Biden-Harris Administration Issues Financial Assistance to More than 43,000 Farmers, Ranchers, and Forest Landowners through the Inflation Reduction Act’s Discrimination Financial Assistance Program
WASHINGTON, July 31, 2024 – The Biden-Harris Administration today announced it has issued payments to eligible applicants under the Inflation Reduction Act’s Discrimination Financial Assistance Program (DFAP), which aims to provide financial assistance to farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who experienced discrimination prior to January 2021.
U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Key Staff Appointments and Promotions
WASHINGTON, July 31, 2024 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced the names of individuals who hold senior staff positions in Washington, D.C.
Carlton Bridgeforth has been promoted to White House Liaison in the Office of the Secretary.
Carlton Bridgeforth has been promoted to White House Liaison in the Office of the Secretary.
Biden-Harris Administration Proposes Ban on Numerous Consumer and Workplace Uses of Cancer-causing 1-Bromopropane to Protect Public Health
WASHINGTON – Today, July 31, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced a proposed rule under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) to safeguard public health and protect consumers and workers, with this latest proposal focused on the solvent 1-bromopropane (1-BP). Exposure to this chemical can cause serious health effects such as skin, lung, and intestinal cancer; damage to the liver, kidneys, and nervous system; and effects on the reproductive systems that lead to reduced fertility. If finalized, the rule would prohibit all but one consumer use of 1-BP, as well as some workplace uses.
EPA is also proposing worker protections for most industrial and commercial uses that would not be banned under the rule. These protections would help keep both workers and consumers safe from the harmful effects of 1-BP exposure and align with President Biden’s Cancer Moonshot, a whole-of-government approach to end cancer as we know it. This is the seventh existing chemical for which EPA has proposed a rule to address unreasonable risks under TSCA section 6(a) since Congress amended the law in 2016.
“The science shows that 1-BP can cause cancer and other serious health problems, and today’s action is an important step to use the power of our nation’s chemical safety law to finally protect people from this dangerous chemical and prevent cancer-causing exposure,” said Assistant Administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention Michal Freedhoff. “Our proposal would end all unsafe consumer exposures from this chemical and put strict protections in place for workers to ensure critical uses can continue safely.”
1-BP is a solvent that is widely used in cleaning and degreasing operations, spray adhesives and dry cleaning. 1-BP is also used in insulation for building and construction materials and in the manufacture of other chemicals. Consumer uses of 1-BP include aerosol degreasers, spot cleaners, stain removers and insulation.
EPA is proposing to protect the public from exposure to 1-BP by banning all consumer uses of this chemical except in insulation (because EPA determined that this use did not contribute to the unreasonable risk to people). The ban on consumer uses would begin to go into effect within six months after the final rule is published and would come fully into force within 15 months.
EPA is also proposing to ban some industrial and commercial uses of 1-BP for which EPA analysis identified safer alternatives. The ban on industrial and commercial uses would begin to go into effect six months after the final rule is published and would come fully into effect within 18 months. The industrial and commercial uses to be prohibited include:
Dry cleaning, spot cleaning and stain removers.
Adhesives and sealants.
Coin and scissor cleaners.
Automotive care products used as engine degreasers, brake cleaners and refrigerant flushes.
Anti-adhesive agents used for mold cleaning and release products.
Functional fluids used as refrigerants or cutting oils
Arts, crafts and hobby materials.
The proposed rule would also require worker protections for several industrial and commercial uses of 1-BP that would continue but which EPA has determined contribute to the unreasonable risk to human health that must be addressed, including its use in vapor and aerosol degreasing, electronics and electronic and metal products. To continue these uses, non-federal workplaces would need to implement a Workplace Chemical Protection Program, including an exposure limit, within 12 months. EPA is also proposing to require the use of chemical-resistant gloves within six months for some uses for non-federal workplaces, including manufacturing, processing (which includes recycling) and disposal, to protect workers from exposures to 1-BP through the skin. Federal agencies (and federal contractors acting for or on behalf of the federal government) would be required to implement a Workplace Chemical Protection Program and use chemical-resistant gloves within three years.
Many workplaces already employ stringent controls to reduce exposures to 1-BP. For some workplaces, such as those using 1-BP in vapor degreasing, these existing controls may already sufficiently reduce exposure to meet the inhalation exposure concentration limit proposed in this rulemaking.
EPA encourages members of the public to read and comment on the proposed rule. EPA is especially interested in hearing perspectives on the feasibility and efficacy of the proposed requirements from entities that would be required to implement the proposed workplace protections, such as manufacturers, processors and users of 1-BP, as well as small quantity users, such as laboratories.
EPA will accept public comments on the proposed rule for 1-BP for 45 days following publication in the Federal Register. Members of the public may submit comments to docket EPA-HQ-OPPT-2020-0471 at the Regulations.gov page.
EPA will host a public webinar to provide an overview of the proposal on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. EDT. Registration is available at the TSCA webinar page.
Learn more about today’s 1-BP proposal.
EPA is also proposing worker protections for most industrial and commercial uses that would not be banned under the rule. These protections would help keep both workers and consumers safe from the harmful effects of 1-BP exposure and align with President Biden’s Cancer Moonshot, a whole-of-government approach to end cancer as we know it. This is the seventh existing chemical for which EPA has proposed a rule to address unreasonable risks under TSCA section 6(a) since Congress amended the law in 2016.
“The science shows that 1-BP can cause cancer and other serious health problems, and today’s action is an important step to use the power of our nation’s chemical safety law to finally protect people from this dangerous chemical and prevent cancer-causing exposure,” said Assistant Administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention Michal Freedhoff. “Our proposal would end all unsafe consumer exposures from this chemical and put strict protections in place for workers to ensure critical uses can continue safely.”
1-BP is a solvent that is widely used in cleaning and degreasing operations, spray adhesives and dry cleaning. 1-BP is also used in insulation for building and construction materials and in the manufacture of other chemicals. Consumer uses of 1-BP include aerosol degreasers, spot cleaners, stain removers and insulation.
EPA is proposing to protect the public from exposure to 1-BP by banning all consumer uses of this chemical except in insulation (because EPA determined that this use did not contribute to the unreasonable risk to people). The ban on consumer uses would begin to go into effect within six months after the final rule is published and would come fully into force within 15 months.
EPA is also proposing to ban some industrial and commercial uses of 1-BP for which EPA analysis identified safer alternatives. The ban on industrial and commercial uses would begin to go into effect six months after the final rule is published and would come fully into effect within 18 months. The industrial and commercial uses to be prohibited include:
Dry cleaning, spot cleaning and stain removers.
Adhesives and sealants.
Coin and scissor cleaners.
Automotive care products used as engine degreasers, brake cleaners and refrigerant flushes.
Anti-adhesive agents used for mold cleaning and release products.
Functional fluids used as refrigerants or cutting oils
Arts, crafts and hobby materials.
The proposed rule would also require worker protections for several industrial and commercial uses of 1-BP that would continue but which EPA has determined contribute to the unreasonable risk to human health that must be addressed, including its use in vapor and aerosol degreasing, electronics and electronic and metal products. To continue these uses, non-federal workplaces would need to implement a Workplace Chemical Protection Program, including an exposure limit, within 12 months. EPA is also proposing to require the use of chemical-resistant gloves within six months for some uses for non-federal workplaces, including manufacturing, processing (which includes recycling) and disposal, to protect workers from exposures to 1-BP through the skin. Federal agencies (and federal contractors acting for or on behalf of the federal government) would be required to implement a Workplace Chemical Protection Program and use chemical-resistant gloves within three years.
Many workplaces already employ stringent controls to reduce exposures to 1-BP. For some workplaces, such as those using 1-BP in vapor degreasing, these existing controls may already sufficiently reduce exposure to meet the inhalation exposure concentration limit proposed in this rulemaking.
EPA encourages members of the public to read and comment on the proposed rule. EPA is especially interested in hearing perspectives on the feasibility and efficacy of the proposed requirements from entities that would be required to implement the proposed workplace protections, such as manufacturers, processors and users of 1-BP, as well as small quantity users, such as laboratories.
EPA will accept public comments on the proposed rule for 1-BP for 45 days following publication in the Federal Register. Members of the public may submit comments to docket EPA-HQ-OPPT-2020-0471 at the Regulations.gov page.
EPA will host a public webinar to provide an overview of the proposal on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. EDT. Registration is available at the TSCA webinar page.
Learn more about today’s 1-BP proposal.
EPA Announces New Initiatives to Strengthen HBCU Engagement and Environmental Partnerships
WASHINGTON – Today, July 31, at the United Negro College Fund’s UNITE 2024 Summit, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael S. Regan unveiled the latest actions under the Agency’s comprehensive engagement plan with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Later this year, EPA will launch a $2.5 million competitive grant opportunity to support HBCUs and partners. EPA will also appoint a permanent HBCU Outreach and Engagement Liaison within the Administrator’s Office, as well as the founding members of EPA’s first-ever HBCU-MSI Federal Advisory Council. These actions deliver on the Biden-Harris Administration’s whole-of-government investment efforts in HBCUs and reflect EPA’s commitment to achieving real results that empower students and support the communities that HBCUs serve.
“HBCUs produce some of the best and brightest minds our country has to offer,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “At every level of this Administration, including Vice President Kamala Harris, HBCU graduates are delivering real results, and we’re more committed than ever to partnering and empowering HBCU students and leaders across the country. At EPA, HBCUs have a permanent seat at our table, so that these institutions remain at the forefront of the environmental movement.”
$2.5 Million Competitive Grant Opportunity
EPA is establishing a $2.5 million competitive grant opportunity to support collaboration among students and faculty from HBCUs. This program will focus on funding projects that advance workforce development, environmental education, and capacity building. It will also support community projects addressing environmental justice, climate change, water quality, and land health on campuses and in surrounding communities. A Notice of Funding Opportunity for this grant is expected to be issued in early October.
Permanent HBCU Outreach and Engagement Liaison
EPA will appoint a permanent HBCU Outreach and Engagement Liaison within the Administrator’s Office. This liaison will advise on initiatives related to HBCUs, ensuring these institutions are fully informed about EPA resources, funding opportunities, and engagement activities. The liaison will also facilitate coordination within EPA, maintaining a resource repository for both internal and external stakeholders. This appointment is a direct result of EPA’s commitment to turning bold promises into real results.
HBCU-MSI Federal Advisory Council
EPA will announce the inaugural members of its first-ever HBCU-MSI Federal Advisory Council. The council will offer strategic advice on leveraging the expertise within HBCU-MSIs to advance EPA's mission and support these institutions. The council will deliver independent recommendations on enhancing the participation of HBCU-MSIs in federal programs and diversifying EPA’s workforce. Selections for the council will be announced by Fall 2024, featuring representatives from academia, industry, community organizations, and local governments nationwide.
Background
HBCUs play a critical role in producing influential leaders and addressing environmental challenges. EPA has emphasized the importance of collaborating with HBCUs to support their communities and empower their students to engage in environmental and climate action. Our visits to HBCUs have involved hosting roundtables and dialogues, directly engaging with students, faculty, and other stakeholders about the vital role these institutions play in their communities.
During Administrator Regan’s Journey to Justice Tour, leaders from Jackson State University, Tougaloo College, and Texas Southern University highlighted the need for greater opportunities for students to gain environmental field experience and for increased federal funding to address environmental challenges in vulnerable communities. These discussions have reinforced EPA's commitment to nurturing future environmental leaders and delivering real results from bold promises.
In 2022, EPA established an internal advisory council to strengthen relationships with HBCUs. This council has identified enhanced opportunities for student recruitment and support through grants, contracts, transparent data sharing, and community engagement, which has informed our engagement plan with HBCUs and the announcements made today.
HBCUs and Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) are pivotal in producing Black and minority graduates, particularly in STEM fields. Despite their significant contributions, these institutions face systemic barriers to accessing federal programs and resources. HBCUs often serve underserved communities, providing essential opportunities for economic mobility and academic advancement.
For additional information on this grant and the three project areas, please visit EPA’s HBCU Engagement webpage.
“HBCUs produce some of the best and brightest minds our country has to offer,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “At every level of this Administration, including Vice President Kamala Harris, HBCU graduates are delivering real results, and we’re more committed than ever to partnering and empowering HBCU students and leaders across the country. At EPA, HBCUs have a permanent seat at our table, so that these institutions remain at the forefront of the environmental movement.”
$2.5 Million Competitive Grant Opportunity
EPA is establishing a $2.5 million competitive grant opportunity to support collaboration among students and faculty from HBCUs. This program will focus on funding projects that advance workforce development, environmental education, and capacity building. It will also support community projects addressing environmental justice, climate change, water quality, and land health on campuses and in surrounding communities. A Notice of Funding Opportunity for this grant is expected to be issued in early October.
Permanent HBCU Outreach and Engagement Liaison
EPA will appoint a permanent HBCU Outreach and Engagement Liaison within the Administrator’s Office. This liaison will advise on initiatives related to HBCUs, ensuring these institutions are fully informed about EPA resources, funding opportunities, and engagement activities. The liaison will also facilitate coordination within EPA, maintaining a resource repository for both internal and external stakeholders. This appointment is a direct result of EPA’s commitment to turning bold promises into real results.
HBCU-MSI Federal Advisory Council
EPA will announce the inaugural members of its first-ever HBCU-MSI Federal Advisory Council. The council will offer strategic advice on leveraging the expertise within HBCU-MSIs to advance EPA's mission and support these institutions. The council will deliver independent recommendations on enhancing the participation of HBCU-MSIs in federal programs and diversifying EPA’s workforce. Selections for the council will be announced by Fall 2024, featuring representatives from academia, industry, community organizations, and local governments nationwide.
Background
HBCUs play a critical role in producing influential leaders and addressing environmental challenges. EPA has emphasized the importance of collaborating with HBCUs to support their communities and empower their students to engage in environmental and climate action. Our visits to HBCUs have involved hosting roundtables and dialogues, directly engaging with students, faculty, and other stakeholders about the vital role these institutions play in their communities.
During Administrator Regan’s Journey to Justice Tour, leaders from Jackson State University, Tougaloo College, and Texas Southern University highlighted the need for greater opportunities for students to gain environmental field experience and for increased federal funding to address environmental challenges in vulnerable communities. These discussions have reinforced EPA's commitment to nurturing future environmental leaders and delivering real results from bold promises.
In 2022, EPA established an internal advisory council to strengthen relationships with HBCUs. This council has identified enhanced opportunities for student recruitment and support through grants, contracts, transparent data sharing, and community engagement, which has informed our engagement plan with HBCUs and the announcements made today.
HBCUs and Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) are pivotal in producing Black and minority graduates, particularly in STEM fields. Despite their significant contributions, these institutions face systemic barriers to accessing federal programs and resources. HBCUs often serve underserved communities, providing essential opportunities for economic mobility and academic advancement.
For additional information on this grant and the three project areas, please visit EPA’s HBCU Engagement webpage.
EPA Announces $280K in Environmental Education Funding for Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri Organizations
LENEXA, KAN. (JULY 31, 2024) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has selected three organizations pursuing environmental education projects in Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri to receive a total of $280,000 in Environmental Education Grants.
These projects are a part of a national selection of 38 organizations set to receive over $3.6 million through EPA's Environmental Education Grants program.
“Congratulations to this year’s Region 7 Environmental Education Grant selectees!” said EPA Region 7 Administrator Meg McCollister. “These organizations will connect project participants to information and resources and enable them to make tangible environmental improvements in their communities for years to come.”
EPA Region 7 selectees include:
Kansas Association for Conservation and Environmental Education in Manhattan, Kansas – KACEE’s “Preparing the Next Generation for Green Careers in Climate Change” project will receive $100,000 to encourage students from diverse backgrounds to come together, dialogue, and take action to address barriers to their involvement and interest in green careers. The project will serve approximately 30 educators and 1,000 middle to high-school students from six underserved communities in Kansas and Missouri.
Missouri River Bird Observatory in Arrow Rock, Missouri – MRBO’s “Empowering Kansas City Residents to Take Environmental Action” project will receive $80,000 to create more informed, empowered, and environmentally conscious communities that can better protect their interests and the environment. The project will engage community members, business owners, community-based organizations, Title I school parents, and subaward recipients in five underserved communities to create a lasting partnership with environmental stewards who improve individual and community health.
Upper Iowa University in Fayette, Iowa – The university’s “Learning and Living in a Changing Climate” project will receive $100,000 to educate participants on the impacts of climate change and actions that can be taken to improve air quality and revitalize land through immersive three-day educator workshops and virtual follow-up sessions. The project will engage pre-K to post-secondary teachers and their students, student teachers, and informal environmental educators in Iowa, with the goal of training 88 educators and impacting up to 4,800 students.
EPA anticipates providing funding for these projects, once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied.
Background
Since 1992, EPA has distributed between $2 million and $3.7 million in Environmental Education (EE) Grant funding each year, totaling over $95 million that supported nearly 4,000 projects. The program traditionally provides financial support for projects that design, demonstrate, or disseminate EE practices, methods, or techniques. For more information, visit EPA’s EE page.
To learn more about current and past award winners, or to apply for future EE Grant competitions, visit the EPA’s EE Grants page. EPA will update this page as future competitions are announced and additional grants are awarded.
# # #
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View all Region 7 news releases
Connect with EPA Region 7 on Facebook and Instagram
Follow us on X: @EPARegion7
These projects are a part of a national selection of 38 organizations set to receive over $3.6 million through EPA's Environmental Education Grants program.
“Congratulations to this year’s Region 7 Environmental Education Grant selectees!” said EPA Region 7 Administrator Meg McCollister. “These organizations will connect project participants to information and resources and enable them to make tangible environmental improvements in their communities for years to come.”
EPA Region 7 selectees include:
Kansas Association for Conservation and Environmental Education in Manhattan, Kansas – KACEE’s “Preparing the Next Generation for Green Careers in Climate Change” project will receive $100,000 to encourage students from diverse backgrounds to come together, dialogue, and take action to address barriers to their involvement and interest in green careers. The project will serve approximately 30 educators and 1,000 middle to high-school students from six underserved communities in Kansas and Missouri.
Missouri River Bird Observatory in Arrow Rock, Missouri – MRBO’s “Empowering Kansas City Residents to Take Environmental Action” project will receive $80,000 to create more informed, empowered, and environmentally conscious communities that can better protect their interests and the environment. The project will engage community members, business owners, community-based organizations, Title I school parents, and subaward recipients in five underserved communities to create a lasting partnership with environmental stewards who improve individual and community health.
Upper Iowa University in Fayette, Iowa – The university’s “Learning and Living in a Changing Climate” project will receive $100,000 to educate participants on the impacts of climate change and actions that can be taken to improve air quality and revitalize land through immersive three-day educator workshops and virtual follow-up sessions. The project will engage pre-K to post-secondary teachers and their students, student teachers, and informal environmental educators in Iowa, with the goal of training 88 educators and impacting up to 4,800 students.
EPA anticipates providing funding for these projects, once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied.
Background
Since 1992, EPA has distributed between $2 million and $3.7 million in Environmental Education (EE) Grant funding each year, totaling over $95 million that supported nearly 4,000 projects. The program traditionally provides financial support for projects that design, demonstrate, or disseminate EE practices, methods, or techniques. For more information, visit EPA’s EE page.
To learn more about current and past award winners, or to apply for future EE Grant competitions, visit the EPA’s EE Grants page. EPA will update this page as future competitions are announced and additional grants are awarded.
# # #
Learn more about EPA Region 7
View all Region 7 news releases
Connect with EPA Region 7 on Facebook and Instagram
Follow us on X: @EPARegion7
Progress continues at Smurfit-Stone Mill Site in Frenchtown, Montana, as EPA plans further studies and sampling this year
FRENCHTOWN, Mont. - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently directed two additional sampling events with a third now underway at the Smurfit-Stone Mill Site, a former paper and pulp mill located 11 miles west of Missoula, Montana.
Since 2015, EPA has directed and overseen extensive site investigation by potentially responsible parties (PRPs) under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) to determine the nature and extent of contamination on the site resulting from the mill's operations.
In 2023, stakeholders and Missoula County requested that EPA consider additional groundwater and soil sampling to address their concerns about potential sources of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and site characterization. Data collected over the next year will support that request and inform the upcoming remedial investigation. Once the remedial investigation is complete, EPA can begin to develop and evaluate cleanup plans—also called remedial alternatives—in the feasibility study report for the site.
“The EPA Superfund process is both long and complex to navigate,” said Community Advisory Group (CAG) Administrator Jeri Delys. “The Frenchtown Smurfit-Stone CAG has been the steady force behind ensuring the site is cleaned up in a timely and thorough manner, and the interests of our community and our state are put front and center. To that end, the EPA agreed with the CAG and Missoula County that additional site characterization would be necessary to help define and ensure the best possible outcome for the site, the community and surrounding areas. Throughout the additional site characterization process, the CAG continues to engage with the EPA on upholding fair decision-making processes that best represent the interests of the community and the state.”
EPA is overseeing these recent sampling efforts to further consider the potential presence of PCBs, a group of chemicals that were used in industrial applications—such as in hydraulic fluids—for decades across the U.S. before their production was banned in 1979. Future sampling events, including a groundwater/surface water interaction study taking place over the next two weeks, seek to further investigate geochemical conditions controlling the migration of manganese and arsenic through groundwater to the Clark Fork River. This sampling will also help with the understanding of potential risks to fish or other aquatic life in the river.
“Robust and comprehensive site investigation, as well as community involvement, are essential pieces of the Superfund process,” said Carolina Balliew, EPA Region 8 Montana Remedial Supervisor. “We are excited about the progress made over the past year with our site partners at the state, county and local levels as we direct additional sampling efforts that help build on site knowledge and move us forward in a positive direction.”
In May, crews installed 10 new groundwater monitoring wells and sampled a total of 58 groundwater monitoring wells for a full suite of analytes, including 209 PCB congeners, PCB Aroclors, dioxins/furans and metals. Crews drilled boreholes in primary sludge ponds and solid waste basins to further characterize soils and the presence or absence of these contaminants of potential concern (COPCs). Samples were also collected from the native soils underlying the sludge ponds and solid waste basins to determine if COPCs are potentially migrating through soil. Understanding where contaminants are located and how they migrate is necessary for developing remedial alternatives to mitigate any unacceptable risk identified at the site.
These sampling events follow a fall 2023 groundwater sampling event in which 33 groundwater monitoring wells were sampled for the same COPCs. The sample locations were selected based on their proximity to potential source areas and previous detections of COPCs. Data from that sampling event are being reviewed and will be shared with the site’s working group, CAG and the general public in the coming months. EPA will oversee additional groundwater and soil sampling events this fall.
In total, since 2015, EPA has overseen collection of more than 1,600 samples from groundwater, surface water, porewater, surface soil, subsurface soil, sediment, macroinvertebrates, small mammals and fish. This extensive dataset informs EPA’s understanding of the nature and extent of risks to human and ecological health on the site. Through this investigation, COPCs, including arsenic, manganese and dioxins/furans, have been identified in shallow groundwater and soils. These findings are reflected in human and baseline ecological health risk assessments completed in 2020 and will inform the development of cleanup plans in future phases of the Superfund process. To date, EPA has overseen the completion of 13 addenda to the Remedial Investigation Work Plan by the PRPs on the site.
For more information about the site, please visit the Smurfit-Stone Mill Site profile page. Interested members of the community can also attend monthly CAG meetings, which take place at the Frenchtown Rural Fire District at 6 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month.
Since 2015, EPA has directed and overseen extensive site investigation by potentially responsible parties (PRPs) under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) to determine the nature and extent of contamination on the site resulting from the mill's operations.
In 2023, stakeholders and Missoula County requested that EPA consider additional groundwater and soil sampling to address their concerns about potential sources of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and site characterization. Data collected over the next year will support that request and inform the upcoming remedial investigation. Once the remedial investigation is complete, EPA can begin to develop and evaluate cleanup plans—also called remedial alternatives—in the feasibility study report for the site.
“The EPA Superfund process is both long and complex to navigate,” said Community Advisory Group (CAG) Administrator Jeri Delys. “The Frenchtown Smurfit-Stone CAG has been the steady force behind ensuring the site is cleaned up in a timely and thorough manner, and the interests of our community and our state are put front and center. To that end, the EPA agreed with the CAG and Missoula County that additional site characterization would be necessary to help define and ensure the best possible outcome for the site, the community and surrounding areas. Throughout the additional site characterization process, the CAG continues to engage with the EPA on upholding fair decision-making processes that best represent the interests of the community and the state.”
EPA is overseeing these recent sampling efforts to further consider the potential presence of PCBs, a group of chemicals that were used in industrial applications—such as in hydraulic fluids—for decades across the U.S. before their production was banned in 1979. Future sampling events, including a groundwater/surface water interaction study taking place over the next two weeks, seek to further investigate geochemical conditions controlling the migration of manganese and arsenic through groundwater to the Clark Fork River. This sampling will also help with the understanding of potential risks to fish or other aquatic life in the river.
“Robust and comprehensive site investigation, as well as community involvement, are essential pieces of the Superfund process,” said Carolina Balliew, EPA Region 8 Montana Remedial Supervisor. “We are excited about the progress made over the past year with our site partners at the state, county and local levels as we direct additional sampling efforts that help build on site knowledge and move us forward in a positive direction.”
In May, crews installed 10 new groundwater monitoring wells and sampled a total of 58 groundwater monitoring wells for a full suite of analytes, including 209 PCB congeners, PCB Aroclors, dioxins/furans and metals. Crews drilled boreholes in primary sludge ponds and solid waste basins to further characterize soils and the presence or absence of these contaminants of potential concern (COPCs). Samples were also collected from the native soils underlying the sludge ponds and solid waste basins to determine if COPCs are potentially migrating through soil. Understanding where contaminants are located and how they migrate is necessary for developing remedial alternatives to mitigate any unacceptable risk identified at the site.
These sampling events follow a fall 2023 groundwater sampling event in which 33 groundwater monitoring wells were sampled for the same COPCs. The sample locations were selected based on their proximity to potential source areas and previous detections of COPCs. Data from that sampling event are being reviewed and will be shared with the site’s working group, CAG and the general public in the coming months. EPA will oversee additional groundwater and soil sampling events this fall.
In total, since 2015, EPA has overseen collection of more than 1,600 samples from groundwater, surface water, porewater, surface soil, subsurface soil, sediment, macroinvertebrates, small mammals and fish. This extensive dataset informs EPA’s understanding of the nature and extent of risks to human and ecological health on the site. Through this investigation, COPCs, including arsenic, manganese and dioxins/furans, have been identified in shallow groundwater and soils. These findings are reflected in human and baseline ecological health risk assessments completed in 2020 and will inform the development of cleanup plans in future phases of the Superfund process. To date, EPA has overseen the completion of 13 addenda to the Remedial Investigation Work Plan by the PRPs on the site.
For more information about the site, please visit the Smurfit-Stone Mill Site profile page. Interested members of the community can also attend monthly CAG meetings, which take place at the Frenchtown Rural Fire District at 6 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month.
EPA resolves Clean Water Act violations with Enumclaw company for $63,984
SEATTLE – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that Parker Hannifin Corporation, formerly Helac Corporation, will pay $63,984 for Clean Water Act violations at its facility in Enumclaw, Washington.
In January 2023, EPA inspectors found several violations of the company’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System industrial stormwater permit including:
failure to maintain a Stormwater Pollution Control Plan
failure to sample and monitor stormwater discharges
failure to maintain structural controls and measures
failure to conduct routine site inspections
In its investigation, the EPA also found a discharge through the facility’s outfall that was unbeknownst to the facility. The facility will improve its permit compliance by sampling and monitoring, reviewing and revising its Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan, maintaining stormwater control measures, conducting routine site inspections, and reporting and keeping records as required by the permit.
“EPA is committed to enforcing the industrial stormwater rules under the Clean Water Act to protect Pacific Northwest waters,” said EPA Region 10 Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Director Ed Kowalski. “In this case, this enforcement action will help prevent pollution from entering Newaukum Creek, a tributary to the Green River.”
Newaukum Creek is a spawning area for protected species including Puget Sound Chinook, Coho, Steelhead and Cutthroat Trout. However, due to excessive levels of fecal coliform, reduced dissolved oxygen, and high temperatures, Newaukum Creek is considered an impaired waterbody by EPA and the Washington Department of Ecology.
The Clean Water Act prohibits discharging pollutants from industrial sources into a water of the United States without a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit. Stormwater can pick up pollutants like chemicals, oils, and sediment from industrial facilities which are then carried into waterways and harm fish and other aquatic life. The permit requires industrial sites to monitor, measure, and reduce stormwater pollution leaving their facilities.
In January 2023, EPA inspectors found several violations of the company’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System industrial stormwater permit including:
failure to maintain a Stormwater Pollution Control Plan
failure to sample and monitor stormwater discharges
failure to maintain structural controls and measures
failure to conduct routine site inspections
In its investigation, the EPA also found a discharge through the facility’s outfall that was unbeknownst to the facility. The facility will improve its permit compliance by sampling and monitoring, reviewing and revising its Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan, maintaining stormwater control measures, conducting routine site inspections, and reporting and keeping records as required by the permit.
“EPA is committed to enforcing the industrial stormwater rules under the Clean Water Act to protect Pacific Northwest waters,” said EPA Region 10 Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Director Ed Kowalski. “In this case, this enforcement action will help prevent pollution from entering Newaukum Creek, a tributary to the Green River.”
Newaukum Creek is a spawning area for protected species including Puget Sound Chinook, Coho, Steelhead and Cutthroat Trout. However, due to excessive levels of fecal coliform, reduced dissolved oxygen, and high temperatures, Newaukum Creek is considered an impaired waterbody by EPA and the Washington Department of Ecology.
The Clean Water Act prohibits discharging pollutants from industrial sources into a water of the United States without a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit. Stormwater can pick up pollutants like chemicals, oils, and sediment from industrial facilities which are then carried into waterways and harm fish and other aquatic life. The permit requires industrial sites to monitor, measure, and reduce stormwater pollution leaving their facilities.
EPA Settles Claims that Arizona Company Violated Clean Air Act in the Navajo Nation
PHOENIX—The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently finalized a settlement with Fann Contracting, Inc., underscoring the crucial importance of compliance with the Clean Air Act. The company was found to be operating a portable hot mix asphalt plant on the Navajo Nation near Kayenta, Arizona, without a Tribal Minor New Source Review (NSR) permit to control air pollutants. As part of the settlement, the company will pay a civil penalty of $72,128.
For several months in 2021, Fann Contracting, Inc. operated its portable hot mix asphalt plant near the Kayenta Health Center within the Navajo Nation without a valid federal permit to control its air emissions in Indian country. When not controlled by an enforceable permit limit, the asphalt plant had the potential to emit carbon monoxide (CO) in a quantity of 250 tons, which exceeded air pollution limits under the NSR permitting program. Fann Contracting, Inc. only obtained the required permit on April 27, 2022.
“EPA stands ready to use our authority to ensure that Clean Air Act federal regulations are properly followed, and that residents of Arizona and the Navajo Nation are breathing healthy, safe air,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “Businesses must comply with permit programs under the law when operating in Indian country.”
The NSR permitting program, established as part of the 1977 Clean Air Act Amendments, plays a vital role in maintaining air quality. It is a preconstruction permitting program that ensures that air quality is not significantly degraded by the addition of new and modified sources such as factories, industrial boilers, and power plants. NSR is crucial in guaranteeing new emissions progress toward cleaner air in areas with unhealthy air. The NSR program assures people that any significant new or modified industrial source in their neighborhoods will be as clean as possible and that advances in pollution control occur concurrently with industrial expansion.
NSR permits are legal documents that the facility owners/operators must abide by. The permit specifies what construction is allowed, what emission limits must be met, and often how the emissions source must be operated.
The Tribal Minor NSR Program protects air quality in Indian country. To simplify the permit issuance process for similar facilities, this program has general permits and permits by rule for specific smaller sources of air pollution commonly found in Indian country. Persons operating hot mix asphalt plants subject to regulation under the Tribal Minor NSR Program can apply for a general air quality permit. Still, this general permit must be obtained before the construction and operation of the regulated source.
For more information on New Source Review permitting, visit EPA’s New Source Review (NSR) Permitting webpage.
For more information on Tribal News Source review, visit EPA’s Tribal Minor Source Review webpage.
For more information on reporting possible violations of environmental laws and regulations visit EPA’s enforcement reporting website.
Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region x. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
For several months in 2021, Fann Contracting, Inc. operated its portable hot mix asphalt plant near the Kayenta Health Center within the Navajo Nation without a valid federal permit to control its air emissions in Indian country. When not controlled by an enforceable permit limit, the asphalt plant had the potential to emit carbon monoxide (CO) in a quantity of 250 tons, which exceeded air pollution limits under the NSR permitting program. Fann Contracting, Inc. only obtained the required permit on April 27, 2022.
“EPA stands ready to use our authority to ensure that Clean Air Act federal regulations are properly followed, and that residents of Arizona and the Navajo Nation are breathing healthy, safe air,” said EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator Martha Guzman. “Businesses must comply with permit programs under the law when operating in Indian country.”
The NSR permitting program, established as part of the 1977 Clean Air Act Amendments, plays a vital role in maintaining air quality. It is a preconstruction permitting program that ensures that air quality is not significantly degraded by the addition of new and modified sources such as factories, industrial boilers, and power plants. NSR is crucial in guaranteeing new emissions progress toward cleaner air in areas with unhealthy air. The NSR program assures people that any significant new or modified industrial source in their neighborhoods will be as clean as possible and that advances in pollution control occur concurrently with industrial expansion.
NSR permits are legal documents that the facility owners/operators must abide by. The permit specifies what construction is allowed, what emission limits must be met, and often how the emissions source must be operated.
The Tribal Minor NSR Program protects air quality in Indian country. To simplify the permit issuance process for similar facilities, this program has general permits and permits by rule for specific smaller sources of air pollution commonly found in Indian country. Persons operating hot mix asphalt plants subject to regulation under the Tribal Minor NSR Program can apply for a general air quality permit. Still, this general permit must be obtained before the construction and operation of the regulated source.
For more information on New Source Review permitting, visit EPA’s New Source Review (NSR) Permitting webpage.
For more information on Tribal News Source review, visit EPA’s Tribal Minor Source Review webpage.
For more information on reporting possible violations of environmental laws and regulations visit EPA’s enforcement reporting website.
Learn more about EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region x. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.