On Monday, Dec. 13, 2010, the EPA in the Federal Register published additional data concerning its plans for the next General Permit for vessel discharges under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). Since finalizing the permit in late 2008, the agency has deleted some states' section 401 certification conditions from the permit (New Jersey, Illinois and California). The agency is now doing similar favors (for different parts) for Pennsylvania and Iowa.

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection modified its certification on Oct. 1, 2010. This modification deleted certification conditions 1, 2 and 3. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources modified its certification on July 8, 2009, deleting conditions 3 and 11.

The EPA will hold a listening session seeking input on suggested improvements for the next Vessel General Permit (VGP). The permit regulates discharges incidental to the normal operation of certain vessels. The agency is seeking public comment on requirements currently contained in the 2008 VGP and any changes or additions recommended for the next permit. The 2008 VGP expires on Dec. 19, 2013.

The listening session will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 15, 2010, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Those planning to provide comment by phone will need to register in advance of the listening session. The agency will accept written comments and relevant information for developing the next permit until Dec. 31, 2010.

More information on the listening session, call-in information, and information on the Vessel General Permit: http://cfpub.epa.gov/npdes/vessels/programdevelopment.cfm.

SOURCE: Federal Register