Wednesday, December 31, 2014

News Clippings 12.31.14 -- Happy New Year!

State



Judge ruled Groundworx contract unconstitutional

WDAM


A chancery judge ruled Tuesday that the contract between the city of
Hattiesburg and Groundworx is unconstitutional, and the city doesn't owe
the company restitution for breaking the contract.
http://www.wdam.com/story/27733208/judge-ruled-groundworx-contract-unconstitutional





Posey won't seek re-election to PSC


Clarion Ledger


Central District Public Service Commissioner Lynn Posey announced

Tuesday that he will not seek a third term on the board that

regulates public utilities.



http://www.clarionledger.com/story/politicalledger/2014/12/30/posey-psc-election/21060967/





Presley running again for Miss. utility commission
The Associated Press



JACKSON, MISS. — Democrat Brandon Presley says he's seeking a third term on

the Mississippi Public Service Commission.

http://www.sunherald.com/2014/12/30/5993189/presley-running-again-for-miss.html?sp=/99/184/218/




DMR closing shrimping north of Intracoastal Waterway Thursday at 12:01 a.m.

Mississippi Press

December 30, 2014 at 2:13 PM



BILOXI, Mississippi -- Officials with the Mississippi Department of Marine

Resources announced Tuesday that all waters north of the Intracoastal

Waterway in Mississippi territorial waters will be closed to shrimping at

12:01 a.m. on Thursday.

http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2014/12/dmr_closing_shrimping_north_of.html





National


New regs for Wednesday: Farm loans, brick masons, retired reserves, raw
meat labels
The Hill




Wednesday's edition of the Federal Register contains new rules from the
Department of Agriculture for farm loans, additional time from the
Environmental Protection Agency to comment on emission standards for brick
masons, a heath care plan for retired reserves, and new labeling rules for
raw meat from the Food and Drug Administration.
http://thehill.com/regulation/228245-new-regs-for-wednesday-farm-loans-brick-masons-retired-reserves-raw-meat-labels

Tuesday, December 30, 2014

News Clippings 12.30.14

State
State contract recommendations revealed


Clarion Ledger


A governor-appointed task force reviewing corrections contracts in

the wake of an alleged bribery scheme will recommend 12 actions,

most with statewide implications, to prevent future contract abuse.



http://www.clarionledger.com/story/news/local/2014/12/29/state-contract-recommend-reveal/21013721/





Oil Spill


Scott Walker, 2 others sue Texas law firm for $7.9 million for steering BP

claims

The Associated Press

December 30, 2014 at 7:09 AM



GULFPORT, Mississippi -- Two Texas attorneys have asked a federal judge to

dismiss a lawsuit brought by three Mississippi businessmen who argue they

are owed $7.9 million for steering to the lawyers thousands of people

seeking to resolve claims against BP from the 2010 Gulf oil spill.

http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2014/12/scott_walker_2_others_sue_texa.html#incart_river





Don't dismiss dispersants in fighting oil spills, key scientists say

Mark Schleifstein

The Times-Picayune

December 29, 2014 at 11:41 AM



Two scientists who tracked the movement and breakdown of oil in the Gulf of

Mexico from the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill have written an opinion

piece for CNN that urges the public not to dismiss the use of dispersants

in future spills.

http://www.nola.com/environment/index.ssf/2014/12/dont_dismiss_dispersants_in_fi.html#incart_river





Regional


Three workers hospitalized after chlorine release chemical plant

WLOX


ST. GABRIEL, LA (WAFB) -Three people were taken to the hospital Monday
morning for exposure to chlorine at a chemical plant in St. Gabriel.
http://www.wlox.com/story/27723243/three-workers-hospitalized-after-chlorine-release-chemical-plant





National


How do you recycle Christmas trees? Feed them to goats

The Associated Press

December 29, 2014 at 10:42 AM



RENO, Nevada -- Goats are known to eat just about anything, but it didn't

dawn on Vince Thomas until recently that the menu might include Christmas

trees.

http://www.al.com/news/index.ssf/2014/12/how_do_you_recycle_christmas_t.html#incart_river

Monday, December 29, 2014

News Clippings 12.29.14

State



Questions linger on potential metal mill


AP


The strange recruitment of a potential $1.2 billion aluminum mill

rolls on.



American Specialty Alloys had promised to announce a site and a

financing plan by the end of the year. The company sparked a lot of

speculation by putting a countdown clock on its website that ended

at 7 p.m. Dec. 19. But George Riel, the company's chief marketing

officer, said that the countdown was only to a holiday party that

also doubled as a "roll out" event for "staff, partners and

customers."



http://www.clarionledger.com/story/news/2014/12/28/american-specialty-alloys-aluminum-mill-mississippi/20985827/




Ford F-150s roll into Mississippi, ahead of the pickup pack


MBJ
by jack.weatherly
Published: December 24,2014

The federal government put the hammer down on the U.S. automotive industry
in August 2012 — issuing a mandate that the fuel efficiency of trucks and
cars had to more than double by 2025.

http://msbusiness.com/blog/2014/12/24/ford-f-150s-roll-mississippi-ahead-pickup-pack/





Delta projects get $3.6M funding boost


Clarion Ledger


Nine projects have garnered nearly $3.6 million in federal and local

resources designed to grow the Mississippi Delta's economy and

create jobs.



•Lake Hazel Dam Rehabilitation, Hazlehurst: Improvements to

downstream slope, existing spillway and other current deficiencies

to bring city into compliance with Mississippi Department of

Environmental Quality requirements for high hazard dams. DRA

investment: $201,251; total project cost: $300,379.



•Como Wastewater Treatment Facility Improvements, Como: Improvements

to wastewater treatment facility to include site work, pipe,

disinfection system, post treatment aeration and electrical work to

help bring the town into DEQ compliance. DRA investment: $150,000

(total project cost).



•Tunica Sewer Improvements, Tunica: Rehabilitation of failing levee

around the local sewer lagoon. DRA investment: $41,504; leveraged

public investment: $4,612; total project cost: $46,116.



•Holly Springs Sewer Lagoon Repairs, Holly Springs: Repairs to

existing wastewater facilities to bring into compliance with

Department of Environmental Quality. DRA investment: $150,000;

leveraged public investments: $600,000; total project cost:

$750,000.



http://www.clarionledger.com/story/news/2014/12/27/delta-projects-get-funding-boost/20953723/




Birdwatching generates big bucks for coastal economy with room to grow


MBJ
Published: December 24,2014

By Tammy Leytham


Wildlife watching – including birding – contributes millions of dollars
each year to coastal coffers and with the new Pascagoula River Audubon
Center opening in 2015, the sky's the limit.

http://msbusiness.com/blog/2014/12/24/birdwatching-generates-big-bucks-coastal-economy-room-grow/





Oil Spill





IMMS: 147 turtles, 48 dolphins found dead in Mississippi Sound in 2014
IMMS: 147 turtles, 48 dolphins found dead in Mississippi Sound in 2014
Sun Herald

BY JUSTIN MITCHELL



GULFPORT -- Before the 2010 BP oil spill, the Institute of Marine and

Mammal Studies in Gulfport saw, on average, about 10 to 15 sea turtle

deaths per year. In 2014, IMMS director Moby Solangi said the institute

documented 147 dead turtles.





http://www.sunherald.com/2014/12/27/5989573_imms-147-turtles-48-dolphins-found.html?rh=1




BP wants oil spill settlement administrator off the case; files request

with appeals court

Jennifer Larino

The Times-Picayune

December 24, 2014 at 2:58 PM



BP has asked a federal appeals court to overturn a ruling blocking its bid

to oust oil spill claims administrator Patrick Juneau, arguing the lower

court "manifestly erred" in its decision to keep Juneau in place.

http://www.nola.com/news/gulf-oil-spill/index.ssf/2014/12/bp_wants_oil_spill_settlement.html#incart_river





Regional





What will be the fate of the Mobile River Basin? Time ticks by for

America's Amazon

Press Register

Ben Raines

December 28, 2014 at 10:03 PM



We still hold in our hands one of the great wildernesses, despite the

excesses of our forebears and of ourselves. It is ours to save. Or lose.

The fate of the Mobile Basin will be decided along its edges.

http://www.al.com/news/index.ssf/2014/12/what_will_be_the_fate_of_the_m.html#incart_river





National





Poll: Voters' view of EPA hits low point
The Hill




A record-low number of voters have a favorable view of the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA), according to a new survey from conservative
polling outlet Rasmussen Reports.
http://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/228045-voters-views-of-epa-hit-low-point

Wednesday, December 24, 2014

News Clippings 12.24.14

Merry Christmas and best wishes to you and your family this holiday season!



State





4 dead from severe weather in Jones, Marion counties


Hattiesburg American


COLUMBIA – It was a scene of chaos and destruction Tuesday as an

early-afternoon swath of severe weather swept through the Pine Belt,

resulting in four fatalities and hundreds of damaged homes and

businesses.



http://www.clarionledger.com/story/news/2014/12/23/mississippi-severe-weather-system/20812051/





MDEQ awards solid waste assistance grant to Three Rivers

by Ray Van Dusen



Monroe Journal



JACKSON – The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality awarded the

Three Rivers Solid Waste Management Authority a $75,000 solid waste

assistance grant that will be used for household hazardous waste collection

events in the Spring of 2015. The authority includes Calhoun, Itawamba,

Lafayette, Lee, Monroe, Pontotoc and Union counties.

http://monroecountyjournal.com/2014/12/21/mdeq-awards-solid-waste-assistance-grant-three-rivers/




Municipalities offering curbside pickup for Christmas trees
Madison County Journal
Duncan Dent


Area municipalities will begin collecting Christmas trees on Friday.

Madison the City is providing curbside pickup and a residents wishing to
recycle the trees will be able to drop them off at Webster Animal Shelter,
located on 525 Post Oak Road. Trees must be stripped of all ornaments and
lights.
http://onlinemadison.com/main.asp?SectionID=1&SubSectionID=1&ArticleID=29594



Seven Locations for Christmas Tree Recycling in Harrison County
WXXV


Seven drop-off locations for Christmas trees recycling will be open in
Harrison County between now and January 20, 2015.
http://www.wxxv25.com/news/local/story/Seven-Locations-for-Christmas-Tree-Recycling-in/JaBvWrvaikKgP8mffMqAmA.cspx





Christmas tree recycling available in Tupelo
WTVA


TUPELO, Miss. (WTVA) -- When it's time to take your live tree down, where
will it go?

The city of Tupelo is once again accepting live Christmas trees for the
purpose of recycling.

http://www.wtva.com/news/local/story/Christmas-tree-recycling-available-in-Tupelo/1OgQ4ssZf0S-MeRm7mlETw.cspx





GP Monticello recognized for environmental excellence

Lawrence County Press


Employees at Georgia-Pacific Corporation's Georgia-Pacific Monticello LLC
received international recognition for their contributions to wildlife
habitat conservation at the Wildlife Habitat Council's (WHC) 26th Annual
Symposium, Celebrating Corporate Conservation.
http://lawrencecountypress.com/contentitem/383739/1181/gp-monticello-recognized-for-environmental-excellence




More than 100 pounds of flounder confiscated by MDMR from Pascagoula

seafood dealer

Mississippi Press

Warren Kulo

December 23, 2014 at 3:37 PM



BILOXI, Mississippi -- More than 100 pounds of flounder were confiscated

from a Pascagoula seafood dealer because the owner could not produce

records showing where it had been purchased.

http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2014/12/more_than_100_pounds_of_flound.html#incart_river




State agriculture values set to top $7B for third year


MBJ
Published: December 24,2014

Despite low prices for many commodities, the overall projected totals for
Mississippi's crop values should top $7 billion for the third straight year
and essentially match the record set in 2013.

http://msbusiness.com/blog/2014/12/24/state-agriculture-values-set-top-7b-third-year/





No. 2 leadership role in the state Senate up for grabs


Clarion Ledger


One of first orders of business when the state Legislature convenes

January 6 on the Senate side is filling the void at the No. 2

leadership spot.



http://www.clarionledger.com/story/news/2014/12/23/leadership-role-state-senate-grabs/20837427/





Oil Spill





Oil spill trial by the numbers: How much will BP pay?

Jennifer Larino

The Times-Picayune

December 23, 2014 at 4:43 PM



The Justice Department and BP on Friday (Dec. 19) gave a preview of the

arguments they plan to make during the final phase of the oil spill trial.

The trial, which starts Jan. 20, will determine how much in fines BP and

its partners will pay for the 2010 Gulf of Mexico oil disaster.

http://www.nola.com/business/index.ssf/2014/12/bps_oil_spill_fines_by_the_num.html







BP says lower oil price should factor in spill fines




Penalties sought by prosecutors would be too much financial pain, company

states in court papers



Houston Chronicle

By Collin Eaton

December 23, 2014


BP is asking a court that will assess penalties for the Deepwater Horizon

disaster to weigh the effects of the volatile oil market, saying high fines

and low-priced crude could keep its Houston-based U.S. unitin the red five

years after the catastrophic Gulf of Mexico oil spill.

http://www.houstonchronicle.com/business/article/BP-says-lower-oil-price-should-factor-in-spill-5976916.php#/0







Regional





McCrory names new head for environmental agency


WRAL


RALEIGH, N.C. — Gov. Pat McCrory on Tuesday named Don van der Vaart, a

deputy secretary who teaches engineering at North Carolina State

University, to head the state Department of Environment and Natural

Resources.



http://www.wral.com/mccrory-names-new-head-for-environmental-agency/14304229/







National





EPA Ordered to Start Enforcing Rules to Cut Ozone in 2015


Bloomberg


By David Voreacos and Andrew Zajac - Dec 23, 2014


U.S. regulations for reducing ozone pollution must take effect next year,

not several months later as the Environmental Protection Agency sought, a

federal appeals court ruled.

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-12-23/epa-ordered-to-start-enforcing-rules-to-cut-ozone-in-2015.html




Court throws out exceptions in EPA ozone rule
The Hill




An appeals court Tuesday overturned two carve-outs that the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) used to allow states more flexibility in complying
with ozone pollution standards.
http://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/227968-court-throws-out-exceptions-in-epa-ozone-rule





States, biz groups back coal company in EPA climate rule lawsuit
The Hill




Twelve states and an array of business groups asked a federal court to step
in and stop the Obama administration from moving further in its attempt to
limit carbon pollution from power plants.
http://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/227982-states-biz-groups-back-coal-company-in-epa-climate-rule-lawsuit





EPA schedules 3 hearings on ozone rule
The Hill




The Environmental Protection Agency will host three hearings in different
corners of the country to gather input on its plan to reduce ozone levels.




The hearings will take place Jan. 29 in Washington, D.C., and Arlington,
Texas, and on Feb. 2 in Sacramento, Calif., the agency announced Tuesday.
http://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/227996-epa-schedules-3-hearings-on-ozone-rule





House, Senate Republicans Seek FERC Response on EPA Power Plant Meetings

Bloomberg


Key Senate and House Republicans are asking each commissioner of the
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to describe any meetings with the
Environmental Protection Agency regarding the proposed Clean Power Plan.


http://www.bna.com/house-senate-republicans-n17179921694/





Court rules against environmentalists seeking EPA regs for lead bullets


AP


A federal appeals court has ruled against environmentalists who are trying
to force the Environmental Protection Agency to regulate spent lead bullets
and lead shot used in hunting and shooting sports.
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2014/12/24/court-rules-against-environmentalists-seeking-epa-regs-for-lead-bullets/?intcmp=latestnews





Opinion







The Supreme Court's Hidden Climate Change Agenda?


Forbes



GUEST POST WRITTEN BYBrian H. Potts and David R. Zoppo



Mr. Potts and Mr. Zoppo are environmental attorneys at the international

law firm Foley & Lardner LLP.



If you had to decide which air pollutant to regulate from the nation's

fleet of existing power plants—mercury, a toxic substance that adversely

affects human health, or carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas that many

scientists believe is contributing to climate change—which would you

choose?

http://www.forbes.com/sites/realspin/2014/12/23/the-supreme-courts-hidden-climate-change-agenda/







Press Releases






Gov. Phil Bryant Issues State of Emergency for Marion and Jones Counties
Following Severe Storms and Flooding





JACKSON – Gov. Phil Bryant has issued a state of emergency this evening for
Marion and Jones counties, along with other parts of the state affected by
severe weather. A state of emergency is an administrative tool that
authorizes the use of additional state resources to aid in storm response
efforts.





"I have declared a state of emergency to assist local officials with any
available state resources that are needed in areas affected by severe
weather, specifically in Jones and Marion counties," Gov. Bryant said. "The
Mississippi Emergency Management Agency and the National Weather Service
are continuing to monitor the situation in the region."





There have been reports of a tornado that moved through Marion County on
Tuesday afternoon.





There have been reports of damage to both homes and businesses in the city
of Columbia due to severe weather. Local power companies were reporting
6,300 customers without power as of 2:45 p.m. in Marion County.





In Jones County there were reports of damaged homes along with 935
customers without power as of 3:30 p.m.





The best way to get up-to-date information during this event is to "Like"
MEMA on Facebook, or "Follow" MEMA on twitter.





###


EPA to Hold Public Hearings in California, Texas and Washington, D.C. on
Proposed Smog Standards


WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will hold three
public hearings on the proposed updates to the national air quality
standards for ground-level ozone, also known as smog. EPA has proposed to
strengthen the standards to a level within a range of 65 to 70 parts per
billion to better protect Americans' health and the environment, while
taking comment on a level down to 60 ppb. The agency estimates that the
benefits of meeting the proposed standards will significantly outweigh the
costs, preventing asthma attacks, heart attacks, missed school days and
premature deaths, among other health effects.


WHAT: ​Public hearings on proposed updates to national air quality standards
for ozone


WHEN: ​Jan. 29 and Feb. 2, 2015. Each hearing will begin at 9 a.m. and
continue until 7:30 p.m. local time


WHERE:


Jan. 29: Arlington, Texas
Arlington City Hall
101 W. Abram Street
Arlington, Texas, 76010


Jan. 29: Washington
U.S. EPA
William Jefferson Clinton East building, Room 1153
1301 Constitution Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20460


Feb. 2: Sacramento, Calif.
California Air Resources Board
Byron Sher Auditorium
1001 "I" Street
Sacramento, CA 95814


Note: People attending the hearings in Washington and Sacramento will be
required to show valid picture identification to enter the buildings. In
Washington, an additional form of ID may be required for people with
driver's licenses issued by certain states. See
http://www.epa.gov/glo/hearings.html for more information on REAL ID.


The public may register to speak at a specific time at a hearing by
contacting Eloise Shepherd at 919-541-5507 or shepherd.eloise@epa.gov.
People may also register in person on the day of the hearing. EPA will
accept written comments on the proposed standards until March 17, 2015. The
agency will issue a final rule by Oct. 1, 2015.


More information on the proposal and instructions for submitting written
comments: http://www.epa.gov/glo/actions.htm





EPA, Coast Guard Extend Pollution Control Agreement with Royal Caribbean
New advanced technologies allow industry to comply with emission standards,
reduce costs


WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Coast
Guard authorized formal exemptions by Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines that
allow for the enlargement of the cruise line's research program to develop
and install exhaust gas scrubber systems on its cruise ships. Under the
exemption, as articulated in MARPOL, Royal Caribbean will expand the
program from six to 19 ships.


This advanced emission control technology will be used in waters
surrounding U.S. coasts, known as Emission Control Areas (ECAs). Because
emissions from ocean-going vessels can harm air quality on land, the U.S.
government requires ships operating within the North American and U.S.
Caribbean ECAs to reduce harmful air pollution emissions such as nitrogen
oxide, sulfur oxide, and particulate matter. The ECAs were developed by the
United States and Canada through an agreement with the International
Maritime Organization in order to protect human health and the environment
by significantly reducing air pollution from ocean-going vessels. EPA
estimates that by 2020 the low sulfur ECA requirements will have prevented
as many as 14,000 premature deaths and relieved respiratory symptoms for
nearly 5 million people in the United States and Canada.


Royal Caribbean's research program has developed exhaust gas scrubber
technology that has the potential to provide greater emission reductions
than would be achieved using only ECA compliant low-sulfur fuel, and at a
much lower cost. Under this research program extension, a total of 19
ships covering a range of vessel sizes and applications will begin using
these scrubbers starting in 2015.


These permits provide a temporary relief from the ECA's fuel sulfur content
requirements. This approach will enable Royal Caribbean to meet its
emission requirements through exhaust gas scrubber technology, rather than
with engine and fuel system modifications. This trial program will also
provide valuable information on developing advanced emissions control
technologies for other marine engines.


For more information on EPA's strategy to reduce harmful emissions from
ocean vessels: http://www.epa.gov/otaq/oceanvessels.htm


For more information on Emission Control Areas:
http://www.epa.gov/otaq/oceanvessels.htm#emissioncontrol

Tuesday, December 23, 2014

News Clippings 12.23.14

State
Cleveland recognized for cleanup event
Bolivar Commercial
by Courtney Warren

After a successful cleanup in April Keep Cleveland Beautiful has been
recognized for its efforts by winning the Best Great American Cleanup
Activation Award by the Keep America Beautiful's national award program.
http://www.bolivarcom.com/view/full_story/26272681/article-Cleveland-recognized-for-cleanup-event?instance=latest_articles





Keep Corinth/Alcorn Beautiful receives recognition for work


By Lena Mitchell



Daily Journal Corinth Bureau



CORINTH – Efforts of Keep Corinth/Alcorn Beautiful Coordinator Andrea Rose,

the council's board and its many volunteers will be recognized Jan. 27,

2015, at the Keep America Beautiful national conference in Washington, D.C.



http://djournal.com/news/keep-corinthalcorn-beautiful-receives-recognition-work/






Entergy plans three solar-power pilot projects


by MBJ Staff
Published: December 22,2014

The Mississippi Public Service Commission has approved three solar power
projects to be constructed by Entergy.

http://msbusiness.com/blog/2014/12/22/entergy-plans-three-solar-power-pilot-projects/




Citizen scientists help local wildlife and communities


MBJ
Published: December 23,2014

Funding and manpower are the most common limiting factors in conducting
research. These factors are especially limiting for wildlife and fisheries
research projects, which cover vast geographic areas, involve secretive
animals and generate large quantities of information.
http://msbusiness.com/blog/2014/12/23/citizen-scientists-help-local-wildlife-communities/




National





Natural Gas: Abundance of Supply and Debate

NY Times


MEAD, Colo. — Natural gas is the Rorschach test of energy
policy. Depending on one's point of view, it can be either
an essential tool for meeting the challenge of climate
change or another dirty fossil fuel that will speed the
planet down the path to calamitous warming.


http://www.nytimes.com/2014/12/23/science/natural-gas-abundance-of-supply-and-debate-.html?ref=science&_r=0





Nuclear: Carbon Free, but Not Free of Unease

NY Times


Next week, if all goes as planned, the 42-year-old nuclear
reactor at theVermont Yankee generating station will be
shut down for the last time. The steam turbine at the
plant, which at its peak could make enough electricity for
about half a million homes with virtually no greenhouse
gas emissions, will grind to a halt.


http://www.nytimes.com/2014/12/23/science/nuclear-carbon-free-but-not-free-of-unease-.html?ref=science






Fed Scores in Bid to Keep Cash From Trash



Recycling Efforts Now Keep 90% of Discarded Bills Out of Landfills
Wall Street Journal


Money may not grow on trees, but the Federal Reserve is helping grow trees

out of money.

http://www.wsj.com/articles/fed-scores-in-bid-to-keep-cash-from-trash-1419294909







Opinion





The Clean Power Plan Is Unconstitutional

The EPA acts as though it has the legislative authority to re-engineer the


nation's electric generating system and power grid. It does not.


By LAURENCE H. TRIBE


Dec. 22, 2014 7:06 p.m. ET





As a law professor, I taught the nation's first environmental law class 45


years ago. As a lawyer, I have supported countless environmental causes.


And as a father and grandfather, I want to leave the Earth in better shape


than when I arrived.


http://www.wsj.com/articles/laurence-tribe-the-epas-clean-power-plan-is-unconstitutional-1419293203






Press Releases






XTO Energy, Inc. to Restore Areas Damaged by Natural Gas Extraction
Activities


WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the
Department of Justice (DOJ) announced today that XTO Energy, Inc. (XTO), a
subsidiary of ExxonMobil and the nation's largest holder of natural gas
reserves, will spend an estimated $3 million to restore eight sites damaged
by unauthorized discharges of fill material into streams and wetlands in
connection with hydraulic fracturing operations. XTO will also implement a
comprehensive plan to comply with federal and state water protection laws
at the company's West Virginia oil and gas extraction facilities that use
horizontal drilling methods.


The company will also pay a civil penalty of $2.3 million for violations of
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA), which prohibits the filling or
damming of wetlands, rivers, streams, and other waters of the United States
without a permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps). The
settlement resolves alleged violations of state law asserted by the West
Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (WVDEP). The state of West
Virginia is a co-plaintiff in the settlement and will receive half of the
$2.3 million civil penalty.


"American communities expect EPA and our state partners to make sure energy
development is done responsibly," said Cynthia Giles, assistant
administrator of EPA's Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance.
"This case will help to protect clean water in West Virginia, and support a
level playing field for energy developers that play by the rules."


"The extraction of domestic energy resources is vitally important, and so
it is equally important that companies ensure that all activities are done
in accordance with the nation's environmental laws," said Sam Hirsch, the
acting assistant attorney general for the DOJ's Environment and Natural
Resources Division. "This settlement will resolve allegations that XTO
damaged wetlands and streams by illegally discharging dredge and fill
materials into streams, and restore wherever possible these damaged natural
resources."


The federal government and the WVDEP allege that the company impacted
streams and discharged sand, dirt, rocks and other fill material into
streams and wetlands without a federal permit in order to construct well
pads, road crossings, freshwater pits, and other facilities related to
natural gas extraction. Today's settlement resolves the alleged violations
that occurred at eight sites located in the West Virginia counties of
Harrison, Marion and Upshur. The federal government and WVDEP allege that
the violations impacted more than 5,300 linear feet of stream, and 3.38
acres of wetlands.


The settlement requires the company to fully restore the wetlands and
streams wherever feasible, monitor the restored sites to assure the success
of the restoration, and implement a comprehensive compliance program to
ensure future compliance with the CWA and applicable state law.


EPA discovered some of the violations through information provided by the
state and through routine joint inspections conducted with the Corps, who
actively supported EPA and DOJ in this case. In addition, the company
voluntarily disclosed potential violations at five of the sites following
an internal audit. Beginning in 2011, EPA issued administrative compliance
orders for violations at all eight sites. Since that time, the company has
been working with EPA to correct the violations and restore those sites in
full compliance with EPA's orders.


In July 2013, the United States concluded a settlement with XTO to resolve
an alleged violation of the Clean Water Act related to the discharge of
wastewater from XTO's Penn Township, Lycoming County, Pa., facility used
for the storage of wastewater generated by hydraulic fracturing operations.


Ensuring energy extraction activities comply with environmental laws is one
of EPA's National Enforcement Initiatives. Filling wetlands illegally and
damming streams can result in serious environmental consequences. Streams,
rivers, and wetlands benefit the environment by reducing flood risks,
filtering pollutants, recharging groundwater and drinking water supplies,
and providing food and habitat for aquatic species. Improving compliance
with the Corps' permit requirements and Clean Water Act regulations
developed by EPA helps to prevent violations and environmental harm.


XTO engages in the exploration and production of natural gas in the
Appalachian Basin. The company has Marcellus Shale holdings in
Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio and West Virginia.


For more information about the permitting process under Section 404 of the
Clean Water Act, visit http://water.epa.gov/lawsregs/guidance/cwa/dredgdis/
.


The consent decree, lodged today in the Northern District of West Virginia,
is subject to a 30-day public comment period and court approval.


For more information about the settlement:
http://www2.epa.gov/enforcement/xto-energy-inc-settlement-2014





EPA Tips for Building a Cleaner Fire this Holiday Season


WASHINGTON – Across the country this holiday season, families and friends
will gather around fires in woodstoves or fireplaces. But how you build
that fire – and what you burn – can have a significant impact on air
quality and health, both inside your home and out.


Whether you're using a woodstove, pellet stove, or your fireplace, seeing
smoke from your chimney means your fire isn't burning efficiently or
cleanly as it could.


Woodsmoke contains fine particles – also called fine particle pollution or
PM2.5 -- which can harm the lungs, blood vessels and heart. People with
heart, vascular or lung disease, and older adults and children are more at
risk.


Here are some simple tips for building cleaner-burning fires this holiday
season:


· Burn only dry, seasoned wood. Wet, or green logs, create excessive
smoke – and waste fuel. How do you tell if wood has been seasoned?
Listen for a hollow sound when you strike two logs together.


· Wood burns best when the moisture content is less than 20 percent.
You can purchase a wood moisture meter to test the moisture content
of your wood before you burn it. You can purchase these meters for as
little as $20 at most home improvement retailers.


· Start a small fire with dry kindling, then add a few pieces of wood.
Be sure there's space between the pieces of wood – and give the fire
plenty of air until it's roaring.


· A smoldering fire, "dirty" glass doors on a wood stove, or smoke from
the chimney are all signs that your fire needs more air – or the wood
is too moist.


· Never burn household garbage, cardboard, painted or treated wood, or
any wood that contains glue, such as plywood or particle board. These
items release toxic chemicals when burned -- and if you're using a
woodstove, they can damage it.


· Check your air quality forecast on airnow.gov before you burn. Some
local areas limit woodstove and fireplace use under certain air
quality conditions.


If you heat your home with wood, using an EPA-certified wood stove can help
you save wood while putting less smoke into the air. In January 2014, the
agency proposed updates to its requirements for newly manufactured wood
heaters that will make new woodstoves, outdoor wood boilers and other wood
heaters cleaner in the future. EPA anticipates issuing final requirements
by Feb. 3, 2015.


More best burning tips: http://www.epa.gov/burnwise/bestburn.html


Information on the proposed requirements for residential wood heaters:
http://go.usa.gov/MbmJ

Monday, December 22, 2014

News Clippings 12.22.14

State



Puppet shows on water cost taxpayers $410K


Clarion Ledger


The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality awarded a

$96,000 no-bid contract for a traveling puppet show touting the

importance of clean water to school-aged children.

http://www.clarionledger.com/story/news/2014/12/20/puppet-shows-water-cost-taxpayers/20706751/?from=global&sessionKey=&autologin

=



State awards billions in no-bid contracts


Clarion Ledger


State government spends billions of taxpayers' dollars — nearly $6.5

billion in the last four years — through "no-bid" contracts, with

little oversight or transparency.

http://www.clarionledger.com/story/news/2014/12/20/state-awards-billions-bid-contracts/20656949/




Auditor's no-bid contracts raise questions


Clarion Ledger


In the fallout from the prisons' bribery-kickback scandal, Gov. Phil

Bryant said he will work with State Auditor Stacey Pickering to

strengthen controls over contracts throughout state government.



http://www.clarionledger.com/story/news/2014/12/20/auditors-bid-contracts-raise-questions/20702661/





State contracts: Where should Miss. look for reform?


Clarion Ledger


The governor, lawmakers and a task force are vowing to reform

Mississippi's purchasing and contracting after a bribery-kickback

scandal in the state's prisons system.



http://www.clarionledger.com/story/news/2014/12/21/state-contracts-miss-look-reform/20747823/





Website not designed to track no-bid contracts


Clarion Ledger


The scope and scale of the state's multibillion-dollar business with

preferred vendors remains shrouded in darkness despite a 2008 law

demanding transparency in government spending.



http://www.clarionledger.com/story/news/2014/12/21/website-designed-track-bid-contracts/20747775/





Consultants to ask for treatment decision in February


Hattiesburg American


The City of Hattiesburg will be presented with a short list of

potential solutions for its malfunctioning wastewater treatment

system in January, and city officials will be asked to make a

decision in February.



http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/story/news/local/hattiesburg/2014/12/20/hattiesburg-wastewater-decision-february/20715365/





DeSoto wastewater board gets good plant inspection, finds project savings




Commercial Appeal



DeSoto County's wastewater management board got good year-end news on two


fronts: A surprise state inspection of the Short Fork treatment plant for


Southaven resulted in a good report, and completion of the Camp Creek


overflow project resulted in a surplus.


http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/local-news/desoto/desoto-wastewater-board-gets-good-plant-inspection-finds-project-savings_88416285





Old Town eateries debate trash plan
Sea Coast Echo


By Dwayne Bremer
Dec 19, 2014, 18:55


Most downtown restaurant owners are against the idea of the city providing
space for Dumpster pads; however city leaders are not ready to trash the
idea and some have even called for an expansion of the service.
http://www.seacoastecho.com/article_8464.shtml#.VJTKH4DOMA





Christmas tree recycling program begins Dec. 26

WLOX




Christmas is right around the corner, and officials are urging you to start
thinking about what to do with your tree after the holidays. Recycling is
one option.
http://www.wlox.com/story/27658899/christmas-tree-recycling-program-begins-dec-26





Another company stops oil drilling in Mississippi due to falling prices

The Associated Press

December 21, 2014 at 8:53 PM



MCCOMB, Mississippi -- A second oil company is stopping drilling in the

Tuscaloosa Marine Shale because of falling oil prices.

http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2014/12/another_company_stops_oil_dril.html#incart_river





Timber holds No. 2 ag commodity spot in Mississippi


Clarion Ledger


STARKVILLE – A production bump has helped forestry maintain its

status as Mississippi's second largest agricultural commodity.



http://www.clarionledger.com/story/money/business/2014/12/20/timber-holds-ag-commodity-spot-mississippi/20699197/





Ex-MBN chief taking on Mississippi's prison system


Clarion Ledger


Marshall Fisher, the former head of the state Bureau of Narcotics,

is Gov. Phil Bryant's choice to clean up the state Department of

Corrections in the wake of alleged corruption that toppled its

former commissioner.



http://www.clarionledger.com/story/news/2014/12/19/ex-mbn-chief-taking-mississippis-prison-system/20648289/





Oil Spill





U.S. Seeks BP Fine of Up to $18 Billion for Gulf Oil Spill Disaster
Bloomberg


By Laurel Brubaker Calkins December 19, 2014


The government wants BP Plc (BP/) to pay $16 billion to $18 billion in

water-pollution fines for the worst offshore oil spill in U.S. history

while seeking more than $1 billion from the co-owner of the blown-out well

that caused the 2010 Gulf of Mexico disaster.

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2014-12-19/bp-gulf-spill-pollution-fine-up-to-18-billion-sought-by-u-dot-s




June 8 deadline set for BP settlement claims

The Associated Press

December 21, 2014 at 8:32 AM



NEW ORLEANS -- People and businesses who lost money because of the 2010

Gulf of Mexico oil spill have until June 8 to file claims.

http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2014/12/june_8_deadline_set_for_bp_set.html#incart_river





National





E.P.A. Issues Rules on Disposal of Coal Ash to Protect Water Supply

NY Times


WASHINGTON — The Environmental Protection Agency on Friday
announced the first federal guidelines for disposing of
coal ash, instructing power plants to implement safeguards
against contaminating nearby water supplies.


http://www.nytimes.com/2014/12/20/us/epa-issues-new-rules-on-disposal-of-coal-ash.html?ref=earth&_r=0





Coal-ash dumps to face restrictions six years after billion-gallon spill in


Tennessee



Washington Post


Millions of tons of coal ash produced by power companies each year will


come under stricter controls of new federal regulations intended to prevent


disasters such as the 2008 dike failure that released a billion gallons of


toxic slurry into two Tennessee rivers.


http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/coal-ash-dumps-to-face-restrictions-six-years-after-billion-gallon-spill-in-tennessee/2014/12/19/c07ae0ce-87bb-11e4-9534-f79a23c40e6c_story.html






EPA Releases New Standards For Coal Ash

Electric Utilities May Have to Shut Down Some Pools Containing Ash Slurry


Wall Street Journal


Electric utilities will probably have to shut down some pools containing


waste ash from coal-fired power plants under new rules released by federal


regulators Friday.


http://www.wsj.com/articles/epa-releases-new-standards-for-coal-ash-1419025468?KEYWORDS=epa






Lawmakers press Obama to rescind climate rule
The Hill




A group of bipartisan lawmakers is urging President Obama to withdraw the
administration's climate regulation on carbon pollution from existing power
plants.
http://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/227742-lawmakers-press-obama-to-rescind-climate-rule





Opinion





State bid laws in need of fundamental overhaul: Our view


Clarion Ledger


Following indictments against former Department of Corrections

Commissioner Chris Epps on charges that he awarded contracts to

vendors in exchange for financial kickbacks, The Clarion-Ledger set

out to review all no-bid contracts let by the state. What we found

was astonishing.



http://www.clarionledger.com/story/opinion/editorials/2014/12/20/our-view-state-bid-laws-need-fundamental-overhaul/20707875/





Press Releases






Common sense, pragmatic rules to protect against structural failure, water
and air pollution



WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced
the first national regulations to provide for the safe disposal of coal
combustion residuals (coal ash) from coal-fired power plants. The final
rule establishes safeguards to protect communities from coal ash
impoundment failures, like the catastrophic Kingston, Tenn., spill in 2008,
and establishes safeguards to prevent groundwater contamination and air
emissions from coal ash disposal.


"EPA is taking action to protect our communities from the risk of
mismanaged coal ash disposal units, and putting in place safeguards to help
prevent the next catastrophic coal ash impoundment failure, which can cost
millions for local businesses, communities and states," said EPA
Administrator Gina McCarthy. "These strong safeguards will protect drinking
water from contamination, air from coal ash dust, and our communities from
structural failures, while providing facilities a practical approach for
implementation."


EPA has been studying the effects of coal ash disposal on the environment
and public health for many years. In the wake of the failure of the TVA
coal ash pond in Kingston, TN, EPA began a multi-year effort to help ensure
the safety of the nation's coal ash disposal facilities, including
assessing more than 500 facilities across the country. Improperly
constructed or managed coal ash disposal units have been linked to nearly
160 cases of harm to surface or ground water or to the air. EPA carefully
evaluated more than 450,000 comments on the proposed rule, testimony from
eight public hearings, and information gathered from three notices
soliciting comment on new data and analyses.


Improperly constructed or managed coal ash disposal units have resulted in
the catastrophic failure of surface impoundments, damages to surface water,
groundwater and the air. The first federal requirements for impoundments
and landfills to address these risks include:

· The closure of surface impoundments and landfills that fail to meet
engineering and structural standards and will no longer receive coal
ash;
· Reducing the risk of catastrophic failure by requiring regular
inspections of the structural safety of surface impoundments;
· Restrictions on the location of new surface impoundments and
landfills so that they cannot be built in sensitive areas such as
wetlands and earthquake zones;
· Protecting groundwater by requiring monitoring, immediate cleanup of
contamination, and closure of unlined surface impoundments that are
polluting groundwater;
· Protecting communities using fugitive dust controls to reduce
windblown coal ash dust;
· Requiring liner barriers for new units and proper closure of surface
impoundments and landfills that will no longer receive CCRs.

In response to comments received on the proposal, the final rule makes a
number of changes by providing greater clarity on technical requirements
for coal ash landfills and surface impoundments under Subtitle D of the
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), the nation's primary law for
regulating solid waste.


Implementation of these technical requirements will be reported through
comprehensive and regular disclosure to states, and communities to enable
them to monitor and oversee these requirements. The rule requires that
power plant owners and operators provide detailed information to citizens
and states to fully understand how their communities may be impacted. The
rule sets out new transparency requirements, including recordkeeping and
reporting requirements, as well as the requirement for each facility to
post specific information to a publicly-accessible website. This will
provide the public with information such as annual groundwater monitoring
results, and corrective action reports, coal ash fugitive dust control
plans, and closure completion notifications.


This final rule also supports the responsible recycling of coal ash by
distinguishing safe, beneficial use from disposal. In 2012, almost 40
percent of all coal ash produced was recycled (beneficially used), rather
than disposed. Beneficial use of coal ash can produce positive
environmental, economic and performance benefits such as reduced use of
virgin resources, lower greenhouse gas emissions, reduced cost of coal ash
disposal, and improved strength and durability of materials.


EPA is committed to working closely with our state partners on
implementation of this rule. To ease implementation and harmonize the
regulatory requirements for coal ash landfills and surface impoundments,
EPA encourages states to adopt the federal minimum criteria, revise their
Solid Waste Management Plans (SWMPs) and submit these revisions to EPA for
approval. A revised and approved SMWP will signal EPA's opinion that the
state SWMP meets the federal criteria.






EPA Takes Action to Protect Public from Harmful Lead Exposure

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced
62 enforcement actions that require renovation contractors and training
providers to protect people from harmful exposure to lead dust and debris,
as required by EPA's Lead-based Paint Renovation, Repair, and Painting
(RRP) standards.


The enforcement actions include 55 settlements and six complaints issued
between February and October 2014 for renovations performed on pre-1978
homes and child-care facilities. All of the settlements require that the
alleged violators certify their compliance with RRP standards and, in most
cases, pay civil penalties. In two of the settlements, the violators
agreed to fund voluntary lead abatement supplemental environmental
projects, which require the removal of lead-based paint and
post-construction testing to ensure that no hazardous conditions remain.
The settlements led to $213,171 in civil penalties and the violators coming
into compliance with federal law. These recent actions are in addition to
EPA's settlement with Lowe's Home Improvement in April 2014, which included
a $500,000 civil penalty as well as implementation of a corporate-wide RRP
compliance program.


"Children are most vulnerable to the dangers of lead paint exposure,
especially those in predominantly minority and low-income communities,
where housing is more likely to contain lead-based paint," said Cynthia
Giles, assistant administrator for EPA's Office of Enforcement and
Compliance Assurance. "These cases to enforce the RRP rule are vitally
important to improving compliance among companies that handle lead-based
paint. This leads to safer communities, healthier children and a level
playing field for companies that follow the law."


Lead dust and debris from improper renovation activities on properties
built prior to 1978 is a major source of lead exposure that can cause lead
poisoning. Although using lead-based paint in dwellings was prohibited
after 1978, it is still present in more than 30 million homes across the
nation, in all types of communities. The RRP Rule provides important
protections for children and others vulnerable to lead exposure. Even low
levels of lead in the blood of children can result in behavior and learning
problems, lower IQ and hyperactivity, slowed growth, hearing problems and
anemia. In rare cases, ingestion of lead can cause seizures, coma and even
death.


The RRP Rule, which is part of the federal Toxic Substances Control Act, is
intended to ensure that owners and occupants of pre-1978 "target housing"
and "child-occupied facilities" receive information on lead-based paint
hazards before renovations begin, that individuals performing such
renovations are properly trained and certified, and that renovators and
workers follow specific lead-safe work practices during renovations to
reduce the potential for exposure to lead.


The penalties in the settlements address the cited violations. Enforcement
penalties also help deter violations by others in the regulated industry,
and level the playing field for complying companies, since the fines help
eliminate the financial advantage a violator may derive from non-compliance
which, otherwise, would allow the violator to underbid its complying
competitors.


Contractors that are certified under EPA's RRP standards are encouraged to
display EPA's "Lead-Safe" logo on worker's uniforms, signs, websites, and
other material, as appropriate. Consumers can protect themselves by looking
for the logo before hiring a home contractor, and by being generally aware
of whether a renovator is following lead-safe work practices when working
on their property. Those practices, such as what a renovator must do to
minimize lead dust dispersion, are outlined in EPA's Renovate Right lead
hazard information pamphlet, available at
http://www2.epa.gov/sites/production/files/documents/renovaterightbrochure.pdf





Renovators are required to give the pamphlet to property owners and
occupants within 60 days before starting any renovation.

Between mid-February and September 30, 2014, EPA settled enforcement
actions with, or issued complaints against, the companies below. In the
following settlements, the companies paid civil penalties in excess of
$10,000, respectively:


Student Works Painting, Inc. d.b.a. College Works Painting (CA) paid a
$39,532 fine for violating work practice and recordkeeping requirements.


Manhattan Construction Co. and Ark Wrecking Co. (OK) paid a $24,038 penalty
for violating requirements for certification, information distribution,
ensuring personnel were certified or properly trained, and ensuring that a
certified renovator was assigned and performed required tasks.


Z&B Holdings, LLC d/b/a Berry Door & Window (MO) paid a $23,300 fine for
failing to comply with information distribution and recordkeeping
requirements, and failing to assign a certified renovator.

Goldman Enterprises Inc., d/b/a Paul Davis Restoration of Kansas City (MO)
paid a $16,710 penalty for failure to comply with work practice standards.


Groen Builders, Inc. (NH) paid a $14,950 penalty for violating
certification and information distribution requirements, failing to ensure
personnel were properly certified or trained, failing to assign a certified
renovator, and failing to comply with work practice standards.


Tilt-In Window and Siding Co. / NJ Window & Siding Co. (NJ) paid a fine of
$12,504 for failure to comply with certification, information distribution,
work practice, and recordkeeping requirements.


EPA entered into expedited settlement agreements with the 22 companies
below. These agreements allow violators to quickly resolve certain minor
lead-based paint offenses (not including work practice violations) with a
reduced penalty, typically $2,000 or less.


Tim Jones New Look Remodeling Co. (CT)
Construction Education Foundation of Minnesota (MN)
Holman Brothers Painting (OH)
Think People, Inc. (IL)
Gunton Corporation (OH)
Builders License Training Institute (MI)
Midwest Training Services LLC (MI)
Kaplan AEC Education (WI)
Vinyl Sash of Flint, Inc. (MI)
Wonder Makers Environmental (MI)
ETC Training Services Group (MI)
Greentree Environmental Services Inc. (IN)
AB Builders (CA)
A&D Construction (CA)
CF Contracting (CA)
Cogent Construction and Consulting (CA)
EF Brett (CA)
Nema Construction (CA)
Regency Construction (CA)
Southland Management (CA)
Welliver Construction (CA)
Dakota Remodeling LLC (OR)


In the following 27 settlements, the companies paid fines less than
$10,000, generally because the penalty was reduced for an inability to pay.
Every case obtains compliance with RRP standards.


CDL Commercial, LLC (CT)
East Coast Pros (CT)
Gerard Therrien (NH)
Alstar Construction, Inc. (NJ)
AZ Water Man Corp. (NY)
JC Painter (NY)
Raymond Demers (NY)
APM Vocational Institute (VA)(Settlement)
Moyer Holdings Corp.,T/A Window World of Lehigh Valley (PA)
Santos D. Flores Svc. Inc. (MD)
Windows R Us, LLC (PA)
Clear Choice Windows & Sliding, Inc. (IL)
Jim Knibbs Building & Remodeling, Inc. (MI)
Michiana Window World, Inc. (IN)
Richmond's Complete Home Improvement (ID)
ACE Service Team, LLC (MO)
Brackmann Construction Inc. (MO)
Douglas Thoman Construction (NE)
First Choice Builders LLC d/b/a Intext Builders (NE)
Jaime Diosdado (MO)
JDC Construction & Remodeling LLC (MO)
Kansas City Home Doctor, Inc. (MO)
MCB, LLC (NE)(Settlement)
Mesa Enterprises, LLC (MO)
M&L Construction Co., Inc. (MO)
Aesthetica Painting & Contracting, LLC (CO)
Vanguard Construction Companies, Ltd. (CO)


EPA issued Complaints against the following six companies:


John Fogg Jr. Enterprises, LLC (CT)
Waterway Realty LLC (NH)
Creative Home Builders (MO)
Dynamic Construction and Roofing, LLC (FL)
Matthew Andersen d/b/a Andersen Painting (NE)
Zane Inc. d/b/a ServPro of Freemont/ NW Omaha, Inc. (NE)



More information about these actions is available at
http://www2.epa.gov/enforcement/lead-renovation-repair-and-painting-rule-december-2014


More information about the RRP Rule and how contractors can get certified
is available at www.epa.gov/lead.

Friday, December 19, 2014

News Clippings 12.19.14

State



Harrison County Utility Authority board welcomes the spotlight
Sun Herald

BY PAUL HAMPTON



GULFPORT -- The Harrison County Utility Authority, a natural habitat for

engineers and contractors, had some unusual visitors Thursday in its first

meeting since a bribery scandal broke this week -- members of the public

and media.

http://www.sunherald.com/2014/12/18/5975794_harrison-county-utility-authority.html?sp=/99/100/&rh=1




Utility authority members troubled by 'breach of public trust'

WLOX




Members of the Harrison County Utility Authority board met for the first
time Thursday since a conspiracy scheme was exposed, Tuesday. As soon as
the gavel called the board meeting to order, Board President Mayor Billy
Hewes addressed the topic on everyone's mind.
http://www.wlox.com/story/27661929/utility-authority-members-troubled-by-breach-of-public-trust




Shale oil: market correction or longterm direction?


by jack.weatherly
Published: December 18,2014

The golden age of hydraulic fracturing began about 10 years ago "as oil and
gas producers began to explore the nation's massive shale formations in
earnest," according to an essay on the American Society of Mechanical
Engineers website.

http://msbusiness.com/blog/2014/12/18/shale-oil-market-correction-longterm-direction/




Aluminum company rumored for Columbus: 'clock' is for website, not plant

site


by jack.weatherly
Published: December 18,2014

There is plenty of evidence that a $1.2 billion aluminum mill will be built
at Columbus.


But when the American Specialty Alloys clock on Internet hits zero today at
about 7 p.m. don't expect a big announcement.

http://msbusiness.com/blog/2014/12/18/aluminum-company-rumored-columbus-clock-website-not-plant-site/





Lamar County may have to pick up policing in Lumberton


Hattiesburg American


PURVIS – Lumberton could be a city without a cash flow within the

next few weeks.



…Winston said the city would have only $2,000 on hand after paying

its bills this month. More ominous: Winston said the city's main

revenue stream, its sales tax revenue, could be commandeered to pay

down about $150,000 overdue on a loan from the Mississippi

Department of Environmental Quality.



"If they take the sales tax, immediately, we will be unable to fund

the police department," he said.



http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/story/news/local/lumberton/2014/12/18/ben-winston-lamar-county-lumberton-dale-lucus-police/20613257/




'Blue Economy' important for Mississippi's future


by Lisa Monti
Published: December 18,2014

A new study looking at Mississippi's maritime industries spotlights the
importance of shipbuilding, fishing, oceanography and marine technology as
a dominant force in the state's economy. The data show that in the three
coastal counties, about 51,000 people – 35 percent of the entire workforce
– are employed in so- called blue industries.

http://msbusiness.com/blog/2014/12/18/blue-economy-important-mississippis-future/





Port of Gulfport unveils aesthetic landscape plan

WLOX




Along with the expansion and improvements at the Port of Gulfport, plans
are also in the works for a major landscaping project.
http://www.wlox.com/story/27665716/port-of-gulfport-unveils-aesthetic-landscape-plan





Oil Spill





Oil spill claims office to start distribution of second $500 million in

seafood payments next week

Jennifer Larino



The Times-Picayune



December 18, 2014 at 11:42 AM



Oil spill claims administrator Patrick Juneau will begin the process of

paying out a second, $500 million round of payments to seafood workers

starting next week. But he warned it could be several months before workers

see the money.

http://www.nola.com/business/index.ssf/2014/12/oil_spill_claims_office_to_sta.html#incart_river





Oil spill claims administrator sets deadline for settlement claims

Jennifer Larino



The Times-Picayune



December 18, 2014 at 4:00 PM



Individuals and businesses damaged by the 2010 Gulf of Mexico oil spill

have six months left to file a claim under BP's multibillion-dollar

settlement.

http://www.nola.com/business/index.ssf/2014/12/oil_spill_claims_administrator_1.html#incart_river





National





Dam breaks, tainted wells prompt new look at coal-ash dumps that escaped


EPA review



Washington Post


CHESTER, W.Va. — When work began on a strange new reservoir in the hills


outside this Ohio River town, local officials promoted the project as


offering something for everyone: an aquatic playground for boaters and


sunbathers, and for the local power plant, a dump.


http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/dam-breaks-tainted-wells-prompt-new-look-at-coal-ash-dumps-that-escaped-epa-review/2014/12/18/801739d6-8619-11e4-b9b7-b8632ae73d25_story.html






U.S. green groups sue EPA over stormwater regulations
Reuters


By Ayesha Rascoe



WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Two environmental groups have sued the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency for what the groups said was failing to
comply with a court order requiring the agency to strengthen regulations
preventing pollution from storm water runoff.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/12/19/us-usa-environment-water-idUSKBN0JX0Z620141219




EPA chief: Extreme weather boosting climate-change plan


USA Today


WASHINGTON — Extreme weather events from typhoons to heat waves are

helping make the case to Americans on the need to address climate

change, the head of the EPA says, although opposition from

congressional Republicans to the Obama administration's ambitious

plan remains unrelenting.

http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2014/12/18/usa-today-capital-download-epa-gina-mccarthy-climate-change/20548025/







WH: Agencies should factor for climate change in project reviews
The Hill




The White House is floating new guidelines for federal agencies on how to
weigh climate change impacts when reviewing energy and infrastructure
projects.
http://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/227589-wh-advises-agencies-to-weigh-climate-impacts-when-considering





House GOP creates energy, EPA oversight panel
The Hill




House Republicans have created a new Oversight Committee subpanel to
supervise the Obama administration's environmental and energy policies.
http://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/227564-house-gop-creates-energy-epa-oversight-panel





Press Releases






EPA Announces 2014 Annual Environmental Enforcement Results


WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today released
its annual enforcement and compliance results reflecting a focus on large
cases driving industry compliance and that have a high impact on protecting
public health and the environment.


"By taking on large, high impact enforcement cases, EPA is helping to level
the playing field for companies that play by the rules, while maximizing
our ability to protect the communities we serve across the country," said
Cynthia Giles, Assistant Administrator for EPA's Office of Enforcement and
Compliance Assurance. "Despite challenges posed by budget cuts and a
government shutdown, we secured major settlements in key industry sectors
and brought criminal violators to justice. This work resulted in critical
investments in advanced technologies and innovative approaches to reduce
pollution and improve compliance."


In fiscal year 2014, EPA enforcement actions required companies to invest
more than $9.7 billion in actions and equipment to control pollution and
clean up contaminated sites. EPA's cases resulted in $163 million in
combined federal administrative, civil judicial penalties, and criminal
fines. Other results include:


· Reductions of an estimated 141 million pounds of air pollutants,
including 6.7 million pounds of air toxics.


· Reductions of approximately 337 million pounds of water pollutants.


· Clean up of an estimated 856 million cubic yards of contaminated
water/aquifers.


EPA pursues high impact cases that drive compliance across industries:


· Lowe's Home Centers agreed to a corporate-wide compliance program
ensuring contractors nation-wide follow laws to protect children from
dangerous lead paint exposure.


· The nation's second largest natural gas producer, Chesapeake
Appalachia, agreed to restore streams and wetlands damaged from its
operations and implement a comprehensive plan to comply with water
protection laws.


EPA holds criminal violators accountable that threaten the health and
safety of Americans, while directing funds to affected communities:


· EPA's criminal program generated $63 million in fines and
restitution, secured $16 million in court-ordered environmental
projects and sentenced defendants to a combined 155 years of
incarceration.


· After EPA pursued the case, Tonawanda Coke was found guilty and
required to pay a $12.5 million criminal penalty and to fund $12.2
million in community service in New York, for releasing benzene from
its facility into neighboring communities.


EPA enforcement work reduces pollution in the sectors that impact American
communities the most:


· Settlements with Minnesota Power and Wisconsin Electric Power Company
are cutting coal fired power plants emissions, requiring companies to
control pollution and conduct innovative mitigation projects that
promote renewable energy development and protect clean air for local
communities.


· We're reducing dangerous air toxics released from industrial flares
at refineries and chemical plants, requiring companies like Shell and
DuPont to implement monitoring and pollution control technologies.
These efforts are equipping minority and low-income communities with
monitoring data, while reducing toxic air pollution for residents
living near the facilities.


· EPA is working closely with cities such as East Bay MUD (California),
Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (Illinois) and Miami-Dade
County (Florida) to cut discharges of raw sewage and contaminated
stormwater through integrated planning, green infrastructure and
other innovative approaches.


EPA ensures companies and federal facilities take responsibility and clean
up toxic pollution they create.


· Polluted sites across the country are being cleaned up while EPA
conserves and recovers federal funds. This year, settlements will
result in more than $453.7 million in commitments from responsible
parties to clean up Superfund sites, and return $57.7 million to the
Superfund trust.


· When abandoned munitions posed an imminent and substantial
endangerment at the Camp Minden, Louisiana site, EPA acted to ensure
proper cleanup and accountability by the U.S. Army.


Major cases developed in 2014, but not included in fiscal year 2014
statistics demonstrate EPA's ongoing commitment to tough enforcement:


· A settlement with Hyundai-Kia netted a $100 million fine, forfeiture
of emissions credits and more than $50 million invested in compliance
measures helps level the playing field for car companies that follow
the law, and helps reduces greenhouse gas emissions fueling climate
change.


· The largest cleanup settlement in American history, with Anadarko and
Kerr McGee, will put more than $4.4 billion into toxic pollution
cleanup, improving water quality and removing dangerous materials in
tribal and overburdened communities.


· A settlement with Alpha Natural Resources, one of the country's
largest coal companies, requires it to protect water quality in
communities near their coal mining operations in five states.


More information about EPA's Fiscal Year 2014 enforcement results:
http://www2.epa.gov/enforcement/enforcement-annual-results-fiscal-year-fy-2014





Two Texas Companies and Four Chinese Manufacturers Found to Be in Violation
of Clean Air Act for Selling More than 11,000 Uncertified Motorcycles and
ATVs


EPA has also denied applications for certificates to these companies for
sale of model year 2015 vehicles in the US


WASHINGTON - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced
that two Texas-based companies—Jonway Motorcycle (USA) Co., Ltd., and
Shenke USA, Inc.—and four manufacturers in China violated the Clean Air Act
by importing and selling more than 11,000 motorcycles and all-terrain
vehicles (ATVs) that did not conform to the specifications that the
companies had certified to EPA or lacked EPA certification.


EPA's Environmental Appeals Board ruled that the companies are responsible
for a $1,258,582 civil penalty for these violations. EPA also denied
applications from Zhejiang Jonway Motorcycle Manufacturing Co., Ltd.,
Shenke USA, Inc., and a third company not part of the case decided by the
Environmental Appeals Board—Huibang USA, Inc.—for certificates of
conformity for model year 2015 highway motorcycles and recreational
vehicles manufactured by Zhejiang Jonway Motorcycle Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
Without these certificates, which are like permits, Jonway and Shenke may
not lawfully sell their model year 2015 vehicles in the U.S.


"EPA's vehicle certification regulations are an important way we help
reduce air pollution and protect public health," said Cynthia Giles,
assistant administrator for EPA's Office of Enforcement and Compliance
Assurance. "Failing to provide honest and accurate information to EPA
compromises our ability to protect clean air for Americans."


Jonway Motorcycle (USA) Co., Ltd. and Shenke USA, Inc., hold the
certificates of conformity for uncertified vehicles. Four Chinese
entities—Jonway Group Co., Ltd., Shanghai Shenke Motorcycle Co., Ltd.,
Zhejiang JMStar Shenke Motorcycle Co., Ltd., and Zhejiang Jonway Motorcycle
Manufacturing Co., Ltd.—manufactured the vehicles.


As EPA reviews future certificate applications for these manufacturers, the
agency will carefully consider all available information, including any
outstanding or unresolved enforcement penalties or actions, when deciding
whether to approve those applications.


The Clean Air Act requires vehicle manufacturers to certify to EPA that
their products will meet applicable federal emission standards to control
air pollution, and every vehicle sold in the U.S. must be covered by an
EPA-issued certificate of conformity. To obtain certificates of conformity,
manufacturers or importers must submit an application to EPA that describes
the engine or vehicle, including its emission control system. The
application must also provide emissions data demonstrating that the engines
and vehicles will meet applicable federal emission standards.


Through inspections of imported vehicles at the Los Angeles/Long Beach
Seaport and Nitro Powersports, LLC, a vehicle retailer in Carrollton,
Texas, EPA discovered that Jonway and Shenke imported 11,043 noncompliant
highway motorcycles and 226 ATVs beginning in model year 2009. The
companies illegally imported and distributed over 80 models of uncertified
vehicles, which were available for purchase across the U.S.


The motorcycles and ATVs were not covered by certificates of conformity
because they had undersized catalysts, adjustable carburetors that were not
described in the corresponding application for certification, were
manufactured by an entity different from the one specified in the
corresponding application for certification, or were manufactured after the
applicable certificate expired. Jonway and Shenke also imported ATVs that
lacked proper warranties and labels.


EPA's investigation also uncovered evidence of recordkeeping violations
related to emissions testing and certification. Jonway Motorcycle (USA)
Co., Ltd. and Shenke USA, Inc. failed to maintain complete emissions test
records for several of the engine families for which they were the
certificate holders. The companies also failed to maintain records on all
of the vehicles covered by their certificates that were imported into the
U.S. as well as failing to timely and completely respond to EPA's request
for information to assess their compliance.


In July and August, 2014, Shenke USA, Inc. and Zhejiang Jonway Motorcycle
Manufacturing Co., Ltd., jointly submitted applications for certificates of
conformity for model year 2015 highway motorcycles and recreational
vehicles. These applications were denied later in August 2014. In September
2014, Huibang USA, Inc. and Zhejiang Jonway Motorcycle Manufacturing Co.,
Ltd., jointly submitted an application for a certificates of conformity for
model year 2015 recreational vehicles. This application was denied in
October 2014.


Highway motorcycles and recreational vehicles emit carbon monoxide, as well
as hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides that contribute to the formation of
ground-level ozone. Breathing carbon monoxide can cause harmful health
effects by reducing oxygen delivery to the body's tissues and organs, like
the heart and brain. Nitrogen oxides can cause or contribute to a variety
of health problems and adverse environmental impacts, such as ground-level
ozone, acid rain, water quality deterioration and visual impairment.
Breathing ozone can trigger a variety of health problems, including chest
pain, coughing, throat irritation and congestion, and can worsen
bronchitis, emphysema and asthma.


The Environmental Appeals Board's default order and final decision in the
case is available at
http://yosemite.epa.gov/oa/EAB_Web_Docket.nsf/4192ecc36740334585256fc500721f72/af693f1241c52c4e85257d900059758b!OpenDocument
.


For more information on this case, visit
http://www2.epa.gov/enforcement/jonway-and-shenke-default-order-and-final-decision
http://www2.epa.gov/enforcement/jonway-and-shenke-default-order-and-final-decision
http://www2.epa.gov/enforcement/jonway-and-shenke-default-order-and-final-decision
.

Thursday, December 18, 2014

News Clippings 12.18.14

State


Permit levels could make good irrigation targets for farmers
Delta Farm Press


Wed, 2014-12-17 21:27



18 and 36. Those two numbers are likely to take on increasing significance
in the months ahead as farmers, farm organization leaders and regulatory
officials continue to grapple with the problem of a declining alluvial
aquifer beneath the Mississippi Delta.


Those are the maximum amounts of irrigation water growers can apply – 18
inches for cotton, corn, soybeans and grain sorghum and 36 inches for rice
– under the irrigation well permits granted them by the Mississippi
Department of Environmental Quality.

http://deltafarmpress.com/government/permit-levels-could-make-good-irrigation-targets-farmers





New facility big step in fixing city's water woes


Jackson's master water improvement plan to be unveiled soon


WAPT


JACKSON, Miss. —Jackson city crews were working Wednesday to fix three

water leak problems that have popped up within the past 24 hours.

http://www.wapt.com/news/central-mississippi/jackson/new-facility-big-step-in-fixing-citys-water-woes/30280546




Bay St. Louis restaurant owners reach garbage controversy decision

WLOX





Restaurant Owners in Old Town Bay St. Louis have reached a decision they
hope will end a garbage controversy in the city.
http://www.wlox.com/story/27656656/bay-st-louis-restaurant-owners-reach-garbage-controversy-decision





Cleanup crews responding to diesel spill on Hwy. 49

WLOX




We have just received word that safety crews in Gulfport are responding to
an 18-wheeler leaking diesel fuel on Highway 49 just north of Dedeaux Road.
http://www.wlox.com/story/27655804/cleanup-crews-responding-to-diesel-spill-on-hwy-49





Jackson County, Pascagoula to make improvements to sewer system in

preparation of new jail

Mississippi Press



April M. Havens



December 17, 2014 at 11:47 AM



PASCAGOULA, Mississippi -- The Jackson County Board of Supervisors is

partnering with Pascagoula for upgrades to the city's sewer system, a

necessary step to prepare for the new Jackson County Adult Detention

Center.

http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2014/12/jackson_county_pascagoula_to_m.html#incart_river






What's that smell?
Stone County Enterprise



By Jody O'Hara
Dec 11, 2014, 16:09



Some members of the Board of Directors of the Stone County Utility
Association expressed exasperation with some empty seats at Monday's
meeting.

They are beginning to question why representatives of Clearwater Solutions,
the company which holds the contract to maintain lift stations and operate
the Wiggins and McHenry wastewater treatment facilities, are not present
when the board meets.
http://www.stonecountyenterprise.com/article_2411.shtml





Pike gets grant greenlight

Ernest Herndon

Enterprise-Journal

December 16, 2014 2:00 pm


Pike County supervisors got a couple of early Christmas presents Monday — a

$1 million grant for a planned wood pellet mill, and a $122,640 grant

toward renovating the old courthouse at Holmesville.

http://www.enterprise-journal.com/news/article_95efa0ca-8549-11e4-85b8-bbe16f853f94.html




Ruling stands for Pearl River Co. in plant dispute


by Associated Press
Published: December 18,2014

JACKSON — The state Court of Appeals has upheld a judge's ruling against a
group of residents who sought to block development of five acres near the
construction site of a sand drying plant in Pearl River County.

http://msbusiness.com/blog/2014/12/18/ruling-stands-pearl-river-co-plant-dispute/





University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Coast Research Laboratory director
resigns
Sun Herald

BY JAMES SKRMETTA



OCEAN SPRINGS -- Dr. Eric Powell announced his retirement from the USM's

Gulf Coast Research Lab effective Dec. 16 and cited a desire to focus on

other responsibilities as the reason for his departure.

http://www.sunherald.com/2014/12/17/5975082/university-of-southern-mississippi.html?sp=/99/184/




Cochran, as expected, will chair Appropriations panel
BY JOE RUTHERFORD

Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal



Mississippi U.S. Sen. Thad Cochran has been given his committee assignments

by Republican Party leaders, and as expected, he will chair the

Appropriations Committee, one of the most influential positions in

Congress.

http://www.sunherald.com/2014/12/17/5975080/cochran-as-expected-will-chair.html?sp=/99/184/208/







Oil Spill





Mississippi governor says oceangoing drone just one spinoff technology from
BP spill money
Sun Herald

BY PAUL HAMPTON



GULFPORT -- Gov. Phil Bryant brought a singular oceangoing drone to the

Coast on Wednesday for a demonstration of the research and development

sparked by the state in the wake of the BP oil spill.

http://www.sunherald.com/2014/12/17/5975071_mississippi-governor-says-oceangoing.html?sp=/99/100/&rh=1




Gov. Bryant impressed with unmanned maritime system demonstration

WLOX




It can assist with search and rescue, map the ocean floor or be used for
environmental monitoring. On Wednesday, Gov. Phil Bryant took a boat trip
on the Mississippi Sound to watch a demonstration of an unmanned maritime
system.
http://www.wlox.com/story/27655157/gov-bryant-impressed-with-unmanned-maritime-system-demonstration




Alabama recovery council directs first $56 million to economic and

infrastructure projects

Press-Register



Michael Finch II



December 17, 2014 at 8:21 PM



MOBILE, Alabama -- The Alabama Gulf Coast Recovery Council will direct the

first round of oil spill penalties under its control toward economic and

infrastructure projects, using money from the fines paid by Transocean, a

cash amount that will reach $56 million by March 2015.

http://www.al.com/business/index.ssf/2014/12/alabama_recovery_council_direc.html





$4.3M in RESTORE funds available to Santa Rosa


Pensacola News Journal


Santa Rosa County will begin accepting proposals Jan. 12 for

projects to be included in the county's RESTORE multi-year

implementation plan, with about $4.3 million in RESTORE Act money

available to the county.



http://www.pnj.com/story/news/local/santa-rosa/2014/12/17/santa-rosa-restore-act-money-bp-oil-spill/20533327/





Regional



Another Earthquake in W. Alabama



WTOK


There has been an earthquake in west Alabama for the second time in a

month.

http://www.wtok.com/home/headlines/Another-Earthquake-in-W-Alabama-286160051.html






National





EPA punts decision on methane regs
The Hill




The Environmental Protection Agency is punting a decision on whether to
pursue regulations on methane emissions from industrial sources until after
the holidays.
http://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/227489-epa-punts-decision-on-methane-regs



AP Interview: McConnell wants to stop coal rules



AP


By ERICA WERNER




WASHINGTON (AP) - Incoming Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky.,

pledged on Wednesday to do all he can to stop President Barack Obama's coal

plant regulations, saying a White House "crusade" has devastated his

state's economy.

http://m.apnews.com/ap/db_268798/contentdetail.htm?contentguid=FSj4vZCL





EPA rules on coal ash may disappoint environmentalists, buoy industry
BY SEAN COCKERHAM

McClatchy Washington BureauDecember 17, 2014



WASHINGTON — The federal government is about to announce its first rules

for the handling and storage of potentially toxic coal ash, months after

tons of the waste spilled into a major river in North Carolina.

http://www.mcclatchydc.com/2014/12/17/250368/epa-rules-on-coal-ash-may-disappoint.html




Brick masons facing new emissions standards
The Hill




Homebuilders are among those who could be affected by new emissions
standards from the Environmental Protection Agency that could cost industry
millions of dollars to comply with.
http://thehill.com/regulation/227493-brick-masons-facing-new-emissions-standards





Company at center of W.Va. spill is indicted
The Hill




The Department of Justice on Wednesday announced the indictment of the
company behind a January chemical spill in West Virginia, and six
officials.
http://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/227452-doj-indicts-company-officials-involved-in-wva-chemical-spill





New York governor says he'll ban fracking in his state




Citing concerns over health risks, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo's

administration announced Wednesday (Dec. 17) that it would ban fracking in

the state, the New York Times reported.

http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2014/12/new_york_governor_says_hell_ba.html#incart_river





More than 500 rigs may shut down as oil slides, analysts say
Houston Chronicle


HOUSTON – As many as 550 drilling rigs may have to sit on the sidelines of
U.S. shale oil patches over the next few months, analysts say, as oil
prices have folded nearly in half since this summer.
http://fuelfix.com/blog/2014/12/17/more-than-500-rigs-may-shut-down-as-oil-slides-analysts-say/





Press Releases






Presley: Major Solar Power Projects Gain Approval in Mississippi

Jackson, Mississippi (December 17, 2014) – Public Service Commissioner
Brandon Presley says that in a groundbreaking move last week, the Public
Service Commission approved three separate solar power projects to be
constructed by Entergy in Mississippi, ushering in the first
utility-sponsored solar projects in the state. The solar projects, slated
to be constructed in Senatobia, Jackson and Brookhaven, will each be able
to generate approximately 500kW of electric power and are part of a
Commission-approved solar energy pilot program by Entergy designed to
collect data on solar energy in Mississippi. Entergy will contract with a
Hattiesburg manufacturing facility, Stion Corporation, to install the
facilities.

"I am extremely proud that we have taken these first steps to make solar
energy a reality in Mississippi. These projects are a great start to making
sure we harness our natural resources to be more energy independent. I am
committed to making sure the Public Service Commission is door-opener and
not a gate-keeper when it comes to the production of solar energy in
Mississippi." Presley said. "Even better, we are using Mississippi
products, made by Mississippians to produce this electricity."

In a second similar project, the Commission has given the green light to
construction of a solar farm in Chickasaw County. The joint project between
Chickasaw County and Phoenix Solar will be a 30 acre site near Okolona
capable of producing enough power for 300 homes by way of 9,804 solar
panels.






NOAA RESTORE Act Science Program issues funding call for Gulf projects

First federal funding opportunity opens competition for up to $2.5 million
in grant support


December 17, 2014



NOAA has issued a call for proposals under the first federal funding

opportunity issued by theNOAA RESTORE Act Science Program, which supports

research in the Gulf of Mexico on long-term sustainability of the ecosystem

and its fisheries. The competition seeks proposals for timely and

high-quality scientific results that may be used to inform science-based

and system-wide strategies supporting the sustainability of the Gulf of

Mexico, including its fisheries.



NOAA invites the research and management community to apply for funding, up

to $2.5 million in total, for one- to two-year projects to conduct the

following types of work:



· Comprehensive assessment of current ecosystem computer modeling;



· Comparison and analysis of indicators for the health of the Gulf of

Mexico ecosystem including people and fisheries; and



· Assessment of monitoring and observing capabilities.



These proposals should address at least one of three areas:




· Ecosystem and living resources management, including fisheries;



· Climate change and extreme weather impacts on sustainability of
restoration; and



· Integration of social, behavioral and economic science into
restoration and management.

"This initial funding provides an opportunity for researchers to develop

innovative strategies and tools that will promote resiliency and

sustainability of the Gulf of Mexico, and help drive how this program and

initiatives of our partners move forward," said Becky Allee, Ph.D., acting

director of the NOAA RESTORE Act Science Program. "We are eager to make the

funds available to the research community and put their results to use as

soon as possible."



"The scientific information, syntheses, and strategies resulting from this

funding opportunity will help the program determine how to develop

information and tools that will be clearly usable by resource managers to

make more informed decisions on management and restoration of the Gulf of

Mexico," she added.



This federal funding opportunity is in response to the RESTORE Act, also

known as the Resources and Ecosystems Sustainability, Tourist

Opportunities, and Revived Economies of the Gulf Coast States Act, that

authorized NOAA to establish and administer a "Gulf Coast Ecosystem

Restoration Science, Observation, Monitoring, and Technology Program."

Details of the funding opportunity were published today on the NOAA RESTORE

Act Science Program website. The deadline for submissions of letters of

intent is January 30, 2015 and the deadline for final proposals is March

17, 2015



NOAA is currently in the process of finalizing the overall NOAA RESTORE Act

Science Program science plan which outlines 10 long-term research

priorities to guide how the program will invest its funds and explains how

these priorities were determined. The program anticipates releasing a final

version of the science plan early next year.



The NOAA program is funded by 2½ percent of the Gulf Coast Restoration

Trust Fund, established by the RESTORE Act, which comprises 80 percent of

Clean Water Act civil penalties recovered from parties responsible for the

Deepwater Horizon oil spill. On February 19, 2013, a federal judge approved

a $1 billion civil settlement with Transocean, as a responsible party for

the oil spill. This settlement provides the NOAA Restore Act Science

Program with $20 million plus 25 percent of any interest accrued from the

portion of the settlement deposited into the Trust Fund.



Additional funding may become available from settlements with or judgments

against other parties deemed responsible by the courts for the Deepwater

Horizon oil spill.



The mission of the NOAA RESTORE Act Science Program is to increase

understanding of the Gulf of Mexico ecosystem, including its fisheries, and

to support its restoration and sustainability through research,

observation, monitoring, and technology development.



http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2014/20141217_restoreact.html









EPA Prevents Harmful Chemicals from Entering the Marketplace

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is taking
action to protect the public from certain chemicals that have the potential
to cause a range of health effects from cancer to reproductive and
developmental harm to people and aquatic organisms.

"We are committed to protecting all Americans from exposure to harmful
chemicals used in domestic and imported products," said Jim Jones,
assistant administrator for chemical safety and pollution prevention.
"There must be a level playing field for U.S. businesses – which is why
we're targeting harmful chemicals no longer used in the U.S. that find
their way into commerce, sometimes through imported products. This final
action will give EPA the opportunity to restrict or limit any new uses of
these chemicals, including imported goods with these chemicals."

Today's action addresses the following chemicals:


Most uses of certain benzidine-based dyes which can be used in textiles,
paints and inks and can be converted in the body into a chemical that is
known to cause cancer;


Most uses of DnPP, a phthalate, which can be used in PVC plastics and shown
to cause developmental and/or reproductive effects in laboratory animals;
and


Alkanes C 12-13, chloro, a short-chain chlorinated paraffin (SCCP), which
can be used as industrial lubricants and are persistent, bioaccumulative
and toxic to aquatic organisms at low concentrations and can be transported
globally in the environment.

Some of the chemicals in today's rule have previously been used in consumer
products but are not used in the market today. Today's Significant New Use
Rules (SNURs) issued under the Toxic Substances Control Act allow EPA to
review any efforts by manufacturers, including importers, to introduce
these chemicals into the market and take appropriate action to ensure that
human health and the environment are protected. EPA believes that new uses
of these chemicals should not be allowed without an opportunity for review
and, if necessary, to place restrictions on these chemicals, as warranted.

The action adds nine benzidine-based dyes to an existing SNUR. It closes a
loophole to ensure that these chemicals and products containing them, such
as clothing, cannot be imported without EPA review and possible
restriction. EPA has investigated safer dyes and colorants as alternatives
to benzidine as part of its Safer Chemical Ingredients List and Design for
the Environment program.


In 2012, EPA required companies to stop manufacturing and importing SCCPs
and to pay fines as a result of an enforcement action. The SCCPs have been
proposed for addition to the Stockholm Convention for Persistent Organic
Pollutants:
http://chm.pops.int/TheConvention/ThePOPs/ChemicalsProposedforListing/tabid/2510/Default.aspx



EPA is further evaluating related medium-chain (MCCPs) and long-chain
chlorinated paraffins (LCCPs) as part of the TSCA Work Plan for Chemical
Assessments.


EPA has added several phthalates to the TSCA Work Plan for Chemical
Assessments. If a TSCA Work Plan assessment indicates a potential risk, the
agency would determine if risk reduction actions, as appropriate, should be
taken.


These final SNURs will require anyone who wishes to manufacture (including
import) or process these chemical substances for a significant new use to
notify EPA 90 days before starting or resuming new uses of these chemicals.
This notice will provide EPA with the opportunity to evaluate the intended
use of the chemicals and, if necessary, take action to prohibit or limit
the activity.


Additional information on this SNUR:
http://www.epa.gov/oppt/existingchemicals/pubs/managechemrisk.html#current.


Fact sheet on benzidine-based dyes:
http://www.epa.gov/oppt/existingchemicals/pubs/actionplans/benzidinefaq.html


Fact sheet on DnPP:


http://www.epa.gov/oppt/existingchemicals/pubs/actionplans/dnppfaq.html


Fact sheet on Alkanes:
http://www.epa.gov/oppt/existingchemicals/pubs/actionplans/sccpsfaq.html