TUCSON - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized its plan for the cleanup of the Cyprus Tohono Mine Site Basin Fill Aquifer under the Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA), also known as the Superfund law. The newly signed Record of Decision outlines a cleanup plan which will use reverse osmosis treatment for groundwater contaminated with perchlorate, uranium, and sulfate, and will restore groundwater as a drinking water resource.

The Cyprus Tohono Mine Site is located on the Tohono O’odham Nation near the Village of North Komelik, about 30 miles south of Casa Grande, Arizona. Mine waste which caused the groundwater contamination was removed in 2008, but an approximate 4-mile-long plume of groundwater polluted by perchlorate, sulfate, and uranium remains in what is known as the Basin Fill Aquifer. This aquifer was formerly a drinking water source, but alternative drinking water is currently being supplied to nearby residents due to its contamination.

“Ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water is one of EPA’s most important missions,” said EPA Director of Region 9 Superfund and Emergency Management Division Michael Montgomery. “Today’s announcement is an essential step in reducing the burden on communities in the region, including the Tohono O’odham Nation.”

The selected cleanup plan will pump out and treat contaminated groundwater with a technology called reverse osmosis, a water treatment process that removes contaminants from water using pressure to force water through a semipermeable membrane where the contaminants are filtered out. Treated water will then be reinjected back into the aquifer or made available for other beneficial uses. Additionally, wells will be installed to monitor the site contamination to ensure it is cleaned up as intended.

While the cleanup plan selected cleans up the site in the shortest timeframe, EPA estimates it will take about 30 years to complete, with an additional 20 years of monitoring. This site is being cleaned up under what’s known as the Superfund Alternative Approach program.

The Cyprus Tohono Mine site’s contamination originally stems from copper sulfide and oxide ore mining operations in the 1880s. During the 1950s and 60s, the site included a small open pit copper oxide mine, which eventually was enlarged to remove 350,000 tons of ore. From 1975-1997, large-scale copper mining produced about 25 million tons of ore. Cyprus Tohono Corporation began operating the property in 1987. Since 2009, no active mining has occurred at the site.

Learn more by visiting EPA’s Cyprus Tohono Mine Site webpage.

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WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, in partnership with the White House Council on Environmental Quality, celebrated the 2023 Presidential Environmental Youth Award (PEYA) and the Presidential Innovation Award for Environmental Educators (PIAEE) Awards Ceremony. This ceremony marks an annual recognition of outstanding youth who are dedicated to environmental stewardship and impressive teachers who have contributed significantly to environmental education.

“We are thrilled to have this moment each year to celebrate such incredible leaders who promote environmental awareness through education in profound ways,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Climate change is one of the most pressing challenges we face today, and these students and teachers are rising to the occasion and showing us what it means to fight for a cleaner planet and healthier future.”

“We all have a role to play in tackling our planet's most pressing environmental challenges, and education is the foundation for environmental stewardship and innovation,” said White House Council on Environmental Quality Chair Brenda Mallory. “Congratulations to these outstanding students and educators – your determination and creativity show us that a more sustainable and equitable future is on the horizon.”

Since 1971, the President of the United States has joined with EPA to recognize young people for protecting our nation's air, water, land, and ecology. The PEYA program recognizes outstanding environmental stewardship projects developed by K-12 youth.

This program honors and brings to light a wide variety of projects developed by these young students, school classes and clubs, youth camps, and youth organizations to promote environmental awareness and action in their schools and communities. The PEYA program promotes awareness of our nation's natural resources and encourages positive community involvement.

PIAEE is another program recognizing outstanding K-12 teachers who employ innovative approaches to environmental education and use the environment as a context to engage their students. With each teacher providing informal hands-on environmental education to students, helping to advance their knowledge of real-world environmental issues while at the same time allowing the teachers to bring creative ways into the classroom to teach their students about the environment.

To read about the winning projects in detail, visit the President's Environmental Youth Award Winners webpage and the Presidential Innovation Award for Environmental Educators Winners webpage.

WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued a proposed denial of Alabama’s permit program to manage coal combustion residuals – commonly known as CCR or coal ash – in landfills and surface impoundments. In its first proposed denial of a state coal ash permit program, EPA finds that the Alabama permit program is significantly less protective of people and waterways than the federal regulations require. Under the federal regulations, surface impoundments cannot be closed if, once closure is complete, the coal ash continues to be saturated by groundwater. Facilities must prevent groundwater from infiltrating and flowing out of the closed unit to prevent additional groundwater contamination. In contrast, Alabama does not require that groundwater infiltration be adequately addressed during the closure of these coal ash units.

Today’s action advances the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to protect all communities from pollution and advance environmental justice, with a strong focus on the need to address health and environmental impacts, including for marginalized and overburdened communities that bear a disproportionate burden of pollution.

“Exposure to coal ash can lead to serious health concerns like cancer if the ash isn’t managed appropriately,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Low-income and underserved communities are especially vulnerable to coal ash in waterways, groundwater, drinking water, and in the air. This is why EPA works closely with states to ensure coal ash is disposed of safely, so that water sources remain free of this pollution and communities are protected from contamination.”

EPA has approved three other state CCR permitting programs. However, EPA is proposing to deny the Alabama CCR permit program application because it does not meet the standard for approval under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act. Under this law, each CCR unit (i.e., landfills or surface impoundments) in the state must achieve compliance with either the federal CCR regulations or state criteria that EPA has determined are at least as protective as the federal criteria. The Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) largely adopted the language in the federal CCR regulations into its state regulations. However, when EPA reviewed Alabama’s CCR permits, EPA found that the permits were not as protective as the federal CCR regulations.

EPA identified deficiencies in ADEM’s permits with closure requirements for unlined surface impoundments, groundwater monitoring networks, and corrective action requirements. EPA discussed these issues with ADEM; however, the state agency has not revised its permits or supplemented its application to explain how such permits are as protective as the federal CCR requirements. 

Should EPA’s proposed denial of Alabama’s coal ash permit program be finalized, the consequence would be that facilities will still be required to comply with the federal CCR regulations. If EPA determines that there are any immediate threats to human health or the environment posed by CCR facilities (whether unpermitted or currently permitted by the state), EPA will consider using all available authorities, including enforcement and response authorities provided under federal law.

EPA is soliciting comments on this proposal for 60 days, during which an in-person public hearing will be held for interested persons to present information and comments about this proposed program. To learn about this proposed denial, visit our Alabama Coal Combustion Residuals Permit Program webpage.

Background

Coal ash is a byproduct of burning coal in coal-fired power plants that, without proper management, can pollute waterways, groundwater, drinking water, and the air. Coal ash contains contaminants like mercury, cadmium, chromium, and arsenic associated with cancer and other serious health effects.

EPA issued a final rule in April 2015 regulating CCR under RCRA and establishing minimum national standards governing the disposal of CCR from electric utilities in landfills and surface impoundments. At the time the CCR rule was issued, EPA did not have authority under RCRA to regulate CCR disposal through state permit programs. Instead, utilities were responsible for directly implementing the requirements of EPA’s 2015 CCR rule, which were enforceable only through citizen suits. 

Congress recognized the essential role of the states in its passage of the 2016 Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act which, among other changes, amended RCRA to give states the authority to operate permit programs, provided EPA determines that the state’s requirements are as protective as the federal standards. Now, states may develop and submit coal ash permit programs to EPA for approval. Applications must provide evidence of permit programs or other systems of prior approval and be as protective as the federal regulations currently in place. Once approved, the state permit programs operate in place of the federal management standards for coal ash disposal.

Once states have approved CCR permit programs in place, the WIIN Act contains provisions for how and when states must update their approved programs when changes are made to the CCR requirements at the federal level. EPA encourages states with coal ash facilities to apply to establish their permit programs, as the states of Oklahoma, Georgia, and Texas have done. Many states have engaged with EPA on how to set up their programs and how their current state regulations could be revised to incorporate the federal requirements.

Visit the Permit Programs for CCR webpage. 

NEW YORK – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Justice have settled a case against FrieslandCampina Ingredients North America, Inc. (Friesland) of Delhi, NY for violations of the Clean Water Act and the Clean Air Act. The company’s Clean Water Act violations led to excessive pollution that interfered with and passed through the Village of Delhi wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) into the West Branch of the Delaware River which is part of the watershed supplying drinking water to NYC and other water systems. This action also addresses the company’s Clean Air Act violations which led to excessive emissions of toluene, a volatile organic compound and hazardous air pollutant. The company will pay a civil penalty of $2.88 million and has already addressed the causes of the violations. Additionally, the company will perform a supplemental environmental project (SEP) to significantly reduce its discharges of heated water to the river at a cost of $1.44 million. 

“This settlement will result in a 95% reduction of toluene emissions into the air, as well as significant reductions in discharges of pollutants into the West Branch of the Delaware River, which is a drinking water source,” said EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. “This settlement sends an important message that the United States will take decisive action to hold companies accountable for failing to properly control pollutants being emitted into the air and discharged into the water, and that shirk permitting and reporting responsibilities. EPA’s work will benefit the people of Delhi and will result in a healthier Delaware River for all who enjoy and rely on it.” 

“Today’s settlement secures significant reductions in air pollution and improves water quality in the Delaware River and a watershed system that provides drinking water to millions of Americans,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “The settlement shows the United States’ commitment to ensuring that companies like Friesland comply with federal law requirements that limit discharge of industrial pollutants to our air and water.”  

“DEC is committed to ensuring the safety of New York’s air and water for all and will continue to work hand-in-hand with our state and federal partners to hold those who violate New York's strict environmental laws accountable,” said Commissioner Basil Seggos for the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. “Thanks to the partnership with the New York State Attorney General’s Office, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the U.S. Department of Justice, this joint enforcement action and substantial penalty will require FrieslandCampina to improve its operations, protect Delhi residents, and fund environmental benefit projects that will improve the surrounding community." 

As a significant industrial source under the Clean Water Act, Friesland must first treat its wastewater – a process referred to as pre-treatment – before discharging it to the local municipal wastewater treatment plant. Proper pre-treatment prevents excessive pollution levels, which can interfere with the effectiveness of the wastewater treatment plant and can cause untreated pollutants to pass through the plant into receiving waters. In this case, the pollution levels that the company discharged exceeded levels set by the Village of Delhi on at least 65 occasions. The company also failed to comply with the requirement of New York’s industrial stormwater permit, which prohibits the exposure of industrial materials and activities to rain, snow, snowmelt, or runoff that can transport pollutants to surface waters.  

The company is also a major source of toluene emissions under the Clean Air Act. Exposure to toluene can harm the nervous system and negatively impact the kidney, liver, and immune system. Friesland failed to obtain the proper permit coverage for its toluene emissions and to install the necessary emission controls and violated other permitting and reporting requirements. 

As a result of EPA’s enforcement actions, Friesland has completed approximately $6 million worth of work to come into compliance with all applicable CAA and CWA requirements by, among other things, installing equipment to properly control its toluene emissions, upgrading its wastewater pretreatment plant to properly treat its wastewater, and taking other corrective measures.  

Furthermore, Friesland will perform a supplemental environmental project to reduce its discharges of heated water by converting its non-contact cooling water system to a recirculating closed-loop system. The new system will reduce Friesland’s discharges of heated water to the West Branch of the Delaware River by approximately 85%. The river is habitat for several species of trout, and water temperature is essential to this habitat because trout are a cold-water species that cannot survive in warmer water temperatures. 

The consent decree for this settlement, lodged in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York, is subject to a 30-day public comment period and approval by the court. A copy of the consent decree and information on submitting comments will be available on the Department of Justice website at: www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.  

Follow EPA Region 2 on Twitter and Facebook page. For more information about EPA Region 2, visit our website. 

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SAN FRANCISCO – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has settled with CMA CGM, the world’s third largest shipping container company, over claims of violations of EPA’s Vessel General Permit issued under the Clean Water Act. Under the terms of the settlements, CMA CGM will pay $165,000 in penalties for claims of violations by four of the company’s ships involving ballast water discharge, recordkeeping, inspection, monitoring, and reporting.

"The Vessel General Permit is a key element of the Clean Water Act. When companies and their ships don't comply with this permit, the quality of our nation's already-challenged waters can be seriously impacted," said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. "It's incumbent upon vessel owners and operators to properly manage what they discharge into our oceans, and to meet their monitoring and reporting requirements."

CMA CGM is a privately-owned company headquartered in Marseille, France. The company failed to:

• Treat ballast water prior to discharging it in a manner consistent with the compliance deadline at U.S. ports, including the Port of Los Angeles in California.
• Record the findings of annual comprehensive inspections.
• Conduct an annual calibration of a ballast water treatment system.
• Monitor and sample discharges from ballast water treatment systems.
• Report complete and accurate information in annual reports.

The settlement includes penalties for the following vessels of $48,277 for the CMA CGM A. Lincoln, $48,233 for the CMA CGM T. Jefferson, $52,197 for the CMA CGM Fidelio, and $16,293 for the APL Columbus.

Vessel self-inspections are required as a means of identifying, for example, potential sources of spills, broken pollution prevention equipment, or other issues that might lead to permit violations. Self-inspections empower the owner or operator to diagnose and fix problems in a timely manner to remain compliant with the permit and with U.S. law. Because the Clean Water Act relies on self-reporting of permittees, violations tied to failures or delays in inspection, monitoring, and reporting are serious and undermine the permit program.

In addition, it is important that such discharges by ships be monitored to ensure that aquatic ecosystems are protected from discharges that contain pollutants. Invasive species are a persistent problem in U.S. coastal and inland waters. Improper management of ballast water can introduce invasive species or damage local species by disrupting habitats and increasing competitive pressure. Discharges of other waste streams regulated by the Vessel General Permit (e.g., graywater, exhaust gas scrubber water, lubricants, etc.) can cause toxic impacts to local species or contain pathogenic organisms.

EPA's settlement with CMA CGM resolves claims of Clean Water Act violations and are subject to a 30-day public comment period prior to final approval. For more information and to submit comments, click here for the CMA CGM T. Jefferson, click here for the APL Columbus, click here for the CMA CGM Fidelio, and click here for the CMA CGM A. Lincoln.

Learn more about EPA’s Vessel General Permit, its recent Enforcement Alert, and Vessels, Marinas and Ports.

Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and on Twitter.

STRATFORD, CONN. (Aug. 3, 2023) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is releasing a Proposed Plan for the cleanup of the Raymark Industries, Inc. Superfund Site's Operable Unit 5, known as the Shore Road area in Stratford, Conn. EPA will hold an informational meeting on August 8, 2023 and a public hearing on September 6, 2023. Both the August and September meetings will be held from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. in-person and offer an option to join virtually. The in-person component will be held at the Raymark Field Office at 300 Ferry Boulevard. To join virtually, find the meeting information on Raymark's webpage: epa.gov/superfund/raymark

At the informational meeting on August 8, 2023, EPA will present the results of the investigations conducted at Shore Road, the cleanup options that were evaluated, and the preferred remedy identified in the Proposed Plan.

The public hearing on September 6, 2023 will be an opportunity for the public to comment on the proposed remedy. All verbal comments will be recorded and become part of the official record. 

EPA will be accepting public comments on the proposed plan from August 9, 2023 through September 8, 2023. EPA will formally respond to all comments received during the 30-day comments period, both written and oral, in a responsiveness summary which will be part of the formal record. A Record of Decision (ROD), which formally documents the final remedy and includes the responsiveness summary, is expected to be finalized by the end of September 2023.

EPA's preferred alternative for the remedy, detailed in the Proposed Plan, will protect human health and the environment by preventing potential exposure to contamination. EPA plans to accomplish this through a combination of excavating Raymark Waste contaminated soil and placing a 4-foot clean soil cover throughout the area.

The Proposed Plan includes:

• Excavation of approximately three feet of contaminated soils at the shoreline and two feet of contaminated soils along the western edge of Shore Road.
• Placement of four feet of clean soil cover throughout the area to prevent exposure to any potential remaining Raymark Waste.
• Grading the area to increase the shoreline by approximately 1-foot for coastal resiliency and increase the elevation of Shore Road by approximately two feet.
• Any excavated soil considered to be hazardous will be shipped off-site to an out-of-town hazardous waste disposal facility.
• Remaining nonhazardous material will be shipped to either an out-of-town location or to an in-town location, if appropriate and if capacity is available in-town. This material will not be shipped to the Raybestos Ballfield (Operable Unit 4).

The estimated total present value of this proposed cleanup approach, including construction, operation and maintenance, and long-term monitoring is approximately $11.2 million.

Background

The former Raymark Industries, Inc. facility was located at 75 East Main Street in Stratford, Connecticut. Raymark Industries, Inc. (Raymark) was a manufacturer of automotive brakes, clutch parts, and other friction components, primarily for the automotive industry. Raymark operated at this location from 1919 until 1989 when operations ceased. Raymark's manufacturing waste was historically disposed of as fill on the facility, but over time this waste material was also disposed of within Stratford at a minimum of 46 residential properties, and at numerous other commercial, recreational, and municipal properties. In addition, several wetland areas near the Housatonic River were also filled in with Raymark's manufacturing waste. The contaminants in Raymark's waste primarily consisted of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), asbestos, lead, and copper; however, extensive VOC soil contamination also exists at the former Raymark facility. Extensive testing of soil, groundwater, soil gas, indoor air, and sediments throughout the Stratford community has been conducted by the EPA and Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (CTDEEP).

The 34-acre former manufacturing facility at 75 East Main Street has been demolished, capped, and redeveloped into what is now known as the Stratford Crossing Shopping Center.

The site is being addressed by area or Operable Unit. See What is Being Done for current status of each.

Operable Unit 1 - Facility
Operable Unit 2 - Groundwater/Indoor Air
Operable Unit 3 - Ferry Creek (Area I - Includes Upper Ferry Creek and Associated Wetlands)
Operable Unit 4 - Raybestos Memorial Field (Ballpark)
Operable Unit 5 - Shore Road
Operable Unit 6 - Additional Properties
Operable Unit 7 – Ferry Creek (Area II - Includes Lower Ferry Creek, Selby Pond, and the Housatonic River Wetlands)
Operable Unit 8 – Ferry Creek (Area III - Includes Wetlands at Beacon Point and Elm Street)
Operable Unit 9 - Short Beach Park & Stratford Landfill

More Information and Public Comment Opportunity:

A copy of EPA's Proposed Plan for the Raymark Site, it's Administrative Record File, as well as other site related documents and other technical documents related to the site, are available for review online at EPA's web page epa.gov/superfund/raymark or via computer at the following locations:

• The site information repository at the Stratford Public Library, Reference Department, 2203 Main Street, Stratford, CT 06615
• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Records Center located at 5 Post Office Square, Suite 100, Boston, Massachusetts. The Records Center is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 am until 5:00 pm; for an appointment to view the records at EPA's office please call at (617) 918-1440.

Submit your comments during the 30 day-public comment period on the Proposed Plan no later than September 8, 2023 by mail, hand delivery/courier, or email to:

Ronald Jennings, Remedial Project Manager
Raymark Industries, Inc. Superfund Site
EPA Region 1, Raymark Cleanup Headquarters
300 Ferry Blvd
Stratford, CT 06615
Jennings.Ron@epa.gov
Fax: (617) 918-0242

If you have questions on the Proposed Plan, please reach out to:

Darriel Swatts, EPA Community Involvement Coordinator by email at Swatts.Darriel@epa.gov or by phone at (617) 918-1065.

DALLAS, TEXAS (August 2, 2023) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology (NMT) in Socorro, New Mexico, entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to guide opportunities for partnership between the two organizations. The MOU covers areas such as mentoring, recruiting and environmental justice.

“New Mexico Tech graduates complete their studies with skills and expertise that directly correlate to many areas of EPA’s work, such as designing and engineering remedies for contaminated sites and analyzing and assessing land, water and air quality issues,” said Regional Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance. “We are excited about creating more opportunities for partnership, which will benefit both organizations as well as the communities we serve.”

“We all have a shared responsibility to protect our environment and it is through agreements and partnerships like this that we set the foundation for advancing mutual interests and goals for generations to come,” said Regional Administrator KC Becker. “This not only provides NMT students and faculty access to EPA expertise in the fields of science and engineering, but also in gaining a better understanding of potential opportunities and in applying for internships and job opportunities at U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.” 

As a science-based agency, EPA has a consistent need for highly trained, diverse professionals in relevant fields. NMT offers over bachelors, masters, and doctoral programs in areas including sciences, technology, engineering, and management, with research specialties such as hydrology, atmospheric physics, and petroleum recovery. The MOU establishes ways for qualified students and graduates to participate in EPA programs and to raise awareness of national employment opportunities.

The MOU outlines several ways to enhance cooperation between EPA and NMT, such as sending EPA representatives to career fairs, identifying mentors for careers in environmental public service, organizing workshops, and offering NMT opportunities to engage with EPA’s environmental justice work.

Regional Administrator Nance and NMT President Dr. Daniel Lopez signed the MOU at this year’s League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) national conference in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Connect with the Environmental Protection Agency Region 6 on Facebook, Twitter, or visit our homepage.

WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the availability of $115 million in grant funding for projects that cut harmful pollution from the nation’s existing fleet of older diesel engines. Under the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) grant funding competition, EPA anticipates making 4-10 awards in each of EPA’s ten regions to eligible applicants.

“Throughout the years, this crucial program to reduce diesel emissions has improved air quality and provided far-reaching public health benefits by reducing hundreds of thousands of tons of air pollution and saving millions in gallons of fuel,” said Joseph Goffman, Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator for the Office of Air and Radiation. “Through the DERA program, along with millions in grant funding now available thanks to President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, we are looking forward to supporting more projects that will get more clean vehicles on the road, protecting people’s health and our planet.”

EPA is soliciting applications nationwide for projects that significantly reduce diesel emissions and exposure, especially from fleets operating at goods movements facilities in areas designated as having poor air quality. Applicants may request funding to upgrade or replace older diesel-powered buses, trucks, marine engines, locomotives and nonroad equipment with newer, cleaner technologies. Priority for funding will also be given to projects that engage and benefit the health of local communities already overburdened by air pollution, protect grant funded investments from severe weather events caused by climate change, and applicants that demonstrate their ability to promote and continue efforts to reduce emissions after the project has ended.

EPA is seeking cost-effective diesel emission reduction projects that maximize health benefits, reduce diesel exposure for those facing poor air quality, and/or employ community-based inclusive and collaborative approaches to reduce harmful emissions. The DERA Program delivers on the Biden-Harris Administration’s Justice40 Initiative to ensure that at least 40% of the benefits of certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities, creating good-paying jobs and driving inclusive economic growth.

Background
Diesel-powered engines move most of the nation’s freight tonnage, and today nearly all highway freight trucks, locomotives, and commercial marine vessels are powered by diesel engines. Smog- and soot-forming diesel exhaust can impair air quality, threatening the health of people in nearby communities. Exposure to this pollution can lead to disruptive and costly asthma attacks, illnesses, lost days of school and work, and emergency room visits. These adverse health effects have been shown to disproportionately impact children, older adults, those with heart or lung conditions, and low-income and minority communities.

DERA enables EPA to offer funding to accelerate the upgrade and turnover of legacy diesel fleets. Funding opportunities for diesel reduction projects are provided through an annual appropriation by Congress to DERA. DERA prioritizes funding projects in areas facing the largest air quality issues. Many of these projects fund cleaner engines that operate in low socio-economic areas whose residents suffer from higher-than-average instances of asthma, heart, and lung diseases.

More than 73,700 engines, vehicles, or other pieces of equipment were replaced or retrofitted to run cleaner with DERA funds during fiscal years 2008 to 2018, according to the DERA 5th Report to Congress.

The grant funding opportunity is open until Friday, December 1, 2023. For any questions on the application, applicants should email written questions to: dera@epa.gov. For any technical issues with grants.gov, please contact grants.gov for assistance at 1-800-518-4726 or support@grants.gov. More information, including applicant eligibility and regional funding breakdowns, can be found at the DERA website.

HONOLULU – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a settlement with Hawai‘i Conference Foundation (HCF) to close two illegal large capacity cesspools – potential sources of harmful water contamination – on the Island of Oahu and on the Island of Hawai‘i.

As part of the proposed settlement, HCF has agreed to close the two cesspools, pay a penalty, convert two single-family home cesspools to state-approved wastewater systems, and conduct a large capacity cesspool audit of all its properties within the State of Hawai‘i.

“EPA will continue enforcement work to close all illegal large capacity cesspools in Hawai‘i,” said Amy Miller, EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Director of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance “Every cesspool closed represents cleaner groundwater, surface water and beaches for Hawai‘i.”

In July 2021, EPA inspected the North Kohala Golf Park in Kapa‘au on the Island of Hawai‘i, which is owed by HCF. During the inspection, EPA observed a building that served both as an office and equipment storage and which was serviced by two publicly accessible restrooms. The restrooms were connected to a cesspool that meets the definition of an illegal large capacity cesspool. Follow-up inquiries with HCF led to identification of a second unlawful cesspool at the Liliuokalani Protestant Church in Haleiwa, Oahu.

EPA is authorized to issue compliance orders and/or assess penalties to violators of the Safe Drinking Water Act’s underground injection control regulations, which control large capacity cesspools.

Under the proposed terms, HCF has agreed to close and convert both illegal cesspools to individual wastewater systems (i.e. septic tank) by June 2025 and pay a $50,633 penalty. HCF will also conduct a large capacity cesspool audit of all other HCF-owned or -operated properties within the State of Hawai’i. As part of the LCC audit, will identify any unlawful cesspools located on its properties and close them within an agreed-upon timeframe.  

Finally, as part of the settlement, HCF agreed to perform a supplemental environmental project to close and convert two single-family residential cesspools on the Island of Hawai’i to state-approved individual wastewater systems.

For more information on this settlement agreement or to comment on the settlement agreement, click here. The comment period will be open for 30 days from the date of this notice.

Background on Large Capacity Cesspools

Cesspools collect and release untreated raw sewage into the ground, where disease-causing pathogens and harmful chemicals can contaminate groundwater, streams, and the ocean.

Since the 2005 federal ban, more than 3,750 large capacity cesspools in Hawai’i have been closed; however, hundreds remain in operation. Cesspools are used more widely in Hawai’i than any other state and pose a unique challenge as groundwater provides 95 percent of all water supply for the islands.

Learn more about cesspools in Hawai‘i and the federal ban and definition of a large capacity cesspool.

Supplemental Environmental Projects

A supplemental environmental project is an environmentally beneficial project or activity that is not required by law, but that a party agrees to undertake as part of the settlement of an enforcement action. Such projects or activities go beyond what could legally be required of the defendant, and secure environmental and/or public health benefits in addition to those achieved by compliance with the law.

Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook and on Twitter.

WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released a white paper as part of its Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Risk Evaluation for Asbestos Part 2 - Supplemental Evaluation Including Legacy Uses and Associated Disposals of Asbestos for public comment and peer review. The white paper presents EPA’s quantitative approach for the human health assessment for part 2 of the risk evaluation for asbestos, which will include all fiber types and legacy uses. The agency will release the draft risk evaluation for asbestos part 2 for public comment early next year. EPA is releasing this white paper ahead of the full draft risk evaluation for public comment and peer review to allow for a focused review of key technical aspects that will benefit from independent expert review and advice. 

“More than thirty years after EPA first proposed a ban on asbestos, too many people are still exposed to this cancer-causing chemical,” said Assistant Administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention, Michal Freedhoff. “With this white paper, we move one step closer to comprehensively evaluating and then addressing the dangers of asbestos exposure.”

Under the previous Administration, EPA narrowed the scope of the TSCA risk evaluation for asbestos by only reviewing ongoing uses and excluding legacy uses and disposals. Because only chrysotile asbestos has ongoing uses, other fiber types were not considered. However, in 2019, a court ruled that the agency unlawfully excluded “legacy uses” and “associated disposal” from TSCA’s definition of “conditions of use,” resulting in the need to supplement the agency’s initial review of asbestos (“part 1”) with a “part 2” risk evaluation, which focuses on legacy uses and associated disposals. Part 2 also includes other types of asbestos fibers in addition to chrysotile (crocidolite, amosite, anthophyllite, tremolite, and actinolite) as well as asbestos-containing talc. 

Exposure to asbestos can cause cancer and other serious health effects. In order to evaluate the risks of asbestos in the manner required under the law, EPA needs to quantify these hazards. Today, the agency is releasing a white paper entitled White Paper: Quantitative Human Health Approach to be Applied in the Risk Evaluation for Asbestos Part 2 - Supplemental Evaluation Including Legacy Uses and Associated Disposals of Asbestos. In the white paper, EPA identifies existing hazard values for asbestos and describes how the agency proposes to use them in the risk evaluation.

EPA also describes its systematic review approach to identify and evaluate relevant scientific studies for the quantification of asbestos hazards and to make decisions about which are most relevant for part 2 of the risk evaluation in a fit-for-purpose manner. The approach was informed by the peer reviewed Draft TSCA Systematic Review Protocol and reflects the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) recommendations to conduct a targeted, chemical-specific review of relevant science for TSCA specific decision making. As NASEM suggested, EPA has considered and built on existing peer-reviewed agency assessments of asbestos including part 1 of the risk evaluation, EPA’s 2014 Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) Libby Amphibole Asbestos Assessment and the 1988 IRIS Asbestos Assessment to streamline its evaluation of human health hazards. The systematic review approach helps ensure that part 2 of the risk evaluation for asbestos is based on the best available science.

Consistent with EPA and OMB guidance on peer review of scientific and technical work products, EPA is requesting a letter peer review by 10 to 15 independent experts of the quantitative approach to the human health assessment to be used in part 2 of the risk evaluation. The agency is choosing to submit this white paper, rather than the full draft risk evaluation, for peer review to focus on key technical aspects of the forthcoming risk evaluation and to make the most efficient use of the experts’ time. Peer reviewers will develop and provide their independent comments to EPA between October 25, 2023, and November 24, 2023. Additional information about the letter peer review will be available on the peer review website.

EPA will accept public comments on the white paper for 60 days following publication via docket EPA-HQ-OPPT-2023-0309 at www.regulations.gov. These comments will be collated and provided to peer reviewers for their consideration. 

In addition, EPA will consider feedback from this letter peer review as the agency prepares to release the draft Part 2 Risk Evaluation for Asbestos for public comment later this year. EPA will subsequently finalize part 2 of the risk evaluation by December 1, 2024.

Read the white paper.

BOSTON (Aug. 2, 2023) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in partnership with the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (VT DEC), is supporting Vermont residents with the disposal of flood-related hazardous materials after flooding events that occurred during the week of July 9, 2023. Residents and businesses are encouraged to collect and drop off these materials at the collection site located at the former Middlesex, Vt. Police Barracks at 1078 U.S. Route 2 Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. or at local collection locations.

Flood-related hazardous materials must be a part of a flood clean-out. Hazardous materials can include cleaners, chemicals, paint, paint thinners/strippers, pesticides, gasoline, oil, propane and other gas cylinders, batteries, fluorescent bulbs, mercury thermostats, mercury thermometers, and other dangerous or toxic wastes. This does not include explosives, fireworks, flares, ammunition, sharps, electronics, and non-hazardous flood debris or solid waste. For flood-related explosives, fireworks, flares, and ammunition contact your local fire department or police.

Businesses with hazardous materials can bring up to ten (10) 5-gallon containers of flood-related hazardous materials to the State of Vermont collection site in Middlesex, Vermont, or call local collection locations and events to ask if they are accepting hazardous waste from businesses. 

Businesses that generate hazardous waste or that have larger amounts of flood-related hazardous materials should call the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Hazardous Materials Program at (802) 828-1138 for assistance.

Other Tips for Flood Debris Management:

• Use gloves, a mask, and eye protection.
• Handle household chemicals with care.
• Secure materials from children and pets.
• If an item is leaking, place the container in a pail.
• Do not mix chemicals
• Do not pour chemicals on the ground or put them down the drain

Residents and businesses can call the DEC Solid Waste Management Program at 802-828-1138 with questions on flood-related hazardous materials.

More information

Vermont Flood-Related Hazardous Materials Assistance

Vermont Flood Recovery Resources

EPA Flood Recovery Resources

EPA Flood Resilience Guide for Water and Wastewater Utilities

Flood Response Drop off Locations Household Hazardous Waste (pdf) (187.63 KB)

Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a $24,975 grant to Hamline University in St. Paul, Minnesota for research that will enhance the detection of lead ions in drinking water as part of the Agency’s People, Prosperity, and the Planet (P3) program.

“EPA’s P3 program, now in its twentieth year, is an exciting and unique program that recognizes the power of students to translate imagination and science into new solutions that protect human health and the environment,” said Chris Frey, Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Research and Development. “Congratulations to this year’s teams. Their innovative projects tackle critical environmental issues and include an eco-friendly coating to reduce contamination in marine environments, a device to remove microplastics from stormwater, an air monitoring and filtration technology to reduce student exposures to air pollutants, and more.”

With this funding, Hamline University will use bismuth nanoparticles to detect lead in drinking water. Bismuth is a low-toxicity heavy metal, which is well-suited for detecting lead while maintaining drinking water safety standards. When mixed with catalytic DNA enzymes, bonds with lead ions are formed causing a visually detectable color change. The bismuth nanoparticles are cost-effective, potentially making them a more viable option in lead detection procedures.

P3 is a competitive grants program which offers university and college students the opportunity to take a leading role in scientific and engineering research. EPA awarded 21 P3 Phase I grants in 2023. The grant winners receive up to $25,000 each to help them develop their proof of concept and will be eligible to compete for a Phase II grant of up to $100,000 to further implement their designs.

Learn more about the P3 Phase I winners.

Learn more about EPA’s P3 program.

Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a $24,131 grant to Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana for research into implementation of cost-effective techniques to reduce of indoor air pollutants in classroom environments as part of the Agency’s People, Prosperity, and the Planet (P3) program.

“EPA’s P3 program, now in its twentieth year, is an exciting and unique program that recognizes the power of students to translate imagination and science into new solutions that protect human health and the environment,” said Chris Frey, Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Research and Development. “Congratulations to this year’s teams. Their innovative projects tackle critical environmental issues and include an eco-friendly coating to reduce contamination in marine environments, a device to remove microplastics from stormwater, an air monitoring and filtration technology to reduce student exposures to air pollutants, and more.”

With this funding, Purdue University aims to improve air quality in school classrooms. The team will utilize low-cost, cloud-based air quality sensors for monitoring of common indoor air pollutants, then analyze indoor air pollutant sources and engineer a design for affordable indoor air exposure solutions. The performance of portable air filtration units will be evaluated for K-12 classroom environments, and the outcomes of the work will inform teachers and administrators on how air filters can be used to reduce student exposure to health-hazardous air pollutants.

P3 is a competitive grants program which offers university and college students the opportunity to take a leading role in scientific and engineering research. EPA awarded 21 P3 Phase I grants in 2023. The grant winners receive up to $25,000 each to help them develop their proof of concept and will be eligible to compete for a Phase II grant of up to $100,000 to further implement their designs.

Learn more about the P3 Phase I winners.

Learn more about EPA’s P3 program

Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a $25,000 grant to Southern Illinois University – Carbondale in Carbondale, Illinois for research into the degradation of microplastics as part of the Agency’s People, Prosperity, and the Planet (P3) program.

“EPA’s P3 program, now in its twentieth year, is an exciting and unique program that recognizes the power of students to translate imagination and science into new solutions that protect human health and the environment,” said Chris Frey, Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Research and Development. “Congratulations to this year’s teams. Their innovative projects tackle critical environmental issues and include an eco-friendly coating to reduce contamination in marine environments, a device to remove microplastics from stormwater, an air monitoring and filtration technology to reduce student exposures to air pollutants, and more.”

With this funding, Southern Illinois University will study the degradation of plastics, observing the degradation rates under varying environmental conditions of microplastics and even smaller nanoscale plastics in surface water, ground water and seawater. The research is expected to be beneficial for modifying treatment systems in wastewater treatment plants.

P3 is a competitive grants program which offers university and college students the opportunity to take a leading role in scientific and engineering research. EPA awarded 21 P3 Phase I grants in 2023. The grant winners receive up to $25,000 each to help them develop their proof of concept and will be eligible to compete for a Phase II grant of up to $100,000 to further implement their designs.

Learn more about the P3 Phase I winners.

Learn more about EPA’s P3 program

WASHINGTON — Diesel performance parts manufacturer Sinister Mfg. Company, Inc. – doing business as “Sinister Diesel” – pleaded guilty to criminal charges today in federal court in Sacramento, California, and agreed to pay a total of $1 million in criminal fines and civil penalties. The company also agreed to implement a compliance program and to not manufacture, sell or install any device that defeats a vehicle’s emissions controls.

Sinister Diesel pleaded guilty to a two-count Information, charging it with conspiracy to violate the Clean Air Act (CAA) and defraud the United States, and with violating the CAA by tampering with the monitoring device of an emissions control system of a diesel truck. Under the plea agreement, the defendant agrees to pay a $500,000 criminal fine.

Sinister must pay an additional $500,000 under the civil consent decree which the United States filed simultaneously with its civil complaint against Sinister, alleging violations of the CAA’s prohibition against the sale or manufacture of devices that bypass, defeat or render inoperative emissions controls. The civil consent decree prohibits the company from making, selling or offering to sell defeat products, including delete tuners, and prevents Sinister Diesel from transferring intellectual property that would allow others to make such products. To ensure compliance with these requirements, Sinister Diesel will implement a robust internal training program and notify its distributors and former customers about the settlement.

“For close to ten years, Sinister Diesel sold parts designed to override or disable the emissions control systems on trucks,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator Larry Starfield for the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “EPA testing has shown that a vehicle altered with these parts can emit more than 100 times the amount of certain harmful air pollutants, compared to a vehicle with an intact emissions control system. This case shows that we will aggressively prosecute those who manufacture and sell devices designed to defeat vehicle emissions controls.”

“Businesses that manufacture and sell illegal devices to defeat a vehicle’s emissions controls foster pollution and risk decades of progress in curtailing harmful emissions from motor vehicles in this country,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “The plea agreement and civil settlement show that we will take strong action to enforce the Clean Air Act and ensure that emissions control requirements for cars and trucks are being followed.”

“Sinister Diesel sold products that allowed drivers to strip the emissions controls from their trucks, causing a dramatic increase in the release of pollutants that worsen air quality and harm the quality of life,” said U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert for the Eastern District of California. “Environmental laws that control diesel pollution are especially important to protect sensitive populations such as the young, the elderly and people who suffer from respiratory conditions. My Office will continue to vigorously prosecute those who place profit above the public’s health and the environment.”

According to court documents, Sinister Diesel – from its 2010 incorporation to April 2020 – manufactured and sold parts intended to be installed on motor vehicles, particularly diesel trucks, to enable “deleting” the trucks by removing or disabling the trucks’ emissions control systems. Various products, referred to as “delete devices” or “defeat devices,” are used in the process of “deleting” a vehicle. Sinister often sold its products as part of “delete kits,” sometimes bundled with “delete tunes.” The delete tunes were software produced by another company which could alter a diesel truck’s on-board computer to allow a truck with its emissions controls “deleted” to appear to run normally.

Through its employees, Sinister Diesel reached agreements with other companies that manufactured tuners or tuning platforms to sell their products bundled together.  Sinister would often advise customers on other needed parts for their deleted vehicles to run properly with Sinister’s delete kits — such as a tuner or tuning platform and delete tunes — and sell them those products, too.  Sinister also counseled customers on how to evade state emissions tests.

Though Sinister sometimes labeled its delete products for “racing” and included disclaimers in marketing materials indicating that its products should be used only in off-road settings, the company knew most of its delete products were purchased by diesel truck drivers who used those products on public roads, not racetracks. At times, approximately 25% of Sinister’s gross revenue stemmed from its delete products. According to Sinister’s sales statistics, between October 30, 2015, and July 17, 2017, it sold 39,792 defeat devices, including at least 35,960 kits that disable vehicles’ exhaust gas recirculation systems.

Deleting a diesel truck causes its emissions to increase dramatically. For example, for a fully deleted truck with all emissions equipment removed, EPA testing has quantified the increased emissions as follows: Nitrogen oxides increased 310 times, non-methane hydrocarbons increased 1,400 times, carbon monoxide increased 120 times and particulate matter increased 40 times. EPA’s Air Enforcement Division released a report in November 2020 finding that more than 500,000 diesel pickup trucks in the United States – approximately 15% of U.S. diesel trucks that were originally certified with emissions controls – have been illegally deleted.

Diesel emissions contain multiple hazardous compounds and harm human health and the environment. Diesel emissions have been found to cause and worsen respiratory ailments such as asthma and lung cancer. One study found that 21,000 American deaths annually are attributable to diesel particulate matter. Additionally, exposure to polluted air in utero has been associated with a host of problems with lifelong ramifications including low birth weight, preterm birth, autism, asthma and brain and memory disorders. 

The defendant is scheduled to be sentenced in the criminal case by U.S. District Court Judge John A. Mendez for the Eastern District of California on November 14, 2023. Though Sinister Diesel agreed to pay $500,000 in criminal fines under its plea agreement, the company faces – for each count – a maximum fine of $500,000 or twice the gross pecuniary gain derived from the offense. Its sentence will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of all applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. 

The criminal case was the product of an investigation by the EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division, with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Sacramento Field Office. Assistant United States Attorney Katherine T. Lydon of the Eastern District of California and Senior Counsel Krishna S. Dighe and Trial Attorney Stephen J. Foster of the Environmental Crimes Section of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) are prosecuting the criminal case. The federal civil case is being handled by Senior Attorney Eric Albert and Senior Counsel Joanna Day of the Environmental Enforcement Section of ENRD, Attorney Advisor David H. Kim of EPA’s Region 9 office, and Janice Chan of the EPA’s Region 9 office.

Stopping the manufacture, sale, and installation of illegal delete devices is a priority for EPA. To learn more, visit our National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative: Stopping Aftermarket Defeat Devices for Vehicles and Engines page. To learn more about EPA’s criminal enforcement actions on defeat devices, visit Criminal Press Releases - 2023 and Criminal Press Releases - 2022.

The consent decree for this settlement, lodged today in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California, is subject to a 30-day public comment period and approval by the court.  A copy of the consent decree and information on submitting comments will be available on the Department of Justice website. 

 Contact: Richard Mylott, mylott.richard@epa.gov

DENVER (August 1, 2023) -- Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it has issued an order responding to two petitions objecting to the renewal of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s (CDPHE) Clean Air Act Title V operating permit for Plant 2 at the Suncor refinery in Commerce City, Colorado.  

One petition was filed by Earthjustice on behalf of the Elyria and Swansea Neighborhood Association, Cultivando, Colorado Latino Forum, GreenLatinos, Center for Biological Diversity and Sierra Club. The second petition was filed by 350 Colorado. EPA’s action denies 350 Colorado’s petition and partially grants and partially denies Earthjustice’s petition, requiring CDPHE to resolve EPA’s objections before issuing a revised permit. The action does not invalidate Suncor’s permit or prevent Plant 2 from continuing to operate while CDPHE addresses the order.  

“Improving air quality for the underserved communities affected by harmful air emissions from the Suncor refinery is a shared priority for EPA and CDPHE,” said EPA Regional Administrator KC Becker. “EPA will continue to work with Colorado to secure the refinery’s compliance with laws and regulations and protect the health of nearby residents.”  

In its order, EPA provides specific direction to CDPHE regarding certain aspects of the permit. For example, the order directs CDPHE to evaluate whether additional operational requirements are needed to assure compliance with carbon monoxide and opacity limits at the plant’s fluid catalytic cracking unit. It also directs CDPHE to determine whether previous plant modifications were analyzed properly and, if necessary, to incorporate additional applicable requirements into the permit. As the permitting authority for Suncor, CDPHE has the responsibility to revise the permit and permit record as may be necessary to resolve the issues identified in EPA’s objection. 

EPA detailed its own objections to the proposed Suncor Title V renewal permit submitted by CDPHE in March 2022. EPA also provided CDPHE with comments and recommendations related to environmental justice concerns involving the permit, the community surrounding the Suncor facility and the state’s air permitting program. These recommendations included improvements to public participation, permit records and demonstrations of attainment with air quality standards.   

EPA will continue to work to achieve air quality improvements under the Clean Air Act, including supporting the state as it engages with communities and enhances its air permitting programs. EPA is also supporting community-based air monitoring and state-led efforts to investigate and address noncompliance issues associated with air emissions from the Suncor plants.  

Depending on the nature of the changes CDPHE makes to the permit, the revisions may involve additional public notice and comment. The proposed permit will be sent to EPA for a 45-day review period. If EPA does not object to the revisions during that period, the public will have another 60-day opportunity to petition EPA to object to the revised portions of the permit and permit record.   

Background 

On February 9, 2022, CDPHE submitted the proposed renewal of the Title V operating permit for Plant 2 to EPA. On March 25, 2022, EPA submitted an objection to CDPHE on the permit renewal, stating that its issuance was not in compliance with the Clean Air Act. CDPHE revised the proposed permit in response to EPA’s objection. EPA responded on August 8 that the modifications in the updated submittal from CDPHE were adequate to resolve the specific issues identified in EPA’s objection. The final permit was issued on September 1, 2022.   

The Clean Air Act allows the public to petition EPA to object to air quality operating permits issued by state agencies to large stationary sources of air pollution. The EPA Administrator must grant a petition and object to a permit if a petitioner demonstrates that the permit does not comply with applicable requirements. The public petition period for the Title V permit began on August 9, 2022, and was open until October 11, 2022.  During this period, EPA received the two petitions to object. Today’s action is based on the evaluation of these petitions. 

EPA's order has been posted on the agency's Environmental Justice in Commerce City- North Denver web page. 

DENVER – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 8 announced $835,000 in grant funding from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda to protect children from lead in drinking water at schools and childcare facilities across the state. 

Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), activities that remove sources of lead in drinking water are now, for the first time, eligible to receive funding through the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act (WIIN). This grant funding, which is provided to states, territories, and Tribes, advances the Biden-Harris Administration’s Lead Pipe and Paint Action Plan and unprecedented commitment to delivering clean water for all communities, especially historically marginalized and low-income communities.       

“Ensuring that our children and our most vulnerable communities have access to clean drinking water is a top priority for the Biden-Harris Administration and EPA.  These additional funds will expand on existing lead remediation programs and help to improve public health in Colorado,” said EPA Mountains and Plains Regional Administrator KC Becker.  “By amending existing clean water programs through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and supporting them with historic infrastructure investments, EPA is taking unprecedented action to protect all our children from lead in drinking water.”

As a part of the $58,000,000 in appropriations for this program, EPA also released a revised grant implementation document that contains detailed information on how EPA will award and administer grants that support eligible actions, such as those for remediation or replacement activities.  The Voluntary School and Child Care Lead Testing and Reduction Grant Program funds voluntary lead testing, compliance monitoring, and for the first-time, lead in drinking water remediation projects. Lead remediation actions may include but are not limited to the removal, installation, and replacement of internal plumbing, lead pipes or lead connectors, faucets, water fountains, water filler stations, point-of-use devices, and other lead-free apparatus related to drinking water. 

The grant funding announced today is provided to states, territories, and Tribes through the WIIN. The grant program requires the use of guidance from EPA’s 3Ts (Training, Testing, and Taking Action) Program to support schools and childcare facilities in making progress on reducing lead in drinking water. Tools and resources from the 3Ts Program help states, territories, and Tribes provide technical assistance and take action to support the health and safety of children in early care and education settings. The program also helps advance President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which is helping address environmental injustice by ensuring that the benefits of federal investments in clean water, clean energy, and other programs reach communities that are marginalized, underserved, and overburdened by pollution. 

Today’s announcement advances the goals of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Lead Pipe and Paint Action Plan and EPA’s Strategy to Reduce Lead Exposures and Disparities in U.S. Communities. Under these initiatives, EPA is developing the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements to strengthen the Agency’s regulatory framework. EPA intends to propose requirements that, along with other actions, would result in the replacement of all lead service lines as quickly as is feasible. EPA is also investing $15 billion in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding to remove lead service lines. In addition to the dedicated funding for lead service line removal, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides another $11.7 billion in general funding through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund that can also be utilized for lead removal projects. 

Learn more about the Biden-Harris Administration’s Lead Pipe and Paint Action Plan and EPA’s Strategy to Reduce Lead Exposures and Disparities in U.S. Communities.

Background 

President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is dedicating an unprecedented $15 billion to removing lead from drinking water. The Voluntary School and Childcare Lead Testing and Reduction Grant Program complements these funds to further reduce lead in drinking water. Under this grant, EPA allocates funds to eligible states and territories based on a formula that includes factors for population, disadvantaged communities, and lead exposure risk. For more information, visit: WIIN Grant: Voluntary School and Child Care Lead Testing and Reduction Grant Program.

Learn more about EPA’s Mountains and Plains Region. Connect with us on Facebook and on Twitter.

HELENA – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 8 announced $565,000 in grant funding from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda to protect children from lead in drinking water at schools and childcare facilities across the state. 

Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), activities that remove sources of lead in drinking water are now, for the first time, eligible to receive funding through the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act (WIIN). This grant funding, which is provided to states, territories, and Tribes, advances the Biden-Harris Administration’s Lead Pipe and Paint Action Plan and unprecedented commitment to delivering clean water for all communities, especially historically marginalized and low-income communities.       

“Ensuring that our children and our most vulnerable communities have access to clean drinking water is a top priority for the Biden-Harris Administration and EPA.  These additional funds will expand on existing lead remediation programs and help to improve public health in Montana,” said EPA Mountains and Plains Regional Administrator KC Becker.  “By amending existing clean water programs through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and supporting them with historic infrastructure investments, EPA is taking unprecedented action to protect all our children from lead in drinking water.”

As a part of the $58,000,000 in appropriations for this program, EPA also released a revised grant implementation document that contains detailed information on how EPA will award and administer grants that support eligible actions, such as those for remediation or replacement activities.  The Voluntary School and Child Care Lead Testing and Reduction Grant Program funds voluntary lead testing, compliance monitoring, and for the first-time, lead in drinking water remediation projects. Lead remediation actions may include but are not limited to the removal, installation, and replacement of internal plumbing, lead pipes or lead connectors, faucets, water fountains, water filler stations, point-of-use devices, and other lead-free apparatus related to drinking water. 

The grant funding announced today is provided to states, territories, and Tribes through the WIIN. The grant program requires the use of guidance from EPA’s 3Ts (Training, Testing, and Taking Action) Program to support schools and childcare facilities in making progress on reducing lead in drinking water. Tools and resources from the 3Ts Program help states, territories, and Tribes provide technical assistance and take action to support the health and safety of children in early care and education settings. The program also helps advance President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which is helping address environmental injustice by ensuring that the benefits of federal investments in clean water, clean energy, and other programs reach communities that are marginalized, underserved, and overburdened by pollution. 

Today’s announcement advances the goals of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Lead Pipe and Paint Action Plan and EPA’s Strategy to Reduce Lead Exposures and Disparities in U.S. Communities. Under these initiatives, EPA is developing the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements to strengthen the Agency’s regulatory framework. EPA intends to propose requirements that, along with other actions, would result in the replacement of all lead service lines as quickly as is feasible. EPA is also investing $15 billion in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding to remove lead service lines. In addition to the dedicated funding for lead service line removal, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides another $11.7 billion in general funding through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund that can also be utilized for lead removal projects. 

Learn more about the Biden-Harris Administration’s Lead Pipe and Paint Action Plan and EPA’s Strategy to Reduce Lead Exposures and Disparities in U.S. Communities.

Background 

President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is dedicating an unprecedented $15 billion to removing lead from drinking water. The Voluntary School and Childcare Lead Testing and Reduction Grant Program complements these funds to further reduce lead in drinking water. Under this grant, EPA allocates funds to eligible states and territories based on a formula that includes factors for population, disadvantaged communities, and lead exposure risk. For more information, visit: WIIN Grant: Voluntary School and Child Care Lead Testing and Reduction Grant Program.

Learn more about EPA’s Mountains and Plains Region. Connect with us on Facebook and on Twitter.

Salt Lake City – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 8 announced $599,000 in grant funding from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda to protect children from lead in drinking water at schools and childcare facilities across the state. 

Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), activities that remove sources of lead in drinking water are now, for the first time, eligible to receive funding through the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act (WIIN). This grant funding, which is provided to states, territories, and Tribes, advances the Biden-Harris Administration’s Lead Pipe and Paint Action Plan and unprecedented commitment to delivering clean water for all communities, especially historically marginalized and low-income communities.       

“Ensuring that our children and our most vulnerable communities have access to clean drinking water is a top priority for the Biden-Harris Administration and EPA.  These additional funds will expand on existing lead remediation programs and help to improve public health in Utah,” said EPA Mountains and Plains Regional Administrator KC Becker.  “By amending existing clean water programs through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and supporting them with historic infrastructure investments, EPA is taking unprecedented action to protect all our children from lead in drinking water.”

As a part of the $58,000,000 in appropriations for this program, EPA also released a revised grant implementation document that contains detailed information on how EPA will award and administer grants that support eligible actions, such as those for remediation or replacement activities.  The Voluntary School and Child Care Lead Testing and Reduction Grant Program funds voluntary lead testing, compliance monitoring, and for the first-time, lead in drinking water remediation projects. Lead remediation actions may include but are not limited to the removal, installation, and replacement of internal plumbing, lead pipes or lead connectors, faucets, water fountains, water filler stations, point-of-use devices, and other lead-free apparatus related to drinking water. 

The grant funding announced today is provided to states, territories, and Tribes through the WIIN. The grant program requires the use of guidance from EPA’s 3Ts (Training, Testing, and Taking Action) Program to support schools and childcare facilities in making progress on reducing lead in drinking water. Tools and resources from the 3Ts Program help states, territories, and Tribes provide technical assistance and take action to support the health and safety of children in early care and education settings. The program also helps advance President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which is helping address environmental injustice by ensuring that the benefits of federal investments in clean water, clean energy, and other programs reach communities that are marginalized, underserved, and overburdened by pollution. 

Today’s announcement advances the goals of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Lead Pipe and Paint Action Plan and EPA’s Strategy to Reduce Lead Exposures and Disparities in U.S. Communities. Under these initiatives, EPA is developing the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements to strengthen the Agency’s regulatory framework. EPA intends to propose requirements that, along with other actions, would result in the replacement of all lead service lines as quickly as is feasible. EPA is also investing $15 billion in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding to remove lead service lines. In addition to the dedicated funding for lead service line removal, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides another $11.7 billion in general funding through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund that can also be utilized for lead removal projects. 

Learn more about the Biden-Harris Administration’s Lead Pipe and Paint Action Plan and EPA’s Strategy to Reduce Lead Exposures and Disparities in U.S. Communities.

Background 

President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is dedicating an unprecedented $15 billion to removing lead from drinking water. The Voluntary School and Childcare Lead Testing and Reduction Grant Program complements these funds to further reduce lead in drinking water. Under this grant, EPA allocates funds to eligible states and territories based on a formula that includes factors for population, disadvantaged communities, and lead exposure risk. For more information, visit: WIIN Grant: Voluntary School and Child Care Lead Testing and Reduction Grant Program.

Learn more about EPA’s Mountains and Plains Region. Connect with us on Facebook and on Twitter.

CHEYENNE – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 8 announced $143,000 in grant funding from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda to protect children from lead in drinking water at schools and childcare facilities across the state. 

Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), activities that remove sources of lead in drinking water are now, for the first time, eligible to receive funding through the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act (WIIN). This grant funding, which is provided to states, territories, and Tribes, advances the Biden-Harris Administration’s Lead Pipe and Paint Action Plan and unprecedented commitment to delivering clean water for all communities, especially historically marginalized and low-income communities.       

“Ensuring that our children and our most vulnerable communities have access to clean drinking water is a top priority for the Biden-Harris Administration and EPA.  These additional funds will expand on existing lead remediation programs and help to improve public health in Wyoming,” said EPA Mountains and Plains Regional Administrator KC Becker.  “By amending existing clean water programs through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and supporting them with historic infrastructure investments, EPA is taking unprecedented action to protect all our children from lead in drinking water.”

As a part of the $58,000,000 in appropriations for this program, EPA also released a revised grant implementation document that contains detailed information on how EPA will award and administer grants that support eligible actions, such as those for remediation or replacement activities.  The Voluntary School and Child Care Lead Testing and Reduction Grant Program funds voluntary lead testing, compliance monitoring, and for the first-time, lead in drinking water remediation projects. Lead remediation actions may include but are not limited to the removal, installation, and replacement of internal plumbing, lead pipes or lead connectors, faucets, water fountains, water filler stations, point-of-use devices, and other lead-free apparatus related to drinking water. 

The grant funding announced today is provided to states, territories, and Tribes through the WIIN. The grant program requires the use of guidance from EPA’s 3Ts (Training, Testing, and Taking Action) Program to support schools and childcare facilities in making progress on reducing lead in drinking water. Tools and resources from the 3Ts Program help states, territories, and Tribes provide technical assistance and take action to support the health and safety of children in early care and education settings. The program also helps advance President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, which is helping address environmental injustice by ensuring that the benefits of federal investments in clean water, clean energy, and other programs reach communities that are marginalized, underserved, and overburdened by pollution. 

Today’s announcement advances the goals of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Lead Pipe and Paint Action Plan and EPA’s Strategy to Reduce Lead Exposures and Disparities in U.S. Communities. Under these initiatives, EPA is developing the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements to strengthen the Agency’s regulatory framework. EPA intends to propose requirements that, along with other actions, would result in the replacement of all lead service lines as quickly as is feasible. EPA is also investing $15 billion in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding to remove lead service lines. In addition to the dedicated funding for lead service line removal, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides another $11.7 billion in general funding through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund that can also be utilized for lead removal projects. 

Learn more about the Biden-Harris Administration’s Lead Pipe and Paint Action Plan and EPA’s Strategy to Reduce Lead Exposures and Disparities in U.S. Communities.

Background 

President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is dedicating an unprecedented $15 billion to removing lead from drinking water. The Voluntary School and Childcare Lead Testing and Reduction Grant Program complements these funds to further reduce lead in drinking water. Under this grant, EPA allocates funds to eligible states and territories based on a formula that includes factors for population, disadvantaged communities, and lead exposure risk. For more information, visit: WIIN Grant: Voluntary School and Child Care Lead Testing and Reduction Grant Program.

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