11.27.2013
Oil Spill
$4.19 million earmarked for oyster industry
By ZACK McDONALD
The News Herald
Published: Tuesday, November 26, 2013 at 11:39 AM.
The first wave of relief is on its way following the 2010 Deepwater Horizon
oil spill in the form of $15.7 million along the Panhandle, officials
announced Nov. 14.
http://www.apalachtimes.com/news/local-news/4-19-million-earmarked-for-oyster-industry-1.240611
State
New study shows U.S. losing coastal wetlands at alarming rate
WLOX
OCEAN SPRINGS, MS (WLOX) -The United States is losing coastal wetlands at
an alarming rate. That's the finding of a new study done by NOAA and the
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
http://www.wlox.com/story/24078429/new-study-shows-us-losing-coastal-wetlands-at-alarming-rate
Walkers, Janus, former DMR employees given later trial dates
Sun Herald
BY ANITA LEE
November 26, 2013
GULFPORT -- New trial dates have been set in public-corruption cases
against former state Department of Marine Resources Executive Director Bill
Walker, his son Scott Walker, former D'Iberville City Manager Michael Janus
and two former DMR employees.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/26/5149823/walkers-janus-former-dmr-employees.html
Five attorneys working for Mississippi to keep records from public
Sun Herald
BY ANITA LEE
State Auditor Stacey Pickering and Attorney General Jim Hood now have five
attorneys working to keep Mississippi Department of Marine Resources
records out of the public's hands.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/26/5149821/five-attorneys-working-for-state.html
National
Park Service chief withdraws 'fracking' comments
The Hill
By Ben Geman
The National Park Service (NPS) is walking back comments that showcased
doubts about whether natural gas development can help battle climate
change, acknowledging they "did not receive appropriate review."
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/191529-national-park-service-chief-withdraws-fracking-comments
Cow flatulence partially blamed for increase in methane emissions, study
says
The Associated Press
November 26, 2013 at 8:01 AM
The United States is spewing 50 percent more methane — a potent
heat-trapping gas — than the federal government estimates, a new
comprehensive scientific study says. Much of it is coming from just three
states: Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas.
http://www.nola.com/environment/index.ssf/2013/11/cow_flatulence_partially_blame.html#incart_river
Coal's Decline Hits Hardest in the Mines of Kentucky
Mine Closures and Layoffs Are Reshaping Region's Coalfields
Wall Street Journal
HARLAN, Ky.—Since he was laid off from his mining job in January, William
Hensley's life has been upended.
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702304337404579212262280342336?mod=WSJ_WSJ_US_News_4
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
News Clippings 11.26.13
11.26.13
State
McComb mayor on a crusade to increase recycling in the Pike County
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
November 25, 2013 - 4:31 pm EST
MCCOMB, Mississippi — McComb Mayor Whitney Rawlings is on a crusade to
increase recycling in the Pike County.
http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/d2e579836c6744ac8b26a7926f77e998/MS--Pike-Recycling-Program
Mayor: Land near BSL sewage lagoon not a dump
WLOX
BAY ST. LOUIS, MS (WLOX) -
The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality is investigating
whether the city of Bay St. Louis' use of land around a sewage lagoon
violates any state statues. An anonymous caller accused the city of
creating an illegal dump site around the lagoon off of Old Spanish Trail.
http://www.wlox.com/story/24068781/mayor-land-near-bsl-sewage-lagoon-not-a-dump
Long Beach Harbor Struggling to Rebuild Due to Confusion with Environmental
Permits
WXXV
In September, Long Beach was awarded F.E.M.A. money to rebuild its harbor
after it was severely damaged in August of 2012 by Hurricane Isaac. Now,
F.E.M.A. is telling the city to stop construction because they will not be
paying for it.
http://www.wxxv25.com/news/local/story/Long-Beach-Harbor-Struggling-to-Rebuild-Due-to/GuSzU3oWMk2HKopSLhJ_2g.cspx
Long Beach harbor without fuel as FEMA clearance awaited
Agency says environmental study needed before Long Beach can build new dock
Sun Herald
BY ANITA LEE
LONG BEACH -- Recovery from Hurricane Isaac, a mere tropical storm on the
Coast, has been slower than expected in the city's harbor.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/24/5143916/long-beach-harbor-without-fuel.html
PEER recommends changes to agencies' contracting process
by MBJ Staff
Published: November 25,2013
JACKSON — PEER has completed a legislative request to review how state
agencies contract for goods, services and construction and the transparency
of the process. The requesting legislator was particularly concerned with
vendors' perspective of the contracting process.
http://msbusiness.com/blog/2013/11/25/peer-recommends-changes-agencies-contracting-process/
National
Emissions of Methane in U.S. Exceed Estimates, Study Finds
NY Times
By MICHAEL WINES
Emissions of the greenhouse gas methane due to human activity were roughly
1.5 times greater in the United States in the middle of the last decade
than prevailing estimates, according to a new analysis by 15 climate
scientists published Monday in The Proceedings of the National Academy of
Sciences.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/26/us/emissions-of-methane-in-us-exceed-estimates-study-finds.html?ref=earth&_r=0&pagewanted=print
Feds reveal data behind 'social cost of carbon'
The Hill
By Julian Hattem
The White House is publishing the data behind its decision to increase the
"social cost of carbon," which is used to calculate the benefits of
regulations cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
http://thehill.com/blogs/regwatch/energyenvironment/191338-feds-publish-social-cost-of-carbon-document
Dustup Grows Over Refinery Byproduct
Black 'Pet Coke" Blows Into Neighborhoods, Residents Say
Wall Street Journal
By BEN LEFEBVRE And BEN KESLING
Updated Nov. 25, 2013 9:07 p.m. ET
Mountains of a black, powdery refinery byproduct called petroleum coke are
piling up from Chicago to Corpus Christi, Texas, prompting local officials
to fight what residents say is a dusty scourge that coats houses, cars and
even pets.
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702304281004579220482772971704?mod=WSJ_WSJ_US_News_5
DOE proposes new efficiency standards for electric motors
The Hill
By Laura Barron-Lopez
The Energy Department on Monday proposed a new rule to increase energy
efficiency for electric motors.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/191394-energy-dept-proposes-new-effieciency-regs-for-electric-motors
Opinion
SUN HERALD | Editorial: A little ray of sunshine
November 25, 2013
For years now, skeptics have labeled alternative energy a pipedream. Solar?
What about cloudy days? Wind? What about those calm days?
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/25/5146279/sun-herald-editorial-a-little.html
Press Releases
EPA Appoints New Scientific Integrity Official
Washington, DC – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has
appointed Dr. Francesca Grifo as the agency's new scientific integrity
official. Dr. Grifo's responsibilities in her new role include coordinating
and carrying out EPA's scientific integrity policy and chairing a standing
EPA scientific integrity committee.
"Science is, and continues, to be the backbone of this agency and the
integrity of our science is central to the identity and credibility of our
work," said Gina McCarthy, administrator for EPA. "Dr. Grifo brings a
wealth of experience and knowledge to EPA that will help continue our work
to implement the agency's scientific integrity policy."
Dr. Francesca Grifo has many years of experience in scientific research,
academia, and science policy. She comes to EPA from the Union of Concerned
Scientists and has devoted her career to strengthening scientific integrity
in the government.
EPA's mission to protect human health and the environment depends upon the
integrity of science. It is the agency's key responsibility to conduct,
utilize, and communicate scientific information with the highest degree of
integrity, and transparency to the American public.
For more information:
http://www.epa.gov/research/htm/scientific-integrity.htm
State
McComb mayor on a crusade to increase recycling in the Pike County
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
November 25, 2013 - 4:31 pm EST
MCCOMB, Mississippi — McComb Mayor Whitney Rawlings is on a crusade to
increase recycling in the Pike County.
http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/d2e579836c6744ac8b26a7926f77e998/MS--Pike-Recycling-Program
Mayor: Land near BSL sewage lagoon not a dump
WLOX
BAY ST. LOUIS, MS (WLOX) -
The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality is investigating
whether the city of Bay St. Louis' use of land around a sewage lagoon
violates any state statues. An anonymous caller accused the city of
creating an illegal dump site around the lagoon off of Old Spanish Trail.
http://www.wlox.com/story/24068781/mayor-land-near-bsl-sewage-lagoon-not-a-dump
Long Beach Harbor Struggling to Rebuild Due to Confusion with Environmental
Permits
WXXV
In September, Long Beach was awarded F.E.M.A. money to rebuild its harbor
after it was severely damaged in August of 2012 by Hurricane Isaac. Now,
F.E.M.A. is telling the city to stop construction because they will not be
paying for it.
http://www.wxxv25.com/news/local/story/Long-Beach-Harbor-Struggling-to-Rebuild-Due-to/GuSzU3oWMk2HKopSLhJ_2g.cspx
Long Beach harbor without fuel as FEMA clearance awaited
Agency says environmental study needed before Long Beach can build new dock
Sun Herald
BY ANITA LEE
LONG BEACH -- Recovery from Hurricane Isaac, a mere tropical storm on the
Coast, has been slower than expected in the city's harbor.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/24/5143916/long-beach-harbor-without-fuel.html
PEER recommends changes to agencies' contracting process
by MBJ Staff
Published: November 25,2013
JACKSON — PEER has completed a legislative request to review how state
agencies contract for goods, services and construction and the transparency
of the process. The requesting legislator was particularly concerned with
vendors' perspective of the contracting process.
http://msbusiness.com/blog/2013/11/25/peer-recommends-changes-agencies-contracting-process/
National
Emissions of Methane in U.S. Exceed Estimates, Study Finds
NY Times
By MICHAEL WINES
Emissions of the greenhouse gas methane due to human activity were roughly
1.5 times greater in the United States in the middle of the last decade
than prevailing estimates, according to a new analysis by 15 climate
scientists published Monday in The Proceedings of the National Academy of
Sciences.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/26/us/emissions-of-methane-in-us-exceed-estimates-study-finds.html?ref=earth&_r=0&pagewanted=print
Feds reveal data behind 'social cost of carbon'
The Hill
By Julian Hattem
The White House is publishing the data behind its decision to increase the
"social cost of carbon," which is used to calculate the benefits of
regulations cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
http://thehill.com/blogs/regwatch/energyenvironment/191338-feds-publish-social-cost-of-carbon-document
Dustup Grows Over Refinery Byproduct
Black 'Pet Coke" Blows Into Neighborhoods, Residents Say
Wall Street Journal
By BEN LEFEBVRE And BEN KESLING
Updated Nov. 25, 2013 9:07 p.m. ET
Mountains of a black, powdery refinery byproduct called petroleum coke are
piling up from Chicago to Corpus Christi, Texas, prompting local officials
to fight what residents say is a dusty scourge that coats houses, cars and
even pets.
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702304281004579220482772971704?mod=WSJ_WSJ_US_News_5
DOE proposes new efficiency standards for electric motors
The Hill
By Laura Barron-Lopez
The Energy Department on Monday proposed a new rule to increase energy
efficiency for electric motors.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/191394-energy-dept-proposes-new-effieciency-regs-for-electric-motors
Opinion
SUN HERALD | Editorial: A little ray of sunshine
November 25, 2013
For years now, skeptics have labeled alternative energy a pipedream. Solar?
What about cloudy days? Wind? What about those calm days?
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/25/5146279/sun-herald-editorial-a-little.html
Press Releases
EPA Appoints New Scientific Integrity Official
Washington, DC – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has
appointed Dr. Francesca Grifo as the agency's new scientific integrity
official. Dr. Grifo's responsibilities in her new role include coordinating
and carrying out EPA's scientific integrity policy and chairing a standing
EPA scientific integrity committee.
"Science is, and continues, to be the backbone of this agency and the
integrity of our science is central to the identity and credibility of our
work," said Gina McCarthy, administrator for EPA. "Dr. Grifo brings a
wealth of experience and knowledge to EPA that will help continue our work
to implement the agency's scientific integrity policy."
Dr. Francesca Grifo has many years of experience in scientific research,
academia, and science policy. She comes to EPA from the Union of Concerned
Scientists and has devoted her career to strengthening scientific integrity
in the government.
EPA's mission to protect human health and the environment depends upon the
integrity of science. It is the agency's key responsibility to conduct,
utilize, and communicate scientific information with the highest degree of
integrity, and transparency to the American public.
For more information:
http://www.epa.gov/research/htm/scientific-integrity.htm
Monday, November 25, 2013
News Clippings 11.25.13
11.25.13
Oil Spill
$3M grant a boon for Gulf snapper fishery
Funding targets data collection effort in Gulf if Mexico
Pensacola News Journal
A $3 million, five-year project to expand data collection on red snapper
and other reef fish stocks in the northern and eastern Gulf of Mexico is
being hailed by Ocean Conservancy as a major milestone in the recovery of
the marine resources affected by the 2010 BP oil spill disaster.
http://www.pnj.com/article/20131124/NEWS09/311240024/-3M-grant-targets-data-collection-effort-in-Gulf-if-Mexico-fishery
Federal judge denies BP's 'disappointing' attempt to rewrite oil spill
business claims rules
Mark Schleifstein
The Times-Picayune
November 22, 2013 at 6:36 PM
A federal judge overseeing the settlement of private claims stemming from
the BP Deepwater Horizon accident and oil spill issued a harshly worded
opinion late Friday, charging BP with going back on its word by asking him
and the U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals to require proof that all
business economic losses were caused by the oil spill before claims are
paid.
http://www.nola.com/news/gulf-oil-spill/index.ssf/2013/11/federal_judge_denies_bps_disap.html#incart_river
County hires new RESTORE counsel
By MATTHEW BEATON | The News Herald
Published: Saturday, November 23, 2013 at 23:01 PM.
PANAMA CITY — Hoping to rake in as much as $120 million in RESTORE Act
money, Bay County has hired a federal rules lawyer to make sense of the red
tape.
http://www.newsherald.com/news/government/county-hires-new-restore-counsel-1.239566
State
Jackson County checking into landfill's height-limit compliance
Sun Herald
BY CHRISTINA STEUBE
November 22, 2013
The Jackson County Planning Commission is looking into whether MacLand
Disposal in Escatawpa is exceeding its height limit.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/22/5139939/jackson-county-checking-into-macland.html?sp-tk=C1F5C6E0CA6380153B87762B6C0FD08EBEE396F8BB76A1F3B034F0CF0FFD5043CD2B61808424DBD2C556D36CA925F6F4862E288F7A44B9C8165493545B844CDF5AB8E3FF0BD8FE11417C1276E6688EC99594BD7955DA9CE6F93B2C38BFD17F357F513E6283BA46454C89C8A5E0C0DC544193961289F0488FD49DEBEF56102593C42670D9A9345312D7046BB8BA47613CF09854BCC6918D1C78BB6C285D0EE7AE46BF3E5C
MDEQ awards nearly $90,000 in grants
WTVA
JACKSON, Miss. (WTVA) -- The Mississippi Department of Environmental
Quality has awarded Panola County a solid waste assistance grant of $71,900
that will be used by the county for illegal dumping enforcement and to
expand recycling efforts.
http://www.wtva.com/news/local/story/MDEQ-awards-nearly-90-000-in-grants/kAeV9WPh70K40nmS8XfVbg.cspx
Utility Authority seeks new executive director
By Jodi Marze
The Picayune Item
POPLARVILLE — The Pearl River County Utility Authority announced the
resignation of Jeff McClain as executive director, addressed transparency
in business practices and hired new employees at its meeting Thursday in
Poplarville's City Hall.
http://www.picayuneitem.com/local/x1267066890/Utility-Authority-seeks-new-executive-director
Lumberton could benefit from recycling program
Hattiesburg American
Recycling was one of the ideas discussed during the recent "Think Meeting"
for Lumberton leaders.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/article/20131124/NEWS01/311240021/Lumberton-could-benefit-from-recycling-program?nclick_check=1
Mixed views on National Wildlife Refuge
Goal: Protect land for future generations
Clarion Ledger
In an open-house meeting this week, where members of the U. S. Fish and
Wildlife Service explained the possibilities of a proposed National
Wildlife Refuge in the Jackson area, little opposition was heard.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20131124/SPORTS08/311240060/Mixed-views-National-Wildlife-Refuge
Study indicates where many drifting sea turtles may have died
Sun Herald
BY LAUREN WALCK
November 23, 2013
The Mississippi Sound is a popular hangout for a lot of underwater
creatures, but for young Kemp's ridley sea turtles it's the place to be.
The warm, shallow waters and plentiful supplies of tasty blue crabs and
shrimp make it downright irresistible for a juvenile reptile on the go.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/23/5142232/study-indicates-where-many-drifting.html?sp-tk=850638D7717FB5705268F57E8E1CBE828ED07D9212BB895E2FEA1A91125D642A6275811C965DF5A3FCDAD06647A306376CFC1F187E7C621326D5060ABEB6413666E36B1CB22680D9C2893497CFF4D8D6378C61A973497068EE4AAF7AB0B39D900D348ABDB604CB151512AA5C1231FD6112A3C0353885E65DCD419420FAF68650E69BE3C0F12278A2032285437EE458D91B75729D29D0A7312B6B00A80AB9BC1425863C74
People in the News: Natural Resources Conservation Service
Clarion Ledger
• Kurt Readus has been selected by the U.S. Department of Agriculture
Natural Resources Conservation Service as Mississippi's state
conservationist for NRCS.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20131124/BIZ/311240057/People-News-Natural-Resources-Conservation-Service
Newspaper seeks contempt ruling against Pickering, auditor's office
Sun Herald
BY ANITA LEE
November 22, 2013
The Sun Herald has filed a motion in Chancery Court asking that Judge
Jennifer Schloegel hold State Auditor Stacey Pickering and his office in
civil contempt of court for failing to produce public records, which the
court had ordered and the auditor had agreed to do.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/22/5138741/newspaper-seeks-contempt-ruling.html
Regional
La. lawsuits may portend shifting political tide
By KEVIN McGILL
Associated Press
November 23, 2013
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — When a south Louisiana flood control board filed a
lawsuit last summer against nearly 100 oil and gas companies over the loss
of coastal wetlands, it was treated as a political pariah for attacking an
important Louisiana industry.
http://www.seattlepi.com/news/article/La-lawsuits-may-portend-shifting-political-tide-5005891.php
National
Greens, industry spar over 'sue and settle'
The Hill
By Julian Hattem
Industry and environmental activists traded fire on Friday over
controversial legal settlements that critics say force agencies to speed up
their regulations.
http://thehill.com/blogs/regwatch/energyenvironment/191215-greens-industry-spar-over-sue-and-settle
Duke Energy to pay $1 million after Wyoming wind farms' blades kill 14
eagles, other birds
The Associated Press
November 22, 2013 at 7:25 PM
WASHINGTON -- The government for the first time has enforced environmental
laws protecting birds against wind energy facilities, winning a $1 million
settlement Friday from a power company that pleaded guilty to killing 14
eagles and 149 other birds at two Wyoming wind farms.
http://www.nola.com/news/index.ssf/2013/11/duke_energy_to_pay_1_million_a.html#incart_river
House bill warns of EPA threat to fire hydrants
The Hill
By Pete Kasperowicz
Reps. Bill Johnson (R-Ohio) and Paul Tonko (D-N.Y.) introduced legislation
this week to block an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rule that would
require fire hydrants to use lead-free pipes starting next year.
http://thehill.com/blogs/floor-action/energyenvironment/191208-members-look-to-block-epa-rule-requiring-lead-free-fire
Obama nominates Hopkins professor for EPA post
Thomas A. Burke would lead agency research
By John Fritze
The Baltimore Sun
President Barack Obama has nominated a Johns Hopkins University professor
to lead research at the Environmental Protection Agency — an appointment
likely to stir controversy among senators concerned about the agency's
reach.
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/maryland/bs-md-thomas-burke-20131120,0,1887970.story
Opinion
WLOX Editorial: Ethics hotline is a step toward accountability
The embattled Mississippi Department of Marine Resources may soon be in a
battle for its very existence. Following the indictments of several former
DMR staffers including the former director, some legislators want to do
away with the agency and put its responsibilities under the Department of
Wildlife and Fisheries. The indictments paint a picture of fraud and
embezzlement.
http://www.wlox.com/story/24034205/wlox-editorial-ethics-hotline-is-a-step-toward-accountability
BP process remains tangled with questions, departures: James Varney
James Varney
The Times-Picayune
November 23, 2013 at 11:38 PM
It's threads, anecdotal, really, but is all well with the BP matter and the
legal morass it has engendered? If the rosters are any indication, perhaps
not.
That is to say, there appears to be considerable turnover in the Deepwater
Horizon spill Claims Administrative Office. Whether that reflects personal
career moves or some fear over what may be coming in an expanded
investigation of the whole lawsuit/claims swamp is anyone's guess, but it
is striking nonetheless.
http://www.nola.com/opinions/index.ssf/2013/11/bp_process_remains_tangled_wit.html
Oil Spill
$3M grant a boon for Gulf snapper fishery
Funding targets data collection effort in Gulf if Mexico
Pensacola News Journal
A $3 million, five-year project to expand data collection on red snapper
and other reef fish stocks in the northern and eastern Gulf of Mexico is
being hailed by Ocean Conservancy as a major milestone in the recovery of
the marine resources affected by the 2010 BP oil spill disaster.
http://www.pnj.com/article/20131124/NEWS09/311240024/-3M-grant-targets-data-collection-effort-in-Gulf-if-Mexico-fishery
Federal judge denies BP's 'disappointing' attempt to rewrite oil spill
business claims rules
Mark Schleifstein
The Times-Picayune
November 22, 2013 at 6:36 PM
A federal judge overseeing the settlement of private claims stemming from
the BP Deepwater Horizon accident and oil spill issued a harshly worded
opinion late Friday, charging BP with going back on its word by asking him
and the U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals to require proof that all
business economic losses were caused by the oil spill before claims are
paid.
http://www.nola.com/news/gulf-oil-spill/index.ssf/2013/11/federal_judge_denies_bps_disap.html#incart_river
County hires new RESTORE counsel
By MATTHEW BEATON | The News Herald
Published: Saturday, November 23, 2013 at 23:01 PM.
PANAMA CITY — Hoping to rake in as much as $120 million in RESTORE Act
money, Bay County has hired a federal rules lawyer to make sense of the red
tape.
http://www.newsherald.com/news/government/county-hires-new-restore-counsel-1.239566
State
Jackson County checking into landfill's height-limit compliance
Sun Herald
BY CHRISTINA STEUBE
November 22, 2013
The Jackson County Planning Commission is looking into whether MacLand
Disposal in Escatawpa is exceeding its height limit.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/22/5139939/jackson-county-checking-into-macland.html?sp-tk=C1F5C6E0CA6380153B87762B6C0FD08EBEE396F8BB76A1F3B034F0CF0FFD5043CD2B61808424DBD2C556D36CA925F6F4862E288F7A44B9C8165493545B844CDF5AB8E3FF0BD8FE11417C1276E6688EC99594BD7955DA9CE6F93B2C38BFD17F357F513E6283BA46454C89C8A5E0C0DC544193961289F0488FD49DEBEF56102593C42670D9A9345312D7046BB8BA47613CF09854BCC6918D1C78BB6C285D0EE7AE46BF3E5C
MDEQ awards nearly $90,000 in grants
WTVA
JACKSON, Miss. (WTVA) -- The Mississippi Department of Environmental
Quality has awarded Panola County a solid waste assistance grant of $71,900
that will be used by the county for illegal dumping enforcement and to
expand recycling efforts.
http://www.wtva.com/news/local/story/MDEQ-awards-nearly-90-000-in-grants/kAeV9WPh70K40nmS8XfVbg.cspx
Utility Authority seeks new executive director
By Jodi Marze
The Picayune Item
POPLARVILLE — The Pearl River County Utility Authority announced the
resignation of Jeff McClain as executive director, addressed transparency
in business practices and hired new employees at its meeting Thursday in
Poplarville's City Hall.
http://www.picayuneitem.com/local/x1267066890/Utility-Authority-seeks-new-executive-director
Lumberton could benefit from recycling program
Hattiesburg American
Recycling was one of the ideas discussed during the recent "Think Meeting"
for Lumberton leaders.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/article/20131124/NEWS01/311240021/Lumberton-could-benefit-from-recycling-program?nclick_check=1
Mixed views on National Wildlife Refuge
Goal: Protect land for future generations
Clarion Ledger
In an open-house meeting this week, where members of the U. S. Fish and
Wildlife Service explained the possibilities of a proposed National
Wildlife Refuge in the Jackson area, little opposition was heard.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20131124/SPORTS08/311240060/Mixed-views-National-Wildlife-Refuge
Study indicates where many drifting sea turtles may have died
Sun Herald
BY LAUREN WALCK
November 23, 2013
The Mississippi Sound is a popular hangout for a lot of underwater
creatures, but for young Kemp's ridley sea turtles it's the place to be.
The warm, shallow waters and plentiful supplies of tasty blue crabs and
shrimp make it downright irresistible for a juvenile reptile on the go.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/23/5142232/study-indicates-where-many-drifting.html?sp-tk=850638D7717FB5705268F57E8E1CBE828ED07D9212BB895E2FEA1A91125D642A6275811C965DF5A3FCDAD06647A306376CFC1F187E7C621326D5060ABEB6413666E36B1CB22680D9C2893497CFF4D8D6378C61A973497068EE4AAF7AB0B39D900D348ABDB604CB151512AA5C1231FD6112A3C0353885E65DCD419420FAF68650E69BE3C0F12278A2032285437EE458D91B75729D29D0A7312B6B00A80AB9BC1425863C74
People in the News: Natural Resources Conservation Service
Clarion Ledger
• Kurt Readus has been selected by the U.S. Department of Agriculture
Natural Resources Conservation Service as Mississippi's state
conservationist for NRCS.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20131124/BIZ/311240057/People-News-Natural-Resources-Conservation-Service
Newspaper seeks contempt ruling against Pickering, auditor's office
Sun Herald
BY ANITA LEE
November 22, 2013
The Sun Herald has filed a motion in Chancery Court asking that Judge
Jennifer Schloegel hold State Auditor Stacey Pickering and his office in
civil contempt of court for failing to produce public records, which the
court had ordered and the auditor had agreed to do.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/22/5138741/newspaper-seeks-contempt-ruling.html
Regional
La. lawsuits may portend shifting political tide
By KEVIN McGILL
Associated Press
November 23, 2013
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — When a south Louisiana flood control board filed a
lawsuit last summer against nearly 100 oil and gas companies over the loss
of coastal wetlands, it was treated as a political pariah for attacking an
important Louisiana industry.
http://www.seattlepi.com/news/article/La-lawsuits-may-portend-shifting-political-tide-5005891.php
National
Greens, industry spar over 'sue and settle'
The Hill
By Julian Hattem
Industry and environmental activists traded fire on Friday over
controversial legal settlements that critics say force agencies to speed up
their regulations.
http://thehill.com/blogs/regwatch/energyenvironment/191215-greens-industry-spar-over-sue-and-settle
Duke Energy to pay $1 million after Wyoming wind farms' blades kill 14
eagles, other birds
The Associated Press
November 22, 2013 at 7:25 PM
WASHINGTON -- The government for the first time has enforced environmental
laws protecting birds against wind energy facilities, winning a $1 million
settlement Friday from a power company that pleaded guilty to killing 14
eagles and 149 other birds at two Wyoming wind farms.
http://www.nola.com/news/index.ssf/2013/11/duke_energy_to_pay_1_million_a.html#incart_river
House bill warns of EPA threat to fire hydrants
The Hill
By Pete Kasperowicz
Reps. Bill Johnson (R-Ohio) and Paul Tonko (D-N.Y.) introduced legislation
this week to block an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rule that would
require fire hydrants to use lead-free pipes starting next year.
http://thehill.com/blogs/floor-action/energyenvironment/191208-members-look-to-block-epa-rule-requiring-lead-free-fire
Obama nominates Hopkins professor for EPA post
Thomas A. Burke would lead agency research
By John Fritze
The Baltimore Sun
President Barack Obama has nominated a Johns Hopkins University professor
to lead research at the Environmental Protection Agency — an appointment
likely to stir controversy among senators concerned about the agency's
reach.
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/maryland/bs-md-thomas-burke-20131120,0,1887970.story
Opinion
WLOX Editorial: Ethics hotline is a step toward accountability
The embattled Mississippi Department of Marine Resources may soon be in a
battle for its very existence. Following the indictments of several former
DMR staffers including the former director, some legislators want to do
away with the agency and put its responsibilities under the Department of
Wildlife and Fisheries. The indictments paint a picture of fraud and
embezzlement.
http://www.wlox.com/story/24034205/wlox-editorial-ethics-hotline-is-a-step-toward-accountability
BP process remains tangled with questions, departures: James Varney
James Varney
The Times-Picayune
November 23, 2013 at 11:38 PM
It's threads, anecdotal, really, but is all well with the BP matter and the
legal morass it has engendered? If the rosters are any indication, perhaps
not.
That is to say, there appears to be considerable turnover in the Deepwater
Horizon spill Claims Administrative Office. Whether that reflects personal
career moves or some fear over what may be coming in an expanded
investigation of the whole lawsuit/claims swamp is anyone's guess, but it
is striking nonetheless.
http://www.nola.com/opinions/index.ssf/2013/11/bp_process_remains_tangled_wit.html
Friday, November 22, 2013
News Clippings 11.22.13
11.22.2013
Oil Spill
BP asks court to order judge to limit spill payments
November 21, 2013 at 4:22 pm by Bloomberg
BP asked an appeals court for an injunction to stop some payments under a
$9.2 billion settlement tied to the 2010 Gulf of Mexico oil spill, saying
the judge overseeing the case ignored the court's mandate to review claims.
http://fuelfix.com/blog/2013/11/21/bp-asks-court-to-order-judge-to-limit-spill-payments/
State
MDEQ awards $25,000 solid waste assistance grant to Gautier
Mississippi Press
April M. Havens
November 21, 2013 at 10:55 AM
JACKSON, Mississippi -- The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality
has awarded Gautier a $25,000 solid waste assistance grant that will be
used by the city to clean up illegal dumping.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2013/11/mdeq_awards_25000_solid_waste.html#incart_river
Gautier gets $25K cleanup grant
Sun Herald
GAUTIER -- The city has received a $25,000 solid waste assistance grant
from the state Department of Environmental Quality to be used to clean up
illegal dumping.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/21/5137102/around-south-mississippi.html
Marion County receives MDEQ grant
AP
Marion County received a $15,600 boost in the arm to go after illegal
dumpers.
The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality provided a solid waste
assistance grant that the county intends to use for illegal dumping
enforcement.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/viewart/20131122/NEWS01/311220013/Marion-County-receives-MDEQ-grant
Regional
Gulf wetlands loss rate more than doubled, new five-year federal study says
Benjamin Alexander-Bloch
The Times-Picayune
November 21, 2013 at 4:49 PM
The loss of Gulf of Mexico saltwater wetlands more than doubled between
2004 and 2009 when compared to an earlier five-year period, a federal
report released on Thursday said. The rising rate contributed to the Gulf
Coast accounting for 71 percent of wetlands lost across the contiguous
United States from 2004 to 2009.
http://www.nola.com/environment/index.ssf/2013/11/gulf_wetlands_loss_more_than_d.html#incart_river
Deadline for comments on TVA energy resource plan
The Associated Press
KNOXVILLE, TENN. — Friday is the deadline for public comments on the
Tennessee Valley Authority's long-term energy resource strategy.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/22/5137547/deadline-for-comments-on-tva-energy.html
National
EPA power grab? Pols, states claim new water reg could bring feds into your
backyard
By Kelley Vlahos
Published November 22, 2013
FoxNews
A river runs through it -- and Uncle Sam isn't far behind.
That's what several Republican lawmakers and even state farming groups and
local governments are warning, after a draft rule from the Environmental
Protection Agency proposed expanding which waterways are federally
protected under the Clean Water Act.
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2013/11/22/epa-power-grab-pols-states-claim-new-reg-could-bring-feds-into-your-backyard/
EPA doesn't rule out state carbon tax option for power plants
The Hill
By Ben Geman
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) isn't currently ruling out the
idea of allowing states to meet planned climate regulations for existing
power plants by imposing state-level carbon taxes.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/191055-epa-doesnt-rule-out-state-carbon-tax-option-for-power-plants
Oil Spill
BP asks court to order judge to limit spill payments
November 21, 2013 at 4:22 pm by Bloomberg
BP asked an appeals court for an injunction to stop some payments under a
$9.2 billion settlement tied to the 2010 Gulf of Mexico oil spill, saying
the judge overseeing the case ignored the court's mandate to review claims.
http://fuelfix.com/blog/2013/11/21/bp-asks-court-to-order-judge-to-limit-spill-payments/
State
MDEQ awards $25,000 solid waste assistance grant to Gautier
Mississippi Press
April M. Havens
November 21, 2013 at 10:55 AM
JACKSON, Mississippi -- The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality
has awarded Gautier a $25,000 solid waste assistance grant that will be
used by the city to clean up illegal dumping.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2013/11/mdeq_awards_25000_solid_waste.html#incart_river
Gautier gets $25K cleanup grant
Sun Herald
GAUTIER -- The city has received a $25,000 solid waste assistance grant
from the state Department of Environmental Quality to be used to clean up
illegal dumping.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/21/5137102/around-south-mississippi.html
Marion County receives MDEQ grant
AP
Marion County received a $15,600 boost in the arm to go after illegal
dumpers.
The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality provided a solid waste
assistance grant that the county intends to use for illegal dumping
enforcement.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/viewart/20131122/NEWS01/311220013/Marion-County-receives-MDEQ-grant
Regional
Gulf wetlands loss rate more than doubled, new five-year federal study says
Benjamin Alexander-Bloch
The Times-Picayune
November 21, 2013 at 4:49 PM
The loss of Gulf of Mexico saltwater wetlands more than doubled between
2004 and 2009 when compared to an earlier five-year period, a federal
report released on Thursday said. The rising rate contributed to the Gulf
Coast accounting for 71 percent of wetlands lost across the contiguous
United States from 2004 to 2009.
http://www.nola.com/environment/index.ssf/2013/11/gulf_wetlands_loss_more_than_d.html#incart_river
Deadline for comments on TVA energy resource plan
The Associated Press
KNOXVILLE, TENN. — Friday is the deadline for public comments on the
Tennessee Valley Authority's long-term energy resource strategy.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/22/5137547/deadline-for-comments-on-tva-energy.html
National
EPA power grab? Pols, states claim new water reg could bring feds into your
backyard
By Kelley Vlahos
Published November 22, 2013
FoxNews
A river runs through it -- and Uncle Sam isn't far behind.
That's what several Republican lawmakers and even state farming groups and
local governments are warning, after a draft rule from the Environmental
Protection Agency proposed expanding which waterways are federally
protected under the Clean Water Act.
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2013/11/22/epa-power-grab-pols-states-claim-new-reg-could-bring-feds-into-your-backyard/
EPA doesn't rule out state carbon tax option for power plants
The Hill
By Ben Geman
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) isn't currently ruling out the
idea of allowing states to meet planned climate regulations for existing
power plants by imposing state-level carbon taxes.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/191055-epa-doesnt-rule-out-state-carbon-tax-option-for-power-plants
Thursday, November 21, 2013
News Clippings 11.21.13
11.21.13
State
St. Tammany residents question Mississippi officials about Pearl River dam
proposal
Robert Rhoden
The Times-Picayune
November 20, 2013 at 10:12 PM
A couple dozen St. Tammany Parish residents peppered Mississippi officials
with questions and concerns Wednesday night (Nov. 20) about a flood control
proposal to widen the Pearl River in Jackson and build a dam that would
create a 1,500-acre lake. The concerns focused primarily on the already-low
river levels on the Pearl River system in St. Tammany, and how such a
project would affect wetlands and wildlife along one of the state's most
beautiful rivers.
http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/11/st_tammany_residents_voice_str.html#incart_river
Mississippi Power Company in Court Over Kemper Facility
MPB
The Mississippi Power Company, finds itself in court over whether it can
legally charge consumers for the Kemper County Coal Plant now under
construction in East Mississippi.
http://mpbonline.org/News/article/mississippi_power_company_in_court_over_kemper_facility
City receives Earth Day Grant early
Bolivar Commercial
by Paisley Boston
11.20.13 - 04:46 pm
The Cleveland Public Works office put in some extra work a little early
this year to ensure that a solid waste assistance grant would be in place
for next year.
http://www.bolivarcom.com/view/full_story/24091515/article-City-receives-Earth-Day-Grant-early?instance=homesecondleft
Boys and Girls Recycling Initiative
WCBI
STARKVILLE, Miss. (WCBI) – The Boys and Girls Club of Starkville steps up a
recycling initiative.
http://www.wcbi.com/wordpress/boys-and-girls-recycling-initiative
Oxford ponders poop power
By Errol Castens
Daily Journal
OXFORD – City officials voted Tuesday to explore a partnership using
municipal sewage to generate electricity while purifying wastewater.
http://djournal.com/news/oxford-ponders-poop-power/
Woman Wants Ross Barnett Reservoir Name Changed
WJTV
METRO - TaJuana Byrd believes changing the name of the Ross Barnett
Reservoir will be a positive change for the state of Mississippi.
"The past of Mississippi is riddled with hate and racism. And, I'm trying
to show everyone else that Mississippi isn't like that anymore," expresses
Byrd.
http://www.wjtv.com/story/24028705/woman-wants-ross-barnett-reservoir-name-changed
Hancock Co dedicates 'great, glorious, green' school
WLOX
HANCOCK COUNTY, MS (WLOX) -The Hancock County community gave thanks
Wednesday for a "green" school that could set the standard for the rest of
the state. Hundreds of people gathered to dedicate the new Hancock North
Central Elementary School. It could become the first LEED school in
Mississippi.
http://www.wlox.com/story/24027758/hancock-co-dedicates-green-school
Water-contact advisoryissued in west Biloxi
Sun Herald
BILOXI -- The state Department of Environmental Quality issued a water
contact advisory Wednesday for a sampling station. Station 11A runs between
DeBuys Road and Edgewater Avenue.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/20/5133762/around-south-mississippi.html
National
States press EPA for flexibility in power plant climate rules
The Hill
By Ben Geman
State power regulators are urging the Environmental Protection Agency to
give states plenty of leeway to decide how they would meet upcoming carbon
emissions standards for existing power plants.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190916-states-press-epa-for-flexibility-in-power-plant-climate-rules
EPA guidelines seek green standards on procurement
The Hill
By Ben Goad
The Environmental Protection Agency issued draft guidelines Wednesday in
support of the federal government's effort to go green with its purchasing
policies.
http://thehill.com/blogs/regwatch/energyenvironment/190963-epa-issues-guidelines-for-environmentally-preferable-federal
Democrats recruit pro sports leagues for climate push
Politico
By: Andrew Restuccia
November 21, 2013 05:10 AM EST
Democrats in Congress are recruiting a varsity squad of sports officials to
help make the case for action on climate change.
Rep. Henry Waxman of California and Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island
are slated to meet Thursday with officials from most of the country's major
sports leagues, including Major League Baseball, the National Basketball
Association, the National Hockey League and the National Football League.
http://www.politico.com/story/2013/11/democrats-recruit-professional-sports-leagues-for-climate-push-100172.html?hp=l7
EPA Wet Weather Policies Limited To Eighth Circuit Jurisdiction, Agency
Says
Bloomberg
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
Nov. 19 --A March appeals court ruling rejecting the Environmental
Protection Agency's restrictive policies on wastewater discharges during
periods of heavy rainfall, is limited to that court's jurisdiction, the
agency said.
http://www.bna.com/epa-wet-weather-n17179880233/
House OKs bills to speed oil, gas drilling
BY MATTHEW DALY
Associated Press
WASHINGTON — The House approved two bills Wednesday aimed at speeding up
drilling for oil and natural gas on public lands.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/20/5131936/house-set-to-ok-bills-to-speed.html
Opinion
Coal's Challenge to the EPA
Bloomberg
By the Editors - Nov 20, 2013
The Environmental Protection Agency's effort to limit carbon emissions from
coal plants is facing a new congressional challenge this week. In choosing
how to respond, the agency should be willing to adjust its short-term
tactics in service of its long-term goal -- even if it seems nonsensical.
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-11-20/coal-s-challenge-to-the-epa.html
Press Releases
EPA Offers Funding to Reduce Pollution from Diesel Engines
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has made
available $2 million in funding for rebates to help public and private
construction equipment owners replace or retrofit older diesel construction
engines. The rebates will reduce harmful pollution and improve air quality
in local areas.
"Exhaust from diesel construction equipment affects children, senior
citizens and others in neighborhoods across the country"," said Janet
McCabe, acting assistant administrator for EPA's Office of Air and
Radiation. "These rebates will help equipment owners protect public health
and improve air quality near construction sites while updating their
fleets."
Rebates will be offered as part of the Diesel Emission Reduction Act, also
known as DERA. This is the second rebate program offered since Congress
reauthorized DERA in 2010 to allow rebates in addition to grants and
revolving loans. The rebates will support the program's effort to replace
and update existing diesel vehicles, and will target where people are
exposed to unhealthy air.
Since 2008, DERA has awarded more than $500 million to grantees across the
country to retrofit, replace, or repower more than 50,000 vehicles. By
cutting air pollution and preventing thousands of asthma attacks, emergency
room visits and premature deaths, these clean diesel projects are projected
to generate health benefits worth up to $8.2 billion.
Public and private construction equipment owners in eligible counties that
are facing air quality challenges are encouraged to apply for rebates for
the replacement or retrofit of construction equipment engines. EPA will
accept applications from November 20, 2013, to January 15, 2014 and
anticipates awarding the rebates in February 2014.
Construction equipment engines are very durable and can operate for
decades. EPA has implemented standards to make diesel engines cleaner, but
many older pieces of construction equipment remain in operation and predate
these standards. Older diesel engines emit large amounts of pollutants
such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM). These pollutants
are linked to health problems, including asthma, lung and heart disease,
and even premature death. Equipment is readily available that can reduce
emissions from these engines.
To learn more about the rebate program, the list of eligible counties,
applicant eligibility and selection process, please visit
http://www.epa.gov/cleandiesel/dera-rebate-construction.htm
EPA Study: Mercury Levels in Women of Childbearing Age Drop 34 Percent
Data suggest women making more informed seafood choices
WASHINGTON — Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released
a study showing that blood mercury levels in women of childbearing age
dropped 34 percent from a survey conducted in 1999-2000 to follow-up
surveys conducted from 2001 to 2010. Additionally, the percentage of women
of childbearing age with blood mercury levels above the level of concern
decreased 65 percent from the 1999-2000 survey and the follow-up surveys
from 2001-2010.
During the survey period there was very little change in the amount of fish
consumed. The decrease in the ratio of mercury intake to fish consumed
suggests that women may have shifted to eating types of fish with lower
mercury concentrations.
For the peer-reviewed study, Trends in Blood Mercury Concentrations and
Fish Consumption among U.S. Women of Childbearing Age, NHANES (1999-2010),
EPA analyzed measurements of blood mercury levels from the Center for
Disease Control and Prevention's National Health and Nutrition Examination
Survey. EPA found that blood methylmercury concentrations in women of
childbearing age in the first survey cycle (1999-2000) were 1.5 times
higher than the average concentration of the five subsequent cycles
(2001-2010). The average of blood mercury concentrations changed only
slightly from 2001 to 2010, and remained below levels of concern for
health.
EPA's study provides a nationwide perspective on trends in mercury levels
based mostly on consumption of ocean fish. It does not reflect trends in
mercury levels in communities that depend on locally caught fish for
subsistence. EPA and states recommend that people check local advisories
before eating fish caught from local waterways.
Fish and shellfish are an important part of a healthy diet because they are
a source of high-quality protein, many vitamins and minerals, omega-3 fatty
acids, and are mostly low in saturated fat. A well-balanced diet that
includes a variety of fish and shellfish can be beneficial for heart health
and children's proper growth and development.
However, nearly all fish and shellfish contain traces of mercury. For most
people, the risk from mercury by eating fish and shellfish is not a health
concern. Yet, some fish and shellfish contain higher levels of mercury that
may harm an unborn baby or young child's developing nervous system. The
risks from mercury depend on the amount of fish and shellfish eaten and the
levels of mercury in the fish.
EPA and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advise women who may
become pregnant, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children to
avoid some types of fish and to eat fish and shellfish that are low in
mercury for the health benefits and to reduce exposure to mercury.
EPA and FDA advise:
· Do not eat shark, swordfish, king mackerel or tilefish because they
have high levels of mercury.
· Eat up to 12 ounces (2 average meals) per week of a variety of fish
and shellfish low in mercury.
o Five of the most commonly eaten fish that are low in mercury
are shrimp, canned light tuna, salmon, pollock, and catfish.
o Another commonly eaten fish, albacore ("white") tuna has more
mercury than canned light tuna. So, when choosing two meals of
fish and shellfish, you may eat up to 6 ounces (one average
meal) of albacore tuna per week.
· Check local advisories about the safety of fish caught in local
lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. If no advice is available, eat up
to 6 ounces (one average meal) per week of fish caught from local
waters, but don't consume any other fish during that week.
· Follow these same recommendations for young children, but serve
smaller portions.
EPA and the FDA issued national mercury advisories on fish consumption in
2001 and 2004. The agency conducted an extensive national outreach
campaign, including distributing millions of advisory brochures;
translating information into Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese, Vietnamese,
Korean, Cambodian and Hmong; and providing materials to more than 150,000
doctors and healthcare professionals. EPA has also worked closely with
state and tribal partners on developing and communicating risk and benefit
messages related to consuming fish.
In 2013 EPA took two significant actions toward making fish and shellfish
safer to eat. In June, the agency proposed new effluent guidelines for
steam electric power plants, which currently account for more than half of
all toxic pollutants discharged into streams, rivers and lakes from
industrial facilities in the U.S. In April, EPA issued the new Mercury and
Air Toxics rule, which sets emissions limitation standards for mercury
emitted from power plants. Compliance with this rule may take up to four
years.
More information:
http://water.epa.gov/scitech/swguidance/fishshellfish/fishadvisories/technical.cfm#tabs-4
EPA Proposes New Guidelines for Greener Federal Purchases
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing
draft guidelines that will help the federal government buy greener and
safer products. In response to broad stakeholder interest, EPA is seeking
public input on these draft guidelines and a potential approach to
assessing non-governmental environmental standards and ecolabels already in
the marketplace.
"As the largest purchaser in the world, the U.S. government is working to
reduce its environmental footprint," said Jim Jones, Assistant
Administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention.
"The government buys everything from furniture to lighting to cleaning
products. These guidelines will make it easier for federal purchasers to
meet the existing goal of 95 percent sustainable purchases while spurring
consumers and the private sector to use and demand safer and greener
products."
The draft guidelines were developed by EPA, the General Services
Administration, and others following several listening sessions with a wide
range of stakeholders on how the federal government can be more sustainable
in its purchasing and how it can best meet the numerous Federal
requirements for the procurement of sustainable and environmentally
preferable products and services. The draft guidelines were designed to
assist federal purchasing decision makers in more consistently using
existing non-governmental product environmental performance standards and
ecolabels.
The draft guidelines address key characteristics of environmental standards
and ecolabels, including the credibility of the development process and the
effectiveness of the criteria for environmental performance. The draft
guidelines were developed to be flexible enough to be applied to standards
and ecolabels in a broad range of product categories.
For more information on the draft guidelines, please visit:
http://www.epa.gov/epp/draftGuidelines
|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| U.S. Forest Service Offers New Digital Maps for Mobile Devices |
|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| |
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| |
|WASHINGTON, Nov. 20, 2013 - The U.S. Forest Service now offers access to |
|variety of visitor maps for people using Android and iOS devices. |
| |
| |
|"This mobile app makes it easier than ever to plan your visit to a national |
|forest or grassland," said U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell. "By |
|putting important forest information right at your fingertips, it will |
|encourage more Americans to get outside and explore their forests." |
| |
| |
|The digital maps are part of USDA's work toward reaching President Obama's |
|initiative to create a paperless government that also provides the American |
|public with better, more accessible information. Online customer surveys |
|also indicated a desire for more online products and information, such as |
|maps. The Forest Service is currently working on the first phase of a |
|website redesign, expected to debut early in 2014, which centers on a |
|map-based tool for planning trips onto our nation's forests, grasslands and |
|other special places. |
| |
| |
|The PDF Maps Mobile App, developed by Avenza Systems Inc., is available as a|
|free download from iTunes and the Android Play Store. The app provides |
|access to Forest Service maps, such as motor-vehicle-use maps, which are |
|free while pages from national forest atlases are 99 cents and forest |
|visitor maps are $4.99. Prices are pending for other agency maps. |
| |
| |
|The maps are geo-referenced with the user's location appearing as a blue |
|dot. The app works on iPhones (3GS or newer) and iPads with WiFi+3G. It also|
|works with Android 4 or newer operating systems on devices with at least 1 |
|gigabyte of memory. |
| |
| |
|Through the app, users can purchase and download professionally created maps|
|that are stored on their devices. They can use the maps based on their |
|location when GPS is available. The maps also will allow users to measure |
|distance and area, find coordinates, open a current view in Google maps, |
|plot place marks, add notes, enter their own data and add photos as |
|attributes. Almost 700 Forest Service maps are available through the app. |
| |
| |
|In areas of national forests and grasslands where Internet connections are |
|unavailable, the app and static maps work well if users download the maps |
|prior to their visit. The apps and maps also will be useful for wildland |
|firefighters. |
| |
| |
|In geographic areas with internet availability users will be able to use the|
|products with live data. The interactive map is expected to be available on |
|a limited basis starting in March 2014. The Forest Service's seven regions |
|are tasked with uploading maps. Users should contact the regional office |
|where a forest or grassland is located if maps are not available on the app.|
| |
| |
|Paper maps are still available for purchase online at the National Forest |
|Store. |
| |
| |
|The Forest Service differs from other federal government agencies in how the|
|Forest Visitor map is funded. The Agriculture Adjustment Act of 1938 calls |
|for the sale of maps as the funding mechanism to revise and produce maps for|
|the public. In 1999 the Act was amended to include products available |
|through the web as "geo-referenced data." |
| |
| |
|The mission of the U.S. Forest Service, an agency of the U.S. Department of |
|Agriculture, is to sustain the health, diversity and productivity of the |
|nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future |
|generations. The agency manages 193 million acres of public land, provides |
|assistance to state and private landowners, and maintains the largest |
|forestry research organization in the world. Public lands the Forest Service|
|manages contribute more than $13 billion to the economy each year through |
|visitor spending alone. Those same lands provide 20 percent of the nation's |
|clean water supply, a value estimated at $7.2 billion per year. The agency |
|has either a direct or indirect role in stewardship of about 80 percent of |
|the 850 million forested acres within the U.S., of which 100 million acres |
|are urban forests where most Americans live. |
| |
| |
|# |
|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|
State
St. Tammany residents question Mississippi officials about Pearl River dam
proposal
Robert Rhoden
The Times-Picayune
November 20, 2013 at 10:12 PM
A couple dozen St. Tammany Parish residents peppered Mississippi officials
with questions and concerns Wednesday night (Nov. 20) about a flood control
proposal to widen the Pearl River in Jackson and build a dam that would
create a 1,500-acre lake. The concerns focused primarily on the already-low
river levels on the Pearl River system in St. Tammany, and how such a
project would affect wetlands and wildlife along one of the state's most
beautiful rivers.
http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/11/st_tammany_residents_voice_str.html#incart_river
Mississippi Power Company in Court Over Kemper Facility
MPB
The Mississippi Power Company, finds itself in court over whether it can
legally charge consumers for the Kemper County Coal Plant now under
construction in East Mississippi.
http://mpbonline.org/News/article/mississippi_power_company_in_court_over_kemper_facility
City receives Earth Day Grant early
Bolivar Commercial
by Paisley Boston
11.20.13 - 04:46 pm
The Cleveland Public Works office put in some extra work a little early
this year to ensure that a solid waste assistance grant would be in place
for next year.
http://www.bolivarcom.com/view/full_story/24091515/article-City-receives-Earth-Day-Grant-early?instance=homesecondleft
Boys and Girls Recycling Initiative
WCBI
STARKVILLE, Miss. (WCBI) – The Boys and Girls Club of Starkville steps up a
recycling initiative.
http://www.wcbi.com/wordpress/boys-and-girls-recycling-initiative
Oxford ponders poop power
By Errol Castens
Daily Journal
OXFORD – City officials voted Tuesday to explore a partnership using
municipal sewage to generate electricity while purifying wastewater.
http://djournal.com/news/oxford-ponders-poop-power/
Woman Wants Ross Barnett Reservoir Name Changed
WJTV
METRO - TaJuana Byrd believes changing the name of the Ross Barnett
Reservoir will be a positive change for the state of Mississippi.
"The past of Mississippi is riddled with hate and racism. And, I'm trying
to show everyone else that Mississippi isn't like that anymore," expresses
Byrd.
http://www.wjtv.com/story/24028705/woman-wants-ross-barnett-reservoir-name-changed
Hancock Co dedicates 'great, glorious, green' school
WLOX
HANCOCK COUNTY, MS (WLOX) -The Hancock County community gave thanks
Wednesday for a "green" school that could set the standard for the rest of
the state. Hundreds of people gathered to dedicate the new Hancock North
Central Elementary School. It could become the first LEED school in
Mississippi.
http://www.wlox.com/story/24027758/hancock-co-dedicates-green-school
Water-contact advisoryissued in west Biloxi
Sun Herald
BILOXI -- The state Department of Environmental Quality issued a water
contact advisory Wednesday for a sampling station. Station 11A runs between
DeBuys Road and Edgewater Avenue.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/20/5133762/around-south-mississippi.html
National
States press EPA for flexibility in power plant climate rules
The Hill
By Ben Geman
State power regulators are urging the Environmental Protection Agency to
give states plenty of leeway to decide how they would meet upcoming carbon
emissions standards for existing power plants.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190916-states-press-epa-for-flexibility-in-power-plant-climate-rules
EPA guidelines seek green standards on procurement
The Hill
By Ben Goad
The Environmental Protection Agency issued draft guidelines Wednesday in
support of the federal government's effort to go green with its purchasing
policies.
http://thehill.com/blogs/regwatch/energyenvironment/190963-epa-issues-guidelines-for-environmentally-preferable-federal
Democrats recruit pro sports leagues for climate push
Politico
By: Andrew Restuccia
November 21, 2013 05:10 AM EST
Democrats in Congress are recruiting a varsity squad of sports officials to
help make the case for action on climate change.
Rep. Henry Waxman of California and Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island
are slated to meet Thursday with officials from most of the country's major
sports leagues, including Major League Baseball, the National Basketball
Association, the National Hockey League and the National Football League.
http://www.politico.com/story/2013/11/democrats-recruit-professional-sports-leagues-for-climate-push-100172.html?hp=l7
EPA Wet Weather Policies Limited To Eighth Circuit Jurisdiction, Agency
Says
Bloomberg
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
Nov. 19 --A March appeals court ruling rejecting the Environmental
Protection Agency's restrictive policies on wastewater discharges during
periods of heavy rainfall, is limited to that court's jurisdiction, the
agency said.
http://www.bna.com/epa-wet-weather-n17179880233/
House OKs bills to speed oil, gas drilling
BY MATTHEW DALY
Associated Press
WASHINGTON — The House approved two bills Wednesday aimed at speeding up
drilling for oil and natural gas on public lands.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/20/5131936/house-set-to-ok-bills-to-speed.html
Opinion
Coal's Challenge to the EPA
Bloomberg
By the Editors - Nov 20, 2013
The Environmental Protection Agency's effort to limit carbon emissions from
coal plants is facing a new congressional challenge this week. In choosing
how to respond, the agency should be willing to adjust its short-term
tactics in service of its long-term goal -- even if it seems nonsensical.
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-11-20/coal-s-challenge-to-the-epa.html
Press Releases
EPA Offers Funding to Reduce Pollution from Diesel Engines
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has made
available $2 million in funding for rebates to help public and private
construction equipment owners replace or retrofit older diesel construction
engines. The rebates will reduce harmful pollution and improve air quality
in local areas.
"Exhaust from diesel construction equipment affects children, senior
citizens and others in neighborhoods across the country"," said Janet
McCabe, acting assistant administrator for EPA's Office of Air and
Radiation. "These rebates will help equipment owners protect public health
and improve air quality near construction sites while updating their
fleets."
Rebates will be offered as part of the Diesel Emission Reduction Act, also
known as DERA. This is the second rebate program offered since Congress
reauthorized DERA in 2010 to allow rebates in addition to grants and
revolving loans. The rebates will support the program's effort to replace
and update existing diesel vehicles, and will target where people are
exposed to unhealthy air.
Since 2008, DERA has awarded more than $500 million to grantees across the
country to retrofit, replace, or repower more than 50,000 vehicles. By
cutting air pollution and preventing thousands of asthma attacks, emergency
room visits and premature deaths, these clean diesel projects are projected
to generate health benefits worth up to $8.2 billion.
Public and private construction equipment owners in eligible counties that
are facing air quality challenges are encouraged to apply for rebates for
the replacement or retrofit of construction equipment engines. EPA will
accept applications from November 20, 2013, to January 15, 2014 and
anticipates awarding the rebates in February 2014.
Construction equipment engines are very durable and can operate for
decades. EPA has implemented standards to make diesel engines cleaner, but
many older pieces of construction equipment remain in operation and predate
these standards. Older diesel engines emit large amounts of pollutants
such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM). These pollutants
are linked to health problems, including asthma, lung and heart disease,
and even premature death. Equipment is readily available that can reduce
emissions from these engines.
To learn more about the rebate program, the list of eligible counties,
applicant eligibility and selection process, please visit
http://www.epa.gov/cleandiesel/dera-rebate-construction.htm
EPA Study: Mercury Levels in Women of Childbearing Age Drop 34 Percent
Data suggest women making more informed seafood choices
WASHINGTON — Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released
a study showing that blood mercury levels in women of childbearing age
dropped 34 percent from a survey conducted in 1999-2000 to follow-up
surveys conducted from 2001 to 2010. Additionally, the percentage of women
of childbearing age with blood mercury levels above the level of concern
decreased 65 percent from the 1999-2000 survey and the follow-up surveys
from 2001-2010.
During the survey period there was very little change in the amount of fish
consumed. The decrease in the ratio of mercury intake to fish consumed
suggests that women may have shifted to eating types of fish with lower
mercury concentrations.
For the peer-reviewed study, Trends in Blood Mercury Concentrations and
Fish Consumption among U.S. Women of Childbearing Age, NHANES (1999-2010),
EPA analyzed measurements of blood mercury levels from the Center for
Disease Control and Prevention's National Health and Nutrition Examination
Survey. EPA found that blood methylmercury concentrations in women of
childbearing age in the first survey cycle (1999-2000) were 1.5 times
higher than the average concentration of the five subsequent cycles
(2001-2010). The average of blood mercury concentrations changed only
slightly from 2001 to 2010, and remained below levels of concern for
health.
EPA's study provides a nationwide perspective on trends in mercury levels
based mostly on consumption of ocean fish. It does not reflect trends in
mercury levels in communities that depend on locally caught fish for
subsistence. EPA and states recommend that people check local advisories
before eating fish caught from local waterways.
Fish and shellfish are an important part of a healthy diet because they are
a source of high-quality protein, many vitamins and minerals, omega-3 fatty
acids, and are mostly low in saturated fat. A well-balanced diet that
includes a variety of fish and shellfish can be beneficial for heart health
and children's proper growth and development.
However, nearly all fish and shellfish contain traces of mercury. For most
people, the risk from mercury by eating fish and shellfish is not a health
concern. Yet, some fish and shellfish contain higher levels of mercury that
may harm an unborn baby or young child's developing nervous system. The
risks from mercury depend on the amount of fish and shellfish eaten and the
levels of mercury in the fish.
EPA and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advise women who may
become pregnant, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children to
avoid some types of fish and to eat fish and shellfish that are low in
mercury for the health benefits and to reduce exposure to mercury.
EPA and FDA advise:
· Do not eat shark, swordfish, king mackerel or tilefish because they
have high levels of mercury.
· Eat up to 12 ounces (2 average meals) per week of a variety of fish
and shellfish low in mercury.
o Five of the most commonly eaten fish that are low in mercury
are shrimp, canned light tuna, salmon, pollock, and catfish.
o Another commonly eaten fish, albacore ("white") tuna has more
mercury than canned light tuna. So, when choosing two meals of
fish and shellfish, you may eat up to 6 ounces (one average
meal) of albacore tuna per week.
· Check local advisories about the safety of fish caught in local
lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. If no advice is available, eat up
to 6 ounces (one average meal) per week of fish caught from local
waters, but don't consume any other fish during that week.
· Follow these same recommendations for young children, but serve
smaller portions.
EPA and the FDA issued national mercury advisories on fish consumption in
2001 and 2004. The agency conducted an extensive national outreach
campaign, including distributing millions of advisory brochures;
translating information into Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese, Vietnamese,
Korean, Cambodian and Hmong; and providing materials to more than 150,000
doctors and healthcare professionals. EPA has also worked closely with
state and tribal partners on developing and communicating risk and benefit
messages related to consuming fish.
In 2013 EPA took two significant actions toward making fish and shellfish
safer to eat. In June, the agency proposed new effluent guidelines for
steam electric power plants, which currently account for more than half of
all toxic pollutants discharged into streams, rivers and lakes from
industrial facilities in the U.S. In April, EPA issued the new Mercury and
Air Toxics rule, which sets emissions limitation standards for mercury
emitted from power plants. Compliance with this rule may take up to four
years.
More information:
http://water.epa.gov/scitech/swguidance/fishshellfish/fishadvisories/technical.cfm#tabs-4
EPA Proposes New Guidelines for Greener Federal Purchases
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing
draft guidelines that will help the federal government buy greener and
safer products. In response to broad stakeholder interest, EPA is seeking
public input on these draft guidelines and a potential approach to
assessing non-governmental environmental standards and ecolabels already in
the marketplace.
"As the largest purchaser in the world, the U.S. government is working to
reduce its environmental footprint," said Jim Jones, Assistant
Administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention.
"The government buys everything from furniture to lighting to cleaning
products. These guidelines will make it easier for federal purchasers to
meet the existing goal of 95 percent sustainable purchases while spurring
consumers and the private sector to use and demand safer and greener
products."
The draft guidelines were developed by EPA, the General Services
Administration, and others following several listening sessions with a wide
range of stakeholders on how the federal government can be more sustainable
in its purchasing and how it can best meet the numerous Federal
requirements for the procurement of sustainable and environmentally
preferable products and services. The draft guidelines were designed to
assist federal purchasing decision makers in more consistently using
existing non-governmental product environmental performance standards and
ecolabels.
The draft guidelines address key characteristics of environmental standards
and ecolabels, including the credibility of the development process and the
effectiveness of the criteria for environmental performance. The draft
guidelines were developed to be flexible enough to be applied to standards
and ecolabels in a broad range of product categories.
For more information on the draft guidelines, please visit:
http://www.epa.gov/epp/draftGuidelines
|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| U.S. Forest Service Offers New Digital Maps for Mobile Devices |
|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| |
|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| |
|WASHINGTON, Nov. 20, 2013 - The U.S. Forest Service now offers access to |
|variety of visitor maps for people using Android and iOS devices. |
| |
| |
|"This mobile app makes it easier than ever to plan your visit to a national |
|forest or grassland," said U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell. "By |
|putting important forest information right at your fingertips, it will |
|encourage more Americans to get outside and explore their forests." |
| |
| |
|The digital maps are part of USDA's work toward reaching President Obama's |
|initiative to create a paperless government that also provides the American |
|public with better, more accessible information. Online customer surveys |
|also indicated a desire for more online products and information, such as |
|maps. The Forest Service is currently working on the first phase of a |
|website redesign, expected to debut early in 2014, which centers on a |
|map-based tool for planning trips onto our nation's forests, grasslands and |
|other special places. |
| |
| |
|The PDF Maps Mobile App, developed by Avenza Systems Inc., is available as a|
|free download from iTunes and the Android Play Store. The app provides |
|access to Forest Service maps, such as motor-vehicle-use maps, which are |
|free while pages from national forest atlases are 99 cents and forest |
|visitor maps are $4.99. Prices are pending for other agency maps. |
| |
| |
|The maps are geo-referenced with the user's location appearing as a blue |
|dot. The app works on iPhones (3GS or newer) and iPads with WiFi+3G. It also|
|works with Android 4 or newer operating systems on devices with at least 1 |
|gigabyte of memory. |
| |
| |
|Through the app, users can purchase and download professionally created maps|
|that are stored on their devices. They can use the maps based on their |
|location when GPS is available. The maps also will allow users to measure |
|distance and area, find coordinates, open a current view in Google maps, |
|plot place marks, add notes, enter their own data and add photos as |
|attributes. Almost 700 Forest Service maps are available through the app. |
| |
| |
|In areas of national forests and grasslands where Internet connections are |
|unavailable, the app and static maps work well if users download the maps |
|prior to their visit. The apps and maps also will be useful for wildland |
|firefighters. |
| |
| |
|In geographic areas with internet availability users will be able to use the|
|products with live data. The interactive map is expected to be available on |
|a limited basis starting in March 2014. The Forest Service's seven regions |
|are tasked with uploading maps. Users should contact the regional office |
|where a forest or grassland is located if maps are not available on the app.|
| |
| |
|Paper maps are still available for purchase online at the National Forest |
|Store. |
| |
| |
|The Forest Service differs from other federal government agencies in how the|
|Forest Visitor map is funded. The Agriculture Adjustment Act of 1938 calls |
|for the sale of maps as the funding mechanism to revise and produce maps for|
|the public. In 1999 the Act was amended to include products available |
|through the web as "geo-referenced data." |
| |
| |
|The mission of the U.S. Forest Service, an agency of the U.S. Department of |
|Agriculture, is to sustain the health, diversity and productivity of the |
|nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future |
|generations. The agency manages 193 million acres of public land, provides |
|assistance to state and private landowners, and maintains the largest |
|forestry research organization in the world. Public lands the Forest Service|
|manages contribute more than $13 billion to the economy each year through |
|visitor spending alone. Those same lands provide 20 percent of the nation's |
|clean water supply, a value estimated at $7.2 billion per year. The agency |
|has either a direct or indirect role in stewardship of about 80 percent of |
|the 850 million forested acres within the U.S., of which 100 million acres |
|are urban forests where most Americans live. |
| |
| |
|# |
|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
News Clippings 11.20.13
11.20.2013
Oil Spill
SUN HERALD | Editorial: Every penny of BP millions should be spent wisely,
transparently
Over the next five years, the state of Mississippi will receive its portion
of the financial settlement of criminal charges against BP and Transocean
for the 2010 oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. The $356 million is a
significant amount, and its wise outlay can do much to restore the damage
done to the Gulf and our most precious natural resources.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/16/5118572/sun-herald-editorial-every-penny.html
State
City, local company enter negotiations on wastewater treatment
Hattiesburg American
The City of Hattiesburg will be entering talks with a local company to
provide land application of treated wastewater.
The City Council voted unanimously Tuesday to start negotiations with
Groundworx, LLC, to provide services, and Mayor Johnny DuPree said the city
wanted to have a decision by the end of the year on whether to contract
with the Hattiesburg-based company.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/article/20131120/NEWS01/311200016/City-local-company-enter-negotiations-wastewater-treatment?nclick_check=1
$200 million East Biloxi infrastructure stalled on the tracks
WLOX
BILOXI, MS (WLOX) -A lack of permits has stalled $200 million in water,
sewer and drainage improvements in East Biloxi indefinitely. At a meeting
on Tuesday, Biloxi Council Members learned CSX has yet to sign off on
permits from paperwork submitted almost a year ago. The project manager
said without CSX's approval nothing can begin in East Biloxi.
http://www.wlox.com/story/24016083/200-million-east-biloxi-infrastructure-work-stalled-on-the-tracks
Biloxi's newly hired director may need time with injured son
sun herald
BY MARY PEREZ
BILOXI -- The City Council on Tuesday hired Dan Gaillet as the city's
public works director and heard that CSX railroad is holding up $200
million of infrastructure work in East Biloxi.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/19/5129092/biloxi-council-hires-new-public.html
DMR reviewing comments on offshore drilling
sun herald
BY ANITA LEE
BAY ST. LOUIS -- Jamie Miller, executive director of the Mississippi
Department of Marine Resources, expects to decide by mid-December whether
proposed regulations for seismic testing and oil or gas drilling leases off
the Coast are consistent with the agency's Mississippi Coastal Program.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/19/5128610/zimmerman-joins-marine-resources.html
Gulf Coast drilling opponents to get their day in court
MBJ
by Lisa Monti
Published: November 15,2013
A recent ruling by a Hinds County's Chancery Court judge will give
opponents of oil and gas drilling in the Mississippi Sound their day in
court to appeal the Mississippi Development Authority's proposed drilling
rules.
http://msbusiness.com/blog/2013/11/15/gulf-coast-drilling-opponents-get-day-court/
Pass Christian oyster reefs close temporarily
WLOX
PASS CHRISTIAN, MS (WLOX) -The recent heavy rains are to blame for the DMR
closing the Pass Christian oyster reefs Tuesday afternoon. That rainfall
caused a drop in water quality, which prompted this temporary shutdown of
oyster harvesting.
http://www.wlox.com/story/24015340/pass-christian-oyster-reefs-close-temporarily
DMR receives $9.7 million in tidelands funds
Mississippi Press
Warren Kulo
November 19, 2013 at 2:25 PM
GULFPORT, Mississippi -- Mississippi Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann
presented a check Tuesday for more than $9.7 million to the Coast's
legislative delegation and the Mississippi Department of Resources to
benefit Mississippi Coast residents.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2013/11/dmr_receives_97_million_in_tid.html#incart_river
DMR announces new ethics hotline for suspected fraud
WLOX
HANCOCK COUNTY, MS (WLOX) -
The director of the Department of Marine Resources today announced a new
"ethics hotline" and online reporting system. Director Jamie Miller said it
will allow DMR employees to anonymously report and instances of suspected
fraud or wrongdoing within the department.
http://www.wlox.com/story/24011599/dmr-announces-new-ethics-hotline-for-suspected-fraud
Regional
Judge rules Plains Southcap eminent domain application OK but reserves
ultimate judgment
Press-Register
Brendan Kirby
November 19, 2013 at 8:28 PM
MOBILE, Alabama – Plains Southcap -- regardless of whether it's a
partnership or a corporation -- has the right to file a legal action to
take land owned by the local water utility, a judge ruled Tuesday.
http://blog.al.com/live/2013/11/judge_rules_plains_southcap_em.html#incart_river
National
Map: The United States of Watersheds
Washington Post
By Reid Wilson, Updated: November 19 at 8:30 am
When American settlers moved westward in the 19th century, they went in
search of precious gold, furs and land. But today, as the West booms,
there's another limited commodity that states need to carefully ration:
Water.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/govbeat/wp/2013/11/19/map-the-united-states-of-watersheds/
Court Orders Government to Stop Collecting Nuclear-Waste Fees
Appeals Court Cites Halted Yucca Mountain Storage Project
Wall Street Journal
By KEITH JOHNSON
Nov. 19, 2013 12:56 p.m. ET
WASHINGTON—A federal court ruled Tuesday that the federal government can't
keep collecting fees for nuclear-waste storage until it finds a way to
store the waste, delivering a victory to nuclear-power operators.
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303531204579207980596692574?mod=WSJ_WSJ_US_News_5
Opinion
Don't hide behind Farm Bill
The Kansas City Star Guest editorial
Clarion Ledger
Suppose you step outside one morning to enjoy the crisp autumnal air. You
stand on your porch, take a deep breath … and gag at the stench. Maybe it's
coming from the stream that flows nearby. The water didn't used to have
that sheen. Maybe it's riding on the northerly breeze. The wind doesn't
usually blow from that direction.
http://www.clarionledger.com/viewart/20131120/OPINION01/311200011/Don-t-hide-behind-Farm-Bill
Press Releases
Cabot Corporation Agrees to Spend Over $84 Million to Control Harmful Air
Pollution at Texas, Louisiana Facilities
WASHINGTON – Boston-based Cabot Corporation, the second largest carbon
black manufacturer in the United States, has agreed to pay a $975,000 civil
penalty and spend an estimated $84 million on state of the art technology
to control harmful air pollution, resolving alleged violations of the New
Source Review (NSR) provisions of the Clean Air Act (CAA) at its three
facilities in the towns of Franklin and Ville Platte, La. and Pampa, Texas,
announced the Department of Justice and the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) today. This agreement is the first to result from a national
enforcement initiative aimed at bringing carbon black manufacturers into
compliance with the CAA's NSR provisions.
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality is a co-plaintiff in the
case and will receive $292,500 of the penalty.
"With today's commitment to invest in pollution controls, Cabot has raised
the industry standard for environmental protection," said Cynthia Giles,
assistant administrator for EPA's Office of Enforcement and Compliance
Assurance. "These upgrades will have lasting, tangible impacts on improved
respiratory health for local communities. We expect others in the industry
to take notice and realize their obligation to protect the communities in
which they operate."
"By agreeing to pay an appropriate penalty and install state of the art
technology to control harmful air pollution, Cabot Corp is taking a
positive step forward to address these significant violations of the Clean
Air Act," said Robert G. Dreher, Acting Assistant Attorney General for the
Justice Department's Environment and Natural Resources Division. "This
agreement will serve as a model for how the industry can come into
compliance with the Clean Air Act by installing controls that prevent
harmful pollution and improve air quality for surrounding communities."
"This is a huge win for the citizens of our district," said U.S. Attorney
Stephanie A. Finley. "These harmful pollutants can cause serious,
long-term respiratory harm. The United States Attorney's Office is
committed to the enforcement of the environmental laws and protection of
the community. This settlement promotes a healthier environment and an
opportunity to allow the residents of the district to breathe cleaner air."
At all three facilities, the settlement requires that Cabot optimize
existing controls for particulate matter or soot, operate an "early
warning" detection system that will alert facility operators to any
particulate matter releases, and comply with a plan to control "fugitive
emissions" which result from leaks or unintended releases of gases. To
address nitrogen oxide (NOx) pollution, Cabot must install selective
catalytic reduction technology to significantly reduce emissions, install
continuous monitoring, and comply with stringent limits. At the two larger
facilities in Louisiana, Cabot must address sulfur dioxide (SO2) pollution
by installing wet gas scrubbers to control emissions, install continuous
monitoring, and comply with stringent emissions limits. In addition, the
Texas facility is required to comply with a limit on the amount of sulfur
in feedstock which is the lowest for any carbon black plant in the United
States.
These measures are expected to reduce NOx emissions by approximately 1,975
tons per year, SO2 emissions by approximately 12,380 tons per year, and
significantly improve existing particulate matter controls. Exposure to NOx
emissions can cause severe respiratory problems and contribute to childhood
asthma. SO2 and NOx can be converted to fine particulate matter once
released in the air. Fine particulates can be breathed in and lodged deep
in the lungs, leading to a variety of health problems and even premature
death. The harmful health and environmental impacts from these pollutants
can occur near the facilities as well as in communities far downwind from
the plants.
In the complaint filed by DOJ on behalf of EPA, the government alleged that
between 2003 and 2009, Cabot made major modifications at its carbon black
facilities without obtaining pre-construction permits and without
installing and operating required pollution technology. The complaint
further alleges that these actions resulted in increased emissions of NOx
and SO2, violating CAA requirements stating that companies must obtain the
necessary permits prior to making modifications at a facility and must
install and operate required pollution control equipment if those
modifications will result in increases of certain pollutants.
Today's action also requires that Cabot spend $450,000 on energy saving and
pollution reduction projects that will benefit the communities surrounding
the facilities in Franklin and Ville Platte, La. and in Pampa, Texas, such
as upgrading air handling units at municipal buildings in the three
communities to more efficient technology.
Carbon black is a fine carbonaceous powder used as a structural support
medium in tires and as a pigment in a variety of products such as plastic,
rubber, inkjet toner and cosmetics. It's produced by burning oil in a low
oxygen environment; the oil is transformed into soot (carbon black), which
is collected in a baghouse. Because the oil used in the process is low
value high sulfur oil, the manufacturing process creates significant
amounts of SO2 and NOx,, as well as particulate matter.
This settlement is part of EPA's national enforcement initiative to control
harmful air pollution from the largest sources of emissions. Since 2010,
EPA has been focusing enforcement efforts on reducing emissions at carbon
manufacturing plants in the United States. Currently, none of the 15 carbon
black manufacturing plants located in the United States have controls on
emissions of SO2 and NOx or have continuous emissions monitors.
Cabot Corporation manufactures global specialty chemicals and performance
materials, which include rubber additives for tires and brake pads,
activated carbon for air purifiers, chemicals used in the manufacture of
lithium-ion batteries, and inkjet colorants.
The proposed consent decree will be lodged with the United States District
Court for the Western District Court for Louisiana and will be subject to a
45-day public comment period. The company is required to pay the penalty
within 30 days after the court approves the settlement. The proposed
consent decree can be viewed online at
www.justice.gov/enrd/Consent_Decrees.html
More information about the settlement:
www2.epa.gov/enforcement/cabot-corporation-clean-air-act-settlement
More information about EPA's national enforcement initiative:
www.epa.gov/compliance/data/planning/initiatives/2011airpollution.html
Oil Spill
SUN HERALD | Editorial: Every penny of BP millions should be spent wisely,
transparently
Over the next five years, the state of Mississippi will receive its portion
of the financial settlement of criminal charges against BP and Transocean
for the 2010 oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. The $356 million is a
significant amount, and its wise outlay can do much to restore the damage
done to the Gulf and our most precious natural resources.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/16/5118572/sun-herald-editorial-every-penny.html
State
City, local company enter negotiations on wastewater treatment
Hattiesburg American
The City of Hattiesburg will be entering talks with a local company to
provide land application of treated wastewater.
The City Council voted unanimously Tuesday to start negotiations with
Groundworx, LLC, to provide services, and Mayor Johnny DuPree said the city
wanted to have a decision by the end of the year on whether to contract
with the Hattiesburg-based company.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/article/20131120/NEWS01/311200016/City-local-company-enter-negotiations-wastewater-treatment?nclick_check=1
$200 million East Biloxi infrastructure stalled on the tracks
WLOX
BILOXI, MS (WLOX) -A lack of permits has stalled $200 million in water,
sewer and drainage improvements in East Biloxi indefinitely. At a meeting
on Tuesday, Biloxi Council Members learned CSX has yet to sign off on
permits from paperwork submitted almost a year ago. The project manager
said without CSX's approval nothing can begin in East Biloxi.
http://www.wlox.com/story/24016083/200-million-east-biloxi-infrastructure-work-stalled-on-the-tracks
Biloxi's newly hired director may need time with injured son
sun herald
BY MARY PEREZ
BILOXI -- The City Council on Tuesday hired Dan Gaillet as the city's
public works director and heard that CSX railroad is holding up $200
million of infrastructure work in East Biloxi.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/19/5129092/biloxi-council-hires-new-public.html
DMR reviewing comments on offshore drilling
sun herald
BY ANITA LEE
BAY ST. LOUIS -- Jamie Miller, executive director of the Mississippi
Department of Marine Resources, expects to decide by mid-December whether
proposed regulations for seismic testing and oil or gas drilling leases off
the Coast are consistent with the agency's Mississippi Coastal Program.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/19/5128610/zimmerman-joins-marine-resources.html
Gulf Coast drilling opponents to get their day in court
MBJ
by Lisa Monti
Published: November 15,2013
A recent ruling by a Hinds County's Chancery Court judge will give
opponents of oil and gas drilling in the Mississippi Sound their day in
court to appeal the Mississippi Development Authority's proposed drilling
rules.
http://msbusiness.com/blog/2013/11/15/gulf-coast-drilling-opponents-get-day-court/
Pass Christian oyster reefs close temporarily
WLOX
PASS CHRISTIAN, MS (WLOX) -The recent heavy rains are to blame for the DMR
closing the Pass Christian oyster reefs Tuesday afternoon. That rainfall
caused a drop in water quality, which prompted this temporary shutdown of
oyster harvesting.
http://www.wlox.com/story/24015340/pass-christian-oyster-reefs-close-temporarily
DMR receives $9.7 million in tidelands funds
Mississippi Press
Warren Kulo
November 19, 2013 at 2:25 PM
GULFPORT, Mississippi -- Mississippi Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann
presented a check Tuesday for more than $9.7 million to the Coast's
legislative delegation and the Mississippi Department of Resources to
benefit Mississippi Coast residents.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2013/11/dmr_receives_97_million_in_tid.html#incart_river
DMR announces new ethics hotline for suspected fraud
WLOX
HANCOCK COUNTY, MS (WLOX) -
The director of the Department of Marine Resources today announced a new
"ethics hotline" and online reporting system. Director Jamie Miller said it
will allow DMR employees to anonymously report and instances of suspected
fraud or wrongdoing within the department.
http://www.wlox.com/story/24011599/dmr-announces-new-ethics-hotline-for-suspected-fraud
Regional
Judge rules Plains Southcap eminent domain application OK but reserves
ultimate judgment
Press-Register
Brendan Kirby
November 19, 2013 at 8:28 PM
MOBILE, Alabama – Plains Southcap -- regardless of whether it's a
partnership or a corporation -- has the right to file a legal action to
take land owned by the local water utility, a judge ruled Tuesday.
http://blog.al.com/live/2013/11/judge_rules_plains_southcap_em.html#incart_river
National
Map: The United States of Watersheds
Washington Post
By Reid Wilson, Updated: November 19 at 8:30 am
When American settlers moved westward in the 19th century, they went in
search of precious gold, furs and land. But today, as the West booms,
there's another limited commodity that states need to carefully ration:
Water.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/govbeat/wp/2013/11/19/map-the-united-states-of-watersheds/
Court Orders Government to Stop Collecting Nuclear-Waste Fees
Appeals Court Cites Halted Yucca Mountain Storage Project
Wall Street Journal
By KEITH JOHNSON
Nov. 19, 2013 12:56 p.m. ET
WASHINGTON—A federal court ruled Tuesday that the federal government can't
keep collecting fees for nuclear-waste storage until it finds a way to
store the waste, delivering a victory to nuclear-power operators.
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303531204579207980596692574?mod=WSJ_WSJ_US_News_5
Opinion
Don't hide behind Farm Bill
The Kansas City Star Guest editorial
Clarion Ledger
Suppose you step outside one morning to enjoy the crisp autumnal air. You
stand on your porch, take a deep breath … and gag at the stench. Maybe it's
coming from the stream that flows nearby. The water didn't used to have
that sheen. Maybe it's riding on the northerly breeze. The wind doesn't
usually blow from that direction.
http://www.clarionledger.com/viewart/20131120/OPINION01/311200011/Don-t-hide-behind-Farm-Bill
Press Releases
Cabot Corporation Agrees to Spend Over $84 Million to Control Harmful Air
Pollution at Texas, Louisiana Facilities
WASHINGTON – Boston-based Cabot Corporation, the second largest carbon
black manufacturer in the United States, has agreed to pay a $975,000 civil
penalty and spend an estimated $84 million on state of the art technology
to control harmful air pollution, resolving alleged violations of the New
Source Review (NSR) provisions of the Clean Air Act (CAA) at its three
facilities in the towns of Franklin and Ville Platte, La. and Pampa, Texas,
announced the Department of Justice and the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) today. This agreement is the first to result from a national
enforcement initiative aimed at bringing carbon black manufacturers into
compliance with the CAA's NSR provisions.
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality is a co-plaintiff in the
case and will receive $292,500 of the penalty.
"With today's commitment to invest in pollution controls, Cabot has raised
the industry standard for environmental protection," said Cynthia Giles,
assistant administrator for EPA's Office of Enforcement and Compliance
Assurance. "These upgrades will have lasting, tangible impacts on improved
respiratory health for local communities. We expect others in the industry
to take notice and realize their obligation to protect the communities in
which they operate."
"By agreeing to pay an appropriate penalty and install state of the art
technology to control harmful air pollution, Cabot Corp is taking a
positive step forward to address these significant violations of the Clean
Air Act," said Robert G. Dreher, Acting Assistant Attorney General for the
Justice Department's Environment and Natural Resources Division. "This
agreement will serve as a model for how the industry can come into
compliance with the Clean Air Act by installing controls that prevent
harmful pollution and improve air quality for surrounding communities."
"This is a huge win for the citizens of our district," said U.S. Attorney
Stephanie A. Finley. "These harmful pollutants can cause serious,
long-term respiratory harm. The United States Attorney's Office is
committed to the enforcement of the environmental laws and protection of
the community. This settlement promotes a healthier environment and an
opportunity to allow the residents of the district to breathe cleaner air."
At all three facilities, the settlement requires that Cabot optimize
existing controls for particulate matter or soot, operate an "early
warning" detection system that will alert facility operators to any
particulate matter releases, and comply with a plan to control "fugitive
emissions" which result from leaks or unintended releases of gases. To
address nitrogen oxide (NOx) pollution, Cabot must install selective
catalytic reduction technology to significantly reduce emissions, install
continuous monitoring, and comply with stringent limits. At the two larger
facilities in Louisiana, Cabot must address sulfur dioxide (SO2) pollution
by installing wet gas scrubbers to control emissions, install continuous
monitoring, and comply with stringent emissions limits. In addition, the
Texas facility is required to comply with a limit on the amount of sulfur
in feedstock which is the lowest for any carbon black plant in the United
States.
These measures are expected to reduce NOx emissions by approximately 1,975
tons per year, SO2 emissions by approximately 12,380 tons per year, and
significantly improve existing particulate matter controls. Exposure to NOx
emissions can cause severe respiratory problems and contribute to childhood
asthma. SO2 and NOx can be converted to fine particulate matter once
released in the air. Fine particulates can be breathed in and lodged deep
in the lungs, leading to a variety of health problems and even premature
death. The harmful health and environmental impacts from these pollutants
can occur near the facilities as well as in communities far downwind from
the plants.
In the complaint filed by DOJ on behalf of EPA, the government alleged that
between 2003 and 2009, Cabot made major modifications at its carbon black
facilities without obtaining pre-construction permits and without
installing and operating required pollution technology. The complaint
further alleges that these actions resulted in increased emissions of NOx
and SO2, violating CAA requirements stating that companies must obtain the
necessary permits prior to making modifications at a facility and must
install and operate required pollution control equipment if those
modifications will result in increases of certain pollutants.
Today's action also requires that Cabot spend $450,000 on energy saving and
pollution reduction projects that will benefit the communities surrounding
the facilities in Franklin and Ville Platte, La. and in Pampa, Texas, such
as upgrading air handling units at municipal buildings in the three
communities to more efficient technology.
Carbon black is a fine carbonaceous powder used as a structural support
medium in tires and as a pigment in a variety of products such as plastic,
rubber, inkjet toner and cosmetics. It's produced by burning oil in a low
oxygen environment; the oil is transformed into soot (carbon black), which
is collected in a baghouse. Because the oil used in the process is low
value high sulfur oil, the manufacturing process creates significant
amounts of SO2 and NOx,, as well as particulate matter.
This settlement is part of EPA's national enforcement initiative to control
harmful air pollution from the largest sources of emissions. Since 2010,
EPA has been focusing enforcement efforts on reducing emissions at carbon
manufacturing plants in the United States. Currently, none of the 15 carbon
black manufacturing plants located in the United States have controls on
emissions of SO2 and NOx or have continuous emissions monitors.
Cabot Corporation manufactures global specialty chemicals and performance
materials, which include rubber additives for tires and brake pads,
activated carbon for air purifiers, chemicals used in the manufacture of
lithium-ion batteries, and inkjet colorants.
The proposed consent decree will be lodged with the United States District
Court for the Western District Court for Louisiana and will be subject to a
45-day public comment period. The company is required to pay the penalty
within 30 days after the court approves the settlement. The proposed
consent decree can be viewed online at
www.justice.gov/enrd/Consent_Decrees.html
More information about the settlement:
www2.epa.gov/enforcement/cabot-corporation-clean-air-act-settlement
More information about EPA's national enforcement initiative:
www.epa.gov/compliance/data/planning/initiatives/2011airpollution.html
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
News Clippings 11/19/13
11.19.13
Oil Spill
BP releases Gulf of Mexico environmental data
Houston Chronicle
Posted on November 18, 2013 at 12:05 pm by Collin Eaton
HOUSTON — BP on Monday released a massive amount of environmental data it
uses in its efforts to clean up the Gulf of Mexico, where the company's
Macondo well spilled millions of barrels of oil in 2010.
http://fuelfix.com/blog/2013/11/18/bp-releases-gulf-of-mexico-environmental-data/
State
Hercules files motion to dismiss part of lawsuit
Hattiesburg American
Hercules, Inc. and Ashland, Inc. have filed a motion to dismiss part of a
U.S. District Court lawsuit brought against them by the City of Hattiesburg
in late September.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/article/20131119/NEWS01/311190014/Hercules-files-motion-dismiss-part-lawsuit
National
Colorado to Tighten Drilling Rules
Wall Street Journal
By RUSSELL GOLD
Updated Nov. 18, 2013 8:39 p.m. ET
Colorado unveiled new measures to reduce airborne emissions from oil and
natural-gas operations amid worries by state residents that increased
drilling would hurt the environment or their health.
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303755504579206413230149896?mod=WSJ_WSJ_US_News_5
Opinion
Recycling really does pay off
Editorial – Clarion Ledger
Communities throughout Hinds, Madison and Rankin counties have an
opportunity to work together on an economic development project that could
create jobs, provide new services for residents and improve the
environment.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20131119/OPINION01/311190004/Recycling-really-does-pay-off
Oil Spill
BP releases Gulf of Mexico environmental data
Houston Chronicle
Posted on November 18, 2013 at 12:05 pm by Collin Eaton
HOUSTON — BP on Monday released a massive amount of environmental data it
uses in its efforts to clean up the Gulf of Mexico, where the company's
Macondo well spilled millions of barrels of oil in 2010.
http://fuelfix.com/blog/2013/11/18/bp-releases-gulf-of-mexico-environmental-data/
State
Hercules files motion to dismiss part of lawsuit
Hattiesburg American
Hercules, Inc. and Ashland, Inc. have filed a motion to dismiss part of a
U.S. District Court lawsuit brought against them by the City of Hattiesburg
in late September.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/article/20131119/NEWS01/311190014/Hercules-files-motion-dismiss-part-lawsuit
National
Colorado to Tighten Drilling Rules
Wall Street Journal
By RUSSELL GOLD
Updated Nov. 18, 2013 8:39 p.m. ET
Colorado unveiled new measures to reduce airborne emissions from oil and
natural-gas operations amid worries by state residents that increased
drilling would hurt the environment or their health.
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303755504579206413230149896?mod=WSJ_WSJ_US_News_5
Opinion
Recycling really does pay off
Editorial – Clarion Ledger
Communities throughout Hinds, Madison and Rankin counties have an
opportunity to work together on an economic development project that could
create jobs, provide new services for residents and improve the
environment.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20131119/OPINION01/311190004/Recycling-really-does-pay-off
Monday, November 18, 2013
News Clippings 11/18/13
11/18/2013
Oil Spill
D'Olive Watershed Worries get BP Fine Money
WKRG
DAPHNE, Alabama - Now, one environmental disaster may mean the salvation of
another.
Soon to be flowing into the D'Olive Creek watershed almost 7 million
dollars.
http://www.wkrg.com/story/23984411/dolive-watershed-worries-get-bp-fine-money
Projects are a positive step
Editorial – Houma Courier
Published: Saturday, November 16, 2013 at 4:57 p.m.
Local coastal projects in Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes are benefitting
from $14 million in fine money from BP and Transocean due to the 2010 oil
spill in the Gulf.
http://www.houmatoday.com/article/20131116/OPINION/131119674/1211/news01?Title=Projects-are-a-positive-step
Editorial: More oil-spill money
Pensacola News Journal
Two news items caught our attention Friday: The city of Pensacola will
receive $2 million from BP, while the five Gulf states will split $113
million in oil-spill money.
http://www.pnj.com/article/20131116/OPINION/311160002/Editorial-More-oil-spill-money
State
Lake Serene dam fix could cost $1M
Hattiesburg American
The story
In August and September 2012, Hurricane Isaac spawned storm systems that
dumped more than a foot of rain on the Pine Belt.
The heavy rains saturated the earthen barrier between Oak Grove and Stump
lakes in the Lake Serene system in Lamar County, causing about a 100-yard
section of the downstream embankment to slough off like heavy icing sliding
off a slanted slice of cake.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/article/20131117/NEWS01/311170031/Lake-Serene-dam-fix-could-cost-1M?nclick_check=1
Pascagoula has $400,000 in grants to help turn around vacant properties
sun herald
BY TAMMY LEYTHAM
November 17, 2013
PASCAGOULA -- The city of Pascagoula has funds available that could help
landowners who want to develop a vacant building or site.
The city has received two Brownfields grants -- for $200,000 each -- from
the EPA to be used for environmental assessments, one for petroleum sites
and the other for hazardous waste, said Jen Dearman, the city's community
and economic development director.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/17/5123257/pascagoula-has-400000-in-grants.html?sp-tk=39828A6BB8CD2D1F50D23B3BDFA9357BB582DA18A34547F9EE96975604F508E03C908C7ACEF24BF552A794F62CABD0A902B976F33690FCA4ED95F0D4FC07E60555D5805B5F7F0288F6955886A249C8D2486A5FC9F9179FBF38CEFAD95FBD1F3670E9C03349397CA74972487FDB8A8A28F0DC1BE7740E1281FCB0689AC8748C0D0641F02EA2435994268375D7765DFBB873F8904048F83F4C05D3CC76F773CB03B3A56D7E
Money going in the trash: Not enough interest in recycling to justify
costs, officials say
Not enough public interest to justify the costs, officials say
Clarion Ledger
Mississippians throw $210 million a year in the garbage, and then we spend
another $70 million to bury it.
Recycling advocates will tell you that's money wasted. Studies will tell
you these are opportunities lost.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20131117/NEWS01/311170017/Money-going-trash-Not-enough-interest-recycling-justify-costs-officials-say
Natchez wins recycling award
The Associated PressNovember 18, 2013
NATCHEZ, MISS. — The Mississippi Recycling Coalition has recognized the
city of Natchez's curbside recycling program as New Program of the Year.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/18/5124094/natchez-wins-recycling-award.html
MDEQ awards assistance grant to Golden Triangle
WTVA
ACKSON, Miss. (WTVA) -- The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality
has awarded the Golden Triangle Solid Waste Management Authority a solid
waste assistance grant of $36,675 that will be used to host a household
hazardous waste collection event on April 26, 2014.
http://www.wtva.com/news/local/story/MDEQ-awards-assistance-grant-to-Golden-Triangle/vlI_xPVlCU2J5yoJGcRrxQ.cspx
Harrison Co. Utility Authority to name new contractor in December
WLOX
GULFPORT, MS (WLOX) -On March 25, 2013, the Harrison County Utility
Authority held a special meeting where Attorney Jim Simpson announced the
termination of SH Anthony's multi-million dollar contract.
http://www.wlox.com/story/23983328/harrison-co-utility-authority-to-name-new-contractor-in-december
Investigation underway into Chevron's deadly fire in Pascagoula
WLOX
PASCAGOULA, MS (WLOX) -What caused a deadly fire at Chevron Refinery in
Pascagoula is still a mystery. State, local and federal investigators were
at the refinery all day Friday searching for clues in this accident. The
person killed was 46-year-old Tonya Graddy of Semmes, Alabama. Chevron
workers and community members are in shock.
http://www.wlox.com/story/23976953/investigation-underway-into-chevrons-deadly-fire-in-pascagoula
Chevron fire reminds officials how dangerous the refinery can be
WLOX
PASCAGOULA, MS (WLOX) -Authorities have identified the only victim of the
Chevron plant fire as 49-year-old Tonya Grady, of Alabama. She had worked
at the refinery for five years. Fire crews from Chevron managed to get the
blaze under control, but Jackson County fire crews were on site to back
them up.
http://www.wlox.com/story/23985206/chevron-fire-reminds-jackson-county-officials-how-dangerous-refinery-can-be
Alabama woman killed in Chevron's Pascagoula Refinery explosion
Sun herald
BY KAREN NELSON
November 16, 2013
PASCAGOULA -- An early-morning explosion and fire Friday at the Chevron
Pascagoula Refinery killed a plant operator, sent up a huge plume of smoke
and rattled windows and doors of homes in nearby neighborhoods.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/16/5119756/alabama-woman-killed-in-chevrons.html
Starkville home to largest solar array in Mississippi
Commercial Dispatch
November 16, 2013 10:22:32 PM
William Browning - wbrowning@cdispatch.com
STARKVILLE -- For years and years the guys behind Synergetics were
interested in solar power but never pulled the trigger.
http://www.cdispatch.com/news/article.asp?aid=28917
Gulf Coast Research lab restocks south Mississippi rivers with striped bass
fingerlings
The Associated Press
November 18, 2013 at 5:47 AM
JACKSON, Mississippi -- A coastal research agency and the Mississippi
wildlife department have programs ongoing to restock Mississippi rivers and
streams with fish.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2013/11/gulf_coast_research_lab_restoc.html#incart_river
New Leadership Works To Get Troubled DMR Back On Track
MPB
BY EVELINA BURNETT | PUBLISHED 17 NOV 2013 11:02PM
The Mississippi Department of Marine Resources is trying to get back on
track after 10 former DMR employees, including the previous director of the
agency, allegedly embezzled more than $1 million in state funds starting in
2006. Seven of those employees are now facing criminal charges too.
http://mpbonline.org/News/article/new_leadership_works_to_get_troubled_dmr_back_on_track
Pension results: Better or not?
Accounting makes both scenarios true
AP
Mississippi's public employee pension fund saw its financial position
improve last year.
Or it didn't.
http://www.clarionledger.com/viewart/20131118/NEWS01/311180012/Pension-results-Better-not-
National
For First Time, E.P.A. Proposes Reducing Ethanol Requirement for Gas Mix
NY Times
By MATTHEW L. WALD
WASHINGTON — The Environmental Protection Agency on Friday proposed
reducing the amount of ethanol that is required to be mixed with the
gasoline supply, the first time it has taken steps to slow down the drive
to replace fossil fuels with renewable forms of energy.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/16/us/for-first-time-epa-proposes-reducing-ethanol-requirement-for-gas-mix.html?ref=earth&_r=0&pagewanted=print
Hitting the Brake on Ethanol
Government Proposes Easing Level of Corn-Based Additive Required in
Gasoline
Wall Street Journal
By TENNILLE TRACY And KEITH JOHNSON
Updated Nov. 15, 2013 7:47 p.m. ET
WASHINGTON—The Environmental Protection Agency on Friday proposed for the
first time to ease an annual requirement for ethanol in gasoline, saying
that levels mandated in a 2007 law are difficult, if not impossible, to
meet.
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303789604579195910936634756?mod=WSJ_WSJ_US_News_5
Obama touts clean energy agenda
The HIll
By Cameron Joseph
President Obama focused on energy independence in his weekly address,
following a week dominated by the chaotic rollout of his signature
healthcare law.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190483-obama-touts-clean-energy-agenda
House Republicans tell EPA to step down on new power plant rules
The Hill
By Laura Barron-Lopez
Leaders from the House Energy and Commerce Committee called on the
Environmental Protection Agency to withdraw its proposed greenhouse gas
standards for new power plants.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190464-house-republicans-tell-epa-step-down-on-carbon-rules
Opinion
Big Ethanol Finally Loses
The political fuel is losing support as its costs and harm grow.
Wall Street Journal
Nov. 17, 2013 6:07 p.m. ET
It's not often that the ethanol lobby suffers a policy setback in
Washington, but it got its head handed to it Friday. The Environmental
Protection Agency announced that for the first time it is lowering the
federal mandate that dictates how much ethanol must be blended into the
nation's gasoline. It's about time. It's been about time from the moment
the ethanol mandate came to life in the 1970s.
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303789604579198081681248494?mod=trending_now_5
Press Releases
EPA Proposes 2014 Renewable Fuel Standards
Proposal Seeks Input to Address "E10 Blend Wall," Reaffirms Commitment to
Biofuels
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today proposed
for public comment the levels of renewable fuels to be blended into
gasoline and diesel as required by Congress under the Energy Independence
and Security Act of 2007. Developed with input from the U.S. Department of
Energy and U.S. Department of Agriculture, the proposal seeks public input
on annual volume requirements for renewable fuels in all motor vehicle
gasoline and diesel produced or imported by the United States in 2014. The
proposal seeks to put the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program on a steady
path forward – ensuring the continued long-term growth of the renewable
fuel industry – while seeking input on different approaches to address the
"E10 blend wall."
"Biofuels are a key part of the Obama Administration's "all of the above"
energy strategy, helping to reduce our dependence on foreign oil, cut
carbon pollution and create jobs," said EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy.
"We have made great progress in recent years, and EPA continues to support
the RFS goal of increasing biofuel production and use. We look forward to
working with all stakeholders to develop a final rule that maintains the
strength and promise of the RFS program."
The proposal discusses a variety of approaches for setting the 2014
standards, and includes a number of production and consumption ranges for
key categories of biofuel covered by the RFS program. The proposal seeks
comment on a range of total renewable fuel volumes for 2014 and proposes a
level within that range of 15.21 billion gallons. Specifically, EPA is
seeking comment on the following proposed volumes:
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
| | | |
| Category |Proposed Volume a | Range |
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
| | | |
|Cellulosic biofuel | 17 mill gal | 8-30 million gallons |
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
| | | |
| Biomass-based | 1.28 bill gal | 1.28 billion gallons |
| diesel | | |
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
| | | |
| Advanced biofuel | 2.20 bill gal |2.0-2.51 billion gallons|
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
| | | |
| Renewable fuel | 15.21 bill gal | 15.00-15.52 billion |
| | | gallons |
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
|aAll volumes are | | |
|ethanol-equivalent,| | |
|except for | | |
|biomass-based | | |
|diesel which is | | |
|actual | | |
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
Nearly all gasoline sold in the U.S. is now "E10," which is fuel with up to
10 percent ethanol. Production of renewable fuels has been growing rapidly
in recent years. At the same time, advances in vehicle fuel economy and
other economic factors have pushed gasoline consumption far lower than what
was expected when Congress passed the Renewable Fuel Standard in 2007. As a
result, we are now at the "E10 blend wall," the point at which the E10 fuel
pool is saturated with ethanol. If gasoline demand continues to decline, as
currently forecast, continuing growth in the use of ethanol will require
greater use of higher ethanol blends such as E15 and E85.
The Obama Administration has taken a number of steps to allow or encourage
the use of these higher ethanol blends. In 2010, EPA approved E15 for use
in vehicles newer than model year 2001 and developed labeling rules to
enable retailers to market E15. In addition, since 2011, USDA has made
funding available through the Rural Energy for America Program to support
deployment of "flex-fuel" pumps that can dispense a range of ethanol
blends. The 2014 proposal seeks input on what additional actions could be
taken by government and industry to help overcome current market
challenges, and to minimize the need for adjustments in the statutory
renewable fuel volume requirements in the future. Looking forward, the
proposal clearly indicates that growth in capacity for ethanol consumption
would continuously be reflected in the standards set beyond 2014. EPA looks
forward to further engagement and additional information from stakeholders
as the agency works in consultation with the Departments of Agriculture and
Energy toward the development of a final rule.
The renewable fuels program was developed by Congress in an effort to
reduce greenhouse gas emissions and expand the nation's renewable fuels
sector while reducing reliance on foreign oil. The standards determine how
much renewable fuel a refiner or importer is responsible for, and are the
standards designed to achieve the national volumes for each type of
renewable fuel.
Today, in a separate action, EPA is also seeking comment on petitions for a
waiver of the renewable fuel standards that would apply in 2014. EPA
expects that a determination on the substance of the petitions will be
issued at the same time that EPA issues a final rule establishing the 2014
RFS.
Once the proposal is published in the Federal Register, it will be open to
a 60-day public comment period.
More information on the standards and regulations:
http://www.epa.gov/otaq/fuels/renewablefuels/regulations.htm
More information on renewable fuels:
http://www.epa.gov/otaq/fuels/renewablefuels/index.htm
Oil Spill
D'Olive Watershed Worries get BP Fine Money
WKRG
DAPHNE, Alabama - Now, one environmental disaster may mean the salvation of
another.
Soon to be flowing into the D'Olive Creek watershed almost 7 million
dollars.
http://www.wkrg.com/story/23984411/dolive-watershed-worries-get-bp-fine-money
Projects are a positive step
Editorial – Houma Courier
Published: Saturday, November 16, 2013 at 4:57 p.m.
Local coastal projects in Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes are benefitting
from $14 million in fine money from BP and Transocean due to the 2010 oil
spill in the Gulf.
http://www.houmatoday.com/article/20131116/OPINION/131119674/1211/news01?Title=Projects-are-a-positive-step
Editorial: More oil-spill money
Pensacola News Journal
Two news items caught our attention Friday: The city of Pensacola will
receive $2 million from BP, while the five Gulf states will split $113
million in oil-spill money.
http://www.pnj.com/article/20131116/OPINION/311160002/Editorial-More-oil-spill-money
State
Lake Serene dam fix could cost $1M
Hattiesburg American
The story
In August and September 2012, Hurricane Isaac spawned storm systems that
dumped more than a foot of rain on the Pine Belt.
The heavy rains saturated the earthen barrier between Oak Grove and Stump
lakes in the Lake Serene system in Lamar County, causing about a 100-yard
section of the downstream embankment to slough off like heavy icing sliding
off a slanted slice of cake.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/article/20131117/NEWS01/311170031/Lake-Serene-dam-fix-could-cost-1M?nclick_check=1
Pascagoula has $400,000 in grants to help turn around vacant properties
sun herald
BY TAMMY LEYTHAM
November 17, 2013
PASCAGOULA -- The city of Pascagoula has funds available that could help
landowners who want to develop a vacant building or site.
The city has received two Brownfields grants -- for $200,000 each -- from
the EPA to be used for environmental assessments, one for petroleum sites
and the other for hazardous waste, said Jen Dearman, the city's community
and economic development director.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/17/5123257/pascagoula-has-400000-in-grants.html?sp-tk=39828A6BB8CD2D1F50D23B3BDFA9357BB582DA18A34547F9EE96975604F508E03C908C7ACEF24BF552A794F62CABD0A902B976F33690FCA4ED95F0D4FC07E60555D5805B5F7F0288F6955886A249C8D2486A5FC9F9179FBF38CEFAD95FBD1F3670E9C03349397CA74972487FDB8A8A28F0DC1BE7740E1281FCB0689AC8748C0D0641F02EA2435994268375D7765DFBB873F8904048F83F4C05D3CC76F773CB03B3A56D7E
Money going in the trash: Not enough interest in recycling to justify
costs, officials say
Not enough public interest to justify the costs, officials say
Clarion Ledger
Mississippians throw $210 million a year in the garbage, and then we spend
another $70 million to bury it.
Recycling advocates will tell you that's money wasted. Studies will tell
you these are opportunities lost.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20131117/NEWS01/311170017/Money-going-trash-Not-enough-interest-recycling-justify-costs-officials-say
Natchez wins recycling award
The Associated PressNovember 18, 2013
NATCHEZ, MISS. — The Mississippi Recycling Coalition has recognized the
city of Natchez's curbside recycling program as New Program of the Year.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/18/5124094/natchez-wins-recycling-award.html
MDEQ awards assistance grant to Golden Triangle
WTVA
ACKSON, Miss. (WTVA) -- The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality
has awarded the Golden Triangle Solid Waste Management Authority a solid
waste assistance grant of $36,675 that will be used to host a household
hazardous waste collection event on April 26, 2014.
http://www.wtva.com/news/local/story/MDEQ-awards-assistance-grant-to-Golden-Triangle/vlI_xPVlCU2J5yoJGcRrxQ.cspx
Harrison Co. Utility Authority to name new contractor in December
WLOX
GULFPORT, MS (WLOX) -On March 25, 2013, the Harrison County Utility
Authority held a special meeting where Attorney Jim Simpson announced the
termination of SH Anthony's multi-million dollar contract.
http://www.wlox.com/story/23983328/harrison-co-utility-authority-to-name-new-contractor-in-december
Investigation underway into Chevron's deadly fire in Pascagoula
WLOX
PASCAGOULA, MS (WLOX) -What caused a deadly fire at Chevron Refinery in
Pascagoula is still a mystery. State, local and federal investigators were
at the refinery all day Friday searching for clues in this accident. The
person killed was 46-year-old Tonya Graddy of Semmes, Alabama. Chevron
workers and community members are in shock.
http://www.wlox.com/story/23976953/investigation-underway-into-chevrons-deadly-fire-in-pascagoula
Chevron fire reminds officials how dangerous the refinery can be
WLOX
PASCAGOULA, MS (WLOX) -Authorities have identified the only victim of the
Chevron plant fire as 49-year-old Tonya Grady, of Alabama. She had worked
at the refinery for five years. Fire crews from Chevron managed to get the
blaze under control, but Jackson County fire crews were on site to back
them up.
http://www.wlox.com/story/23985206/chevron-fire-reminds-jackson-county-officials-how-dangerous-refinery-can-be
Alabama woman killed in Chevron's Pascagoula Refinery explosion
Sun herald
BY KAREN NELSON
November 16, 2013
PASCAGOULA -- An early-morning explosion and fire Friday at the Chevron
Pascagoula Refinery killed a plant operator, sent up a huge plume of smoke
and rattled windows and doors of homes in nearby neighborhoods.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/16/5119756/alabama-woman-killed-in-chevrons.html
Starkville home to largest solar array in Mississippi
Commercial Dispatch
November 16, 2013 10:22:32 PM
William Browning - wbrowning@cdispatch.com
STARKVILLE -- For years and years the guys behind Synergetics were
interested in solar power but never pulled the trigger.
http://www.cdispatch.com/news/article.asp?aid=28917
Gulf Coast Research lab restocks south Mississippi rivers with striped bass
fingerlings
The Associated Press
November 18, 2013 at 5:47 AM
JACKSON, Mississippi -- A coastal research agency and the Mississippi
wildlife department have programs ongoing to restock Mississippi rivers and
streams with fish.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2013/11/gulf_coast_research_lab_restoc.html#incart_river
New Leadership Works To Get Troubled DMR Back On Track
MPB
BY EVELINA BURNETT | PUBLISHED 17 NOV 2013 11:02PM
The Mississippi Department of Marine Resources is trying to get back on
track after 10 former DMR employees, including the previous director of the
agency, allegedly embezzled more than $1 million in state funds starting in
2006. Seven of those employees are now facing criminal charges too.
http://mpbonline.org/News/article/new_leadership_works_to_get_troubled_dmr_back_on_track
Pension results: Better or not?
Accounting makes both scenarios true
AP
Mississippi's public employee pension fund saw its financial position
improve last year.
Or it didn't.
http://www.clarionledger.com/viewart/20131118/NEWS01/311180012/Pension-results-Better-not-
National
For First Time, E.P.A. Proposes Reducing Ethanol Requirement for Gas Mix
NY Times
By MATTHEW L. WALD
WASHINGTON — The Environmental Protection Agency on Friday proposed
reducing the amount of ethanol that is required to be mixed with the
gasoline supply, the first time it has taken steps to slow down the drive
to replace fossil fuels with renewable forms of energy.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/16/us/for-first-time-epa-proposes-reducing-ethanol-requirement-for-gas-mix.html?ref=earth&_r=0&pagewanted=print
Hitting the Brake on Ethanol
Government Proposes Easing Level of Corn-Based Additive Required in
Gasoline
Wall Street Journal
By TENNILLE TRACY And KEITH JOHNSON
Updated Nov. 15, 2013 7:47 p.m. ET
WASHINGTON—The Environmental Protection Agency on Friday proposed for the
first time to ease an annual requirement for ethanol in gasoline, saying
that levels mandated in a 2007 law are difficult, if not impossible, to
meet.
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303789604579195910936634756?mod=WSJ_WSJ_US_News_5
Obama touts clean energy agenda
The HIll
By Cameron Joseph
President Obama focused on energy independence in his weekly address,
following a week dominated by the chaotic rollout of his signature
healthcare law.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190483-obama-touts-clean-energy-agenda
House Republicans tell EPA to step down on new power plant rules
The Hill
By Laura Barron-Lopez
Leaders from the House Energy and Commerce Committee called on the
Environmental Protection Agency to withdraw its proposed greenhouse gas
standards for new power plants.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190464-house-republicans-tell-epa-step-down-on-carbon-rules
Opinion
Big Ethanol Finally Loses
The political fuel is losing support as its costs and harm grow.
Wall Street Journal
Nov. 17, 2013 6:07 p.m. ET
It's not often that the ethanol lobby suffers a policy setback in
Washington, but it got its head handed to it Friday. The Environmental
Protection Agency announced that for the first time it is lowering the
federal mandate that dictates how much ethanol must be blended into the
nation's gasoline. It's about time. It's been about time from the moment
the ethanol mandate came to life in the 1970s.
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303789604579198081681248494?mod=trending_now_5
Press Releases
EPA Proposes 2014 Renewable Fuel Standards
Proposal Seeks Input to Address "E10 Blend Wall," Reaffirms Commitment to
Biofuels
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today proposed
for public comment the levels of renewable fuels to be blended into
gasoline and diesel as required by Congress under the Energy Independence
and Security Act of 2007. Developed with input from the U.S. Department of
Energy and U.S. Department of Agriculture, the proposal seeks public input
on annual volume requirements for renewable fuels in all motor vehicle
gasoline and diesel produced or imported by the United States in 2014. The
proposal seeks to put the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program on a steady
path forward – ensuring the continued long-term growth of the renewable
fuel industry – while seeking input on different approaches to address the
"E10 blend wall."
"Biofuels are a key part of the Obama Administration's "all of the above"
energy strategy, helping to reduce our dependence on foreign oil, cut
carbon pollution and create jobs," said EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy.
"We have made great progress in recent years, and EPA continues to support
the RFS goal of increasing biofuel production and use. We look forward to
working with all stakeholders to develop a final rule that maintains the
strength and promise of the RFS program."
The proposal discusses a variety of approaches for setting the 2014
standards, and includes a number of production and consumption ranges for
key categories of biofuel covered by the RFS program. The proposal seeks
comment on a range of total renewable fuel volumes for 2014 and proposes a
level within that range of 15.21 billion gallons. Specifically, EPA is
seeking comment on the following proposed volumes:
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
| | | |
| Category |Proposed Volume a | Range |
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
| | | |
|Cellulosic biofuel | 17 mill gal | 8-30 million gallons |
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
| | | |
| Biomass-based | 1.28 bill gal | 1.28 billion gallons |
| diesel | | |
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
| | | |
| Advanced biofuel | 2.20 bill gal |2.0-2.51 billion gallons|
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
| | | |
| Renewable fuel | 15.21 bill gal | 15.00-15.52 billion |
| | | gallons |
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
|aAll volumes are | | |
|ethanol-equivalent,| | |
|except for | | |
|biomass-based | | |
|diesel which is | | |
|actual | | |
|-------------------+------------------+------------------------|
Nearly all gasoline sold in the U.S. is now "E10," which is fuel with up to
10 percent ethanol. Production of renewable fuels has been growing rapidly
in recent years. At the same time, advances in vehicle fuel economy and
other economic factors have pushed gasoline consumption far lower than what
was expected when Congress passed the Renewable Fuel Standard in 2007. As a
result, we are now at the "E10 blend wall," the point at which the E10 fuel
pool is saturated with ethanol. If gasoline demand continues to decline, as
currently forecast, continuing growth in the use of ethanol will require
greater use of higher ethanol blends such as E15 and E85.
The Obama Administration has taken a number of steps to allow or encourage
the use of these higher ethanol blends. In 2010, EPA approved E15 for use
in vehicles newer than model year 2001 and developed labeling rules to
enable retailers to market E15. In addition, since 2011, USDA has made
funding available through the Rural Energy for America Program to support
deployment of "flex-fuel" pumps that can dispense a range of ethanol
blends. The 2014 proposal seeks input on what additional actions could be
taken by government and industry to help overcome current market
challenges, and to minimize the need for adjustments in the statutory
renewable fuel volume requirements in the future. Looking forward, the
proposal clearly indicates that growth in capacity for ethanol consumption
would continuously be reflected in the standards set beyond 2014. EPA looks
forward to further engagement and additional information from stakeholders
as the agency works in consultation with the Departments of Agriculture and
Energy toward the development of a final rule.
The renewable fuels program was developed by Congress in an effort to
reduce greenhouse gas emissions and expand the nation's renewable fuels
sector while reducing reliance on foreign oil. The standards determine how
much renewable fuel a refiner or importer is responsible for, and are the
standards designed to achieve the national volumes for each type of
renewable fuel.
Today, in a separate action, EPA is also seeking comment on petitions for a
waiver of the renewable fuel standards that would apply in 2014. EPA
expects that a determination on the substance of the petitions will be
issued at the same time that EPA issues a final rule establishing the 2014
RFS.
Once the proposal is published in the Federal Register, it will be open to
a 60-day public comment period.
More information on the standards and regulations:
http://www.epa.gov/otaq/fuels/renewablefuels/regulations.htm
More information on renewable fuels:
http://www.epa.gov/otaq/fuels/renewablefuels/index.htm
Friday, November 15, 2013
News Clippings 11/15/13
11.15.2013
Oil Spill
DEQ announces first three South Mississippi programs to be funded from BP
oil spill money
Sun Herald
BY KAREN NELSON
MOSS POINT -- The head of Mississippi's Department of Environmental Quality
chose a bend in the Escatawpa River as a backdrop when she announced plans
for $7.5 million in restoration projects along the Coast.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/14/5114950/deq-announces-three-multi-million.html
BP millions awarded for coastal restoration projects
WLOX
MOSS POINT, MS (WLOX) -Preserving wetlands, counting birds and addressing
flooding concerns. Those are among the restoration initiatives that will be
funded with the first money from the BP criminal settlement.
http://www.wlox.com/story/23969001/bp-millions-awarded-for-coastal-restoration-projects
MDEQ receives $8.2 million of an expected $356 million for Gulf restoration
projects
Mississippi Press
April M. Havens
November 14, 2013 at 1:49 PM
MOSS POINT, Mississippi -- The Mississippi Department of Environmental
Quality has received $8.2 million from the National Fish and Wildlife
Foundation to fund three conservation projects on the coast, leaders
announced at an afternoon press conference.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2013/11/mdeq_receives_82_million_of_an.html#incart_river
Mississippi Receives $7.5 Million for Restoration Projects
MPB
BY EVELINA BURNETT | PUBLISHED 14 NOV 2013
Mississippi has received $7.5 million for three projects intended to repair
environmental damage caused by the 2010 BP oil spill.
http://mpbonline.org/News/article/mississippi_receives_7.5_million_for_restoration_projects
M.D.E.Q. Works to Restore the Coast
WXXV
Monies by BP and Transocean are finally being allocated. A big announcement
was made today regarding three conservation projects. The Mississippi
Department of Environmental Quality (M.D.E.Q.) announced the holders of the
funding. The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (N.F.W.F.) will give 8.2
million to launch the projects.
http://www.wxxv25.com/news/local/story/M-D-E-Q-Works-to-Restore-the-Coast/pDmSZ6sDqEm59t89Peqrig.cspx
Gulf states get first $113M from oil spill fines
AP
JACKSON – The five states that border the Gulf of Mexico are getting $113
million to improve the environment, the first small chunk of $2.5 billion
that BP and Transocean were fined as a result of criminal pleas last year
following the 2010 Gulf oil spill.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/viewart/20131115/NEWS01/311150013/Gulf-states-get-first-113M-from-oil-spill-fines
First round of BP coastal restoration funding announced with Alabama
receiving $12.6M, Mississippi $7.5M
Press-Register
Marc D. Anderson
November 14, 2013 at 6:19 PM
In a step toward fulfilling BP's obligation to the Gulf states following
the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster, the National Fish and Wildlife
Foundation on Thursday awarded $113 million in funding for 22 coastal
restoration projects in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas.
http://blog.al.com/live/2013/11/first_round_of_bp_coastal_rest.html
National foundation awards Louisiana first $68 million from BP, Transocean
criminal fines for coastal restoration
Mark Schleifstein
The Times-Picayune
November 14, 2013 at 2:02 PM
The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Thursday (Nov. 14) said it
awarded $67.9 million in planning and design money for two Louisiana
barrier island restoration projects and a major sediment diversion, part of
the state's coastal restoration and storm surge protection Master Plan.
http://www.nola.com/weather/index.ssf/2013/11/national_fish_and_wildlife_fou.html#incart_river
Pensacola to receive $2 million in BP cash
Pensacola News Journal
The City of Pensacola will receive more than $2 million in the first round
of projects to be funded from criminal fines levied against BP and
Transocean after the 2010 Gulf oil spill, city officials announced today.
http://www.pnj.com/article/20131115/NEWS01/311150027/Pensacola-receive-2-million-BP-cash
$4.19 million earmarked for Apalachicola oyster industry
By ZACK McDONALD | The News Herald
Published: Thursday, November 14, 2013 at 19:35 PM.
PANAMA CITY — The first wave of relief is on its way following the 2010
Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the form of $15.7 million along the
Panhandle, officials announced Thursday.
http://www.newsherald.com/news/business/4-19-million-earmarked-for-apalachicola-oyster-industry-1.235065
State
Detonation, fire kills one at Chevron Pascagoula Refinery
WLOX
PASCAGOULA, MS (WLOX) -WLOX News has confirmed a deadly fire at Chevron
Pascagoula Refinery. Chevron officials tell us one person is dead. That
employee's family has been notified. However, Chevron is not releasing the
victim's name yet.
http://www.wlox.com/story/23976953/one-dead-in-overnight-fire-at-chevron-pascagoula-refinery
Chevron Pascagoula Refinery reports early-morning explosion, fire, 1
fatality at processing unit
Mississippi Press
Gareth Clary
November 15, 2013 at 7:16 AM
PASCAGOULA, Mississippi -- An explosion and fire at the Chevron Pascagoula
Refinery Friday morning killed one employee and injured another, according
to authorities.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2013/11/chevron_pascagoula_refinery_re.html#incart_river
One dead in fire at Chevron's Pascagoula refinery
sun herald
BY KAREN NELSON AND PATRICK OCHS
PASCAGOULA -- The Chevron Pascagoula Refinery has confirmed that a 2 a.m.
fire in one of its processing units killed a worker.
Alan Sudduth, spokesman for Chevron in Mississippi, said "refinery teams
responded, the site is secure and there is no danger to the community.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/15/5116922/one-dead-in-fire-at-chevrons-pascagoula.html
Audubon transfers 22 endangered cranes from New Orleans rearing facility to
Mississippi refuge
Benjamin Alexander-Bloch
The Times-Picayune
November 14, 2013 at 5:04 PM
Audubon Nature Institute staff this week bid adieu to 22 critically
endangered Mississippi sandhill cranes after having helped breed them, then
rear them in New Orleans during the birds' first 6 months of life.
On Thursday, the last fledglings left the Species Survival Center on the
West Bank and arrived at the only place on earth where the cranes are still
found in the wild: the Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge
in Jackson County, Miss.
http://www.nola.com/environment/index.ssf/2013/11/audubon_transfers_22_endangere.html#incart_river
Regional
TVA closing 8 coal units at plants in Ala. and Ky.
BY TRAVIS LOLLER
Associated PressNovember 15, 2013
The nation's largest public utility is shuttering eight coal-fired boilers
at plants in Alabama and Kentucky, and more reductions could be in store
over the next few years.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/15/5116816/tva-closing-8-coal-units-at-plants.html
National
EPA assailed on power plant regulations
The Hill
A slew of Republicans on the House Energy and Commerce Committee asked an
Environmental Protection Agency official essentially the same question
Thursday: What planet are you on?
GOP lawmakers blasted the EPA's proposed climate rules for new power plants
at a hearing, arguing that the rule forces coal plants to use
carbon-trapping technologies that aren't ready for prime time.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190269-epa-assailed-on-power-plant-carbon-regs
Rep. Smith targets EPA use of 'secret science'
The Hill
By Laura Barron-Lopez
Rep. Lamar Smith (R-Texas) plans to introduce legislation in the coming
weeks that would stop the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from using
"secret science" as a basis for regulation.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190319-rep-smith-to-introduce-bill-stopping-epa-use-of-secret-science
House readies vote to thwart 'fracking' regs
The Hill
By Ben Geman
The House will likely vote next week on GOP bills that would block Interior
Department regulation of oil and gas "fracking" and set new deadlines for
drilling permit approvals.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190324-house-readies-vote-to-thwart-fracking-regs
EPA chief: Fuel mandate safe for cars
The Hill
By Laura Barron-Lopez
Environmental Protection Agency chief Gina McCarthy said on Thursday she
remains confident that the gasoline blend for the 2014 renewable fuel
mandate is safe for vehicles.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190258-epa-chief-renewable-fuel-mandate-safe-for-cars
Press Releases
Mississippi Emerging as Regional Leader in Energy Efficiency
Portfolio of Policies and Programs Could Meet 13% of Electricity and 10% of
Natural Gas Demand, Create 32,000 Jobs, and Generate $4.3 billion in
Economic Growth by 2025
In the last year, Mississippi has advanced a suite of policies that have
the state poised to become a regional leader in energy efficiency efforts,
and could save the state billions while creating thousands of jobs. These
findings come from a new report released today by the American Council for
an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE), A Guide to Growing an Energy-Efficient
Economy in Mississippi.
In October 2012, Gov. Phil Bryant released his energy plan, Energy Works:
Mississippi's Energy Roadmap. The plan signaling the state's intent to
aggressively develop its vast energy resources, including energy
efficiency, in order to spur economic development. The proactive leadership
in the state, both public and private, has helped catapult Mississippi to
the most improved state in the country in this year's State Energy
Efficiency Scorecard. Only a year ago, Mississippi ranked last place in
ACEEE's annual Scorecard, which ranks states according to their efforts to
save energy.
"One of the goals of Energy Works is expanding Mississippi's energy
capacity through efficiency, and we are proud to see these efforts pay
off," Gov. Bryant said. "Energy is one of Mississippi's most important
resources. Increased efficiency will help improve the competitiveness of
Mississippi's businesses, attract new companies to the state, and improve
the reliability of our energy system."
"Governor Bryant and leaders across the state have made laudable strides,
enacting a number of intelligent, common-sense policies that will help to
stimulate the local economy and meet the growing energy needs of the state
for years to come," said ACEEE executive director Steven Nadel.
ACEEE's report concludes that through these policies Mississippi could
create 32,000 jobs and free up $4.3 billion over the next decade.
"There is a significant opportunity for energy efficiency savings in
Mississippi, and our report is intended as a guide to help inform the
process of capturing as much of this opportunity as possible over the next
10 years," said Max Neubauer, senior policy analyst and lead author of the
report. "The report outlines a comprehensive---but not exhaustive---set of
strategic energy efficiency policy and program opportunities that
Mississippi and its utilities can consider when developing their
portfolios. The report also offers insight into prudent regulatory policy
that will help ensure that Mississippi gets the most out of its future
investments."
Mississippi is quickly moving forward with energy efficiency investments,
spurred by state policies and existing utility energy efficiency programs.
In October, the Tennessee Valley Authority and Severstal, an auto-grade
steel manufacturer, celebrated the successful completion of energy
efficiency improvements to Severstal's facility in Columbus, Miss. The
improvements will save Severstal approximately $1.6 million in energy costs
annually and save enough energy to power 2,000 homes.
"The progress we've seen in the past year is a direct result of Governor
Bryant's focused leadership in this area," said Karen Bishop, director of
the Mississippi Development Authority's Energy and Natural Resources
Division. "We are working closely with the private sector and our utility
partners, as well as state agencies and local governments, and I expect
that Mississippi will continue to rise in the ACEEE Scorecard rankings in
the coming years."
Mississippi's efforts will serve as an example for other states to emulate.
The policies and programs developed and administered by state agencies and
utilities will guide efforts elsewhere, expediting greater economic
development throughout the region.
To read the report visit: http://aceee.org/research-report/e13m
About ACEEE: The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy acts as a
catalyst to advance energy efficiency policies, programs, technologies,
investments, and behaviors. For information about ACEEE and its programs,
publications, and conferences, visit aceee.org.
###
EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy Testimony Before House Committee on
Science, Space and Technology
WASHINGTON – As prepared for delivery.
Good morning Chairman Smith, Ranking Member Johnson, and other
distinguished members of the Committee. I am pleased to be here to talk
about the central role science plays at the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency.
Let me begin by stating that science is and has always been the backbone of
the EPA's decision-making. The Agency's ability to pursue its mission to
protect human health and the environment depends upon the integrity of the
science upon which it relies. I firmly believe that environmental policies,
decisions, guidance, and regulations that impact the lives of all Americans
must be grounded, at a most fundamental level, in sound, high quality,
transparent, science.
Because we rely so heavily on science to meet our mission on behalf of the
American people, it must be conducted in ways that are transparent, free
from bias and conflicts of interest, and of the highest quality, integrity,
and credibility. These qualities are important not just within our own
organization and the federal government, but across the scientific
community, with its long established and highly honorable commitment to
maintaining strict adherence to ethical investigation and research. That's
why the agency has established—and embraced—a Scientific Integrity Policy
that builds upon existing Agency and government-wide policies and guidance
documents, explicitly outlining the EPA's commitment to the highest
standards of scientific integrity. And that commitment extends to any
scientist or organization who wishes to contribute to our efforts. All
EPA-funded research projects, whether conducted by EPA scientists or
outside grantees and collaborators, must comply with the agency's rigorous
quality assurance requirements.
To ensure that we have the best possible science, we are committed to
rigorous, independent peer review of the scientific data, models and
analyses that support our decisions. Peer review can take a number of
forms, ranging from external reviews by the National Academy of Sciences or
the EPA's federal advisory committees to contractor-coordinated reviews.
Consistent with OMB guidance, we require peer review for all EPA research
products and for all influential scientific information and highly
influential scientific assessments.
Among the external advisory committees is the EPA Science Advisory Board
(SAB). SAB reviews are conducted by groups of independent non-EPA
scientists with the range of expertise required for the particular advisory
topic. We invite the public to nominate experts for SAB panels and to
comment on candidates being considered by the EPA for SAB panels. The EPA
evaluates public comments and information submitted about SAB nominees. The
EPA reviews experts' confidential financial information to ensure that
there are no conflicts of interest.
SAB peer reviews are conducted in public sessions in compliance with the
open-government requirements of the Federal Advisory Committee Act. The
public is invited to attend and to provide oral and written comments for
consideration by the SAB. Public comments help to ensure that all relevant
scientific and technical issues are available to the SAB as it reviews the
science that will support our environmental decisions.
Another example is the Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee (CASAC)
which provides independent advice to the EPA Administrator on the science
that supports the EPA's National Ambient Air Quality Standards. The CASAC
reviews the EPA's Integrated Science Assessments which deliver science in
support of the Clean Air Act.
Thanks to the science behind the implementation of the Clean Air Act, we
have made significant and far-reaching improvements in the health and
well-being of the American public. In 2010 alone, EPA estimates that
programs implemented pursuant to the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990
avoided 160,000 premature deaths millions of cases of respiratory problems
such as acute bronchitis and asthma attacks; 45,000 cardiovascular
hospitalizations; and 41,000 hospital admissions. These improvements have
all occurred during a period of economic growth; between1970 and 2012 the
Gross Domestic Product increased by 219 percent.
Through a transparent and open process, we have also committed to enhancing
the Agency's Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) assessment program.
A strong, scientifically rigorous IRIS Program is of critical importance,
and the EPA is in the process of: 1) enhancing the scientific integrity of
assessments; 2) enhancing the productivity of the Program; and 3)
increasing transparency so that issues are identified and debated early in
the process. In 2009, the EPA made significant enhancements to IRIS by
announcing a new 7-step assessment development process. Since that time,
the National Research Council (NRC) has made recommendations related to
enhancing the development of IRIS assessments. The EPA is making changes to
the IRIS Program to implement the NRC recommendations. These changes will
help the EPA produce more high quality IRIS assessments each year in a
timely and transparent manner to meet the needs of the Agency and the
public. A newly released NRC report is largely supportive of the enhanced
approach the EPA is taking to develop the IRIS assessment for inorganic
arsenic.
As I mentioned in my opening statement, science is the backbone of our
decision-making and our work is based on the principles of scientific
integrity and transparency that are both expected and deserved by the
American people. I am proud of the EPA's research efforts and the sound use
of science and technology to fulfill the EPA's mission to protect human
health and safeguard the natural environment.
Thank you for the opportunity to testify before you today. I am happy to
answer any questions you may have at this time.
Oil Spill
DEQ announces first three South Mississippi programs to be funded from BP
oil spill money
Sun Herald
BY KAREN NELSON
MOSS POINT -- The head of Mississippi's Department of Environmental Quality
chose a bend in the Escatawpa River as a backdrop when she announced plans
for $7.5 million in restoration projects along the Coast.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/14/5114950/deq-announces-three-multi-million.html
BP millions awarded for coastal restoration projects
WLOX
MOSS POINT, MS (WLOX) -Preserving wetlands, counting birds and addressing
flooding concerns. Those are among the restoration initiatives that will be
funded with the first money from the BP criminal settlement.
http://www.wlox.com/story/23969001/bp-millions-awarded-for-coastal-restoration-projects
MDEQ receives $8.2 million of an expected $356 million for Gulf restoration
projects
Mississippi Press
April M. Havens
November 14, 2013 at 1:49 PM
MOSS POINT, Mississippi -- The Mississippi Department of Environmental
Quality has received $8.2 million from the National Fish and Wildlife
Foundation to fund three conservation projects on the coast, leaders
announced at an afternoon press conference.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2013/11/mdeq_receives_82_million_of_an.html#incart_river
Mississippi Receives $7.5 Million for Restoration Projects
MPB
BY EVELINA BURNETT | PUBLISHED 14 NOV 2013
Mississippi has received $7.5 million for three projects intended to repair
environmental damage caused by the 2010 BP oil spill.
http://mpbonline.org/News/article/mississippi_receives_7.5_million_for_restoration_projects
M.D.E.Q. Works to Restore the Coast
WXXV
Monies by BP and Transocean are finally being allocated. A big announcement
was made today regarding three conservation projects. The Mississippi
Department of Environmental Quality (M.D.E.Q.) announced the holders of the
funding. The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (N.F.W.F.) will give 8.2
million to launch the projects.
http://www.wxxv25.com/news/local/story/M-D-E-Q-Works-to-Restore-the-Coast/pDmSZ6sDqEm59t89Peqrig.cspx
Gulf states get first $113M from oil spill fines
AP
JACKSON – The five states that border the Gulf of Mexico are getting $113
million to improve the environment, the first small chunk of $2.5 billion
that BP and Transocean were fined as a result of criminal pleas last year
following the 2010 Gulf oil spill.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/viewart/20131115/NEWS01/311150013/Gulf-states-get-first-113M-from-oil-spill-fines
First round of BP coastal restoration funding announced with Alabama
receiving $12.6M, Mississippi $7.5M
Press-Register
Marc D. Anderson
November 14, 2013 at 6:19 PM
In a step toward fulfilling BP's obligation to the Gulf states following
the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster, the National Fish and Wildlife
Foundation on Thursday awarded $113 million in funding for 22 coastal
restoration projects in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas.
http://blog.al.com/live/2013/11/first_round_of_bp_coastal_rest.html
National foundation awards Louisiana first $68 million from BP, Transocean
criminal fines for coastal restoration
Mark Schleifstein
The Times-Picayune
November 14, 2013 at 2:02 PM
The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Thursday (Nov. 14) said it
awarded $67.9 million in planning and design money for two Louisiana
barrier island restoration projects and a major sediment diversion, part of
the state's coastal restoration and storm surge protection Master Plan.
http://www.nola.com/weather/index.ssf/2013/11/national_fish_and_wildlife_fou.html#incart_river
Pensacola to receive $2 million in BP cash
Pensacola News Journal
The City of Pensacola will receive more than $2 million in the first round
of projects to be funded from criminal fines levied against BP and
Transocean after the 2010 Gulf oil spill, city officials announced today.
http://www.pnj.com/article/20131115/NEWS01/311150027/Pensacola-receive-2-million-BP-cash
$4.19 million earmarked for Apalachicola oyster industry
By ZACK McDONALD | The News Herald
Published: Thursday, November 14, 2013 at 19:35 PM.
PANAMA CITY — The first wave of relief is on its way following the 2010
Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the form of $15.7 million along the
Panhandle, officials announced Thursday.
http://www.newsherald.com/news/business/4-19-million-earmarked-for-apalachicola-oyster-industry-1.235065
State
Detonation, fire kills one at Chevron Pascagoula Refinery
WLOX
PASCAGOULA, MS (WLOX) -WLOX News has confirmed a deadly fire at Chevron
Pascagoula Refinery. Chevron officials tell us one person is dead. That
employee's family has been notified. However, Chevron is not releasing the
victim's name yet.
http://www.wlox.com/story/23976953/one-dead-in-overnight-fire-at-chevron-pascagoula-refinery
Chevron Pascagoula Refinery reports early-morning explosion, fire, 1
fatality at processing unit
Mississippi Press
Gareth Clary
November 15, 2013 at 7:16 AM
PASCAGOULA, Mississippi -- An explosion and fire at the Chevron Pascagoula
Refinery Friday morning killed one employee and injured another, according
to authorities.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2013/11/chevron_pascagoula_refinery_re.html#incart_river
One dead in fire at Chevron's Pascagoula refinery
sun herald
BY KAREN NELSON AND PATRICK OCHS
PASCAGOULA -- The Chevron Pascagoula Refinery has confirmed that a 2 a.m.
fire in one of its processing units killed a worker.
Alan Sudduth, spokesman for Chevron in Mississippi, said "refinery teams
responded, the site is secure and there is no danger to the community.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/15/5116922/one-dead-in-fire-at-chevrons-pascagoula.html
Audubon transfers 22 endangered cranes from New Orleans rearing facility to
Mississippi refuge
Benjamin Alexander-Bloch
The Times-Picayune
November 14, 2013 at 5:04 PM
Audubon Nature Institute staff this week bid adieu to 22 critically
endangered Mississippi sandhill cranes after having helped breed them, then
rear them in New Orleans during the birds' first 6 months of life.
On Thursday, the last fledglings left the Species Survival Center on the
West Bank and arrived at the only place on earth where the cranes are still
found in the wild: the Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge
in Jackson County, Miss.
http://www.nola.com/environment/index.ssf/2013/11/audubon_transfers_22_endangere.html#incart_river
Regional
TVA closing 8 coal units at plants in Ala. and Ky.
BY TRAVIS LOLLER
Associated PressNovember 15, 2013
The nation's largest public utility is shuttering eight coal-fired boilers
at plants in Alabama and Kentucky, and more reductions could be in store
over the next few years.
http://www.sunherald.com/2013/11/15/5116816/tva-closing-8-coal-units-at-plants.html
National
EPA assailed on power plant regulations
The Hill
A slew of Republicans on the House Energy and Commerce Committee asked an
Environmental Protection Agency official essentially the same question
Thursday: What planet are you on?
GOP lawmakers blasted the EPA's proposed climate rules for new power plants
at a hearing, arguing that the rule forces coal plants to use
carbon-trapping technologies that aren't ready for prime time.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190269-epa-assailed-on-power-plant-carbon-regs
Rep. Smith targets EPA use of 'secret science'
The Hill
By Laura Barron-Lopez
Rep. Lamar Smith (R-Texas) plans to introduce legislation in the coming
weeks that would stop the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from using
"secret science" as a basis for regulation.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190319-rep-smith-to-introduce-bill-stopping-epa-use-of-secret-science
House readies vote to thwart 'fracking' regs
The Hill
By Ben Geman
The House will likely vote next week on GOP bills that would block Interior
Department regulation of oil and gas "fracking" and set new deadlines for
drilling permit approvals.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190324-house-readies-vote-to-thwart-fracking-regs
EPA chief: Fuel mandate safe for cars
The Hill
By Laura Barron-Lopez
Environmental Protection Agency chief Gina McCarthy said on Thursday she
remains confident that the gasoline blend for the 2014 renewable fuel
mandate is safe for vehicles.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/190258-epa-chief-renewable-fuel-mandate-safe-for-cars
Press Releases
Mississippi Emerging as Regional Leader in Energy Efficiency
Portfolio of Policies and Programs Could Meet 13% of Electricity and 10% of
Natural Gas Demand, Create 32,000 Jobs, and Generate $4.3 billion in
Economic Growth by 2025
In the last year, Mississippi has advanced a suite of policies that have
the state poised to become a regional leader in energy efficiency efforts,
and could save the state billions while creating thousands of jobs. These
findings come from a new report released today by the American Council for
an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE), A Guide to Growing an Energy-Efficient
Economy in Mississippi.
In October 2012, Gov. Phil Bryant released his energy plan, Energy Works:
Mississippi's Energy Roadmap. The plan signaling the state's intent to
aggressively develop its vast energy resources, including energy
efficiency, in order to spur economic development. The proactive leadership
in the state, both public and private, has helped catapult Mississippi to
the most improved state in the country in this year's State Energy
Efficiency Scorecard. Only a year ago, Mississippi ranked last place in
ACEEE's annual Scorecard, which ranks states according to their efforts to
save energy.
"One of the goals of Energy Works is expanding Mississippi's energy
capacity through efficiency, and we are proud to see these efforts pay
off," Gov. Bryant said. "Energy is one of Mississippi's most important
resources. Increased efficiency will help improve the competitiveness of
Mississippi's businesses, attract new companies to the state, and improve
the reliability of our energy system."
"Governor Bryant and leaders across the state have made laudable strides,
enacting a number of intelligent, common-sense policies that will help to
stimulate the local economy and meet the growing energy needs of the state
for years to come," said ACEEE executive director Steven Nadel.
ACEEE's report concludes that through these policies Mississippi could
create 32,000 jobs and free up $4.3 billion over the next decade.
"There is a significant opportunity for energy efficiency savings in
Mississippi, and our report is intended as a guide to help inform the
process of capturing as much of this opportunity as possible over the next
10 years," said Max Neubauer, senior policy analyst and lead author of the
report. "The report outlines a comprehensive---but not exhaustive---set of
strategic energy efficiency policy and program opportunities that
Mississippi and its utilities can consider when developing their
portfolios. The report also offers insight into prudent regulatory policy
that will help ensure that Mississippi gets the most out of its future
investments."
Mississippi is quickly moving forward with energy efficiency investments,
spurred by state policies and existing utility energy efficiency programs.
In October, the Tennessee Valley Authority and Severstal, an auto-grade
steel manufacturer, celebrated the successful completion of energy
efficiency improvements to Severstal's facility in Columbus, Miss. The
improvements will save Severstal approximately $1.6 million in energy costs
annually and save enough energy to power 2,000 homes.
"The progress we've seen in the past year is a direct result of Governor
Bryant's focused leadership in this area," said Karen Bishop, director of
the Mississippi Development Authority's Energy and Natural Resources
Division. "We are working closely with the private sector and our utility
partners, as well as state agencies and local governments, and I expect
that Mississippi will continue to rise in the ACEEE Scorecard rankings in
the coming years."
Mississippi's efforts will serve as an example for other states to emulate.
The policies and programs developed and administered by state agencies and
utilities will guide efforts elsewhere, expediting greater economic
development throughout the region.
To read the report visit: http://aceee.org/research-report/e13m
About ACEEE: The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy acts as a
catalyst to advance energy efficiency policies, programs, technologies,
investments, and behaviors. For information about ACEEE and its programs,
publications, and conferences, visit aceee.org.
###
EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy Testimony Before House Committee on
Science, Space and Technology
WASHINGTON – As prepared for delivery.
Good morning Chairman Smith, Ranking Member Johnson, and other
distinguished members of the Committee. I am pleased to be here to talk
about the central role science plays at the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency.
Let me begin by stating that science is and has always been the backbone of
the EPA's decision-making. The Agency's ability to pursue its mission to
protect human health and the environment depends upon the integrity of the
science upon which it relies. I firmly believe that environmental policies,
decisions, guidance, and regulations that impact the lives of all Americans
must be grounded, at a most fundamental level, in sound, high quality,
transparent, science.
Because we rely so heavily on science to meet our mission on behalf of the
American people, it must be conducted in ways that are transparent, free
from bias and conflicts of interest, and of the highest quality, integrity,
and credibility. These qualities are important not just within our own
organization and the federal government, but across the scientific
community, with its long established and highly honorable commitment to
maintaining strict adherence to ethical investigation and research. That's
why the agency has established—and embraced—a Scientific Integrity Policy
that builds upon existing Agency and government-wide policies and guidance
documents, explicitly outlining the EPA's commitment to the highest
standards of scientific integrity. And that commitment extends to any
scientist or organization who wishes to contribute to our efforts. All
EPA-funded research projects, whether conducted by EPA scientists or
outside grantees and collaborators, must comply with the agency's rigorous
quality assurance requirements.
To ensure that we have the best possible science, we are committed to
rigorous, independent peer review of the scientific data, models and
analyses that support our decisions. Peer review can take a number of
forms, ranging from external reviews by the National Academy of Sciences or
the EPA's federal advisory committees to contractor-coordinated reviews.
Consistent with OMB guidance, we require peer review for all EPA research
products and for all influential scientific information and highly
influential scientific assessments.
Among the external advisory committees is the EPA Science Advisory Board
(SAB). SAB reviews are conducted by groups of independent non-EPA
scientists with the range of expertise required for the particular advisory
topic. We invite the public to nominate experts for SAB panels and to
comment on candidates being considered by the EPA for SAB panels. The EPA
evaluates public comments and information submitted about SAB nominees. The
EPA reviews experts' confidential financial information to ensure that
there are no conflicts of interest.
SAB peer reviews are conducted in public sessions in compliance with the
open-government requirements of the Federal Advisory Committee Act. The
public is invited to attend and to provide oral and written comments for
consideration by the SAB. Public comments help to ensure that all relevant
scientific and technical issues are available to the SAB as it reviews the
science that will support our environmental decisions.
Another example is the Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee (CASAC)
which provides independent advice to the EPA Administrator on the science
that supports the EPA's National Ambient Air Quality Standards. The CASAC
reviews the EPA's Integrated Science Assessments which deliver science in
support of the Clean Air Act.
Thanks to the science behind the implementation of the Clean Air Act, we
have made significant and far-reaching improvements in the health and
well-being of the American public. In 2010 alone, EPA estimates that
programs implemented pursuant to the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990
avoided 160,000 premature deaths millions of cases of respiratory problems
such as acute bronchitis and asthma attacks; 45,000 cardiovascular
hospitalizations; and 41,000 hospital admissions. These improvements have
all occurred during a period of economic growth; between1970 and 2012 the
Gross Domestic Product increased by 219 percent.
Through a transparent and open process, we have also committed to enhancing
the Agency's Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) assessment program.
A strong, scientifically rigorous IRIS Program is of critical importance,
and the EPA is in the process of: 1) enhancing the scientific integrity of
assessments; 2) enhancing the productivity of the Program; and 3)
increasing transparency so that issues are identified and debated early in
the process. In 2009, the EPA made significant enhancements to IRIS by
announcing a new 7-step assessment development process. Since that time,
the National Research Council (NRC) has made recommendations related to
enhancing the development of IRIS assessments. The EPA is making changes to
the IRIS Program to implement the NRC recommendations. These changes will
help the EPA produce more high quality IRIS assessments each year in a
timely and transparent manner to meet the needs of the Agency and the
public. A newly released NRC report is largely supportive of the enhanced
approach the EPA is taking to develop the IRIS assessment for inorganic
arsenic.
As I mentioned in my opening statement, science is the backbone of our
decision-making and our work is based on the principles of scientific
integrity and transparency that are both expected and deserved by the
American people. I am proud of the EPA's research efforts and the sound use
of science and technology to fulfill the EPA's mission to protect human
health and safeguard the natural environment.
Thank you for the opportunity to testify before you today. I am happy to
answer any questions you may have at this time.
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