EPA to award Massachusetts $275,000 to support water quality monitoring at beaches
BOSTON (Aug. 11, 2023) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a $275,000 grant to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to protect the health of beachgoers. This funding is part of $10.6 million in grants, announced in May, to help coastal and Great Lakes communities. The funding will support water quality monitoring and public notification programs for beaches.
Standing with partners at Tenean Beach in Dorchester today, EPA Regional Administrator David Cash highlighted the importance of the funding, especially for vulnerable communities.
"With so many beach closures across New England this summer, people want to know 'where can I go swimming in clean water?'," said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "Today's grant will advance environmental justice in communities vulnerable to and overburdened by water quality impacts by supporting critical monitoring and notification programs. We will continue to work closely with our state, municipal and local partners to deliver information that people need to make good decisions about their health. The results of monitoring can also help us enforce environmental laws and make investments, so beach closures become a thing of the past."
This grant helps fund programs to ensure beachgoers know when our coastal waters are safe for swimming and recreation.
Under the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health (BEACH) Act, EPA awards grants to eligible state, Tribal, and territorial applicants to help them and their local government partners monitor water quality at coastal and Great Lakes beaches. When bacteria levels are too high for safe swimming, these agencies or their local partners notify the public and post beach warnings or closings.
Since 2001, EPA has awarded nearly $216 million in BEACH Act grants, including over $25 million to New England states, and almost $5.6 million to Massachusetts, to test beach waters for illness-causing bacteria and help with public notification and identification of the problem. This program is essential for protecting the health of beachgoers across the country.
"Massachusetts is home to some of the nation's most treasured beaches and coastline. Families and visitors alike shouldn't have to worry that the waters they swim in are unsafe or unsanitary," said U.S. Senator Ed Markey. "I am grateful for the tireless work of local, state, and federal partners who are doing their part by not only monitoring these waters, but by working together to remove waste and remediate environmental injustice. We have more to do to keep beachgoers informed and our beaches open."
"With climate change bringing us more extreme heat, DCR's beaches and waterfronts play a vital role in helping our families and children cool down during the summer months, said Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation Commissioner Brian Arrigo. "We are committed to continuing to work with our federal and state partners including EPA and DPH to ensure that our waters are as clean as possible and that beachgoers are educated about when it is and isn't safe to swim in our oceans and lakes."
"Protecting the people of Boston from coastal flooding and enhancing the environment along its shoreline are top priorities for the City of Boston and the Boston Planning & Development Agency," said Rich McGuinness, Deputy Director for Climate & Coastal Resilience Infrastructure Delivery. "We have been fortunate to partner with Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management and the Dorchester community this year to develop schematic designs for Tenean Beach that achieve those goals. This recently published report is the first step towards completing design and starting construction in this critical area of our city. We look forward to the work ahead."
EPA's 2023 BEACH Act grant funding will be allocated to the following New England states, contingent upon their meeting the eligibility requirements:EPA Region 1
Massachusetts $275,000
Connecticut $236,000
Maine $272,000
New Hampshire $214,000
Rhode Island $228,000
More information on BEACH Act grants.
Check the relevant state, Tribal, or territorial beach program website for closing or advisory information at a particular beach.
Massachusetts Department of Public Health Interactive Beach Water Quality Dashboard
Standing with partners at Tenean Beach in Dorchester today, EPA Regional Administrator David Cash highlighted the importance of the funding, especially for vulnerable communities.
"With so many beach closures across New England this summer, people want to know 'where can I go swimming in clean water?'," said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "Today's grant will advance environmental justice in communities vulnerable to and overburdened by water quality impacts by supporting critical monitoring and notification programs. We will continue to work closely with our state, municipal and local partners to deliver information that people need to make good decisions about their health. The results of monitoring can also help us enforce environmental laws and make investments, so beach closures become a thing of the past."
This grant helps fund programs to ensure beachgoers know when our coastal waters are safe for swimming and recreation.
Under the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health (BEACH) Act, EPA awards grants to eligible state, Tribal, and territorial applicants to help them and their local government partners monitor water quality at coastal and Great Lakes beaches. When bacteria levels are too high for safe swimming, these agencies or their local partners notify the public and post beach warnings or closings.
Since 2001, EPA has awarded nearly $216 million in BEACH Act grants, including over $25 million to New England states, and almost $5.6 million to Massachusetts, to test beach waters for illness-causing bacteria and help with public notification and identification of the problem. This program is essential for protecting the health of beachgoers across the country.
"Massachusetts is home to some of the nation's most treasured beaches and coastline. Families and visitors alike shouldn't have to worry that the waters they swim in are unsafe or unsanitary," said U.S. Senator Ed Markey. "I am grateful for the tireless work of local, state, and federal partners who are doing their part by not only monitoring these waters, but by working together to remove waste and remediate environmental injustice. We have more to do to keep beachgoers informed and our beaches open."
"With climate change bringing us more extreme heat, DCR's beaches and waterfronts play a vital role in helping our families and children cool down during the summer months, said Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation Commissioner Brian Arrigo. "We are committed to continuing to work with our federal and state partners including EPA and DPH to ensure that our waters are as clean as possible and that beachgoers are educated about when it is and isn't safe to swim in our oceans and lakes."
"Protecting the people of Boston from coastal flooding and enhancing the environment along its shoreline are top priorities for the City of Boston and the Boston Planning & Development Agency," said Rich McGuinness, Deputy Director for Climate & Coastal Resilience Infrastructure Delivery. "We have been fortunate to partner with Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management and the Dorchester community this year to develop schematic designs for Tenean Beach that achieve those goals. This recently published report is the first step towards completing design and starting construction in this critical area of our city. We look forward to the work ahead."
EPA's 2023 BEACH Act grant funding will be allocated to the following New England states, contingent upon their meeting the eligibility requirements:EPA Region 1
Massachusetts $275,000
Connecticut $236,000
Maine $272,000
New Hampshire $214,000
Rhode Island $228,000
More information on BEACH Act grants.
Check the relevant state, Tribal, or territorial beach program website for closing or advisory information at a particular beach.
Massachusetts Department of Public Health Interactive Beach Water Quality Dashboard
EPA to award Maine $272,000 to support water quality monitoring at beaches
BOSTON (Aug. 11, 2023) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a $272,000 grant to the Maine Department of Environmental Protection to protect the health of beachgoers. This funding is part of $10.6 million in grants, announced in May, to help coastal and Great Lakes communities. The funding will support water quality monitoring and public notification programs for beaches.
"With so many beach closures across New England this summer, people want to know 'where can I go swimming in clean water?'," said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "Today's grant will advance environmental justice in communities vulnerable to and overburdened by water quality impacts by supporting critical monitoring and notification programs. We will continue to work closely with our state, municipal and local partners to deliver information that people need to make good decisions about their health. The results of monitoring can also help us enforce environmental laws and make investments, so beach closures become a thing of the past."
This grant helps fund programs to ensure that beachgoers know when our coastal waters are safe for swimming and recreation.
Under the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health (BEACH) Act, EPA awards grants to eligible state, Tribal, and territorial applicants to help them and their local government partners monitor water quality at coastal and Great Lakes beaches. When bacteria levels are too high for safe swimming, these agencies or their local partners notify the public and post beach warnings or closings.
Since 2001, EPA has awarded nearly $216 million in BEACH Act grants, including over $25 million to New England states, and almost $5.6 million to Maine, to test beach waters for illness-causing bacteria and help with public notification and identification of the problem. This program is essential for protecting the health of beachgoers across the country.
"With 3,500 miles of iconic and pristine coastline, Maine is a haven for beachgoers. Especially during the summer season that draws crowds from across the country, it's critical our beaches and waters are safe," said U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden. "The BEACH Act funding announced for Maine today will help better monitor water quality and inform the public of unsafe conditions, so Mainers and all who visit our state can safely enjoy all Vacationland has to offer."
EPA's 2023 BEACH Act grant funding will be allocated to the following New England states, contingent upon their meeting the eligibility requirements:EPA Region 1
Maine $272,000
Massachusetts $275,000
Connecticut $236,000
New Hampshire $214,000
Rhode Island $228,000
More information on BEACH Act grants.
Check the relevant state, Tribal, or territorial beach program website for closing or advisory information at a particular beach.
Maine Beaches
"With so many beach closures across New England this summer, people want to know 'where can I go swimming in clean water?'," said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "Today's grant will advance environmental justice in communities vulnerable to and overburdened by water quality impacts by supporting critical monitoring and notification programs. We will continue to work closely with our state, municipal and local partners to deliver information that people need to make good decisions about their health. The results of monitoring can also help us enforce environmental laws and make investments, so beach closures become a thing of the past."
This grant helps fund programs to ensure that beachgoers know when our coastal waters are safe for swimming and recreation.
Under the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health (BEACH) Act, EPA awards grants to eligible state, Tribal, and territorial applicants to help them and their local government partners monitor water quality at coastal and Great Lakes beaches. When bacteria levels are too high for safe swimming, these agencies or their local partners notify the public and post beach warnings or closings.
Since 2001, EPA has awarded nearly $216 million in BEACH Act grants, including over $25 million to New England states, and almost $5.6 million to Maine, to test beach waters for illness-causing bacteria and help with public notification and identification of the problem. This program is essential for protecting the health of beachgoers across the country.
"With 3,500 miles of iconic and pristine coastline, Maine is a haven for beachgoers. Especially during the summer season that draws crowds from across the country, it's critical our beaches and waters are safe," said U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden. "The BEACH Act funding announced for Maine today will help better monitor water quality and inform the public of unsafe conditions, so Mainers and all who visit our state can safely enjoy all Vacationland has to offer."
EPA's 2023 BEACH Act grant funding will be allocated to the following New England states, contingent upon their meeting the eligibility requirements:EPA Region 1
Maine $272,000
Massachusetts $275,000
Connecticut $236,000
New Hampshire $214,000
Rhode Island $228,000
More information on BEACH Act grants.
Check the relevant state, Tribal, or territorial beach program website for closing or advisory information at a particular beach.
Maine Beaches
EPA to award Connecticut $236,000 to support water quality monitoring at beaches
BOSTON (Aug. 11, 2023) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a $236,000 grant to the Connecticut Department of Public Health to protect the health of beachgoers. This funding is part of $10.6 million in grants, announced in May, to help coastal and Great Lakes communities. The funding will support water quality monitoring and public notification programs for beaches.
"With so many beach closures across New England this summer, people want to know 'where can I go swimming in clean water?'," said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "Today's grant will advance environmental justice in communities vulnerable to and overburdened by water quality impacts by supporting critical monitoring and notification programs. We will continue to work closely with our state, municipal and local partners to deliver information that people need to make good decisions about their health. The results of monitoring can also help us enforce environmental laws and make investments so beach closures become a thing of the past."
This grant helps fund programs to ensure that beachgoers know when our coastal waters are safe for swimming and recreation.
Under the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health (BEACH) Act, EPA awards grants to eligible state, Tribal, and territorial applicants to help them and their local government partners monitor water quality at coastal and Great Lakes beaches. When bacteria levels are too high for safe swimming, these agencies or their local partners notify the public and post beach warnings or closings.
Since 2001, EPA has awarded nearly $216 million in BEACH Act grants, including over $25 million to New England states, and almost $5 million to Connecticut, to test beach waters for illness-causing bacteria and help with public notification and identification of the problem. This program is essential for protecting the health of beachgoers across the country.
"Connecticut is home to beautiful shoreline beaches that residents and visitors enjoy. This funding through the Environmental Protection Agency will support increased water quality testing to ensure that our waters are clean and safe for beachgoers," said U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal. "I am proud to support this funding for the health of our coastal communities."
"Beachgoers in Connecticut enjoy swimming, surfing, and fishing at our beaches. So, it is wonderful that our state is receiving these federal funds to protect human health and the environment," said Congresswoman DeLauro. "Beaches are vital natural resources and economic drivers, making them critical to our communities. With this funding, the Connecticut Department of Public Health will help make sure they remain clean, safe, and enjoyable. I will continue to fight to deliver the resources Connecticut's towns need to recreationally swim, boat, hike, and enjoy our outdoors."
"I supported the BEACH Act in Congress to protect Connecticut's 618 miles of coastline and ensure families can safely visit our state beaches for swimming and other recreational activities," said U.S. Representative John B. Larson. "This grant is part of a nearly $5 million commitment over the last two decades from the federal government to support efforts aimed at protecting public health and safety for Connecticut beachgoers. I will continue to support funding so residents can enjoy our state's recreational spaces for years to come."
"There are few greater joys than cooling down in the Sound during a hot summer at one of the many beautiful spots along Southwest Connecticut's coastlines," said U.S. Representative Jim Himes. "The federal government is making real investments in keeping our waters clean, safe, and ready for swimmers. I'm glad that our communities are receiving funding through the BEACH Act to protect Connecticut beachgoers and I will continue working to ensure federal money is flowing to keep the Long Island Sound clean and vibrant."
"The Connecticut coastline attracts visitors from across the state, and protecting their health is paramount," said U.S. Representative Jahana Hayes. "These federal dollars will assist the Connecticut Department of Health in monitoring beach water quality to keep coastal communities safe for all to enjoy. I look forward to continuing to work with the EPA in promoting public health and environmental stewardship."
EPA's 2023 BEACH Act grant funding will be allocated to the following New England states, contingent upon their meeting the eligibility requirements:
EPA Region 1
Connecticut $236,000
Maine $272,000
Massachusetts $275,000
New Hampshire $214,000
Rhode Island $228,000
More information on BEACH Act grants.
Check the relevant state, Tribal, or territorial beach program website for closing or advisory information at a particular beach.
Connecticut Department of Public Health Public Beaches
"With so many beach closures across New England this summer, people want to know 'where can I go swimming in clean water?'," said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "Today's grant will advance environmental justice in communities vulnerable to and overburdened by water quality impacts by supporting critical monitoring and notification programs. We will continue to work closely with our state, municipal and local partners to deliver information that people need to make good decisions about their health. The results of monitoring can also help us enforce environmental laws and make investments so beach closures become a thing of the past."
This grant helps fund programs to ensure that beachgoers know when our coastal waters are safe for swimming and recreation.
Under the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health (BEACH) Act, EPA awards grants to eligible state, Tribal, and territorial applicants to help them and their local government partners monitor water quality at coastal and Great Lakes beaches. When bacteria levels are too high for safe swimming, these agencies or their local partners notify the public and post beach warnings or closings.
Since 2001, EPA has awarded nearly $216 million in BEACH Act grants, including over $25 million to New England states, and almost $5 million to Connecticut, to test beach waters for illness-causing bacteria and help with public notification and identification of the problem. This program is essential for protecting the health of beachgoers across the country.
"Connecticut is home to beautiful shoreline beaches that residents and visitors enjoy. This funding through the Environmental Protection Agency will support increased water quality testing to ensure that our waters are clean and safe for beachgoers," said U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal. "I am proud to support this funding for the health of our coastal communities."
"Beachgoers in Connecticut enjoy swimming, surfing, and fishing at our beaches. So, it is wonderful that our state is receiving these federal funds to protect human health and the environment," said Congresswoman DeLauro. "Beaches are vital natural resources and economic drivers, making them critical to our communities. With this funding, the Connecticut Department of Public Health will help make sure they remain clean, safe, and enjoyable. I will continue to fight to deliver the resources Connecticut's towns need to recreationally swim, boat, hike, and enjoy our outdoors."
"I supported the BEACH Act in Congress to protect Connecticut's 618 miles of coastline and ensure families can safely visit our state beaches for swimming and other recreational activities," said U.S. Representative John B. Larson. "This grant is part of a nearly $5 million commitment over the last two decades from the federal government to support efforts aimed at protecting public health and safety for Connecticut beachgoers. I will continue to support funding so residents can enjoy our state's recreational spaces for years to come."
"There are few greater joys than cooling down in the Sound during a hot summer at one of the many beautiful spots along Southwest Connecticut's coastlines," said U.S. Representative Jim Himes. "The federal government is making real investments in keeping our waters clean, safe, and ready for swimmers. I'm glad that our communities are receiving funding through the BEACH Act to protect Connecticut beachgoers and I will continue working to ensure federal money is flowing to keep the Long Island Sound clean and vibrant."
"The Connecticut coastline attracts visitors from across the state, and protecting their health is paramount," said U.S. Representative Jahana Hayes. "These federal dollars will assist the Connecticut Department of Health in monitoring beach water quality to keep coastal communities safe for all to enjoy. I look forward to continuing to work with the EPA in promoting public health and environmental stewardship."
EPA's 2023 BEACH Act grant funding will be allocated to the following New England states, contingent upon their meeting the eligibility requirements:
EPA Region 1
Connecticut $236,000
Maine $272,000
Massachusetts $275,000
New Hampshire $214,000
Rhode Island $228,000
More information on BEACH Act grants.
Check the relevant state, Tribal, or territorial beach program website for closing or advisory information at a particular beach.
Connecticut Department of Public Health Public Beaches
EPA to award Rhode Island $228,000 to support water quality monitoring at beaches
BOSTON (Aug. 11, 2023) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a $228,000 grant to the Rhode Island Department of Health to protect the health of beachgoers. This funding is part of $10.6 million in grants, announced in May, to help coastal and Great Lakes communities. The funding will support water quality monitoring and public notification programs for beaches.
"With so many beach closures across New England this summer, people want to know 'where can I go swimming in clean water?'," said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "Today's grant will advance environmental justice in communities vulnerable to and overburdened by water quality impacts by supporting critical monitoring and notification programs. We will continue to work closely with our state, municipal and local partners to deliver information that people need to make good decisions about their health. The results of monitoring can also help us enforce environmental laws and make investments, so beach closures become a thing of the past."
This grant helps fund programs to ensure that beachgoers know when our coastal waters are safe for swimming and recreation.
Under the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health (BEACH) Act, EPA awards grants to eligible state, Tribal, and territorial applicants to help them and their local government partners monitor water quality at coastal and Great Lakes beaches. When bacteria levels are too high for safe swimming, these agencies or their local partners notify the public and post beach warnings or closings.
Since 2001, EPA has awarded nearly $216 million in BEACH Act grants, including over $25 million to New England states, and almost $4.7 million to Rhode Island, to test beach waters for illness-causing bacteria and help with public notification and identification of the problem. This program is essential for protecting the health of beachgoers across the country.
"Our coasts are an important part of the Ocean State's economy and culture," said U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse. "This federal funding will support environmental monitoring to ensure that Rhode Islanders and visitors can safely enjoy the water all summer long."
As Rhode Islanders head to the beach this summer, we all deserve to enjoy our state's waters with peace of mind," said U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner. "This federal funding will be used to monitor water quality to ensure Rhode Island beaches are safe for everyone to enjoy."
EPA's 2023 BEACH Act grant funding will be allocated to the following New England states, contingent upon their meeting the eligibility requirements:
EPA Region 1
Rhode Island $228,000
New Hampshire $214,000
Maine $272,000
Massachusetts $275,000
Connecticut $236,000
More information on BEACH Act grants.
Check the relevant state, Tribal, or territorial beach program website for closing or advisory information at a particular beach.
Rhode Island Department of Health Beaches
"With so many beach closures across New England this summer, people want to know 'where can I go swimming in clean water?'," said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "Today's grant will advance environmental justice in communities vulnerable to and overburdened by water quality impacts by supporting critical monitoring and notification programs. We will continue to work closely with our state, municipal and local partners to deliver information that people need to make good decisions about their health. The results of monitoring can also help us enforce environmental laws and make investments, so beach closures become a thing of the past."
This grant helps fund programs to ensure that beachgoers know when our coastal waters are safe for swimming and recreation.
Under the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health (BEACH) Act, EPA awards grants to eligible state, Tribal, and territorial applicants to help them and their local government partners monitor water quality at coastal and Great Lakes beaches. When bacteria levels are too high for safe swimming, these agencies or their local partners notify the public and post beach warnings or closings.
Since 2001, EPA has awarded nearly $216 million in BEACH Act grants, including over $25 million to New England states, and almost $4.7 million to Rhode Island, to test beach waters for illness-causing bacteria and help with public notification and identification of the problem. This program is essential for protecting the health of beachgoers across the country.
"Our coasts are an important part of the Ocean State's economy and culture," said U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse. "This federal funding will support environmental monitoring to ensure that Rhode Islanders and visitors can safely enjoy the water all summer long."
As Rhode Islanders head to the beach this summer, we all deserve to enjoy our state's waters with peace of mind," said U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner. "This federal funding will be used to monitor water quality to ensure Rhode Island beaches are safe for everyone to enjoy."
EPA's 2023 BEACH Act grant funding will be allocated to the following New England states, contingent upon their meeting the eligibility requirements:
EPA Region 1
Rhode Island $228,000
New Hampshire $214,000
Maine $272,000
Massachusetts $275,000
Connecticut $236,000
More information on BEACH Act grants.
Check the relevant state, Tribal, or territorial beach program website for closing or advisory information at a particular beach.
Rhode Island Department of Health Beaches
EPA extends public comment period on draft underground injection permits for Wabash Carbon Services in Indiana’s Vigo and Vermillion Counties until Monday, August 21
CHICAGO (August 11, 2023) – In response to requests from the public at last night’s public hearing in Terre Haute, Indiana, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today extended the comment period on its draft federal permits that would allow Wabash Carbon Services, LLC, to inject and store carbon dioxide underground. EPA is now accepting comments until 5 p.m. on Monday, August 21. EPA’s comment period was originally scheduled to end today (August 11).
Written comments should be sent to Marc Fisher at fisher.marc@epa.gov (specifically referencing draft permit numbers: IN-165-6A-0001 and/or IN-167-6A-0001).
Those without access to email may contact Marc Fisher at (312) 886-4240 for instructions.
To view a copy of the two draft permits, click here.
Written comments should be sent to Marc Fisher at fisher.marc@epa.gov (specifically referencing draft permit numbers: IN-165-6A-0001 and/or IN-167-6A-0001).
Those without access to email may contact Marc Fisher at (312) 886-4240 for instructions.
To view a copy of the two draft permits, click here.
EPA Extends Comment Period on Proposed Plan to Clean Up New Cassel/Hicksville Groundwater Contamination Superfund Site
NEW YORK - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has extended the public comment period for its proposed cleanup plan to address contaminated groundwater at a portion of the New Cassel/Hicksville Groundwater Contamination Superfund site in Nassau County, New York to September 22, 2023. The original public comment period was scheduled to end on August 23rd. EPA held a public meeting at the East Meadow Public Library on August 10, 2023, to explain the cleanup proposal to the public.
EPA’s proposed plan will prevent people from potentially being exposed to the contaminated groundwater in the future, help minimize the potential for the contaminated groundwater to migrate further and treat the groundwater to meet strict federal and state standards for drinking water.
The cleanup plan proposes installing a network of wells and underground pipes in a residential neighborhood and parkland to move contaminated groundwater to a new water treatment facility. Options for how the treated water will be released will be evaluated during the design of the cleanup plan. The potential options outlined in the proposed plan include that treated water can be returned back to the ground, released to surface water or a recharge basin, or released into the sewer.
Once the cleanup plan is finalized, EPA will decide where the wells and water treatment facility will be built and where the treated water will go. The plan also requires long-term monitoring of the groundwater treatment program and relies on existing county and state restrictions on groundwater use to ensure that public drinking water wells are not installed on site without a permit.
Written comments on the proposed plan may be mailed or emailed by September 22, 2023 to Aidan Conway, Remedial Project Manager, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 290 Broadway – 19th Floor, New York, NY 10007, Email: conway.aidan@epa.gov.
For additional background and to see the proposed cleanup plan, visit the New Cassel/Hicksville Groundwater Contamination Superfund site profile page.
Follow EPA Region 2 on Twitter and visit our Facebook page. For more information about EPA Region 2, visit our website.
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EPA’s proposed plan will prevent people from potentially being exposed to the contaminated groundwater in the future, help minimize the potential for the contaminated groundwater to migrate further and treat the groundwater to meet strict federal and state standards for drinking water.
The cleanup plan proposes installing a network of wells and underground pipes in a residential neighborhood and parkland to move contaminated groundwater to a new water treatment facility. Options for how the treated water will be released will be evaluated during the design of the cleanup plan. The potential options outlined in the proposed plan include that treated water can be returned back to the ground, released to surface water or a recharge basin, or released into the sewer.
Once the cleanup plan is finalized, EPA will decide where the wells and water treatment facility will be built and where the treated water will go. The plan also requires long-term monitoring of the groundwater treatment program and relies on existing county and state restrictions on groundwater use to ensure that public drinking water wells are not installed on site without a permit.
Written comments on the proposed plan may be mailed or emailed by September 22, 2023 to Aidan Conway, Remedial Project Manager, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 290 Broadway – 19th Floor, New York, NY 10007, Email: conway.aidan@epa.gov.
For additional background and to see the proposed cleanup plan, visit the New Cassel/Hicksville Groundwater Contamination Superfund site profile page.
Follow EPA Region 2 on Twitter and visit our Facebook page. For more information about EPA Region 2, visit our website.
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EPA approves Washington’s Smoke Management Plan to allow strategic use of prescribed fires to manage forest health and protect air quality
SEATTLE (August 10, 2023) – The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency has approved Washington State’s updated Smoke Management Plan under the Clean Air Act. The Smoke Management Plan regulates prescribed burning on forest land aimed at reducing fuel loading, restoring forest ecosystems, and potentially reducing the risk to communities from catastrophic wildfires, while minimizing air quality impacts from smoke.
“As wildfires become more frequent and severe, particularly here in the Northwest, we are working closely with our local, state, tribal and federal partners to help prevent, prepare for, and mitigate those risks and impacts,” said Casey Sixkiller, Regional Administrator of EPA’s Region 10 office in Seattle. “By increasing the flexibility in the tools and timing for prescribed burning, we can better prevent and reduce the health impacts of smoke from wildfires on our communities.”
Key revisions to Washington’s Smoke Management Plan are expected to modernize the approval process so that prescribed fire can be a more effective tool to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires while also preventing and managing air quality impacts.
“Prescribed burning is a critical component of DNR’s continued forest health work,” said Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz. “Using ‘good fire’ to remove potential fuels safely and efficiently makes our forests and grasslands healthier and less susceptible to the explosive wildfires that have filled Washington’s summer skies with smoke the last decade. With this plan, we’ll be able to do the work we need to keep our skies and lungs clear.”
“In recent years, wildfire smoke has repeatedly blanketed Washington, taking an enormous toll on the health of our state’s communities,” said Heather Bartlett, Ecology’s deputy director. “This updated plan provides an important tool for preventing wildfire, and we’re pleased we were able to work with our partners to protect air quality and public health.”
Wildfire has had a serious impact on communities across Washington during the past decade with many large-scale wildfires impacting air quality. Prescribed fires are increasingly used as a land management tool to help reduce the likelihood of potentially catastrophic wildfires by reducing the buildup of unwanted fuels and strengthening ecosystems. Prescribed burning —the controlled application of fire to wildland fuels— is done under specific environmental conditions and protocols, confined to a predetermined area and on a limited intensity and scale required to attain forest land management objectives. The State anticipates increasing the application of prescribed fire in response to the increasing threat of wildfires in Washington.
The Department of Natural Resources has jurisdiction for prescribed burning on forest lands in Washington State, while the Department of Ecology is responsible for updating and implementing the Clean Air Act State Implementation Plan. EPA last approved the Washington Smoke Management Plan in 2003. Following significant wildfires, the Washington State Legislature directed the Department of Natural Resources to study prescribed burning practices and improvements needed to the Smoke Management Plan and to increase the pace and scale of prescribed burning to reduce fuel loads and help prevent catastrophic wildfire. Ecology submitted the updated Smoke Management Plan for review, approval, and inclusion in the State Implementation Plan in August 2022.
For more information on prescribed burns, restrictions and permits in Washington state, visit the Department of Natural Resources Burn Portal at: https://burnportal.dnr.wa.gov/
For wildfire smoke information in Washington state, including health risks, air monitoring and forecast smoke levels, visit Ecology’s Smoke and Fire Management page at: https://ecology.wa.gov/Air-Climate/Air-quality/Smoke-fire
The interagency Washington Smoke Blog provides also real-time information on current wildfire smoke conditions and wildfire updates at: https://wasmoke.blogspot.com/
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EPA Region 10 (Pacific Northwest) - Serving Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, Washington and 271 Tribal Nations. Visit us online, follow us on Twitter and Facebook, and subscribe to our RSS feed.
“As wildfires become more frequent and severe, particularly here in the Northwest, we are working closely with our local, state, tribal and federal partners to help prevent, prepare for, and mitigate those risks and impacts,” said Casey Sixkiller, Regional Administrator of EPA’s Region 10 office in Seattle. “By increasing the flexibility in the tools and timing for prescribed burning, we can better prevent and reduce the health impacts of smoke from wildfires on our communities.”
Key revisions to Washington’s Smoke Management Plan are expected to modernize the approval process so that prescribed fire can be a more effective tool to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires while also preventing and managing air quality impacts.
“Prescribed burning is a critical component of DNR’s continued forest health work,” said Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz. “Using ‘good fire’ to remove potential fuels safely and efficiently makes our forests and grasslands healthier and less susceptible to the explosive wildfires that have filled Washington’s summer skies with smoke the last decade. With this plan, we’ll be able to do the work we need to keep our skies and lungs clear.”
“In recent years, wildfire smoke has repeatedly blanketed Washington, taking an enormous toll on the health of our state’s communities,” said Heather Bartlett, Ecology’s deputy director. “This updated plan provides an important tool for preventing wildfire, and we’re pleased we were able to work with our partners to protect air quality and public health.”
Wildfire has had a serious impact on communities across Washington during the past decade with many large-scale wildfires impacting air quality. Prescribed fires are increasingly used as a land management tool to help reduce the likelihood of potentially catastrophic wildfires by reducing the buildup of unwanted fuels and strengthening ecosystems. Prescribed burning —the controlled application of fire to wildland fuels— is done under specific environmental conditions and protocols, confined to a predetermined area and on a limited intensity and scale required to attain forest land management objectives. The State anticipates increasing the application of prescribed fire in response to the increasing threat of wildfires in Washington.
The Department of Natural Resources has jurisdiction for prescribed burning on forest lands in Washington State, while the Department of Ecology is responsible for updating and implementing the Clean Air Act State Implementation Plan. EPA last approved the Washington Smoke Management Plan in 2003. Following significant wildfires, the Washington State Legislature directed the Department of Natural Resources to study prescribed burning practices and improvements needed to the Smoke Management Plan and to increase the pace and scale of prescribed burning to reduce fuel loads and help prevent catastrophic wildfire. Ecology submitted the updated Smoke Management Plan for review, approval, and inclusion in the State Implementation Plan in August 2022.
For more information on prescribed burns, restrictions and permits in Washington state, visit the Department of Natural Resources Burn Portal at: https://burnportal.dnr.wa.gov/
For wildfire smoke information in Washington state, including health risks, air monitoring and forecast smoke levels, visit Ecology’s Smoke and Fire Management page at: https://ecology.wa.gov/Air-Climate/Air-quality/Smoke-fire
The interagency Washington Smoke Blog provides also real-time information on current wildfire smoke conditions and wildfire updates at: https://wasmoke.blogspot.com/
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Biden-Harris Administration Announces $50 million in Available Grants to Upgrade Stormwater and Sewer Infrastructure
WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the availability of nearly $50 million in regular funding through the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program to help communities address stormwater and sewer infrastructure needs. States may now apply for grant assistance to fund projects that will help municipalities strengthen their stormwater collection systems against increasingly intense rain events made worse by the climate crisis and prevent contaminants from polluting waterways. Thanks to program updates made by the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America Agenda, the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program will also ensure small and financially distressed communities receive grant assistance at no cost.
“Against the backdrop of extreme weather fueled by the climate crisis, heavy rainfall can flood communities, overload facilities that treat wastewater, and contaminate our waterways with sewage and pollution. Through President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, we’re providing communities with critical resources to manage stormwater and sewer overflows with resilient infrastructure to prevent these serious challenges,” said EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Radhika Fox. “With $50 million in grant funding and new requirements under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Biden-Harris Administration is helping address the threat of stormwater inundation in communities that need it most.”
Stormwater management is a complex environmental challenge for communities across the country. The cost to construct, operate, and maintain stormwater infrastructure can be significant, which can strain ratepayers, especially those in small and financially distressed communities. This investment follows changes made by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to prioritize projects for small and/or financially distressed communities and prevent cost share requirements from being passed on to these communities.
Learn more about the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program.
Background
Stormwater can be a significant source of water pollution and a public health concern. Stormwater can collect various pollutants including trash, chemicals, oils, and dirt/sediment and convey them to nearby waterways. When mixed with domestic and industrial wastewater in combined sewers, stormwater can also contribute to combined sewer overflows during heavy storm events.
EPA is working with local and state partners to leverage the resources of the federal government to meet the needs of these communities. In the past, states and communities shared a fixed portion of the costs associated with all projects funded through the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law changed the program so that 25% of Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program funds go to available projects in small and/or financially distressed communities; it also limited states’ abilities to pass on the burden of cost sharing to these communities. To encourage investment in these critical projects, EPA modified the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program so that state grantees are not required to contribute cost share money for Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program projects located in small or financially distressed communities. However, grant portions that go to communities other than small or financially distressed communities will include a cost share requirement.
“Against the backdrop of extreme weather fueled by the climate crisis, heavy rainfall can flood communities, overload facilities that treat wastewater, and contaminate our waterways with sewage and pollution. Through President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, we’re providing communities with critical resources to manage stormwater and sewer overflows with resilient infrastructure to prevent these serious challenges,” said EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Radhika Fox. “With $50 million in grant funding and new requirements under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Biden-Harris Administration is helping address the threat of stormwater inundation in communities that need it most.”
Stormwater management is a complex environmental challenge for communities across the country. The cost to construct, operate, and maintain stormwater infrastructure can be significant, which can strain ratepayers, especially those in small and financially distressed communities. This investment follows changes made by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to prioritize projects for small and/or financially distressed communities and prevent cost share requirements from being passed on to these communities.
Learn more about the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program.
Background
Stormwater can be a significant source of water pollution and a public health concern. Stormwater can collect various pollutants including trash, chemicals, oils, and dirt/sediment and convey them to nearby waterways. When mixed with domestic and industrial wastewater in combined sewers, stormwater can also contribute to combined sewer overflows during heavy storm events.
EPA is working with local and state partners to leverage the resources of the federal government to meet the needs of these communities. In the past, states and communities shared a fixed portion of the costs associated with all projects funded through the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law changed the program so that 25% of Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program funds go to available projects in small and/or financially distressed communities; it also limited states’ abilities to pass on the burden of cost sharing to these communities. To encourage investment in these critical projects, EPA modified the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program so that state grantees are not required to contribute cost share money for Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program projects located in small or financially distressed communities. However, grant portions that go to communities other than small or financially distressed communities will include a cost share requirement.