Secretary of the Environment and Natural Resources Juan Elvira Quesada and
US Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lisa P. Jackson.
A complete list of grantees: http://www.cec.org/napeca
More information on the Commission for Environmental Cooperation:
http://www.epa.gov/oia/regions/na/nacec/index.html
Friday, February 17, 2012
Thursday, February 16, 2012
News Clippings 2/16/12
Oil Spill
Restore Act amendment passes
Sun Herald
By MARIA RECIO
WASHINGTON -- The House passed an amendment Wednesday night critical to the
Gulf Coast that directs at least 80 percent of BP oil spill fines to the
five Gulf states.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/15/v-print/3756121/restore-act-amendment-passes.html
Mississippi to use $1.8M from BP funds on project
AP
MOSS POINT, MISS. — A new $2 million Pascagoula River Audubon Center
celebrating the environment of the Mississippi Gulf Coast is scheduled to
open in early 2013.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120215/NEWS/120215025/Mississippi-use-1-8M-from-BP-funds-project?odyssey=tab|
topnews|text|Home
Appeals court sides with judge in oil spill case
Published: Wednesday, February 15, 2012, 7:57 PM Updated: Wednesday,
February 15, 2012, 7:57 PM
By The Associated Press
NEW ORLEANS (AP) -- A federal appeals court has refused to overrule a judge
who ordered BP PLC and other companies involved in the nation's worst
offshore oil spill to set aside up to 6 percent of any settlement or claims
payments for the benefit of a group of lead plaintiffs' attorneys.
http://blog.al.com/wire/2012/02/appeals_court_sides_with_judge.html
The chance of a lifetime
Editorial – Sun Herald
Asian Americans for Change is spearheading a life-altering approach to BP
oil spill recovery.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/15/v-print/3755866/the-chance-of-a-lifetime.html
State News
Team asks EPA to alter DeSoto listing
Seek exclusion of county from Memphis ozone level
Commercial Appeal
By Henry Bailey
Thursday, February 16, 2012
DeSoto County's congressional delegation, taking aim at EPA's "misguided"
proposal to list the county with Memphis as falling short on ozone
standards, has called on agency chief Lisa Jackson to clear the air by
reversing the plan.
http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2012/feb/16/team-asks-epa-to-alter-desoto-listing/?print=1
Chemical cleanup continues on Seaway Road
WLOX
Cleanup crews have been working around the clock since Tuesday morning to
cleanup the chemicals that leaked from Channel Chemical Corporation.
http://www.wlox.com/story/16931825/deq-no-danger-from-chemical-leak-on-seaway-road
Water pipeline construction in downtown Jackson
WLBT
After several weeks of inactivity, work has resumed on a construction
project in downtown Jackson to lay a 48-inch water pipeline.
The line begins at the Reservoir and goes underneath Jefferson Street near
WLBT.
WLBT first reported the work was halted because diesel fuel was discovered
running into the huge trench being dug down the middle of Jefferson Street
to bury the pipeline.
The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality is still trying to find
the source of the diesel fuel.
http://www.wlbt.com/story/16946582/water-pipeline-construction-in-downtown-jackson
Landfill begins production of green energy in Pontotoc
by Regina Butler
Pontotoc Progress
02.15.12 - 04:59 pm
A very special switch was thrown at the Three Rivers Solid Waste Landfill
last week signaling the first green electricity produced in Pontotoc
County.
http://nems360.com/view/full_story/17545266/article-Landfill-begins-production-of-green-energy-in-Pontotoc?instance=secondary_stories_left_column
Zoning approves Class I rubbish site
South Reporter (Holly Springs)
By SUE WATSON
Two developers, with 73 acres each located in the Chickasaw Trail
Industrial Park, were given the green light to take the next step in
obtaining a permit for a Class I rubbish site.
http://southreporter.com/zoning.html
Bills aimed at helping oystermen, shrimpers
Sun Herald
By GEOFF PENDER
Two bills moving through the state Legislature are aimed at giving some
relief to Mississippi's oystermen and shrimpers, who've been hammered by
the BP oil disaster and freshwater incursion.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/15/v-print/3756145/bills-aimed-at-helping-oystermen.html
Noxubee refuge named for Hamilton
WTVA
JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — President Obama has signed a bill to name the Noxubee
National Wildlife Refuge for the late Sam D. Hamilton.
http://www.wtva.com/news/local/story/Noxubee-refuge-named-for-Hamilton/WxhpX9STdkeBA25Qjn4jBQ.cspx
House OKs bill to cut Hood's power
AP
The Republican-led Mississippi House voted 59-55 Wednesday to pass a bill
limiting the powers of the Democratic attorney general.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120216/NEWS010504/202160335/House-OKs-bill-cut-Hood-s-power
Legislature adopts new budget-writing rule
AP
Mississippi legislators have set a new budget-writing rule, but only after
arguing about whether it increases accountability or limits most lawmakers'
power to boost spending on education and other programs.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120216/NEWS010504/202160345/Legislature-adopts-new-budget-writing-rule
National News
State wants dead zone off Impaired Waters List
Houma Courier
By Nikki Buskey
Louisiana environmental officials have refused to add the yearly Gulf of
Mexico "dead zone" to a nationwide list of polluted water bodies despite
requests from the federal government.
http://www.houmatoday.com/article/20120215/ARTICLES/120219744
U.S. Pushes to Cut Emissions of Some Pollutants That Hasten Climate Change
NY Times
By JOHN M. BRODER
WASHINGTON — Impatient with the slow pace of international climate change
negotiations, a small group of countries led by the United States is
starting a program to reduce emissions of common pollutants that contribute
to rapid climate change and widespread health problems.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/16/science/earth/us-pushes-to-cut-emissions-that-speed-climate-change.html?_r=1&ref=earth&pagewanted=print
U.S. will lead new effort to cut global warming from methane, soot
Washington Post
By Brian Vastag,
With global efforts to reduce carbon dioxide emissions stalled, the United
States and five other countries are starting a new program to cut other
pollutants — including methane, soot and hydrofluorocarbons — that
contribute to global warming.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/us-will-lead-new-effort-to-cut-global-warming-from-methane-soot/2012/02/15/gIQAoYtUGR_print.html
Federal funds for health testing at beaches to be eliminated
LA Times
Health testing at beaches in California and across the nation is at risk of
being cut back under a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency plan to
eliminate federal funds for monitoring whether the water is too
contaminated to swim in.
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2012/02/epa-to-eliminate-federal-funds-for-beach-water-testing.html
Press Releases
Wicker, Cochran, Nunnelee Press EPA Officials to Reverse Harmful DeSoto
County Decision
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker and Thad Cochran along with
Representative Alan Nunnelee on Tuesday afternoon met with Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lisa Jackson to express their
opposition to the federal agency's proposal to include DeSoto County with
Memphis for violation of ozone emission standards. Failure to comply with
the EPA standards could hamper economic and community growth in DeSoto
County.
"Desoto County has gone above and beyond what is required by EPA to lower
their ozone emissions," Wicker said. "Emissions have remained below the
level set by the law. Holding the county accountable for a violation they
have not committed would hurt job opportunities in Mississippi."
"We met with Administrator Jackson to outline credible, fact-based
arguments against her agency's emissions standard proposal, which would
unfairly penalize DeSoto County. This plan is problematic not only on an
environmental basis, but also on the grounds that it fails to give adequate
consideration to the economic impact on this area of Mississippi. The
Environmental Protection Agency is misguided in this instance and should
withdraw DeSoto County from this proposal," Cochran said.
"I appreciate Administrator Jackson taking the time to hear our position,"
said Nunnelee. "Desoto County has been proactive in improving air quality
and the numbers show that pollution is trending down as a result. It would
be wrong and counterproductive to punish their good faith efforts and I am
hopeful that EPA will reconsider their decision."
In December 2011, EPA announced a proposal to include parts of DeSoto
County with Memphis, which has ozone emissions that are above allowable
limits set by federal regulation. The plan would include the urban areas
of DeSoto County and Crittenden County, Arkansas, in the Memphis ozone
non-attainment area.
DeSoto County was excluded from the Memphis non-attainment area in 2004
because the county did not significantly contribute to ozone levels in the
Memphis area. Since that time, ozone concentrations have dropped in DeSoto
County.
The three Mississippi lawmakers met with officials from the Mississippi
Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) and DeSoto County last week. In
addition to the congressional delegation's response, the county has worked
with MDEQ to stop the ruling.
State and county officials have until February 29, 2012 to submit
additional data to support their position, and EPA plans to finalize the
ruling by May 31, 2012.
###
Restore Act amendment passes
Sun Herald
By MARIA RECIO
WASHINGTON -- The House passed an amendment Wednesday night critical to the
Gulf Coast that directs at least 80 percent of BP oil spill fines to the
five Gulf states.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/15/v-print/3756121/restore-act-amendment-passes.html
Mississippi to use $1.8M from BP funds on project
AP
MOSS POINT, MISS. — A new $2 million Pascagoula River Audubon Center
celebrating the environment of the Mississippi Gulf Coast is scheduled to
open in early 2013.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120215/NEWS/120215025/Mississippi-use-1-8M-from-BP-funds-project?odyssey=tab|
topnews|text|Home
Appeals court sides with judge in oil spill case
Published: Wednesday, February 15, 2012, 7:57 PM Updated: Wednesday,
February 15, 2012, 7:57 PM
By The Associated Press
NEW ORLEANS (AP) -- A federal appeals court has refused to overrule a judge
who ordered BP PLC and other companies involved in the nation's worst
offshore oil spill to set aside up to 6 percent of any settlement or claims
payments for the benefit of a group of lead plaintiffs' attorneys.
http://blog.al.com/wire/2012/02/appeals_court_sides_with_judge.html
The chance of a lifetime
Editorial – Sun Herald
Asian Americans for Change is spearheading a life-altering approach to BP
oil spill recovery.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/15/v-print/3755866/the-chance-of-a-lifetime.html
State News
Team asks EPA to alter DeSoto listing
Seek exclusion of county from Memphis ozone level
Commercial Appeal
By Henry Bailey
Thursday, February 16, 2012
DeSoto County's congressional delegation, taking aim at EPA's "misguided"
proposal to list the county with Memphis as falling short on ozone
standards, has called on agency chief Lisa Jackson to clear the air by
reversing the plan.
http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2012/feb/16/team-asks-epa-to-alter-desoto-listing/?print=1
Chemical cleanup continues on Seaway Road
WLOX
Cleanup crews have been working around the clock since Tuesday morning to
cleanup the chemicals that leaked from Channel Chemical Corporation.
http://www.wlox.com/story/16931825/deq-no-danger-from-chemical-leak-on-seaway-road
Water pipeline construction in downtown Jackson
WLBT
After several weeks of inactivity, work has resumed on a construction
project in downtown Jackson to lay a 48-inch water pipeline.
The line begins at the Reservoir and goes underneath Jefferson Street near
WLBT.
WLBT first reported the work was halted because diesel fuel was discovered
running into the huge trench being dug down the middle of Jefferson Street
to bury the pipeline.
The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality is still trying to find
the source of the diesel fuel.
http://www.wlbt.com/story/16946582/water-pipeline-construction-in-downtown-jackson
Landfill begins production of green energy in Pontotoc
by Regina Butler
Pontotoc Progress
02.15.12 - 04:59 pm
A very special switch was thrown at the Three Rivers Solid Waste Landfill
last week signaling the first green electricity produced in Pontotoc
County.
http://nems360.com/view/full_story/17545266/article-Landfill-begins-production-of-green-energy-in-Pontotoc?instance=secondary_stories_left_column
Zoning approves Class I rubbish site
South Reporter (Holly Springs)
By SUE WATSON
Two developers, with 73 acres each located in the Chickasaw Trail
Industrial Park, were given the green light to take the next step in
obtaining a permit for a Class I rubbish site.
http://southreporter.com/zoning.html
Bills aimed at helping oystermen, shrimpers
Sun Herald
By GEOFF PENDER
Two bills moving through the state Legislature are aimed at giving some
relief to Mississippi's oystermen and shrimpers, who've been hammered by
the BP oil disaster and freshwater incursion.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/15/v-print/3756145/bills-aimed-at-helping-oystermen.html
Noxubee refuge named for Hamilton
WTVA
JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — President Obama has signed a bill to name the Noxubee
National Wildlife Refuge for the late Sam D. Hamilton.
http://www.wtva.com/news/local/story/Noxubee-refuge-named-for-Hamilton/WxhpX9STdkeBA25Qjn4jBQ.cspx
House OKs bill to cut Hood's power
AP
The Republican-led Mississippi House voted 59-55 Wednesday to pass a bill
limiting the powers of the Democratic attorney general.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120216/NEWS010504/202160335/House-OKs-bill-cut-Hood-s-power
Legislature adopts new budget-writing rule
AP
Mississippi legislators have set a new budget-writing rule, but only after
arguing about whether it increases accountability or limits most lawmakers'
power to boost spending on education and other programs.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120216/NEWS010504/202160345/Legislature-adopts-new-budget-writing-rule
National News
State wants dead zone off Impaired Waters List
Houma Courier
By Nikki Buskey
Louisiana environmental officials have refused to add the yearly Gulf of
Mexico "dead zone" to a nationwide list of polluted water bodies despite
requests from the federal government.
http://www.houmatoday.com/article/20120215/ARTICLES/120219744
U.S. Pushes to Cut Emissions of Some Pollutants That Hasten Climate Change
NY Times
By JOHN M. BRODER
WASHINGTON — Impatient with the slow pace of international climate change
negotiations, a small group of countries led by the United States is
starting a program to reduce emissions of common pollutants that contribute
to rapid climate change and widespread health problems.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/16/science/earth/us-pushes-to-cut-emissions-that-speed-climate-change.html?_r=1&ref=earth&pagewanted=print
U.S. will lead new effort to cut global warming from methane, soot
Washington Post
By Brian Vastag,
With global efforts to reduce carbon dioxide emissions stalled, the United
States and five other countries are starting a new program to cut other
pollutants — including methane, soot and hydrofluorocarbons — that
contribute to global warming.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/us-will-lead-new-effort-to-cut-global-warming-from-methane-soot/2012/02/15/gIQAoYtUGR_print.html
Federal funds for health testing at beaches to be eliminated
LA Times
Health testing at beaches in California and across the nation is at risk of
being cut back under a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency plan to
eliminate federal funds for monitoring whether the water is too
contaminated to swim in.
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2012/02/epa-to-eliminate-federal-funds-for-beach-water-testing.html
Press Releases
Wicker, Cochran, Nunnelee Press EPA Officials to Reverse Harmful DeSoto
County Decision
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker and Thad Cochran along with
Representative Alan Nunnelee on Tuesday afternoon met with Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lisa Jackson to express their
opposition to the federal agency's proposal to include DeSoto County with
Memphis for violation of ozone emission standards. Failure to comply with
the EPA standards could hamper economic and community growth in DeSoto
County.
"Desoto County has gone above and beyond what is required by EPA to lower
their ozone emissions," Wicker said. "Emissions have remained below the
level set by the law. Holding the county accountable for a violation they
have not committed would hurt job opportunities in Mississippi."
"We met with Administrator Jackson to outline credible, fact-based
arguments against her agency's emissions standard proposal, which would
unfairly penalize DeSoto County. This plan is problematic not only on an
environmental basis, but also on the grounds that it fails to give adequate
consideration to the economic impact on this area of Mississippi. The
Environmental Protection Agency is misguided in this instance and should
withdraw DeSoto County from this proposal," Cochran said.
"I appreciate Administrator Jackson taking the time to hear our position,"
said Nunnelee. "Desoto County has been proactive in improving air quality
and the numbers show that pollution is trending down as a result. It would
be wrong and counterproductive to punish their good faith efforts and I am
hopeful that EPA will reconsider their decision."
In December 2011, EPA announced a proposal to include parts of DeSoto
County with Memphis, which has ozone emissions that are above allowable
limits set by federal regulation. The plan would include the urban areas
of DeSoto County and Crittenden County, Arkansas, in the Memphis ozone
non-attainment area.
DeSoto County was excluded from the Memphis non-attainment area in 2004
because the county did not significantly contribute to ozone levels in the
Memphis area. Since that time, ozone concentrations have dropped in DeSoto
County.
The three Mississippi lawmakers met with officials from the Mississippi
Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) and DeSoto County last week. In
addition to the congressional delegation's response, the county has worked
with MDEQ to stop the ruling.
State and county officials have until February 29, 2012 to submit
additional data to support their position, and EPA plans to finalize the
ruling by May 31, 2012.
###
News Clippings 2/15/12
State News
Hazmat spill could take three days to clean
Sun Herald
By ROBIN FITZGERALD
GULFPORT -- A hazardous-materials crew is working around the clock to clean
up a corrosive liquid spill at Channel Chemical Corp. and expects the
cleanup will take two or three days, Earl Etheridge of the state Department
of Environmental Quality said Tuesday.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/14/v-print/3753408/hazmat-spill-could-take-three.html
DEQ: No danger from chemical leak on Seaway Road
WLOX
A chemical spill on Seaway Road will "minimal impact" on the environment.
That's according to Earl Etheridge with the Mississippi Department of
Environmental Quality.
http://www.wlox.com/story/16931825/deq-no-danger-from-chemical-leak-on-seaway-road
Drilling opponents say state should slow down
Sun Herald
By GEOFF PENDER
GULFPORT -- Mississippi is rushing toward drilling in state waters without
having "done its homework" or addressed concerns about tourism, the
environment or economics, opponents say.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/14/v-print/3753604/drilling-opponents-say-state-should.html
Department of Marine Resources to seek Fishery Failure declaration from
NOAA
Published: Wednesday, February 15, 2012, 6:56 AM
By Harlan Kirgan, Mississippi Press
BILOXI, Mississippi -- A fishery failure declaration for the shrimp season
in state waters may be requested from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration as early as this week, said Dale Diaz, director of Marine
Fisheries for the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2012/02/mississippi_department_of_mari_4.html
Public documents can be pricey
AP
By EMILY WAGSTER PETTUS
JACKSON -- Belzoni resident Glenn Russell says he paid $278 last year for a
copy of the Humphreys County Board of Supervisors claims docket. That was
$1 a page for 278 pages.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/14/v-print/3753600/public-documents-can-be-pricey.html
National News
While touting 'fracking,' Salazar confronted by professed victim
The Hill
By Andrew Restuccia - 02/14/12 01:46 PM ET
The Obama administration was served with a stark reminder Tuesday that its
embrace of natural-gas drilling is being met with heartfelt resistance by
some.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/210603-secretary-salazar-confronted-by-emotional-fracking-critic
EPA Proposal Cuts Water Infrastructure Funds, Increases Air, Water
Pollution Grants
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Bloomberg
By Patrick Ambrosio
Contributing to this story was Pat Rizzuto
President Obama Feb. 13 proposed a fiscal year 2013 budget containing $8.3
billion in discretionary funding for the Environmental Protection Agency, a
$105 million decrease from fiscal 2012 achieved through cuts to state
wastewater treatment and drinking water funds.
http://www.bna.com/epa-proposal-cuts-n12884907868/
EPA sets new rules for emissions from PVC production
Houston Chronicle
By Matthew Tresaugue
Updated 09:46 p.m., Tuesday, February 14, 2012
The Environmental Protection Agency on Tuesday set stringent new emissions
limits for industrial plants that manufacture polyvinyl chloride, a
ubiquitous plastic commonly known as PVC.
http://www.chron.com/news/houston-texas/article/EPA-sets-new-rules-for-emissions-from-PVC-3324417.php
Press Releases
EPA Finalizes Air Toxic Emissions Standards for Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
Production Facilities
Standards will cut harmful emissions that impact local communities
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today issued
strong final standards requiring facilities that produce polyvinyl chloride
and copolymers (PVC) to reduce harmful air emissions, which will improve
air quality and protect people's health in communities where facilities are
located. Exposure to toxic air pollutants, like those emitted from PVC
facilities, can cause respiratory problems and other serious health issues,
and can increase the risk of developing cancer. In particular, children are
known to be more sensitive to the cancer risks posed by inhaling vinyl
chloride, one of the known carcinogens emitted from PVC facilities.
The final standards are based on currently available technologies and will
reduce emissions of air toxics, such as dioxin and vinyl chloride.
Facilities will have the flexibility to choose the most practical and
cost-effective control technology or technique to reduce the emissions.
Facilities will be required to monitor emissions at certain points in the
PVC production process to ensure that the standards are met.
Currently, there are 17 PVC production facilities throughout the United
States, with a majority of these facilities located in Louisiana and Texas.
All existing and any new PVC production facilities are covered by the final
rule.
PVC production facilities manufacture PVC resins that are used to make a
large number of commercial and industrial products at other manufacturing
facilities. These products include latex paints, coatings, adhesives, clear
plastics, rigid plastics, and flooring.
EPA had a 74-day public comment period and held two public hearings on the
proposal before issuing the final rule.
More information on the final rule: http://www.epa.gov/ttn/oarpg/t3fs.html
Hazmat spill could take three days to clean
Sun Herald
By ROBIN FITZGERALD
GULFPORT -- A hazardous-materials crew is working around the clock to clean
up a corrosive liquid spill at Channel Chemical Corp. and expects the
cleanup will take two or three days, Earl Etheridge of the state Department
of Environmental Quality said Tuesday.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/14/v-print/3753408/hazmat-spill-could-take-three.html
DEQ: No danger from chemical leak on Seaway Road
WLOX
A chemical spill on Seaway Road will "minimal impact" on the environment.
That's according to Earl Etheridge with the Mississippi Department of
Environmental Quality.
http://www.wlox.com/story/16931825/deq-no-danger-from-chemical-leak-on-seaway-road
Drilling opponents say state should slow down
Sun Herald
By GEOFF PENDER
GULFPORT -- Mississippi is rushing toward drilling in state waters without
having "done its homework" or addressed concerns about tourism, the
environment or economics, opponents say.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/14/v-print/3753604/drilling-opponents-say-state-should.html
Department of Marine Resources to seek Fishery Failure declaration from
NOAA
Published: Wednesday, February 15, 2012, 6:56 AM
By Harlan Kirgan, Mississippi Press
BILOXI, Mississippi -- A fishery failure declaration for the shrimp season
in state waters may be requested from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration as early as this week, said Dale Diaz, director of Marine
Fisheries for the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2012/02/mississippi_department_of_mari_4.html
Public documents can be pricey
AP
By EMILY WAGSTER PETTUS
JACKSON -- Belzoni resident Glenn Russell says he paid $278 last year for a
copy of the Humphreys County Board of Supervisors claims docket. That was
$1 a page for 278 pages.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/14/v-print/3753600/public-documents-can-be-pricey.html
National News
While touting 'fracking,' Salazar confronted by professed victim
The Hill
By Andrew Restuccia - 02/14/12 01:46 PM ET
The Obama administration was served with a stark reminder Tuesday that its
embrace of natural-gas drilling is being met with heartfelt resistance by
some.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/210603-secretary-salazar-confronted-by-emotional-fracking-critic
EPA Proposal Cuts Water Infrastructure Funds, Increases Air, Water
Pollution Grants
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Bloomberg
By Patrick Ambrosio
Contributing to this story was Pat Rizzuto
President Obama Feb. 13 proposed a fiscal year 2013 budget containing $8.3
billion in discretionary funding for the Environmental Protection Agency, a
$105 million decrease from fiscal 2012 achieved through cuts to state
wastewater treatment and drinking water funds.
http://www.bna.com/epa-proposal-cuts-n12884907868/
EPA sets new rules for emissions from PVC production
Houston Chronicle
By Matthew Tresaugue
Updated 09:46 p.m., Tuesday, February 14, 2012
The Environmental Protection Agency on Tuesday set stringent new emissions
limits for industrial plants that manufacture polyvinyl chloride, a
ubiquitous plastic commonly known as PVC.
http://www.chron.com/news/houston-texas/article/EPA-sets-new-rules-for-emissions-from-PVC-3324417.php
Press Releases
EPA Finalizes Air Toxic Emissions Standards for Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
Production Facilities
Standards will cut harmful emissions that impact local communities
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today issued
strong final standards requiring facilities that produce polyvinyl chloride
and copolymers (PVC) to reduce harmful air emissions, which will improve
air quality and protect people's health in communities where facilities are
located. Exposure to toxic air pollutants, like those emitted from PVC
facilities, can cause respiratory problems and other serious health issues,
and can increase the risk of developing cancer. In particular, children are
known to be more sensitive to the cancer risks posed by inhaling vinyl
chloride, one of the known carcinogens emitted from PVC facilities.
The final standards are based on currently available technologies and will
reduce emissions of air toxics, such as dioxin and vinyl chloride.
Facilities will have the flexibility to choose the most practical and
cost-effective control technology or technique to reduce the emissions.
Facilities will be required to monitor emissions at certain points in the
PVC production process to ensure that the standards are met.
Currently, there are 17 PVC production facilities throughout the United
States, with a majority of these facilities located in Louisiana and Texas.
All existing and any new PVC production facilities are covered by the final
rule.
PVC production facilities manufacture PVC resins that are used to make a
large number of commercial and industrial products at other manufacturing
facilities. These products include latex paints, coatings, adhesives, clear
plastics, rigid plastics, and flooring.
EPA had a 74-day public comment period and held two public hearings on the
proposal before issuing the final rule.
More information on the final rule: http://www.epa.gov/ttn/oarpg/t3fs.html
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
News Clippings 2/14/12
Oil Spill
Gov. Phil Bryant on RESTORE Act: 'Common sense and decency' will prevail
Published: Tuesday, February 14, 2012, 5:56 AM
By Cherie Ward - The Mississippi Press
GULFPORT, Mississippi -- Gov. Phil Bryant told reporters Monday that he's
hopeful Congress will pass an oil spill fine bill designed to help the Gulf
Coast recover from the 2010 Deepwater Horizon catastrophe.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2012/02/gov_phil_bryant_on_restore_act.html
State News
Harrison County supervisors hear from drilling opponents
WLOX
The group opposed to offshore drilling in Mississippi waters appeared
before Harrison County supervisors Monday morning. Leaders of the 12 Mile
South Coalition want supervisors to join their cause.
http://www.wlox.com/story/16923638/harrison-county-supervisors-hear-from-drilling-opponents
Harrison board rejects dirt pit
Sun Herald
By MELISSA M. SCALLAN
Harrison County supervisors voted 3-2 Monday to uphold an appeal by
residents in the western part of the county who opposed a dirt pit in their
neighborhood.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/13/v-print/3750987/harrison-board-rejects-dirt-pit.html
Another controversial dirt pit project considered by Harrison County
WLOX
For the second straight week, Harrison County supervisors considered a
controversial dirt pit proposal at Monday's meeting. This time, the dirt
pit project would be located on East Dubuisson Road in Pass Christian.
http://www.wlox.com/story/16926480/another-controversial-dirt-pit-project-considered-by-harrison-county
Endowed chair at Gulf Coast Research Laboratory named in honor of McIlwain
Published: Monday, February 13, 2012, 4:21 PM Updated: Monday, February
13, 2012, 4:51 PM
By Harlan Kirgan, Mississippi Press
OCEAN SPRINGS, Mississippi -- Veteran marine fisheries scientist Tom
McIlwain has been honored with an endowed chair in the Department of
Coastal Sciences at the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2012/02/endowed_chair_at_gulf_coast_re.html
House committee OKs bill to cut AG's use of outside lawyers
Hood says move would cost state $11 million a year
AP
Mississippi House Republicans are moving forward with efforts to limit the
attorney general's power to hire private attorneys to file lawsuits for the
state.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120214/NEWS010504/202140339/House-committee-OKs-bill-cut-AG-s-use-outside-lawyers
Rez events balk at new fee
Board may revisit charges for festivities such as Pepsi Pops
Clarion Ledger
RIDGELAND — Organizers of metro area mainstays Pepsi Pops and the Madison
County Dragon Boat Regatta say a special event permit fee the Ross Barnett
Reservoir board has approved could cost them thousands of dollars and kill
their events.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120214/NEWS/202140332/Rez-events-balk-new-fee?odyssey=tab|
topnews|text|Home
Lawmakers vote to change state budget process
Mississippi Business Journal
by Wally Northway
Published: February 14,2012
JACKSON — The Mississippi House voted yesterday to change the state budget
process in a way some members call unfair and others call accountable.
http://msbusiness.com/2012/02/lawmakers-vote-to-change-state-budget-process/
Overdue for repairs: Damage to state buildings costly
Clarion Ledger
On a recent Friday, buckets lined the fourth floor of the state Capitol,
capturing rain from leaks throughout the building.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120214/NEWS/202140331/Overdue-repairs-Damage-state-buildings-costly?odyssey=tab|
topnews|text|Home
Government work sessions endanger transparency Unofficial meetings allow
decisions to be made away from the public eye
Sun Herald
By MICHAEL NEWSOM
GULFPORT -- The Grenada Star newspaper recently uncovered a plan by city
and county officials to charter a bus and head 60 miles to Oxford to spend
the day discussing business at a club near the town square.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/13/v-print/3750950/government-work-sessions-endanger.html
National News
U.S. carbon rules could slam door on new coal plants
Reuters
By Timothy Gardner and Valerie Volcovici
WASHINGTON, Feb 13 (Reuters) - The Obama
administration is expected soon to unveil long-delayed rules
limiting carbon emissions from new coal-fired power stations,
possibly helping to slam the door shut well into the future on
building plants that run on the fuel.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/02/13/usa-epa-coal-idUSL2E8DAGDN20120213
Obama's EPA budget: 1.2% cut would reduce aid to states, but Chesapeake Bay
would get more funds
Washington Post
By Juliet Eilperin
The Obama administration proposed trimming the Environmental Protection
Agency's budget 1.2 percent Monday, cutting money to the states and for
hazardous cleanup even as it boosted money to restore the Chesapeake Bay.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/44/post/obamas-epa-budget-12percent-cut-would-reduce-aid-to-states-but-chesapeake-bay-would-get-more-funds/2012/02/13/gIQAb4O3AR_blog.html
Makers of genetically modified seeds say more farmers evading EPA rules
By Bloomberg News, Published: February 13
Monsanto Co. and other seedmakers reported a threefold increase last year
in U.S. farmers caught violating rules intended to stop insects from
developing resistance to genetically modified corn.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/makers-of-genetically-modified-seeds-say-more-farmers-evading-epa-rules/2012/02/09/gIQAdUKjBR_print.html
Obama's budget doubles down on renewable energy
The Hill
By Andrew Restuccia - 02/13/12 12:57 PM ET
President Obama's fiscal 2013 budget request doubles down on renewable
energy amid growing Republican attacks on the administration's green
agenda.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/210295-obamas-budget-doubles-down-on-renewable-energy
Boosted by regulations, a small business opens its own lobby shop
Washington Post
By Olga Khazan, Published: February 9 | Updated: Monday, February 13, 5:00
AM
Many small companies bemoan government regulations, but Electronic
Recyclers International celebrates them — or at least one in particular.
ERI recycles e-waste, and in the company's six-year history, the number of
states with e-waste recycling laws has gone from three to 25.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/business/on-small-business/boosted-by-regulations-a-small-business-opens-its-own-lobby-shop/2012/02/09/gIQAxoaR2Q_print.html
Press Releases
EPA's FY 2013 Budget Proposal Focuses on Core Environmental and Human
Health Protections
EPA budget supports President Obama's vision of an America that is built to
last
WASHINGTON – Today the Obama Administration proposed a FY 2013 budget of
$8.344 billion for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This
budget reflects a government-wide effort to reduce spending and find
cost-savings, and is $105 million below the EPA's enacted level for FY
2012. The FY 2013 budget is the result of EPA's ongoing efforts to
carefully consider potential cost savings and reductions while continuing
its commitment to core environmental and health protections -- safeguarding
Americans from pollution in the air they breathe, the water they drink and
the land where they build their communities.
"This budget is focused on fulfilling EPA's core mission to protect health
and the environment for millions of American families. It demonstrates
fiscal responsibility, while still supporting clean air, healthy waters and
innovative safeguards that are essential to an America built to last," said
EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. "It has taken hard work and difficult
choices to reach this balanced approach, and while we had to make
sacrifices, we have maintained our commitment to the core priorities of
this agency and ensured the protections the American people expect and
deserve."
Key FY 2013 budget highlights include:
Supporting State Governments. The budget proposes $1.2 billion in
categorical grants for states that are on the front lines implementing
environmental statutes such as the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act.
The increases from FY 2012 levels include nearly $66 million for State and
Tribal Air Quality Management grants, nearly $27 million for Pollution
Control (Clean Water Act Section 106) grants, and about $29 million for the
Tribal General Assistance Program.
Protecting America's Waters. The proposal provides $2 billion for Clean
Water and Drinking Water State Revolving funds (SRFs). This will allow the
SRFs to finance over $6 billion in wastewater and drinking water
infrastructure projects annually. EPA will work to target assistance to
small and underserved communities with limited ability to repay loans,
while maintaining state program integrity.
Cleaning Up Contaminated Sites in Communities. The proposal includes $755
million in funding for the Superfund Cleanup program which maintains
funding to support cleanup at hazardous waste sites that address
emergencies (Superfund Emergency Response and Removal) at the nation's
highest priority sites (Superfund Remedial).
Investing in Cutting Edge Research. EPA's proposed budget provides $576
million to support research and innovation. Science to Achieve Results
(STAR) grants are funded at $81 million to conduct research in key areas
such as hydraulic fracturing, potential endocrine disruptors, and green
infrastructure. Building upon ongoing research and collaborating with the
Department of Energy and the US Geological Survey, a total $14 million
investment will begin to assess potential impacts of hydraulic fracturing
on air quality, water quality, and ecosystems. The EPA also will release an
Interim Report on the Impacts of Hydraulic Fracturing on Drinking Water
Resources in 2012.
Ongoing Support to Economically and Environmentally Vital Water Bodies. To
ensure the progress made during the past three years continues, EPA is
proposing $300 million for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. Programs
and projects will target the most significant environmental problems in the
Great Lakes. About $73 million, which is a $15 million increase, will fund
the Chesapeake Bay program's continued implementation of the President's
Executive Order on Chesapeake Bay Protection and Restoration. Funding will
support bay watershed states as they implement their plans to reduce
nutrient and sediment pollution in an unprecedented effort to restore this
economically important ecosystem.
Protecting Americans from Harmful Chemicals. EPA is proposing $68 million,
an increase of $11 million from FY 2012, to reduce chemical risks, increase
the pace of chemical hazard assessments, and provide the public with
greater access to toxic chemical information. Funding will sustain the
agency's successes in managing the potential risks of new chemicals coming
into the market and accelerating the progress to help ensure the safety of
chemicals on the market that have not been tested for adverse human health
and environmental impacts.
Next Generation Compliance. EPA's budget proposal requests $36 million to
support "Next Generation Compliance", a new enforcement model designed to
enhance EPA's ability to detect violations that impact public health. The
three components of this approach are: promoting electronic reporting by
facilities, modifying data systems to implement electronic reporting, and
deploying modern monitoring technology. This will work toward improved
compliance and transparency, and more efficient processes that do not rely
on paper-based reporting. And, create cost savings and efficiencies for
EPA, states and industry.
Supporting the National Fuel Economy and Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Standards
Program. The budget contains a $10 million increase to the EPA's National
Vehicle and Fuel Emissions Laboratory for certification and compliance
testing programs and to evaluate new biofuels technologies. The national
program of fuel economy and Greenhouse Gas (GHG) standards for light duty
vehicles alone will save approximately 12 billion barrels of oil and
prevent 6 billion metric tons of GHG emissions over the lifetime of the
vehicles sold through model year 2025. These funds will improve testing
methods for the agency's renewable fuels program, and the GHG and fuel
economy programs intended to reduce dependence on oil and save consumers
money at the pump.
Reducing and Eliminating Programs. The budget includes $50 million in
savings by eliminating several EPA programs that have either completed
their goals or can be implemented through other federal or state efforts.
More information: http://www.epa.gov/budget
The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the availability of "Why
Green Is Your Color: A Woman's Guide to a Sustainable Career," which is
designed to help women find and keep higher paying jobs in the clean
energy economy.
The online publication, available at
http://www.dol.gov/wb/Green_Jobs_Guide, will help workers learn about a
range of in-demand and emerging jobs, as well as job training
opportunities and career development tools in the clean energy economy.
The guide also serves as a resource for workforce development
professionals, training providers, educators, career counselors and
women's advocacy organizations.
"Many occupations in the clean energy economy remain virtually untapped
by women," said Sara Manzano-Dias, director of the Women's Bureau. "This
guide is an invaluable resource that workforce professionals can use to
help women transition into higher paying jobs that serve as a pathway
into the middle class. It is also a tool to help fight job segregation."
The guide is an outcome of nationwide roundtables at which leaders from
the public and private sectors discussed opportunities for women in the
clean energy economy. These conversations revealed that an overall lack
of awareness and information about nontraditional jobs was a significant
challenge to women hoping to succeed in this marketplace. Information
about the roundtables is available at
http://www.dol.gov/wb/media/green.htm.
Additional resources to help women succeed in nontraditional and
emerging job sectors are available by contacting the Women's Bureau at
202-693-6710 or visiting its Web pages at http://www.dol.gov/wb.
The Women's Bureau, established by Congress in 1920, is the only federal
agency designated to represent the needs of working women. Today, the
bureau's goal is to empower all working women to achieve economic
security by preparing them for higher paying jobs, ensuring fair
compensation, promoting workplace flexibility and helping homeless women
veterans reintegrate into the workforce.
Gov. Phil Bryant on RESTORE Act: 'Common sense and decency' will prevail
Published: Tuesday, February 14, 2012, 5:56 AM
By Cherie Ward - The Mississippi Press
GULFPORT, Mississippi -- Gov. Phil Bryant told reporters Monday that he's
hopeful Congress will pass an oil spill fine bill designed to help the Gulf
Coast recover from the 2010 Deepwater Horizon catastrophe.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2012/02/gov_phil_bryant_on_restore_act.html
State News
Harrison County supervisors hear from drilling opponents
WLOX
The group opposed to offshore drilling in Mississippi waters appeared
before Harrison County supervisors Monday morning. Leaders of the 12 Mile
South Coalition want supervisors to join their cause.
http://www.wlox.com/story/16923638/harrison-county-supervisors-hear-from-drilling-opponents
Harrison board rejects dirt pit
Sun Herald
By MELISSA M. SCALLAN
Harrison County supervisors voted 3-2 Monday to uphold an appeal by
residents in the western part of the county who opposed a dirt pit in their
neighborhood.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/13/v-print/3750987/harrison-board-rejects-dirt-pit.html
Another controversial dirt pit project considered by Harrison County
WLOX
For the second straight week, Harrison County supervisors considered a
controversial dirt pit proposal at Monday's meeting. This time, the dirt
pit project would be located on East Dubuisson Road in Pass Christian.
http://www.wlox.com/story/16926480/another-controversial-dirt-pit-project-considered-by-harrison-county
Endowed chair at Gulf Coast Research Laboratory named in honor of McIlwain
Published: Monday, February 13, 2012, 4:21 PM Updated: Monday, February
13, 2012, 4:51 PM
By Harlan Kirgan, Mississippi Press
OCEAN SPRINGS, Mississippi -- Veteran marine fisheries scientist Tom
McIlwain has been honored with an endowed chair in the Department of
Coastal Sciences at the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2012/02/endowed_chair_at_gulf_coast_re.html
House committee OKs bill to cut AG's use of outside lawyers
Hood says move would cost state $11 million a year
AP
Mississippi House Republicans are moving forward with efforts to limit the
attorney general's power to hire private attorneys to file lawsuits for the
state.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120214/NEWS010504/202140339/House-committee-OKs-bill-cut-AG-s-use-outside-lawyers
Rez events balk at new fee
Board may revisit charges for festivities such as Pepsi Pops
Clarion Ledger
RIDGELAND — Organizers of metro area mainstays Pepsi Pops and the Madison
County Dragon Boat Regatta say a special event permit fee the Ross Barnett
Reservoir board has approved could cost them thousands of dollars and kill
their events.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120214/NEWS/202140332/Rez-events-balk-new-fee?odyssey=tab|
topnews|text|Home
Lawmakers vote to change state budget process
Mississippi Business Journal
by Wally Northway
Published: February 14,2012
JACKSON — The Mississippi House voted yesterday to change the state budget
process in a way some members call unfair and others call accountable.
http://msbusiness.com/2012/02/lawmakers-vote-to-change-state-budget-process/
Overdue for repairs: Damage to state buildings costly
Clarion Ledger
On a recent Friday, buckets lined the fourth floor of the state Capitol,
capturing rain from leaks throughout the building.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120214/NEWS/202140331/Overdue-repairs-Damage-state-buildings-costly?odyssey=tab|
topnews|text|Home
Government work sessions endanger transparency Unofficial meetings allow
decisions to be made away from the public eye
Sun Herald
By MICHAEL NEWSOM
GULFPORT -- The Grenada Star newspaper recently uncovered a plan by city
and county officials to charter a bus and head 60 miles to Oxford to spend
the day discussing business at a club near the town square.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/13/v-print/3750950/government-work-sessions-endanger.html
National News
U.S. carbon rules could slam door on new coal plants
Reuters
By Timothy Gardner and Valerie Volcovici
WASHINGTON, Feb 13 (Reuters) - The Obama
administration is expected soon to unveil long-delayed rules
limiting carbon emissions from new coal-fired power stations,
possibly helping to slam the door shut well into the future on
building plants that run on the fuel.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/02/13/usa-epa-coal-idUSL2E8DAGDN20120213
Obama's EPA budget: 1.2% cut would reduce aid to states, but Chesapeake Bay
would get more funds
Washington Post
By Juliet Eilperin
The Obama administration proposed trimming the Environmental Protection
Agency's budget 1.2 percent Monday, cutting money to the states and for
hazardous cleanup even as it boosted money to restore the Chesapeake Bay.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/44/post/obamas-epa-budget-12percent-cut-would-reduce-aid-to-states-but-chesapeake-bay-would-get-more-funds/2012/02/13/gIQAb4O3AR_blog.html
Makers of genetically modified seeds say more farmers evading EPA rules
By Bloomberg News, Published: February 13
Monsanto Co. and other seedmakers reported a threefold increase last year
in U.S. farmers caught violating rules intended to stop insects from
developing resistance to genetically modified corn.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/makers-of-genetically-modified-seeds-say-more-farmers-evading-epa-rules/2012/02/09/gIQAdUKjBR_print.html
Obama's budget doubles down on renewable energy
The Hill
By Andrew Restuccia - 02/13/12 12:57 PM ET
President Obama's fiscal 2013 budget request doubles down on renewable
energy amid growing Republican attacks on the administration's green
agenda.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/210295-obamas-budget-doubles-down-on-renewable-energy
Boosted by regulations, a small business opens its own lobby shop
Washington Post
By Olga Khazan, Published: February 9 | Updated: Monday, February 13, 5:00
AM
Many small companies bemoan government regulations, but Electronic
Recyclers International celebrates them — or at least one in particular.
ERI recycles e-waste, and in the company's six-year history, the number of
states with e-waste recycling laws has gone from three to 25.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/business/on-small-business/boosted-by-regulations-a-small-business-opens-its-own-lobby-shop/2012/02/09/gIQAxoaR2Q_print.html
Press Releases
EPA's FY 2013 Budget Proposal Focuses on Core Environmental and Human
Health Protections
EPA budget supports President Obama's vision of an America that is built to
last
WASHINGTON – Today the Obama Administration proposed a FY 2013 budget of
$8.344 billion for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This
budget reflects a government-wide effort to reduce spending and find
cost-savings, and is $105 million below the EPA's enacted level for FY
2012. The FY 2013 budget is the result of EPA's ongoing efforts to
carefully consider potential cost savings and reductions while continuing
its commitment to core environmental and health protections -- safeguarding
Americans from pollution in the air they breathe, the water they drink and
the land where they build their communities.
"This budget is focused on fulfilling EPA's core mission to protect health
and the environment for millions of American families. It demonstrates
fiscal responsibility, while still supporting clean air, healthy waters and
innovative safeguards that are essential to an America built to last," said
EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. "It has taken hard work and difficult
choices to reach this balanced approach, and while we had to make
sacrifices, we have maintained our commitment to the core priorities of
this agency and ensured the protections the American people expect and
deserve."
Key FY 2013 budget highlights include:
Supporting State Governments. The budget proposes $1.2 billion in
categorical grants for states that are on the front lines implementing
environmental statutes such as the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act.
The increases from FY 2012 levels include nearly $66 million for State and
Tribal Air Quality Management grants, nearly $27 million for Pollution
Control (Clean Water Act Section 106) grants, and about $29 million for the
Tribal General Assistance Program.
Protecting America's Waters. The proposal provides $2 billion for Clean
Water and Drinking Water State Revolving funds (SRFs). This will allow the
SRFs to finance over $6 billion in wastewater and drinking water
infrastructure projects annually. EPA will work to target assistance to
small and underserved communities with limited ability to repay loans,
while maintaining state program integrity.
Cleaning Up Contaminated Sites in Communities. The proposal includes $755
million in funding for the Superfund Cleanup program which maintains
funding to support cleanup at hazardous waste sites that address
emergencies (Superfund Emergency Response and Removal) at the nation's
highest priority sites (Superfund Remedial).
Investing in Cutting Edge Research. EPA's proposed budget provides $576
million to support research and innovation. Science to Achieve Results
(STAR) grants are funded at $81 million to conduct research in key areas
such as hydraulic fracturing, potential endocrine disruptors, and green
infrastructure. Building upon ongoing research and collaborating with the
Department of Energy and the US Geological Survey, a total $14 million
investment will begin to assess potential impacts of hydraulic fracturing
on air quality, water quality, and ecosystems. The EPA also will release an
Interim Report on the Impacts of Hydraulic Fracturing on Drinking Water
Resources in 2012.
Ongoing Support to Economically and Environmentally Vital Water Bodies. To
ensure the progress made during the past three years continues, EPA is
proposing $300 million for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. Programs
and projects will target the most significant environmental problems in the
Great Lakes. About $73 million, which is a $15 million increase, will fund
the Chesapeake Bay program's continued implementation of the President's
Executive Order on Chesapeake Bay Protection and Restoration. Funding will
support bay watershed states as they implement their plans to reduce
nutrient and sediment pollution in an unprecedented effort to restore this
economically important ecosystem.
Protecting Americans from Harmful Chemicals. EPA is proposing $68 million,
an increase of $11 million from FY 2012, to reduce chemical risks, increase
the pace of chemical hazard assessments, and provide the public with
greater access to toxic chemical information. Funding will sustain the
agency's successes in managing the potential risks of new chemicals coming
into the market and accelerating the progress to help ensure the safety of
chemicals on the market that have not been tested for adverse human health
and environmental impacts.
Next Generation Compliance. EPA's budget proposal requests $36 million to
support "Next Generation Compliance", a new enforcement model designed to
enhance EPA's ability to detect violations that impact public health. The
three components of this approach are: promoting electronic reporting by
facilities, modifying data systems to implement electronic reporting, and
deploying modern monitoring technology. This will work toward improved
compliance and transparency, and more efficient processes that do not rely
on paper-based reporting. And, create cost savings and efficiencies for
EPA, states and industry.
Supporting the National Fuel Economy and Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Standards
Program. The budget contains a $10 million increase to the EPA's National
Vehicle and Fuel Emissions Laboratory for certification and compliance
testing programs and to evaluate new biofuels technologies. The national
program of fuel economy and Greenhouse Gas (GHG) standards for light duty
vehicles alone will save approximately 12 billion barrels of oil and
prevent 6 billion metric tons of GHG emissions over the lifetime of the
vehicles sold through model year 2025. These funds will improve testing
methods for the agency's renewable fuels program, and the GHG and fuel
economy programs intended to reduce dependence on oil and save consumers
money at the pump.
Reducing and Eliminating Programs. The budget includes $50 million in
savings by eliminating several EPA programs that have either completed
their goals or can be implemented through other federal or state efforts.
More information: http://www.epa.gov/budget
The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the availability of "Why
Green Is Your Color: A Woman's Guide to a Sustainable Career," which is
designed to help women find and keep higher paying jobs in the clean
energy economy.
The online publication, available at
http://www.dol.gov/wb/Green_Jobs_Guide, will help workers learn about a
range of in-demand and emerging jobs, as well as job training
opportunities and career development tools in the clean energy economy.
The guide also serves as a resource for workforce development
professionals, training providers, educators, career counselors and
women's advocacy organizations.
"Many occupations in the clean energy economy remain virtually untapped
by women," said Sara Manzano-Dias, director of the Women's Bureau. "This
guide is an invaluable resource that workforce professionals can use to
help women transition into higher paying jobs that serve as a pathway
into the middle class. It is also a tool to help fight job segregation."
The guide is an outcome of nationwide roundtables at which leaders from
the public and private sectors discussed opportunities for women in the
clean energy economy. These conversations revealed that an overall lack
of awareness and information about nontraditional jobs was a significant
challenge to women hoping to succeed in this marketplace. Information
about the roundtables is available at
http://www.dol.gov/wb/media/green.htm.
Additional resources to help women succeed in nontraditional and
emerging job sectors are available by contacting the Women's Bureau at
202-693-6710 or visiting its Web pages at http://www.dol.gov/wb.
The Women's Bureau, established by Congress in 1920, is the only federal
agency designated to represent the needs of working women. Today, the
bureau's goal is to empower all working women to achieve economic
security by preparing them for higher paying jobs, ensuring fair
compensation, promoting workplace flexibility and helping homeless women
veterans reintegrate into the workforce.
News Clippings 2/13/12
Oil Spill
Transocean asks judge to make key witness testify
AP
NEW ORLEANS (AP) - Lawyers for the owners of the drilling rig that exploded
at the start of the 2010 oil spill are asking a federal judge to make a key
witness talk to them before their trial.
http://www.wlox.com/story/16918187/transocean-asks-judge-to-make-key-witness-testify
At CPAC, Jindal revives attack on Obama administration over oil spill
recovery
NBC
WASHINGTON – Speaking before an audience of Republican activists Saturday,
Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal blasted the Obama administration over its
response to the 2010 BP oil spill in the gulf, saying Obama officials
"wasted precious time while that oil was coming in to our coast."
http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/02/11/10381914-at-cpac-jindal-revives-attack-on-obama-administration-over-oil-spill-recovery?email=html
State News
Air quality at issue
Officials meet in D.C.
DeSoto Times
By ROBERT LEE LONG
Published: Saturday, February 11, 2012 1:02 AM CST
DeSoto Officials met with Congressional members and staff on Tuesday to
discuss the County's recent Non-Attainment Air Quality Designation by the
Environmental Protection Agency.
http://www.desototimes.com/articles/2012/02/11/news/doc4f35ada082194129577146.txt
Work continuing at Superfund site
Final phase in an on-going process has begun
By Jeremy Pittari
The Picayune Item
PICAYUNE — The final phase of removing creosote left behind by Picayune
Wood Treating off of Rosa Street has begun. Workers under contract with the
Corps of Engineers have been working at the 40 acre site for about a month
to collect and contain soil contaminated with creosote and other chemicals
previously used to treat lumber.
http://picayuneitem.com/local/x980635422/Work-continuing-at-Superfund-site
Sierra Club maintains majority of citizens oppose oil and gas drilling
WLOX
It would appear a lot of people want don't want oil and gas drilling rigs
in state waters.
http://www.wlox.com/story/16911631/sierra-club
Coastal Conservation Association Mississippi sponsors student awards at
Biloxi meeting
Published: Sunday, February 12, 2012, 6:11 AM
By Harlan Kirgan, Mississippi Press
OCEAN SPRINGS, Mississippi -- Coastal Conservation Association Mississippi
recently exhibited and sponsored student awards for academic papers on
fisheries at the American Fisheries Society Southern Division meeting in
Biloxi, according to a news release from F.J. Eicke of CCA Mississippi.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2012/02/coastal_conservation_associati_1.html
National News
Taylor Energy wells still leaking in Gulf after 8 years
Published: Saturday, February 11, 2012, 9:13 AM
By Ben Raines, Press-Register
A cluster of leaking wells in the Gulf may have released as much as 1.2
million gallons of oil since 2004, when they were damaged during Hurricane
Ivan, according to a report from the Skytruth environmental group.
http://blog.al.com/live/2012/02/taylor_energy_wells_still_leak.html
Obama administration slows environmental rules as it weighs political cost
Washington Post
By Juliet Eilperin, Published: February 12
After pushing through some of the most sweeping and contentious
environmental measures in years, the Obama administration has slowed action
on several policies as it calculates what it should undertake before the
end of the term.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/obama-administration-weighs-political-cost-of-environmental-rules/2012/02/07/gIQAvJzx8Q_print.html
NY leads 11 states in suing EPA over soot rules
AP
NEW YORK — New York and 10 other states filed a lawsuit Friday designed to
force the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to issue new regulations on
soot pollution.
http://online.wsj.com/article/APf8eee360d2e545c6af1ee12cdfad8227.html?grcc=f77ff1737da71a56f3c0d134ade45ab2Z9&mod=WSJ_hpp_sections_newyork
E.P.A. Is Sued Over Delays in Soot Standards
NY Times
By MIREYA NAVARRO
Eleven states sued the Environmental Protection Agency on Friday over its
delays in tightening air quality standards involving soot.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/11/science/earth/epa-is-sued-over-delays-in-soot-standards.html?_r=1&ref=earth&pagewanted=print
Lights Out for Some Coal Plants
Forbes
First there were six. Now there's three more. What's going on in the
coal-fired utility business? FirstEnergy of Ohio plans to close by
September those 9 units, which supply as much as 13 percent of the
company's electricity.
http://www.forbes.com/sites/kensilverstein/2012/02/12/lights-out-for-some-coal-plants/
Texas challenges EPA greenhouse gas regulations
Dallas Business Journal
Date: Friday, February 10, 2012, 2:57pm CST
The State of Texas has filed its opening brief challenging the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency's decision to impose greenhouse gas
regulations in the state.
http://www.bizjournals.com/dallas/news/2012/02/10/texas-challenges-epa-greenhouse-gas.html
Lawmakers ask Obama EPA not to arm terrorists
Oklahoman
Joel Gehrke
Published: February 11, 2012
President Obama's Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) officials have
proposed a rule that could give terrorists "one more weapon" for attacking
the United States, according to House lawmakers, in order to avoid having
to answer as many Freedom of Information Act requests.
http://newsok.com/lawmakers-ask-obama-epa-not-to-arm-terrorists/article/feed/346991
Press Releases
Settlement with New Cingular Wireless to Resolve Violations of Community
Right-to-Know Law
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced
an agreement with New Cingular Wireless to resolve violations of the
Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA). New Cingular
Wireless voluntarily disclosed reporting violations to EPA, which related
to the presence of sulfuric acid, diesel, and lead at 642 cellular
facilities in 35 states and Puerto Rico, after performing a comprehensive
audit of their operations. EPCRA requires facilities to report information
about the chemicals and hazardous materials they have onsite to ensure that
local emergency planners have the information they need to protect people's
health in the event of a release or emergency.
New Cingular Wireless was created in October 2004 through the merger of
AT&T Wireless and Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC. This settlement concerns
violations occurring at legacy Cingular Wireless sites from 2001 to 2003
and at New Cingular Wireless sites from October 2004 to 2006, specifically,
violations at cellular sites, transmitter sites, switching stations, and
warehouses. All of the violations disclosed by the company have been
corrected, and the company has made improvements to its battery inventory,
recordkeeping and management systems to prevent the reoccurrence of these
violations.
Since EPA reached its first audit policy settlement with a
telecommunications company in 1998, nearly 40 telecommunications businesses
have disclosed EPCRA violations. In doing so, they have enhanced facility
and emergency response personnel's capabilities to react to hazardous
chemical emergencies at nearly 5,000 facilities. The audit policy provides
incentives to companies that voluntarily discover, promptly disclose, and
expeditiously correct environmental violations. The companies must also
take steps to prevent future violations. EPA may reduce or waive penalties
for certain violations if the facility meets the conditions of the policy.
Under the settlement, New Cingular Wireless will pay a civil penalty of
$125,728.
More information about the settlement:
http://www.epa.gov/compliance/resources/cases/civil/mm/ncw.html
Industry Progressing in Voluntary Effort to Reduce Toxic Chemicals
Companies have successfully developed more than150 alternatives to
long-chain perfluorinated chemicals.
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released
the interim results of a voluntary effort by eight chemical manufacturers
to reduce emissions and use of long-chain perfluorinated chemicals
(LCPFCs), including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). Used in hundreds of
manufacturing and industrial applications, LCPFCs are toxic, persistent in
our environment worldwide and can accumulate in people. Reducing toxic
chemicals in our environment is one of EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson's
top priorities.
EPA's 2010/15 PFOA Stewardship Program was established in 2006 in
partnership with DuPont, Solvay Solexis, Asahi Glass Company, Daikin
America, Inc., Clariant International Ltd., 3M/Dyneon, Arkema Inc. and BASF
(formerly Ciba Specialty Chemicals Corporation). The program set a goal of
reducing facility emissions and product content of PFOA and related
chemicals on a global basis by 95 percent, no later than 2010, and to work
toward eliminating emissions and product content of these chemicals by
2015. The interim results released today highlight the success companies
participating in the partnership have made in reducing releases of PFOA and
other LCPFCs.
Daikin, DuPont, 3M/Dyneon and Solvay Solexis have met the program's
intermediate goal of a 95 percent reduction in global emissions and product
content by 2010. The companies continue to reduce emissions of LCPFC's as
well as overall product content of LCPFC's. Additionally, more than150
replacement chemicals have been developed. The eight participating
companies have informed EPA that they are on track to phase out LCPFCs by
the end of 2015.
"I am pleased to see that many of the Stewardship Program companies are
making excellent progress and all are on track to meet the ultimate goal of
phasing out LCPFCs by the end of 2015," said Jim Jones, acting assistant
administrator for EPA's Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention.
"The program is an important part of the agency's efforts to mitigate
exposures to LCPFCs."
EPA remains concerned about LCPFCs being produced by companies that are not
participating in the stewardship program and intends to take action to
address those concerns. These actions are part of an ongoing effort
outlined in 2009 that would further reduce exposure to LCPFCs by addressing
their use in products from sources other than the eight companies
participating in the stewardship program. For more information on these
efforts, see the action plan at:
http://www.epa.gov/oppt/existingchemicals/pubs/actionplans/pfcs.html
More information on PFOA and LCPFCs: www.epa.gov/oppt/pfoa
Company progress reports and EPA's summary tables:
http://epa.gov/oppt/pfoa/pubs/stewardship/preports5.html
EPA Releases Final Health Assessment for Tetrachloroethylene (Perc)
Public health protections remain in place
WASHINGTON – Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) posted
the final health assessment for tetrachloroethylene – also known as
perchloroethylene, or perc – to EPA's Integrated Risk Information System
(IRIS) database. Perc is a chemical solvent widely used in the dry cleaning
industry. It is also used in the cleaning of metal machinery and to
manufacture some consumer products and other chemicals. Confirming
longstanding scientific understanding and research, the final assessment
characterizes perc as a "likely human carcinogen." The assessment provides
estimates for both cancer and non-cancer effects associated with exposure
to perc over a lifetime.
EPA does not believe that wearing clothes dry cleaned with perc will result
in exposures which pose a risk of concern. EPA has already taken several
significant actions to reduce exposure to perc. EPA has clean air standards
for dry cleaners that use perc, including requirements that will phase-out
the use of perc by dry cleaners in residential buildings by December 21,
2020. EPA also set limits for the amount of perc allowed in drinking water
and levels for cleaning up perc at Superfund sites throughout the country,
which will be updated in light of the IRIS assessment.
"The perc health assessment released today will provide valuable
information to help protect people and communities from exposure to perc in
soil, water and air," said Paul Anastas, assistant administrator for EPA's
Office of Research and Development. "This assessment emphasizes the value
of the IRIS database in providing strong science to support government
officials as they make decisions to protect the health of the American
people."
The toxicity values reported in the perc IRIS assessment will be considered
in:
� Establishing cleanup levels at the hundreds of Superfund sites
where perc is a contaminant
� Revising EPA's Maximum Contaminant Level for perc as part of the
carcinogenic volatile organic compounds group in drinking water, as
described in the agency's drinking water strategy
� Evaluating whether to propose additional limits on the emissions
of perc into the atmosphere, since perc is considered a hazardous air
pollutant under the Clean Air Act
The assessment replaces the 1988 IRIS assessment for perc and for the first
time includes a hazard characterization for cancer effects. This assessment
has undergone several levels of rigorous, independent peer review
including: agency review, interagency review, public comment, and external
peer review by the National Research Council. All major review comments
have been addressed.
EPA continues to strengthen IRIS as part of an ongoing effort to ensure the
best possible science is used to protect human health and the environment.
In May 2009, EPA streamlined the IRIS process to increase transparency,
ensure the timely publication of assessments, and reinforce independent
review. In July 2011, EPA announced further changes to strengthen the IRIS
program in response to recommendations from the National Academy of
Sciences. EPA's peer review process is designed to elicit the strongest
possible critique to ensure that each final IRIS assessment reflects sound,
rigorous science.
More information on the perc IRIS assessment:
http://www.epa.gov/iris/subst/0106.htm
More information on perc:
http://epa.gov/oppt/existingchemicals/pubs/perchloroethylene_fact_sheet.html
More information on IRIS: http://www.epa.gov/IRIS
Transocean asks judge to make key witness testify
AP
NEW ORLEANS (AP) - Lawyers for the owners of the drilling rig that exploded
at the start of the 2010 oil spill are asking a federal judge to make a key
witness talk to them before their trial.
http://www.wlox.com/story/16918187/transocean-asks-judge-to-make-key-witness-testify
At CPAC, Jindal revives attack on Obama administration over oil spill
recovery
NBC
WASHINGTON – Speaking before an audience of Republican activists Saturday,
Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal blasted the Obama administration over its
response to the 2010 BP oil spill in the gulf, saying Obama officials
"wasted precious time while that oil was coming in to our coast."
http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/02/11/10381914-at-cpac-jindal-revives-attack-on-obama-administration-over-oil-spill-recovery?email=html
State News
Air quality at issue
Officials meet in D.C.
DeSoto Times
By ROBERT LEE LONG
Published: Saturday, February 11, 2012 1:02 AM CST
DeSoto Officials met with Congressional members and staff on Tuesday to
discuss the County's recent Non-Attainment Air Quality Designation by the
Environmental Protection Agency.
http://www.desototimes.com/articles/2012/02/11/news/doc4f35ada082194129577146.txt
Work continuing at Superfund site
Final phase in an on-going process has begun
By Jeremy Pittari
The Picayune Item
PICAYUNE — The final phase of removing creosote left behind by Picayune
Wood Treating off of Rosa Street has begun. Workers under contract with the
Corps of Engineers have been working at the 40 acre site for about a month
to collect and contain soil contaminated with creosote and other chemicals
previously used to treat lumber.
http://picayuneitem.com/local/x980635422/Work-continuing-at-Superfund-site
Sierra Club maintains majority of citizens oppose oil and gas drilling
WLOX
It would appear a lot of people want don't want oil and gas drilling rigs
in state waters.
http://www.wlox.com/story/16911631/sierra-club
Coastal Conservation Association Mississippi sponsors student awards at
Biloxi meeting
Published: Sunday, February 12, 2012, 6:11 AM
By Harlan Kirgan, Mississippi Press
OCEAN SPRINGS, Mississippi -- Coastal Conservation Association Mississippi
recently exhibited and sponsored student awards for academic papers on
fisheries at the American Fisheries Society Southern Division meeting in
Biloxi, according to a news release from F.J. Eicke of CCA Mississippi.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2012/02/coastal_conservation_associati_1.html
National News
Taylor Energy wells still leaking in Gulf after 8 years
Published: Saturday, February 11, 2012, 9:13 AM
By Ben Raines, Press-Register
A cluster of leaking wells in the Gulf may have released as much as 1.2
million gallons of oil since 2004, when they were damaged during Hurricane
Ivan, according to a report from the Skytruth environmental group.
http://blog.al.com/live/2012/02/taylor_energy_wells_still_leak.html
Obama administration slows environmental rules as it weighs political cost
Washington Post
By Juliet Eilperin, Published: February 12
After pushing through some of the most sweeping and contentious
environmental measures in years, the Obama administration has slowed action
on several policies as it calculates what it should undertake before the
end of the term.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/obama-administration-weighs-political-cost-of-environmental-rules/2012/02/07/gIQAvJzx8Q_print.html
NY leads 11 states in suing EPA over soot rules
AP
NEW YORK — New York and 10 other states filed a lawsuit Friday designed to
force the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to issue new regulations on
soot pollution.
http://online.wsj.com/article/APf8eee360d2e545c6af1ee12cdfad8227.html?grcc=f77ff1737da71a56f3c0d134ade45ab2Z9&mod=WSJ_hpp_sections_newyork
E.P.A. Is Sued Over Delays in Soot Standards
NY Times
By MIREYA NAVARRO
Eleven states sued the Environmental Protection Agency on Friday over its
delays in tightening air quality standards involving soot.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/11/science/earth/epa-is-sued-over-delays-in-soot-standards.html?_r=1&ref=earth&pagewanted=print
Lights Out for Some Coal Plants
Forbes
First there were six. Now there's three more. What's going on in the
coal-fired utility business? FirstEnergy of Ohio plans to close by
September those 9 units, which supply as much as 13 percent of the
company's electricity.
http://www.forbes.com/sites/kensilverstein/2012/02/12/lights-out-for-some-coal-plants/
Texas challenges EPA greenhouse gas regulations
Dallas Business Journal
Date: Friday, February 10, 2012, 2:57pm CST
The State of Texas has filed its opening brief challenging the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency's decision to impose greenhouse gas
regulations in the state.
http://www.bizjournals.com/dallas/news/2012/02/10/texas-challenges-epa-greenhouse-gas.html
Lawmakers ask Obama EPA not to arm terrorists
Oklahoman
Joel Gehrke
Published: February 11, 2012
President Obama's Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) officials have
proposed a rule that could give terrorists "one more weapon" for attacking
the United States, according to House lawmakers, in order to avoid having
to answer as many Freedom of Information Act requests.
http://newsok.com/lawmakers-ask-obama-epa-not-to-arm-terrorists/article/feed/346991
Press Releases
Settlement with New Cingular Wireless to Resolve Violations of Community
Right-to-Know Law
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced
an agreement with New Cingular Wireless to resolve violations of the
Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA). New Cingular
Wireless voluntarily disclosed reporting violations to EPA, which related
to the presence of sulfuric acid, diesel, and lead at 642 cellular
facilities in 35 states and Puerto Rico, after performing a comprehensive
audit of their operations. EPCRA requires facilities to report information
about the chemicals and hazardous materials they have onsite to ensure that
local emergency planners have the information they need to protect people's
health in the event of a release or emergency.
New Cingular Wireless was created in October 2004 through the merger of
AT&T Wireless and Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC. This settlement concerns
violations occurring at legacy Cingular Wireless sites from 2001 to 2003
and at New Cingular Wireless sites from October 2004 to 2006, specifically,
violations at cellular sites, transmitter sites, switching stations, and
warehouses. All of the violations disclosed by the company have been
corrected, and the company has made improvements to its battery inventory,
recordkeeping and management systems to prevent the reoccurrence of these
violations.
Since EPA reached its first audit policy settlement with a
telecommunications company in 1998, nearly 40 telecommunications businesses
have disclosed EPCRA violations. In doing so, they have enhanced facility
and emergency response personnel's capabilities to react to hazardous
chemical emergencies at nearly 5,000 facilities. The audit policy provides
incentives to companies that voluntarily discover, promptly disclose, and
expeditiously correct environmental violations. The companies must also
take steps to prevent future violations. EPA may reduce or waive penalties
for certain violations if the facility meets the conditions of the policy.
Under the settlement, New Cingular Wireless will pay a civil penalty of
$125,728.
More information about the settlement:
http://www.epa.gov/compliance/resources/cases/civil/mm/ncw.html
Industry Progressing in Voluntary Effort to Reduce Toxic Chemicals
Companies have successfully developed more than150 alternatives to
long-chain perfluorinated chemicals.
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released
the interim results of a voluntary effort by eight chemical manufacturers
to reduce emissions and use of long-chain perfluorinated chemicals
(LCPFCs), including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). Used in hundreds of
manufacturing and industrial applications, LCPFCs are toxic, persistent in
our environment worldwide and can accumulate in people. Reducing toxic
chemicals in our environment is one of EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson's
top priorities.
EPA's 2010/15 PFOA Stewardship Program was established in 2006 in
partnership with DuPont, Solvay Solexis, Asahi Glass Company, Daikin
America, Inc., Clariant International Ltd., 3M/Dyneon, Arkema Inc. and BASF
(formerly Ciba Specialty Chemicals Corporation). The program set a goal of
reducing facility emissions and product content of PFOA and related
chemicals on a global basis by 95 percent, no later than 2010, and to work
toward eliminating emissions and product content of these chemicals by
2015. The interim results released today highlight the success companies
participating in the partnership have made in reducing releases of PFOA and
other LCPFCs.
Daikin, DuPont, 3M/Dyneon and Solvay Solexis have met the program's
intermediate goal of a 95 percent reduction in global emissions and product
content by 2010. The companies continue to reduce emissions of LCPFC's as
well as overall product content of LCPFC's. Additionally, more than150
replacement chemicals have been developed. The eight participating
companies have informed EPA that they are on track to phase out LCPFCs by
the end of 2015.
"I am pleased to see that many of the Stewardship Program companies are
making excellent progress and all are on track to meet the ultimate goal of
phasing out LCPFCs by the end of 2015," said Jim Jones, acting assistant
administrator for EPA's Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention.
"The program is an important part of the agency's efforts to mitigate
exposures to LCPFCs."
EPA remains concerned about LCPFCs being produced by companies that are not
participating in the stewardship program and intends to take action to
address those concerns. These actions are part of an ongoing effort
outlined in 2009 that would further reduce exposure to LCPFCs by addressing
their use in products from sources other than the eight companies
participating in the stewardship program. For more information on these
efforts, see the action plan at:
http://www.epa.gov/oppt/existingchemicals/pubs/actionplans/pfcs.html
More information on PFOA and LCPFCs: www.epa.gov/oppt/pfoa
Company progress reports and EPA's summary tables:
http://epa.gov/oppt/pfoa/pubs/stewardship/preports5.html
EPA Releases Final Health Assessment for Tetrachloroethylene (Perc)
Public health protections remain in place
WASHINGTON – Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) posted
the final health assessment for tetrachloroethylene – also known as
perchloroethylene, or perc – to EPA's Integrated Risk Information System
(IRIS) database. Perc is a chemical solvent widely used in the dry cleaning
industry. It is also used in the cleaning of metal machinery and to
manufacture some consumer products and other chemicals. Confirming
longstanding scientific understanding and research, the final assessment
characterizes perc as a "likely human carcinogen." The assessment provides
estimates for both cancer and non-cancer effects associated with exposure
to perc over a lifetime.
EPA does not believe that wearing clothes dry cleaned with perc will result
in exposures which pose a risk of concern. EPA has already taken several
significant actions to reduce exposure to perc. EPA has clean air standards
for dry cleaners that use perc, including requirements that will phase-out
the use of perc by dry cleaners in residential buildings by December 21,
2020. EPA also set limits for the amount of perc allowed in drinking water
and levels for cleaning up perc at Superfund sites throughout the country,
which will be updated in light of the IRIS assessment.
"The perc health assessment released today will provide valuable
information to help protect people and communities from exposure to perc in
soil, water and air," said Paul Anastas, assistant administrator for EPA's
Office of Research and Development. "This assessment emphasizes the value
of the IRIS database in providing strong science to support government
officials as they make decisions to protect the health of the American
people."
The toxicity values reported in the perc IRIS assessment will be considered
in:
� Establishing cleanup levels at the hundreds of Superfund sites
where perc is a contaminant
� Revising EPA's Maximum Contaminant Level for perc as part of the
carcinogenic volatile organic compounds group in drinking water, as
described in the agency's drinking water strategy
� Evaluating whether to propose additional limits on the emissions
of perc into the atmosphere, since perc is considered a hazardous air
pollutant under the Clean Air Act
The assessment replaces the 1988 IRIS assessment for perc and for the first
time includes a hazard characterization for cancer effects. This assessment
has undergone several levels of rigorous, independent peer review
including: agency review, interagency review, public comment, and external
peer review by the National Research Council. All major review comments
have been addressed.
EPA continues to strengthen IRIS as part of an ongoing effort to ensure the
best possible science is used to protect human health and the environment.
In May 2009, EPA streamlined the IRIS process to increase transparency,
ensure the timely publication of assessments, and reinforce independent
review. In July 2011, EPA announced further changes to strengthen the IRIS
program in response to recommendations from the National Academy of
Sciences. EPA's peer review process is designed to elicit the strongest
possible critique to ensure that each final IRIS assessment reflects sound,
rigorous science.
More information on the perc IRIS assessment:
http://www.epa.gov/iris/subst/0106.htm
More information on perc:
http://epa.gov/oppt/existingchemicals/pubs/perchloroethylene_fact_sheet.html
More information on IRIS: http://www.epa.gov/IRIS
Friday, February 10, 2012
News Clippings 2/10/12
Oil Spill
Judge excludes testimony from Gulf oil spill trial
AP
A federal judge has ruled out testimony about a deadly 2005 explosion at a
BP PLC refinery in Texas from the first phase of a trial over the oil
giant's liability for the 2010 oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/09/v-print/3742817/judge-excludes-testimony-from.html
State News
Flood project revival eyed
Levee board asks court to nix EPA veto of Yazoo Backwater
AP
NEW ORLEANS — A Mississippi levee board asked a federal appeals court
Thursday to revive a $220 million Yazoo River flood control project the
Environmental Protection Agency vetoed in 2008 over concerns it would harm
wetlands and wildlife.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120210/NEWS/202100326/Flood-project-revival-eyed
Casinos raise questions on offshore drilling
Sun Herald
By GEOFF PENDER
GULFPORT -- Coast casinos say they're not opposed to oil and gas drilling
in Mississippi waters, but they still have concerns they want addressed to
protect the tourism industry as the state moves forward.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/09/v-print/3743602/coast-casinos-say-theyre-not-opposed.html
Pilot recycling plan pitched to leaders
By CALEB BEDILLION
DAILY LEADER
Brookhaven residents can give recycling a go if city leaders accept a pilot
program offered by Waste Management.
http://www.dailyleader.com/topstories/article_8989af14-5352-11e1-8c8e-0019bb2963f4.html
Bill limiting AG's power dies
Rules not followed; Hood not in clear yet
AP
A bill to limit Attorney General Jim Hood's power died Thursday after it
was found to violate parliamentary rules in the Mississippi House. But Hood
is not in the clear yet.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120210/NEWS/202100336/Bill-limiting-AG-s-power-dies
.
National News
As 'Yuck Factor' Subsides, Treated Wastewater Flows From Taps
NY Times
By FELICITY BARRINGER
SAN DIEGO — Almost hidden in the northern hills, the pilot water treatment
plant here does not seem a harbinger of revolution. It cost $13 million,
uses long-established technologies and produces a million gallons a day.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/10/science/earth/despite-yuck-factor-treated-wastewater-used-for-drinking.html?_r=1&ref=earth&pagewanted=print
Federal Regulators Approve Two Nuclear Reactors in Georgia
NY Times
By MATTHEW L. WALD
WASHINGTON — The Nuclear Regulatory Commission voted 4 to 1 on Thursday to
grant a license to build and operate two reactors at a nuclear plant in
Georgia, a crucial threshold for an industry that has not had a new start
since 1978.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/10/business/energy-environment/2-new-reactors-approved-in-georgia.html?ref=earth&pagewanted=print
EPA: Union Pacific will pay $1.5M for spills
AP
Federal officials say Union Pacific Corp. has agreed to a $1.5 million
settlement involving alleged oil and coal spills in Colorado, Wyoming and
Utah.
http://www.businessweek.com/ap/financialnews/D9SQ3REO0.htm
California dairies find going 'green' expensive
AP
California's new greenhouse rules offer dairies two reasons to be thankful
-- an exemption from the limits and a chance to make money by voluntarily
cutting back climate-warming methane.
http://www.sunherald.com/2011/11/07/v-print/3743835/california-dairies-find-going.html
NYC sewage plant to offer Valentine's Day tours
AP
NEW YORK (AP) – It may not smell like a rose but a New York City sewage
plant is offering tours for lovers on Valentine's Day.
http://www.usatoday.com/news/offbeat/story/2012-02-10/valentines-sewage-tour/53035654/1
Judge excludes testimony from Gulf oil spill trial
AP
A federal judge has ruled out testimony about a deadly 2005 explosion at a
BP PLC refinery in Texas from the first phase of a trial over the oil
giant's liability for the 2010 oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/09/v-print/3742817/judge-excludes-testimony-from.html
State News
Flood project revival eyed
Levee board asks court to nix EPA veto of Yazoo Backwater
AP
NEW ORLEANS — A Mississippi levee board asked a federal appeals court
Thursday to revive a $220 million Yazoo River flood control project the
Environmental Protection Agency vetoed in 2008 over concerns it would harm
wetlands and wildlife.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120210/NEWS/202100326/Flood-project-revival-eyed
Casinos raise questions on offshore drilling
Sun Herald
By GEOFF PENDER
GULFPORT -- Coast casinos say they're not opposed to oil and gas drilling
in Mississippi waters, but they still have concerns they want addressed to
protect the tourism industry as the state moves forward.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/09/v-print/3743602/coast-casinos-say-theyre-not-opposed.html
Pilot recycling plan pitched to leaders
By CALEB BEDILLION
DAILY LEADER
Brookhaven residents can give recycling a go if city leaders accept a pilot
program offered by Waste Management.
http://www.dailyleader.com/topstories/article_8989af14-5352-11e1-8c8e-0019bb2963f4.html
Bill limiting AG's power dies
Rules not followed; Hood not in clear yet
AP
A bill to limit Attorney General Jim Hood's power died Thursday after it
was found to violate parliamentary rules in the Mississippi House. But Hood
is not in the clear yet.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120210/NEWS/202100336/Bill-limiting-AG-s-power-dies
.
National News
As 'Yuck Factor' Subsides, Treated Wastewater Flows From Taps
NY Times
By FELICITY BARRINGER
SAN DIEGO — Almost hidden in the northern hills, the pilot water treatment
plant here does not seem a harbinger of revolution. It cost $13 million,
uses long-established technologies and produces a million gallons a day.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/10/science/earth/despite-yuck-factor-treated-wastewater-used-for-drinking.html?_r=1&ref=earth&pagewanted=print
Federal Regulators Approve Two Nuclear Reactors in Georgia
NY Times
By MATTHEW L. WALD
WASHINGTON — The Nuclear Regulatory Commission voted 4 to 1 on Thursday to
grant a license to build and operate two reactors at a nuclear plant in
Georgia, a crucial threshold for an industry that has not had a new start
since 1978.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/10/business/energy-environment/2-new-reactors-approved-in-georgia.html?ref=earth&pagewanted=print
EPA: Union Pacific will pay $1.5M for spills
AP
Federal officials say Union Pacific Corp. has agreed to a $1.5 million
settlement involving alleged oil and coal spills in Colorado, Wyoming and
Utah.
http://www.businessweek.com/ap/financialnews/D9SQ3REO0.htm
California dairies find going 'green' expensive
AP
California's new greenhouse rules offer dairies two reasons to be thankful
-- an exemption from the limits and a chance to make money by voluntarily
cutting back climate-warming methane.
http://www.sunherald.com/2011/11/07/v-print/3743835/california-dairies-find-going.html
NYC sewage plant to offer Valentine's Day tours
AP
NEW YORK (AP) – It may not smell like a rose but a New York City sewage
plant is offering tours for lovers on Valentine's Day.
http://www.usatoday.com/news/offbeat/story/2012-02-10/valentines-sewage-tour/53035654/1
Thursday, February 9, 2012
News Clippings 2/9/12
Oil Spill
Gulf Coast lawmakers: Time may be running out for RESTORE Act
Published: Wednesday, February 08, 2012, 2:35 PM Updated: Wednesday,
February 08, 2012, 6:25 PM
By George Altman, Washington Bureau , Press Register
WASHINGTON -- Members of Congress from the Gulf Coast, joined by local
officials in Washington to push for an oil spill fine bill, worried
Wednesday that time could be running short for legislation to send what
could be billions of dollars in spill fines to the Gulf.
http://blog.al.com/live/2012/02/gulf_coast_lawmakers_time_may.html
Gulf coast leaders urge passage of Restore Act
WLOX
A coalition of Gulf Coast leaders is lobbying Congress to pass the Restore
Act. That bill would require that 80 percent of all BP fine money be
distributed to the five Gulf Coast states.
http://www.wlox.com/story/16772492/gulf-coast-leaders-urge-passage-of-restore-act
State News
Court to hear case over Miss. pumps project
AP
A Mississippi levee board is asking a federal appeals court to revive a
$220 million flood control project that the Environmental Protection Agency
vetoed in 2008, claiming it would harm wetlands and wildlife.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/09/v-print/3741299/court-to-hear-case-over-miss-pumps.html
Recycling changes could be ahead in north Miss.
AP
The Three Rivers Solid Waste Authority is negotiating terms with the
Canadian company Enerkem to build a new material-recycling facility at the
Pontotoc landfill.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/09/v-print/3741150/recycling-changes-could-be-ahead.html
County waste authority now exists in name only
Madison County Herald
By Lucy Weber
Too many maybes and not enough certainties led the Madison County Board of
Supervisors to all but dissolve an authority charged with oversight of
county trash.
http://www.mcherald.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120209/NEWS/202090305/-1/NEWS01/County-waste-authority-now-exists-in-name-only
Keep Mississippi Beautiful makes plans for Smithville projects
by Alice Ortiz
02.07.12 - 05:01 am
SMITHVILLE - A luncheon meeting was held on Jan. 11 by Keep Monroe County
Beautiful representatives, officials from Smithville and Monroe County, and
Keep Mississippi Beautiful Executive Director Sarah Kountouris of Madison,
where plans were made for Smithville beautification projects.
http://monroe360.com/view/full_story/17346534/article-Keep-Mississippi-Beautiful-makes-plans-for-Smithville-projects?instance=secondary_stories_left_column
Officials discuss oil boom
By Ernest Herndon
Enterprise-Journal
LIBERTY — Town officials got a report Tuesday on what to expect as the
Amite County oilfield boom continues to unfold.
http://www.enterprise-journal.com/news/article_127e0972-5282-11e1-9c9e-0019bb2963f4.html
Broken drainage pipe eroding property
WLBT
A south Jackson couple blames a ruptured drain pipe for the erosion problem
that is destroying their property.
http://www.wlbt.com/story/16774993/broken-drainage-pipe-eroding-property
City wraps up water project
Hattiesburg American
The City of Hattiesburg can check another thing off its infrastructure
to-do list.
Officials cut the ribbon Wednesday on a new water treatment plant at the
Wesley Water Tank along Weathersby Road. The year-long, $1 million project
will address complaints from business owners and managers in the area about
rust-colored water that was staining their linens and bathroom facilities -
and negatively impacting business.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/article/20120209/NEWS01/202090325/City-wraps-up-water-project
Utility to replant trees in Clinton
Clarion Ledger
After tornadoes and high winds roared through Clinton last April, uprooted
trees littered the landscape.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120209/NEWS/202090345/Utility-replant-trees-Clinton
National News
House Democrats cite lax oversight of oil, natural gas drilling on public
land
By Associated Press, Published: February 8
WASHINGTON — Federal policing of oil and natural gas drilling on public
lands is lax and inconsistent, with only 6 percent of violations resulting
in monetary fines over 13 years, House Democrats said in a report
Wednesday.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/apnewsbreak-house-democrats-cite-lax-oversight-of-oil-natural-gas-drilling-on-public-land/2012/02/08/gIQAlL3VzQ_print.html
EPA: U.S. needs $300B in sewer, water work
Published: February 8, 2012 9:38 PM
By MICHAEL GORMLEY
The Associated Press
ALBANY -- A federal study shows municipalities nationwide need more than
$300 billion worth of essential upgrades to long overlooked water and sewer
systems over the next 20 years.
http://www.newsday.com/news/region-state/epa-u-s-needs-300b-in-sewer-water-work-1.3515419
Religious right bashes green evangelicals for supporting EPA rules
The Hill
By Ben Geman - 02/08/12 02:38 PM ET
Religious-right leaders are slamming a green evangelical group for casting
support for Environmental Protection Agency rules to cut power plant
mercury emissions as a "pro-life" position.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/209465-pro-life-leaders-bash-green-evangelicals-over-epa-rule
Gulf Coast lawmakers: Time may be running out for RESTORE Act
Published: Wednesday, February 08, 2012, 2:35 PM Updated: Wednesday,
February 08, 2012, 6:25 PM
By George Altman, Washington Bureau , Press Register
WASHINGTON -- Members of Congress from the Gulf Coast, joined by local
officials in Washington to push for an oil spill fine bill, worried
Wednesday that time could be running short for legislation to send what
could be billions of dollars in spill fines to the Gulf.
http://blog.al.com/live/2012/02/gulf_coast_lawmakers_time_may.html
Gulf coast leaders urge passage of Restore Act
WLOX
A coalition of Gulf Coast leaders is lobbying Congress to pass the Restore
Act. That bill would require that 80 percent of all BP fine money be
distributed to the five Gulf Coast states.
http://www.wlox.com/story/16772492/gulf-coast-leaders-urge-passage-of-restore-act
State News
Court to hear case over Miss. pumps project
AP
A Mississippi levee board is asking a federal appeals court to revive a
$220 million flood control project that the Environmental Protection Agency
vetoed in 2008, claiming it would harm wetlands and wildlife.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/09/v-print/3741299/court-to-hear-case-over-miss-pumps.html
Recycling changes could be ahead in north Miss.
AP
The Three Rivers Solid Waste Authority is negotiating terms with the
Canadian company Enerkem to build a new material-recycling facility at the
Pontotoc landfill.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/02/09/v-print/3741150/recycling-changes-could-be-ahead.html
County waste authority now exists in name only
Madison County Herald
By Lucy Weber
Too many maybes and not enough certainties led the Madison County Board of
Supervisors to all but dissolve an authority charged with oversight of
county trash.
http://www.mcherald.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120209/NEWS/202090305/-1/NEWS01/County-waste-authority-now-exists-in-name-only
Keep Mississippi Beautiful makes plans for Smithville projects
by Alice Ortiz
02.07.12 - 05:01 am
SMITHVILLE - A luncheon meeting was held on Jan. 11 by Keep Monroe County
Beautiful representatives, officials from Smithville and Monroe County, and
Keep Mississippi Beautiful Executive Director Sarah Kountouris of Madison,
where plans were made for Smithville beautification projects.
http://monroe360.com/view/full_story/17346534/article-Keep-Mississippi-Beautiful-makes-plans-for-Smithville-projects?instance=secondary_stories_left_column
Officials discuss oil boom
By Ernest Herndon
Enterprise-Journal
LIBERTY — Town officials got a report Tuesday on what to expect as the
Amite County oilfield boom continues to unfold.
http://www.enterprise-journal.com/news/article_127e0972-5282-11e1-9c9e-0019bb2963f4.html
Broken drainage pipe eroding property
WLBT
A south Jackson couple blames a ruptured drain pipe for the erosion problem
that is destroying their property.
http://www.wlbt.com/story/16774993/broken-drainage-pipe-eroding-property
City wraps up water project
Hattiesburg American
The City of Hattiesburg can check another thing off its infrastructure
to-do list.
Officials cut the ribbon Wednesday on a new water treatment plant at the
Wesley Water Tank along Weathersby Road. The year-long, $1 million project
will address complaints from business owners and managers in the area about
rust-colored water that was staining their linens and bathroom facilities -
and negatively impacting business.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/article/20120209/NEWS01/202090325/City-wraps-up-water-project
Utility to replant trees in Clinton
Clarion Ledger
After tornadoes and high winds roared through Clinton last April, uprooted
trees littered the landscape.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120209/NEWS/202090345/Utility-replant-trees-Clinton
National News
House Democrats cite lax oversight of oil, natural gas drilling on public
land
By Associated Press, Published: February 8
WASHINGTON — Federal policing of oil and natural gas drilling on public
lands is lax and inconsistent, with only 6 percent of violations resulting
in monetary fines over 13 years, House Democrats said in a report
Wednesday.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/apnewsbreak-house-democrats-cite-lax-oversight-of-oil-natural-gas-drilling-on-public-land/2012/02/08/gIQAlL3VzQ_print.html
EPA: U.S. needs $300B in sewer, water work
Published: February 8, 2012 9:38 PM
By MICHAEL GORMLEY
The Associated Press
ALBANY -- A federal study shows municipalities nationwide need more than
$300 billion worth of essential upgrades to long overlooked water and sewer
systems over the next 20 years.
http://www.newsday.com/news/region-state/epa-u-s-needs-300b-in-sewer-water-work-1.3515419
Religious right bashes green evangelicals for supporting EPA rules
The Hill
By Ben Geman - 02/08/12 02:38 PM ET
Religious-right leaders are slamming a green evangelical group for casting
support for Environmental Protection Agency rules to cut power plant
mercury emissions as a "pro-life" position.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/209465-pro-life-leaders-bash-green-evangelicals-over-epa-rule
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
News Clippings 2/8/12
Oil Spill
Post-hurricane season oil spill inspections complete
Mississippi Business Journal
Published: February 7,2012
GULF COAST — The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality reports
the post-hurricane season shoreline oil spill inspections for Mississippi
have been completed. These inspections were conducted to ensure that no
additional oil impacts occurred as a result of storms passing through the
Gulf of Mexico during the 2011 hurricane season.
http://msbusiness.com/2012/02/post-hurricane-season-oil-spill-inspections-complete/
Coast realtor left frustrated by oil spill claims process
WLOX
Sales awards adorn the office of Stephen Greer. They have been few and far
between in recent years. What is plentiful are the mountains of paperwork
Greer has filed with the Gulf Coast Claims Facility (GCCF) in recent
months.
http://www.wlox.com/story/16698190/coast-realtor-left-frustrated-by-oil-spill-claims-process
Recovering dolphin reveals secrets about Gulf oil spill
WLOX
The young dolphin found stranded November 24th survived and is thriving now
thanks to the scientists at the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies in
Gulfport.
http://www.wlox.com/story/16690285/recovering-dolphin-reveals-secrets-about-gulf-oil-spill
State News
Professor: Katrina had minimal impact on East Pearl River
WLOX
An article in a recent issue of the Journal of Hydrology details how a team
of scientists headed by researchers from the University of Southern
Mississippi found that Hurricane Katrina had minimal long term impact on
the water quality of the East Pearl River in southwest Mississippi.
http://www.wlox.com/story/16695466/professor-katrina-had-minimal-impact-on-east-pearl-river
Amite OKs fracking study
Enterprise Journal
By Randy Hammons, Enterprise-Journal | 0 comments
LIBERTY — The Amite County Board of Supervisors agreed Monday to hire a
firm to study shale oil and gas development in southwest Mississippi.
http://www.enterprise-journal.com/news/article_2441851e-51ae-11e1-9721-0019bb2963f4.html
Houlka, Houston to improve sewers
AP
TUPELO — The towns of Houston and New Houlka have received Community
Development Block Grants for $450,000 each that will be used for sewer line
improvements in both towns.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120208/NEWS/202080345/Houlka-Houston-improve-sewers
House panel snubs Hood, OKs bill limiting AG's authority
AP
A state House committee voted Tuesday to push forward a bill that would cut
Attorney General Jim Hood's authority, turning down Hood's request to speak
to the group before it voted.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120208/NEWS010504/202080337/House-panel-snubs-Hood-OKs-bill-limiting-AG-s-authority
National News
EPA Sends Third Step of Greenhouse Gas Tailoring Rule to White House for
Review
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Bloomberg
By Andrew Childers
The Environmental Protection Agency has sent a proposed rule on revisions
to its greenhouse gas permitting program to the White House for review. The
proposed rule is expected to solicit comments on the third step of the
greenhouse gas tailoring rule.
http://www.bna.com/epa-sends-third-n12884907684/
EPA questioned over CAFO rules
Wed, 2012-02-08 16:53
National Cattlemen's Beef Association
Western Farm Press
Ellen Gilinsky with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) faced a
roomful of cattlemen and women at the National Cattlemen's Beef
Association's annual convention held in Nashville, Tenn. Gilinsky, who
serves as a senior policy advisor to EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson,
received questions regarding the proposed Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 308
CAFO (Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations) Reporting Rule. The center of
concern stems from what was referred to as a serious overreach of EPA's
authority. NCBA Deputy Environmental Counsel Ashley Lyon said the proposed
rule could put the nation's food system at risk of increased terrorist
attacks.
http://westernfarmpress.com/government/epa-questioned-over-cafo-rules
Tree-hugging Dr. Seuss character will be marketeer
AP
LOS ANGELES – The Lorax, perhaps the most famous anti-industrial crusader
from children's literature, is about to become a big-time corporate
spokesman.
http://www.usatoday.com/money/media/story/2012-02-08/lorax-markets-eco-products/53006570/1?loc=interstitialskip
Press Releases
EPA Recognizes DoD Facilities for Emission Reductions and Energy Savings
Facilities reported annual energy savings of $6.8 million
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognized two
Department of Defense (DoD) facilities with the Energy Star Combined Heat
and Power (CHP) award for taking an efficient, clean, and reliable approach
to generating power and thermal energy from a single source. By using CHP
technology, the award winners demonstrated leadership and a commitment to
protecting people's health and the environment while reporting annual
energy savings of $6.8 million.
"I congratulate these military bases for leading by example in the efforts
to reduce pollution, improve energy efficiency, and cut energy costs," said
Gina McCarthy, assistant administrator for EPA's Office of Air and
Radiation. "These advanced CHP systems give us reliable, clean and cost
cutting ways to keep our military bases powered and our environment
protected."
The CHP awards were presented to the following facilities at today's
International District Energy Association's Annual Campus Energy Conference
in Arlington, Va.:
• U.S. Army Garrison Fort Bragg, N.C.
• U.S. Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif.
CHP technology produces both electricity and steam/hot water from a single
heat source, using fuels such as natural gas, biomass, or wasted energy. By
using this technology, the bases' CHP systems achieved operating
efficiencies of nearly 65 percent, much higher than the efficiency of
separate production of electricity and thermal energy (typically less than
50 percent). Based on this comparison, the CHP systems avoided carbon
pollution equal to that from the electricity used by more than 4,000 homes.
The CHP systems also increase the bases' energy security and reliability
because the systems can run independently in the event of a power outage.
As the largest U.S. energy consumer, DoD recognizes that reliable energy
supplies for its military installations are critical to our nation's
security.
Established in 2001, EPA's CHP Partnership is a voluntary program that
encourages the use of CHP to reduce the environmental impact of power
generation. The partnership works closely with energy users, the CHP
industry, state and local governments, and other energy stakeholders to
facilitate the development of new projects and to promote energy,
environmental and economic benefits.
More information about the CHP Partnership: http://www.epa.gov/chp/
More information about the Energy Star CHP Awards:
http://epa.gov/chp/public-recognition/current_winners.html
Post-hurricane season oil spill inspections complete
Mississippi Business Journal
Published: February 7,2012
GULF COAST — The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality reports
the post-hurricane season shoreline oil spill inspections for Mississippi
have been completed. These inspections were conducted to ensure that no
additional oil impacts occurred as a result of storms passing through the
Gulf of Mexico during the 2011 hurricane season.
http://msbusiness.com/2012/02/post-hurricane-season-oil-spill-inspections-complete/
Coast realtor left frustrated by oil spill claims process
WLOX
Sales awards adorn the office of Stephen Greer. They have been few and far
between in recent years. What is plentiful are the mountains of paperwork
Greer has filed with the Gulf Coast Claims Facility (GCCF) in recent
months.
http://www.wlox.com/story/16698190/coast-realtor-left-frustrated-by-oil-spill-claims-process
Recovering dolphin reveals secrets about Gulf oil spill
WLOX
The young dolphin found stranded November 24th survived and is thriving now
thanks to the scientists at the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies in
Gulfport.
http://www.wlox.com/story/16690285/recovering-dolphin-reveals-secrets-about-gulf-oil-spill
State News
Professor: Katrina had minimal impact on East Pearl River
WLOX
An article in a recent issue of the Journal of Hydrology details how a team
of scientists headed by researchers from the University of Southern
Mississippi found that Hurricane Katrina had minimal long term impact on
the water quality of the East Pearl River in southwest Mississippi.
http://www.wlox.com/story/16695466/professor-katrina-had-minimal-impact-on-east-pearl-river
Amite OKs fracking study
Enterprise Journal
By Randy Hammons, Enterprise-Journal | 0 comments
LIBERTY — The Amite County Board of Supervisors agreed Monday to hire a
firm to study shale oil and gas development in southwest Mississippi.
http://www.enterprise-journal.com/news/article_2441851e-51ae-11e1-9721-0019bb2963f4.html
Houlka, Houston to improve sewers
AP
TUPELO — The towns of Houston and New Houlka have received Community
Development Block Grants for $450,000 each that will be used for sewer line
improvements in both towns.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120208/NEWS/202080345/Houlka-Houston-improve-sewers
House panel snubs Hood, OKs bill limiting AG's authority
AP
A state House committee voted Tuesday to push forward a bill that would cut
Attorney General Jim Hood's authority, turning down Hood's request to speak
to the group before it voted.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120208/NEWS010504/202080337/House-panel-snubs-Hood-OKs-bill-limiting-AG-s-authority
National News
EPA Sends Third Step of Greenhouse Gas Tailoring Rule to White House for
Review
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Bloomberg
By Andrew Childers
The Environmental Protection Agency has sent a proposed rule on revisions
to its greenhouse gas permitting program to the White House for review. The
proposed rule is expected to solicit comments on the third step of the
greenhouse gas tailoring rule.
http://www.bna.com/epa-sends-third-n12884907684/
EPA questioned over CAFO rules
Wed, 2012-02-08 16:53
National Cattlemen's Beef Association
Western Farm Press
Ellen Gilinsky with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) faced a
roomful of cattlemen and women at the National Cattlemen's Beef
Association's annual convention held in Nashville, Tenn. Gilinsky, who
serves as a senior policy advisor to EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson,
received questions regarding the proposed Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 308
CAFO (Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations) Reporting Rule. The center of
concern stems from what was referred to as a serious overreach of EPA's
authority. NCBA Deputy Environmental Counsel Ashley Lyon said the proposed
rule could put the nation's food system at risk of increased terrorist
attacks.
http://westernfarmpress.com/government/epa-questioned-over-cafo-rules
Tree-hugging Dr. Seuss character will be marketeer
AP
LOS ANGELES – The Lorax, perhaps the most famous anti-industrial crusader
from children's literature, is about to become a big-time corporate
spokesman.
http://www.usatoday.com/money/media/story/2012-02-08/lorax-markets-eco-products/53006570/1?loc=interstitialskip
Press Releases
EPA Recognizes DoD Facilities for Emission Reductions and Energy Savings
Facilities reported annual energy savings of $6.8 million
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognized two
Department of Defense (DoD) facilities with the Energy Star Combined Heat
and Power (CHP) award for taking an efficient, clean, and reliable approach
to generating power and thermal energy from a single source. By using CHP
technology, the award winners demonstrated leadership and a commitment to
protecting people's health and the environment while reporting annual
energy savings of $6.8 million.
"I congratulate these military bases for leading by example in the efforts
to reduce pollution, improve energy efficiency, and cut energy costs," said
Gina McCarthy, assistant administrator for EPA's Office of Air and
Radiation. "These advanced CHP systems give us reliable, clean and cost
cutting ways to keep our military bases powered and our environment
protected."
The CHP awards were presented to the following facilities at today's
International District Energy Association's Annual Campus Energy Conference
in Arlington, Va.:
• U.S. Army Garrison Fort Bragg, N.C.
• U.S. Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, Calif.
CHP technology produces both electricity and steam/hot water from a single
heat source, using fuels such as natural gas, biomass, or wasted energy. By
using this technology, the bases' CHP systems achieved operating
efficiencies of nearly 65 percent, much higher than the efficiency of
separate production of electricity and thermal energy (typically less than
50 percent). Based on this comparison, the CHP systems avoided carbon
pollution equal to that from the electricity used by more than 4,000 homes.
The CHP systems also increase the bases' energy security and reliability
because the systems can run independently in the event of a power outage.
As the largest U.S. energy consumer, DoD recognizes that reliable energy
supplies for its military installations are critical to our nation's
security.
Established in 2001, EPA's CHP Partnership is a voluntary program that
encourages the use of CHP to reduce the environmental impact of power
generation. The partnership works closely with energy users, the CHP
industry, state and local governments, and other energy stakeholders to
facilitate the development of new projects and to promote energy,
environmental and economic benefits.
More information about the CHP Partnership: http://www.epa.gov/chp/
More information about the Energy Star CHP Awards:
http://epa.gov/chp/public-recognition/current_winners.html
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