EPA Launches New Website to Improve Transparency in Permitting
WASHINGTON – Today, April 2, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is announcing the launch of a new website, epa.gov/permits, a centralized web-based platform for information about federal environmental permitting. It highlights EPA’s permitting and environmental review programs and shares information on related statutes and environmental justice initiatives. In support of EPA’s commitments under Title 41 of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act (FAST-41), it also displays the status of EPA permits for large scale infrastructure projects covered by this statute. The website is a resource for the public, permit applicants and federal agency partners.
“EPA’s new website is making it easier for the public and stakeholders to learn about the agency’s permitting process and our programs,” said EPA Deputy Administrator Janet McCabe. “This new, comprehensive website provides a one-stop portal for the public, permit applicants and colleagues from other federal, state and local agencies to quickly find information about EPA’s permitting program and how these permits are helping to protect public health and the environment in communities across our nation.”
“EPA has been working diligently to increase the transparency of information regarding our permitting resources, requirements and timelines, especially as we implement President Biden’s ambitious Investing in America Agenda. We are pleased to launch this site available to all,” said Vicki Arroyo, Associate Administrator for EPA’s Office of Policy, which oversees permitting and environmental review work for EPA.
The new website provides:
Centralized information about all EPA permitting programs, information on delegations of authority to states and descriptions of other requirements that are often applicable (such as Endangered Species Act and National Historic Preservation Act consultation).
Public-facing reports and resources, including environmental justice and civil rights in permitting information.
FAST-41 information, including an explanation of EPA’s roles under the Act and a table that shows the status of EPA permits needed for FAST-41 projects and project tracking.
Inflation Reduction Act information regarding funding allocated to EPA for improving efficiencies in permitting.
Background
In May 2022, the Biden-Harris Permitting Action Plan directed all federal agencies to evaluate their permitting processes and create goals around project tracking and dissemination of public information. This website fulfills EPA’s commitments under the Permitting Action Plan by providing the status of FAST-41 projects with EPA permits and posting them on a public-facing website.
FAST-41 requires EPA to post details on its website relevant to the permitting process, such as permit applications and public meetings, at appropriate intervals. FAST-41 is aimed at improving the timelines, predictability and transparency of federal environmental review and authorization processes for covered infrastructure projects. EPA is a member of the Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council (Permitting Council), represented by EPA Deputy Administrator Janet McCabe and Deputy Associate Administrator in EPA’s Office of Policy, Navis Bermudez. EPA has a permitting role on some FAST-41 covered projects, such as offshore wind energy under the renewable energy production sector.
“EPA’s new website is making it easier for the public and stakeholders to learn about the agency’s permitting process and our programs,” said EPA Deputy Administrator Janet McCabe. “This new, comprehensive website provides a one-stop portal for the public, permit applicants and colleagues from other federal, state and local agencies to quickly find information about EPA’s permitting program and how these permits are helping to protect public health and the environment in communities across our nation.”
“EPA has been working diligently to increase the transparency of information regarding our permitting resources, requirements and timelines, especially as we implement President Biden’s ambitious Investing in America Agenda. We are pleased to launch this site available to all,” said Vicki Arroyo, Associate Administrator for EPA’s Office of Policy, which oversees permitting and environmental review work for EPA.
The new website provides:
Centralized information about all EPA permitting programs, information on delegations of authority to states and descriptions of other requirements that are often applicable (such as Endangered Species Act and National Historic Preservation Act consultation).
Public-facing reports and resources, including environmental justice and civil rights in permitting information.
FAST-41 information, including an explanation of EPA’s roles under the Act and a table that shows the status of EPA permits needed for FAST-41 projects and project tracking.
Inflation Reduction Act information regarding funding allocated to EPA for improving efficiencies in permitting.
Background
In May 2022, the Biden-Harris Permitting Action Plan directed all federal agencies to evaluate their permitting processes and create goals around project tracking and dissemination of public information. This website fulfills EPA’s commitments under the Permitting Action Plan by providing the status of FAST-41 projects with EPA permits and posting them on a public-facing website.
FAST-41 requires EPA to post details on its website relevant to the permitting process, such as permit applications and public meetings, at appropriate intervals. FAST-41 is aimed at improving the timelines, predictability and transparency of federal environmental review and authorization processes for covered infrastructure projects. EPA is a member of the Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council (Permitting Council), represented by EPA Deputy Administrator Janet McCabe and Deputy Associate Administrator in EPA’s Office of Policy, Navis Bermudez. EPA has a permitting role on some FAST-41 covered projects, such as offshore wind energy under the renewable energy production sector.
EPA, Congresswoman Summer Lee Kick Off Earth Month with Pittsburgh ‘EcoStewards’
(PITTSBURGH) April 2, 2024 – Today, EPA Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz and Congresswoman Summer Lee (PA-12) visited the Environmental Charter School (ECS) Intermediate School to kick off Earth Month with staff and students. As part of the school visit, Ortiz and Lee met with ‘EcoStewards’- 4th and 5th grade environmental leaders - to discuss litter, invasive species, and watershed protection. The group also potted native species that will soon be planted in Frick Park.
Following the discussion and planting, the school’s Green Team presented their zero waste presentation to Ortiz and Lee, highlighting why every small action makes a difference.
“The environmental literacy of these young students is truly remarkable,” reflected EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “To have such a deep understanding of complicated issues such as stormwater at such a young age is a testament to the value environmental education programs have, not only on the students, but the surrounding communities as well.”
"It was an immense privilege to join EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator for presentations from 'EcoSteward' 4th and 5th graders at one of our schools" said Rep. Summer Lee (PA-12). "The depth of knowledge and passion of our youngest Pennsylvanians to protect our environment and ensure clean air and water for all continue to inspire me--and have renewed my efforts to continue fighting for environmental justice, climate action, and the education of our children on these critical issues.”
"We are grateful that EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz and Congresswoman Lee kicked off our Earth Month celebrations with us,” said Environmental Charter School Superintendent Dr. Amanda Cribbs, EdD. “ECS focuses on real-world education, and this was the perfect opportunity for students to see how what they learn today can translate to an environmentally friendly and sustainable career in the future."
Originally celebrated on April 22, 1970, Earth Day is now often recognized during the entire month of April as a way to raise awareness about environmental issues we’re facing across the globe. To learn more about the history of the celebration and ideas on how to make every day Earth Day, visit: https://www.epa.gov/earthday
EPA Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz and Congresswoman Summer Lee (PA-12) with Environmental Charter School ‘EcoStewards’- 4th and 5th grade environmental students.
Following the discussion and planting, the school’s Green Team presented their zero waste presentation to Ortiz and Lee, highlighting why every small action makes a difference.
“The environmental literacy of these young students is truly remarkable,” reflected EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “To have such a deep understanding of complicated issues such as stormwater at such a young age is a testament to the value environmental education programs have, not only on the students, but the surrounding communities as well.”
"It was an immense privilege to join EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator for presentations from 'EcoSteward' 4th and 5th graders at one of our schools" said Rep. Summer Lee (PA-12). "The depth of knowledge and passion of our youngest Pennsylvanians to protect our environment and ensure clean air and water for all continue to inspire me--and have renewed my efforts to continue fighting for environmental justice, climate action, and the education of our children on these critical issues.”
"We are grateful that EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz and Congresswoman Lee kicked off our Earth Month celebrations with us,” said Environmental Charter School Superintendent Dr. Amanda Cribbs, EdD. “ECS focuses on real-world education, and this was the perfect opportunity for students to see how what they learn today can translate to an environmentally friendly and sustainable career in the future."
Originally celebrated on April 22, 1970, Earth Day is now often recognized during the entire month of April as a way to raise awareness about environmental issues we’re facing across the globe. To learn more about the history of the celebration and ideas on how to make every day Earth Day, visit: https://www.epa.gov/earthday
EPA Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz and Congresswoman Summer Lee (PA-12) with Environmental Charter School ‘EcoStewards’- 4th and 5th grade environmental students.
EPA Regional Administrator visits University of Pittsburgh to discuss research, collaboration
EPA Regional Administrator visits University of Pittsburgh to discuss research, collaboration
Media Contact: R3Press@epa.gov
PITTSBURGH, PA (April 2,2024) – Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz participated in a faculty roundtable at the University of Pittsburgh to discuss current projects, research trends, and innovative approaches to today’s environmental issues.
Hosted by the Mascaro Center for Sustainable Innovation and the Office of Sustainability, the interdisciplinary roundtable included representatives from several offices, including the Water Collaboratory, Circular Economy Program, and College of Arts and Sciences. The discussion provided Ortiz an overview of the proposed Pitt Sustainability Institute, how the university is addressing environmental justice in surrounding communities, and grant funded research.
"Across the region, we’ve been meeting with faculty, researchers, and students to learn more about approaches to some of today’s biggest challenges, what they’re finding, and how EPA can support those efforts,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “The interdisciplinary work happening at the University of Pittsburgh is exactly what’s needed to meet the complex environmental challenges of today.”
"The University was thrilled to welcome Regional Administrator Ortiz and the team to campus Tuesday. We had the opportunity to engage in impactful conversations around Pitt’s interdisciplinary sustainability research and educational efforts, including community engaged research to positively impact communities," said Melissa Bilec, the George M. and Eva M. Bevier Professor in Civil and Environmental Engineering, Co-director of the Mascaro Center for Sustainable Innovation, and Special Assistant to the Provost for Sustainability at the University of Pittsburgh. "We hope this is the start of productive conversation and interconnected work to benefit our region.”
Visits such as these highlight EPA’s dedication to collaborating with academic institutions and promoting the importance of environmental education at all levels. Prior to his campus visit, Ortiz spent the morning with 3rd-5th graders at Pittsburgh’s Environmental Charter School.
###
Media Contact: R3Press@epa.gov
PITTSBURGH, PA (April 2,2024) – Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz participated in a faculty roundtable at the University of Pittsburgh to discuss current projects, research trends, and innovative approaches to today’s environmental issues.
Hosted by the Mascaro Center for Sustainable Innovation and the Office of Sustainability, the interdisciplinary roundtable included representatives from several offices, including the Water Collaboratory, Circular Economy Program, and College of Arts and Sciences. The discussion provided Ortiz an overview of the proposed Pitt Sustainability Institute, how the university is addressing environmental justice in surrounding communities, and grant funded research.
"Across the region, we’ve been meeting with faculty, researchers, and students to learn more about approaches to some of today’s biggest challenges, what they’re finding, and how EPA can support those efforts,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “The interdisciplinary work happening at the University of Pittsburgh is exactly what’s needed to meet the complex environmental challenges of today.”
"The University was thrilled to welcome Regional Administrator Ortiz and the team to campus Tuesday. We had the opportunity to engage in impactful conversations around Pitt’s interdisciplinary sustainability research and educational efforts, including community engaged research to positively impact communities," said Melissa Bilec, the George M. and Eva M. Bevier Professor in Civil and Environmental Engineering, Co-director of the Mascaro Center for Sustainable Innovation, and Special Assistant to the Provost for Sustainability at the University of Pittsburgh. "We hope this is the start of productive conversation and interconnected work to benefit our region.”
Visits such as these highlight EPA’s dedication to collaborating with academic institutions and promoting the importance of environmental education at all levels. Prior to his campus visit, Ortiz spent the morning with 3rd-5th graders at Pittsburgh’s Environmental Charter School.
###
EPA Addresses Pollution Violations Involving Hawaii Wastewater Treatment Plants, Sewer Lines
HONOLULU – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has entered into an Administrative Order on Consent with the County of Hawai’i to ensure pollution discharge requirements are met at the Hilo, Pāpa‘ikou, and Kula‘imano Wastewater Treatment Plants in accordance with the Clean Water Act. The three plants are located on the island of Hawai‘i.
EPA identified significant operation and maintenance deficiencies which have affected the treatment systems, leading to violations of limitations on what the plants can discharge as well as sewer overflows. EPA has worked cooperatively with the County and Hawai’i Department of Health to identify needs for capital improvements, strengthened planning efforts, and asset management of the county’s wastewater infrastructure systems.
“This order ensures that the County of Hawai'i will prevent further harmful sewage discharges into the ocean, and fix its aging wastewater treatment plants,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “Compliance with the Clean Water Act is essential to protecting public health and Hawai‘i's cherished coastal waters. With our partners at Hawai‘i Department of Health, EPA will provide attentive oversight of Hawai‘i's wastewater improvements.”
The consent order requires the County of Hawai‘i to address broken equipment and deferred maintenance and to develop a program to systematically repair, rehabilitate, and replace aging infrastructure. The goal of these efforts is to prevent reoccurrence of sewage breaks and sewage spills. The order requirements include:
Rehabilitate and repair the Hilo wastewater treatment plant
Repair the Kula‘imano and Pāpa‘ikou treatment plants
Design a new pipeline that conveys wastewater under pressure at Kealakehe
Replace and repair the Hale Hālāwai and the Pua pipelines that convey wastewater under pressure
Conduct a comprehensive condition assessment
Complete an Integrated Master Plan for wastewater across the county
Prepare a financial plan
Update Operations and Maintenance manuals for all treatment systems
Fully implement an Asset Management System for the county’s wastewater infrastructure
Develop a Spill Response Plan to prevent and contain sewer spills
Implement a preventative maintenance program for sewer lines to prevent spills
The County of Hawai‘i owns and operates the wastewater collection system and treatment plants, which include approximately 105 miles of gravity sewer lines, 14 miles of sewer force mains, 16 sewer pump stations, and six wastewater treatment plants. The EPA will work closely with the county to ensure all required actions are completed and implemented according to the order.
Read more about the EPA’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System and the Clean Water Act.
For more information on reporting possible violations of environmental laws and regulations, visit EPA’s enforcement reporting website.
Learn about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
EPA identified significant operation and maintenance deficiencies which have affected the treatment systems, leading to violations of limitations on what the plants can discharge as well as sewer overflows. EPA has worked cooperatively with the County and Hawai’i Department of Health to identify needs for capital improvements, strengthened planning efforts, and asset management of the county’s wastewater infrastructure systems.
“This order ensures that the County of Hawai'i will prevent further harmful sewage discharges into the ocean, and fix its aging wastewater treatment plants,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “Compliance with the Clean Water Act is essential to protecting public health and Hawai‘i's cherished coastal waters. With our partners at Hawai‘i Department of Health, EPA will provide attentive oversight of Hawai‘i's wastewater improvements.”
The consent order requires the County of Hawai‘i to address broken equipment and deferred maintenance and to develop a program to systematically repair, rehabilitate, and replace aging infrastructure. The goal of these efforts is to prevent reoccurrence of sewage breaks and sewage spills. The order requirements include:
Rehabilitate and repair the Hilo wastewater treatment plant
Repair the Kula‘imano and Pāpa‘ikou treatment plants
Design a new pipeline that conveys wastewater under pressure at Kealakehe
Replace and repair the Hale Hālāwai and the Pua pipelines that convey wastewater under pressure
Conduct a comprehensive condition assessment
Complete an Integrated Master Plan for wastewater across the county
Prepare a financial plan
Update Operations and Maintenance manuals for all treatment systems
Fully implement an Asset Management System for the county’s wastewater infrastructure
Develop a Spill Response Plan to prevent and contain sewer spills
Implement a preventative maintenance program for sewer lines to prevent spills
The County of Hawai‘i owns and operates the wastewater collection system and treatment plants, which include approximately 105 miles of gravity sewer lines, 14 miles of sewer force mains, 16 sewer pump stations, and six wastewater treatment plants. The EPA will work closely with the county to ensure all required actions are completed and implemented according to the order.
Read more about the EPA’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System and the Clean Water Act.
For more information on reporting possible violations of environmental laws and regulations, visit EPA’s enforcement reporting website.
Learn about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
EPA to Resume Removal of Lead-Contaminated Soil at Residences Near Former Battery Factory in Logansport, Indiana
CHICAGO (April 1, 2024) – Starting early April, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will resume lead-contaminated soil cleanup in residential yards near the former Exide Battery facility at 303 Water Street, Logansport, Indiana. Anticipated to last through the summer, 15 properties will be addressed. The cleanups will be completed at no cost to property owners or residents. Last fall, cleanup of 5 residential yards was completed.
From 1960-89, Exide Technologies was a lead-acid storage battery manufacturing facility for the automotive industry before shutting down in 2009. The building was demolished in 2016 and the property has since been vacant. The EPA and the Indiana Department of Environmental Management previously tested soil near the former facility for lead contamination and found elevated lead levels on some properties. The EPA will clean up yards that have lead concentrations above the EPA’s risk-based cleanup standard.
Residents should expect increased traffic in the neighborhood while crews remove contaminated soil. The EPA will monitor the air at the site and in the neighborhood during excavation and crews will take precautionary measures to make sure the contaminated soil remains securely contained when hauled away to the approved landfill.
High lead levels pose health risks, especially to children’s health. Lead can adversely affect the nervous system, kidney function, immune system, reproductive and developmental systems and the cardiovascular system. Infants and young children are especially sensitive to lead exposures, which may contribute to behavioral problems, learning deficits and lowered IQ.
More information about the cleanup and soil sampling can be found on the EPA’s website.
From 1960-89, Exide Technologies was a lead-acid storage battery manufacturing facility for the automotive industry before shutting down in 2009. The building was demolished in 2016 and the property has since been vacant. The EPA and the Indiana Department of Environmental Management previously tested soil near the former facility for lead contamination and found elevated lead levels on some properties. The EPA will clean up yards that have lead concentrations above the EPA’s risk-based cleanup standard.
Residents should expect increased traffic in the neighborhood while crews remove contaminated soil. The EPA will monitor the air at the site and in the neighborhood during excavation and crews will take precautionary measures to make sure the contaminated soil remains securely contained when hauled away to the approved landfill.
High lead levels pose health risks, especially to children’s health. Lead can adversely affect the nervous system, kidney function, immune system, reproductive and developmental systems and the cardiovascular system. Infants and young children are especially sensitive to lead exposures, which may contribute to behavioral problems, learning deficits and lowered IQ.
More information about the cleanup and soil sampling can be found on the EPA’s website.
EPA Fines Southern California Auto Parts Companies for Defeat Devices, Harming Air Quality
SAN FRANCISCO – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced settlements with four automotive parts distributors to resolve claims of violations of the Clean Air Act. The Southern California companies – Domestic Gaskets, Mizumo Auto, PPE Inc., and Performance Parts – illegally manufactured or sold aftermarket auto parts, otherwise known as defeat devices, that exacerbate harmful air pollution by bypassing or disabling required emissions control systems. The companies paid $52,271 combined in penalties.
“These settlements represent our commitment to stopping the sale of illegal defeat devices, which worsen harmful pollution and disproportionately impact communities with environmental justice concerns,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “We will continue to investigate and penalize anyone who manufactures, sells, or installs these types of illegal products.”
Domestic Gaskets, located in El Monte, California, sells and distributes motor vehicle parts to customers throughout the United States. The company was cited for 635 violations and will pay a penalty of $12,415 to settle those claims.
Mizumo Auto, also located in El Monte, sells and distributes motor vehicle parts to customers throughout the United States. The company was cited for 1,609 violations and will pay a penalty of $11,268 to settle those claims.
PPE Inc., located in Montclair, California, manufactures, sells, and distributes aftermarket parts to customers throughout the United States. The company was cited for 121 violations and will pay a penalty of $24,000 to settle those claims.
Performance Parts, located in El Monte, sells and distributes motor vehicle parts to customers throughout the United States. The company was cited for 1,055 violations and will pay a penalty of $4,588 to settle those claims.
It is a violation of the Clean Air Act to manufacture, sell, or install a part for a motor vehicle that bypasses, defeats, or renders inoperative any emission control device. For example, computer software that alters diesel fuel injection timing is an illegal defeat device. Defeat devices, which are often sold to enhance engine performance, work by disabling a vehicle's emission controls, causing air pollution. As a result of EPA enforcement, some of the largest manufacturers of defeat devices have agreed to pay penalties and stop the sale of defeat devices.
The practice of tampering with vehicles by installing defeat devices can enable large emissions of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, both of which contribute to serious health problems in the United States. These include premature mortality, aggravation of respiratory and cardiovascular disease, aggravation of existing asthma, acute respiratory symptoms, chronic bronchitis, and decreased lung function. Respiratory issues like these disproportionately affect families, especially children, living in underserved communities overburdened by pollution.
Help protect our environment by identifying and reporting environmental violations.
Learn about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
“These settlements represent our commitment to stopping the sale of illegal defeat devices, which worsen harmful pollution and disproportionately impact communities with environmental justice concerns,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “We will continue to investigate and penalize anyone who manufactures, sells, or installs these types of illegal products.”
Domestic Gaskets, located in El Monte, California, sells and distributes motor vehicle parts to customers throughout the United States. The company was cited for 635 violations and will pay a penalty of $12,415 to settle those claims.
Mizumo Auto, also located in El Monte, sells and distributes motor vehicle parts to customers throughout the United States. The company was cited for 1,609 violations and will pay a penalty of $11,268 to settle those claims.
PPE Inc., located in Montclair, California, manufactures, sells, and distributes aftermarket parts to customers throughout the United States. The company was cited for 121 violations and will pay a penalty of $24,000 to settle those claims.
Performance Parts, located in El Monte, sells and distributes motor vehicle parts to customers throughout the United States. The company was cited for 1,055 violations and will pay a penalty of $4,588 to settle those claims.
It is a violation of the Clean Air Act to manufacture, sell, or install a part for a motor vehicle that bypasses, defeats, or renders inoperative any emission control device. For example, computer software that alters diesel fuel injection timing is an illegal defeat device. Defeat devices, which are often sold to enhance engine performance, work by disabling a vehicle's emission controls, causing air pollution. As a result of EPA enforcement, some of the largest manufacturers of defeat devices have agreed to pay penalties and stop the sale of defeat devices.
The practice of tampering with vehicles by installing defeat devices can enable large emissions of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, both of which contribute to serious health problems in the United States. These include premature mortality, aggravation of respiratory and cardiovascular disease, aggravation of existing asthma, acute respiratory symptoms, chronic bronchitis, and decreased lung function. Respiratory issues like these disproportionately affect families, especially children, living in underserved communities overburdened by pollution.
Help protect our environment by identifying and reporting environmental violations.
Learn about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
EPA warns farmworkers about risks of Dacthal
WASHINGTON — Today, April 1, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is announcing its next steps to protect people from the herbicide dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate (DCPA, or Dacthal). EPA is warning people of the significant health risks to pregnant individuals and their developing babies exposed to DCPA and will be pursuing action to address the serious, permanent, and irreversible health risks associated with the pesticide as quickly as possible. EPA has also issued a letter to AMVAC, the sole manufacturer of DCPA, restating the risks the agency found and stating that due to the serious risks posed by DCPA, the agency is pursuing further action to protect workers and others who could be exposed. EPA is taking this rare step of warning farmworkers about these concerns while it works on action to protect workers because of the significant risks the agency has identified.
“DCPA exposure represents a serious risk to pregnant workers and their children, so it’s imperative that we warn people about those risks now,” said Assistant Administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention Michal Freedhoff. “We’re committed to taking action to protect the health of children, workers, and others who are exposed to DCPA.”
DCPA is an herbicide registered to control weeds in both agricultural and non-agricultural settings, but is primarily used on crops such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and onions.
DCPA is currently undergoing registration review, a process that requires reevaluating registered pesticides every 15 years to ensure they cause no unreasonable adverse effects on human health or the environment. In May 2023, EPA released its assessment on the risks of occupational and residential exposure to products containing DCPA, after the agency reviewed data that it compelled AMVAC to submit, which had been overdue for almost 10 years. The assessment found concerning evidence of health risks associated with DCPA use and application, even when personal protective equipment and engineering controls are used. The most serious risks extend to the developing babies of pregnant individuals. EPA estimates that some pregnant individuals handling DCPA products could be subjected to exposures from four to 20 times greater than what current DCPA product label use instructions indicate is considered safe. EPA is concerned that pregnant women exposed to DCPA could experience changes to fetal thyroid hormone levels, and these changes are generally linked to low birth weight, impaired brain development, decreased IQ, and impaired motor skills later in life.
Also of concern are risks to developing babies of pregnant individuals entering or working in areas where DCPA has already been applied (especially post-application workers involved in tasks such as transplanting, weeding and harvesting). Current product labels specify that entry into treated fields must be restricted for 12 hours after application. However, the evidence indicates that for many crops and tasks, levels of DCPA in the previously treated fields remained at unsafe levels for 25 days or more. EPA also identified potential risks for individuals using golf courses and athletic fields after DCPA was applied. Spray drift from pesticide application could also put developing babies at risk for pregnant individuals living near areas where DCPA is used.
Since the release of EPA’s 2023 assessment, AMVAC has proposed several changes to the DCPA registrations, including the recent cancelation of all DCPA products registered for use on turf. Those cancelations eliminate exposures to DCPA from recreational activities on and around turf. However, according to EPA’s analysis, other proposals submitted by AMVAC do not adequately address the serious health risks for people who work with and around DCPA. EPA is therefore preparing to take further action under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) as quickly as possible to protect people from the risks of DCPA.
When serious risks are identified, EPA can take action under FIFRA to suspend or cancel a pesticide. These actions are resource-intensive and take time to implement, partly due to the procedural requirements of FIFRA. A cancelation proceeding would take at least several months (if uncontested by the registrant), and potentially several years to accommodate a potential administrative hearing and any subsequent appeal of an order of cancelation (if the registrant contests the action). FIFRA also allows EPA to seek a suspension of a pesticide product while cancelation proceedings are ongoing if the Administrator determines it is necessary to prevent an imminent hazard. An administrative hearing and final order on a suspension proceeding (if the action is contested) would likely take several months to conclude. However, the Administrator may also issue an order of suspension—effective immediately on issuance—if he determines that an emergency exists such that an administrative hearing cannot be held before suspending. Any final order of suspension would remain in effect until cancelation proceedings end. EPA is considering these tools as it moves forward with the DCPA registration review, but in light of the serious risks posed by DCPA, chose to warn the public of them at this time as it continues its work.
Background on EPA’s Review of DCPA
In 2013, the agency issued a Data Call-In (DCI) to AMVAC, requiring it to submit more than 20 studies to support the existing registrations of DCPA. The data required by EPA included a comprehensive study of the effects of DCPA on thyroid development and function in adults and in developing babies before birth. Several of the studies submitted by AMVAC from 2013-2021 were considered insufficient to address the DCI, while the thyroid study and other studies were not submitted at all. In April 2022, EPA issued a Notice of Intent to Suspend the DCPA technical-grade product (used to manufacture end-use products) based on AMVAC’s failure to submit the complete set of required data for almost 10 years, including data on DCPA’s thyroid toxicity. On Aug. 22, 2023, the agency suspended the registration for the DCPA technical-grade product, a rare but necessary step given AMVAC’s delay in providing the data EPA requested nearly a decade before. In November 2023 the suspension was lifted after AMVAC submitted sufficient data. DCPA use on turf was voluntarily canceled by AMVAC in December 2023, but unacceptable risks from agricultural use remained.
Supporting documents are available in the DCPA registration review docket EPA-HQ-OPP-2011-0374 on the Regulations.gov page.
Read EPA’s Response to AMVAC’s Mitigation Proposal.
“DCPA exposure represents a serious risk to pregnant workers and their children, so it’s imperative that we warn people about those risks now,” said Assistant Administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention Michal Freedhoff. “We’re committed to taking action to protect the health of children, workers, and others who are exposed to DCPA.”
DCPA is an herbicide registered to control weeds in both agricultural and non-agricultural settings, but is primarily used on crops such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and onions.
DCPA is currently undergoing registration review, a process that requires reevaluating registered pesticides every 15 years to ensure they cause no unreasonable adverse effects on human health or the environment. In May 2023, EPA released its assessment on the risks of occupational and residential exposure to products containing DCPA, after the agency reviewed data that it compelled AMVAC to submit, which had been overdue for almost 10 years. The assessment found concerning evidence of health risks associated with DCPA use and application, even when personal protective equipment and engineering controls are used. The most serious risks extend to the developing babies of pregnant individuals. EPA estimates that some pregnant individuals handling DCPA products could be subjected to exposures from four to 20 times greater than what current DCPA product label use instructions indicate is considered safe. EPA is concerned that pregnant women exposed to DCPA could experience changes to fetal thyroid hormone levels, and these changes are generally linked to low birth weight, impaired brain development, decreased IQ, and impaired motor skills later in life.
Also of concern are risks to developing babies of pregnant individuals entering or working in areas where DCPA has already been applied (especially post-application workers involved in tasks such as transplanting, weeding and harvesting). Current product labels specify that entry into treated fields must be restricted for 12 hours after application. However, the evidence indicates that for many crops and tasks, levels of DCPA in the previously treated fields remained at unsafe levels for 25 days or more. EPA also identified potential risks for individuals using golf courses and athletic fields after DCPA was applied. Spray drift from pesticide application could also put developing babies at risk for pregnant individuals living near areas where DCPA is used.
Since the release of EPA’s 2023 assessment, AMVAC has proposed several changes to the DCPA registrations, including the recent cancelation of all DCPA products registered for use on turf. Those cancelations eliminate exposures to DCPA from recreational activities on and around turf. However, according to EPA’s analysis, other proposals submitted by AMVAC do not adequately address the serious health risks for people who work with and around DCPA. EPA is therefore preparing to take further action under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) as quickly as possible to protect people from the risks of DCPA.
When serious risks are identified, EPA can take action under FIFRA to suspend or cancel a pesticide. These actions are resource-intensive and take time to implement, partly due to the procedural requirements of FIFRA. A cancelation proceeding would take at least several months (if uncontested by the registrant), and potentially several years to accommodate a potential administrative hearing and any subsequent appeal of an order of cancelation (if the registrant contests the action). FIFRA also allows EPA to seek a suspension of a pesticide product while cancelation proceedings are ongoing if the Administrator determines it is necessary to prevent an imminent hazard. An administrative hearing and final order on a suspension proceeding (if the action is contested) would likely take several months to conclude. However, the Administrator may also issue an order of suspension—effective immediately on issuance—if he determines that an emergency exists such that an administrative hearing cannot be held before suspending. Any final order of suspension would remain in effect until cancelation proceedings end. EPA is considering these tools as it moves forward with the DCPA registration review, but in light of the serious risks posed by DCPA, chose to warn the public of them at this time as it continues its work.
Background on EPA’s Review of DCPA
In 2013, the agency issued a Data Call-In (DCI) to AMVAC, requiring it to submit more than 20 studies to support the existing registrations of DCPA. The data required by EPA included a comprehensive study of the effects of DCPA on thyroid development and function in adults and in developing babies before birth. Several of the studies submitted by AMVAC from 2013-2021 were considered insufficient to address the DCI, while the thyroid study and other studies were not submitted at all. In April 2022, EPA issued a Notice of Intent to Suspend the DCPA technical-grade product (used to manufacture end-use products) based on AMVAC’s failure to submit the complete set of required data for almost 10 years, including data on DCPA’s thyroid toxicity. On Aug. 22, 2023, the agency suspended the registration for the DCPA technical-grade product, a rare but necessary step given AMVAC’s delay in providing the data EPA requested nearly a decade before. In November 2023 the suspension was lifted after AMVAC submitted sufficient data. DCPA use on turf was voluntarily canceled by AMVAC in December 2023, but unacceptable risks from agricultural use remained.
Supporting documents are available in the DCPA registration review docket EPA-HQ-OPP-2011-0374 on the Regulations.gov page.
Read EPA’s Response to AMVAC’s Mitigation Proposal.
EPA Statement on the Collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge
PHILADELPHIA - On March 26, 2024, emergency personnel from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Mid-Atlantic Region deployed to Baltimore, Maryland to support the response to the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse. EPA On Scene Coordinators (OSCs) remain on the ground providing technical advice on the environmental portions of the response in support of the Unified Command.
In this advisory role, EPA OSCs review information from Unified Command regarding potentially hazardous cargo on board the vessel and provide recommendations, as needed, on the development of removal or recovery plans and strategies. Members of EPA’s Environmental Response Team (ERT) are also on-site serving as technical specialists and providing public information support for the Joint Information Center (JIC) on issues concerning public health.
“As a supporting member of this interagency effort, EPA will continue to deploy technical support and resources needed to respond to this tragedy,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “Our team is coordinating with the Unified Command and we’re working together with our federal and state partners to minimize any potential environmental impacts resulting from the bridge collapse.”
Per the National Contingency Plan (NCP), a federal blueprint for emergency environmental responses, the USCG is the lead agency for events related to potential or actual releases of oil or hazardous substances originating in navigable waterways. The area of the Patapsco River where the bridge collapsed is considered a navigable waterway. The Unified Command structure oversees priorities, operations, and strategies for the protection of human health and the environment in this response.
EPA officials will continue to maintain a presence on the ground. As the needs of the Unified Command evolve, EPA will continue to offer technical expertise and rely on science to protect public health and the environment.
A website with incident response information from the Unified Command can be found at the following URL: https://www.keybridgeresponse2024.com. For media interviews and inquiries, please contact the JIC at 410-631-8939.
In this advisory role, EPA OSCs review information from Unified Command regarding potentially hazardous cargo on board the vessel and provide recommendations, as needed, on the development of removal or recovery plans and strategies. Members of EPA’s Environmental Response Team (ERT) are also on-site serving as technical specialists and providing public information support for the Joint Information Center (JIC) on issues concerning public health.
“As a supporting member of this interagency effort, EPA will continue to deploy technical support and resources needed to respond to this tragedy,” said EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “Our team is coordinating with the Unified Command and we’re working together with our federal and state partners to minimize any potential environmental impacts resulting from the bridge collapse.”
Per the National Contingency Plan (NCP), a federal blueprint for emergency environmental responses, the USCG is the lead agency for events related to potential or actual releases of oil or hazardous substances originating in navigable waterways. The area of the Patapsco River where the bridge collapsed is considered a navigable waterway. The Unified Command structure oversees priorities, operations, and strategies for the protection of human health and the environment in this response.
EPA officials will continue to maintain a presence on the ground. As the needs of the Unified Command evolve, EPA will continue to offer technical expertise and rely on science to protect public health and the environment.
A website with incident response information from the Unified Command can be found at the following URL: https://www.keybridgeresponse2024.com. For media interviews and inquiries, please contact the JIC at 410-631-8939.