Agriculture News 2019

We've selected these news releases, reports, and other documents from around EPA because they are of interest or direct importance to the environmental management or compliance efforts of the agricultural community.

December 20, 2019

EPA Completes Agreements to Settle Clean Water Act Violations From Biosolids Land Application in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that it completed four federal enforcement actions in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska to settle Clean Water Act violations that resulted from land application of biosolids in 2019. The four Region 7 facilities were among nine announced nationally Dec. 18.

December 19, 2019

EPA Reviews Plans by Chesapeake Bay Watershed States, D.C., to Meet Cleanup Goals
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today released its evaluations of plans by the six Chesapeake Bay watershed states (Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Delaware, West Virginia and New York) and the District of Columbia to have all programs and practices in place by 2025 to restore the Bay and its tidal waters.

EPA announces finalists for GLRI grants to address nutrients in the Great Lakes
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it has selected 21 organizations to receive $11.5 million in Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) funding to address nutrient runoff from agriculture and stormwater nonpoint sources. This includes five innovative water-quality trading projects that will promote cost-effective and market-based approaches to reducing excess nutrients to surface waters.

EPA Fulfills Another Trump Administration Promise: Finalizes RFS Volumes for 2020 and Biomass Based Diesel Volumes for 2021
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized a rule that establishes the required renewable volumes under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program for 2020, and the biomass-based diesel volume for 2021. Through this action, the Trump Administration has fulfilled yet another key promise to the American people, American farmers and American biofuels producers by increasing biofuels volumes under the renewable fuel standard and modifying the program requirements to ensure those volumes are met. The EPA is committed to ensuring a net of 15 billion gallons of conventional biofuel is blended in 2020.

EPA Takes Steps to Provide Needed Clarity and Certainty for U.S. Agriculture
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing two important actions that will help the agricultural sector protect crops from pests and weeds. Under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is approving the use of 10 pesticide products on hemp in time for the 2020 growing season. Nine of these products are biopesticides and one is a conventional pesticide. EPA is also issuing a proposed interim decision on atrazine — a widely used herbicide. Both actions provide regulatory certainty and clarity on how these tools can be used safely while also helping to ensure a strong and vibrant agricultural market.

December 18, 2019

EPA Completes Nine Agreements to Settle Clean Water Act Violations from Biosolids Land Application in 2019
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that it completed nine federal enforcement actions in 2019 to settle Clean Water Act violations that resulted from land application of biosolids.

December 12, 2019

North Dakota: Incorporation by Reference of State Hazardous Waste Management Program
This rule codifies in the regulations the prior approval of North Dakota’s hazardous waste management program and incorporates by reference authorized provisions of the State’s statutes and regulations. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) uses the regulations entitled, ‘‘Approved State Hazardous Waste Management Programs,’’ to provide notice of the authorization status of State programs, and to incorporate by reference those provisions of the State statutes and regulations that are authorized and that EPA will enforce under the Solid Waste Disposal Act, commonly referred to as the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).

December 10, 2019

EPA Seeks DERA Grant Proposals up to $4 Million to Reduce Emissions from Diesel Engines Across Pacific Southwest
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing the availability of grant funding to implement projects aimed at reducing emissions from the nation’s existing fleet of older diesel engines. EPA anticipates awarding approximately $44 million in Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) grant funding to eligible applicants, nationally. EPA’s Pacific Southwest Region (Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Guam, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands) will accept proposals requesting up to $4 million per application.

EPA Announces $44 Million in Funding to Reduce Emissions from Diesel Engines
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing the availability of grant funding to implement projects aimed at reducing emissions from the nation’s existing fleet of older diesel engines. EPA anticipates awarding approximately $44 million in Diesel Emission Reduction Program (DERA) grant funding to eligible applicants.

EPA Announces $1.5 Million in Funding to Reduce Emissions From Diesel Engines in Four Midwest States
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Midwest Region (Region 7) will accept diesel emissions reduction proposals requesting up to $1.5 million from eligible applicants in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska. EPA anticipates awarding approximately $44 million across the country in Diesel Emission Reduction Program (DERA) grant funding to eligible applicants.

EPA Grant of More Than $75,000 to Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma Will Support Water Quality Programs
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently awarded more than $75,000 to the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma to support water quality programs. The funding will help the Tribe maintain, protect and improve the water quality of waterbodies on tribal land, including rivers, lakes, and groundwater.

December 9, 2019

EPA to provide Oregon with $32.3 million for critical water projects
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today announced it has approved funding to support Oregon’s $35 million plan for key drinking water projects and $190 million plan to improve wastewater and irrigated agriculture infrastructure, to restore streams, and to address nonpoint source pollution.

December 5, 2019

EPA Announces Revised Interim Decision for M-44 Predator Control Devices
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing a more protective interim decision on sodium cyanide, the compound used in M-44 devices to control certain wild predators, primarily coyotes, as part of the re-registration review process required by the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act. After a careful review of the available information and extensive engagement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), EPA is issuing a revised interim decision on sodium cyanide that includes new requirements to ensure continued safe use of the device. The agency’s new requirements enhance protections by adding increased distances for device placement.

December 4, 2019

EPA Awards $4 Million to Protect America’s Estuaries and Coastal Waters
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a $4 million cooperative agreement with Restore America’s Estuaries to help fund projects supporting National Estuary Program coastal watersheds and estuaries. Restore America’s Estuaries will operate a competition that provides entities from across the country an opportunity to apply for funding for projects that will improve the health of our nation’s waters.

December 3, 2019

Modernizing the Administrative Exhaustion Requirement for Permitting Decisions and Streamlining Procedures for Permit Appeals
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposes a procedural rule intended to streamline and modernize part of the Agency’s permitting process by creating a new, time-limited alternative dispute resolution process (ADR process) as a precondition to judicial review. Under this proposal, the parties in the ADR process may agree by unanimous consent to either extend the ADR process or proceed with an appeal before the Environmental Appeals Board (EAB). If the parties don’t agree to proceed with either the ADR process or an EAB appeal, the permit would become final and could be challenged in federal court. The proposed rule would apply to permits issued by or on behalf of EPA under the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, the Safe Drinking Water Act, and the Resources Conservation and Recovery Act.

Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Renewal of an Existing Collection (EPA ICR No. 2330.04 and OMB Control No. 2070– 0179); Comment Request
In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA), this document announces that EPA is planning to submit an Information Collection Request (ICR) to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The ICR, entitled: ‘‘Pesticide Registration Fees Program’’ and identified by EPA ICR No. 2330.04 and OMB Control No. 2070–0179, represents the renewal of an existing ICR that is scheduled to expire on September 30, 2020.

Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Renewal of an Existing Collection (EPA ICR No. 1632.06 and OMB Control No. 2070– 0133); Comment Request
In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA), this document announces that EPA is planning to submit an Information Collection Request (ICR) to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The ICR, entitled: Standards for Pesticide Containers and Containment and identified by EPA ICR No. 1632.06 and OMB Control No. 2070–0133, represents the renewal of an existing ICR that is scheduled to expire on October 31, 2020.

December 2019 Pesticide Registration Requests, Actions, and Tolerance Updates

• Fenpropathrin; Pesticide Tolerances for Emergency Exemptions
  This regulation establishes a time-limited tolerance for residues of fenpropathrin in or on fuzzy kiwifruit. This action is in response to EPA’s granting of an emergency exemption under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) authorizing use of the pesticide on fuzzy kiwifruit. This regulation establishes a maximum permissible level for residues of fenpropathrin in or on this commodity. The time-limited tolerance expires on December 31, 2022.
• Flutianil; Pesticide Tolerances
  This regulation establishes tolerances for residues of flutianil in or on the following commodities: Berry, low growing, subgroup 13–07G; cherry subgroup 12–12A; fruit, small, vine climbing, except fuzzy kiwifruit, subgroup 13–07F; hop, dried cones; and vegetable, cucurbit, group 9. Interregional Research Project Number 4 (IR–4) requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA).
• EPA orders online marketplace to stop selling illegal pesticides
  The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today issued a “Stop Sale” order to online marketplace Bonanza.com requiring the company to immediately halt sales of a dozen imported pesticide products not legal -- or safe -- for sale in the United States.
• Purpureocillium lilacinum Strain 251; Amendment to the Exemption From the Requirement of a Tolerance
  This regulation amends the existing tolerance exemption for residues of Paecilomyces lilacinus strain 251 in or on all food commodities due to a scientific reclassification of the substance as Purpureocillium lilacinum. Bayer CropScience LP submitted a petition to EPA under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), requesting this amendment. This regulation eliminates the need to establish a maximum permissible level for residues of Purpureocillium lilacinum strain 251 under FFDCA.  
• Pesticide Registration Review; Interim Decisions for Several Pesticides and Case Closure for Meat Meal; Notice of Availability
  This notice announces the availability of EPA’s interim registration review decision for the following chemicals: Aviglycine hydrochloride, Bacteriophage active against Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria and Bacteriophage active against Pseudomonas syringae pv. Tomato, bispyribac-sodium, diclosulam, flucarbazone-sodium, florasulam, imazamox, imazapic, imazaquin, imazethapyr, L-Glutamic Acid (LGA) and Gamma Aminobutyric Acid (GABA), penoxsulam, phosphorous acid and its salts, Polyoxin D Zinc Salt, penoxsulam, pyriproxyfen, and thiobencarb. In addition, it announces the closure of the registration review cases for meat meal because the last U.S. registrations for this pesticide have been canceled.
• EPA grant to state of Louisiana will support Pesticide programs
  The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a grant to the state of Louisiana to support ongoing pesticide programs. The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) received $333,284 to help fund regulatory and enforcement activities under a cooperative agreement between EPA and the state.
• Pesticide Product Registration; Receipt of Applications for New Uses
  EPA has received applications to register new uses for pesticide products containing currently registered active ingredients. Pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is hereby providing notice of receipt and opportunity to comment on these applications.
• Pesticide Product Registration; Receipt of Applications for New Uses
  EPA has received applications to register new uses for pesticide products containing currently registered active ingredients. Pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is hereby providing notice of receipt and opportunity to comment on these applications.
• Propamocarb; Pesticide Tolerances 
  This regulation establishes tolerances for residues of propamocarb (also referred to as propamocarb hydrochloride (HCl) in this document) in or on guava, starfruit, the leafy greens subgroup 4–16A, the tuberous and corm vegetable subgroup 1C, and the fruiting vegetable group 8–10. Interregional Research Project Number 4 (IR–4) requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA). 
• Fenpyroximate; Pesticide Tolerances  
  This regulation establishes tolerances for residues of fenpyroximate in or on multiple commodities which are identified and discussed later in this document. Interregional Research Project Number 4 (IR–4) requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA).
• Etoxazole; Pesticide Tolerances
  This regulation establishes tolerances for residues of etoxazole in or on beet, sugar, roots and beet, sugar, leaves. The Interregional Research Project Number 4 (IR–4) requested this tolerance under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA).

November 29, 2019

North Dakota: Codification and Incorporation by Reference of Approved State Underground Storage Tank Program
This rule codifies in the regulations the prior approval of North Dakota’s underground storage tank program and incorporates by reference approved provisions of the State’s regulations. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) uses the regulations entitled, ‘‘Approved Underground Storage Tank Programs,’’ to provide notification of the approval status of State programs and to incorporate by reference into the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) those provisions of the State’s regulations that are approved and that the EPA will enforce under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).

November 27, 2019

EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler Urges Americans to Fill Bellies, Not Landfills, this Thanksgiving
As America celebrates Thanksgiving, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler reminds U.S. families and communities to be mindful about finishing, donating, or simply cutting back on the amount of food they prepare to help prevent food waste in the holiday season.

November 26, 2019

U.S. EPA provides nearly $30 million for environmental improvements on tribal lands in California
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced nearly $30 million in funding to 87 tribes in California to invest in environmental programs and water infrastructure.

U.S. EPA provides nearly $5.4 million for environmental improvements on tribal lands in Nevada
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced nearly $5.4 million in funding to 16 tribes in Nevada to invest in environmental programs.

U.S. EPA provides nearly $29 million for environmental improvements on tribal lands in Arizona
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced nearly $29 million in funding to 19 tribes in Arizona to invest in environmental protection programs and water infrastructure.

November 22, 2019

EPA Announces Availability of $4.8 Million in Funding for New Research on Managing PFAS in Agriculture
At the 2019 Annual Meeting of the New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Regional Administrator Ken McQueen will announce the availability of $4.8 million in funding to expand research on managing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in rural America and the agricultural sector. This funding is a part of EPA’s extensive efforts to help communities address the larger issue of PFAS nationwide. In a memorandum issued in February 2019, EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler called for the agency to prioritize new federal research that will help farmers, ranchers, and rural communities by generating new scientifically-driven information on PFAS, potential PFAS impacts in agricultural settings, and actions people can take to address PFAS in their communities.

November 21, 2019

EPA awards $5.6 million in grants to reduce diesel pollution
As part of a nationwide campaign to protect air quality and reduce diesel emissions, the U.S. Environmental Protection today announced $5.6 million in support for clean diesel projects throughout the Pacific Northwest and Alaska. EPA’s Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) grant program helps tribes, states and local communities reduce diesel soot and smoke, protecting air quality and reducing health risks.

November 19, 2019

Water Quality Trading Under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Program; Extension of Comment Period
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a document in the Federal Register of September 19, 2019, requesting comments on policy approaches for addressing ‘‘baseline’’ issues in the watersheds with EPA approved Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) where policy makers would like to pursue water quality trading as a regulatory option for National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit compliance. These policy approaches may also be of interest to stakeholders pursuing market-based water quality improvement programs outside of the NPDES permit program. This document extends the comment period for an additional 30 days, from November 18, 2019 to December 18, 2019 in response to a stakeholder request. DATES: The comment period for the document published on September 19, 2019 (84 FR 49293), is extended. Comments, identified by docket identification (ID) number EPA–HQ– OW–2019–0415, must be received on or before December 18, 2019.

November 18, 2019

EPA Announces Settlements to Address Alleged Violations of Chemical Accident Prevention Requirements by Two Companies in Iowa and Nebraska
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has entered into two separate administrative settlements to address alleged chemical accident prevention and preparedness violations under the Risk Management Program of the Clean Air Act. Both settlements are part of EPA’s National Compliance Initiative to reduce accidental releases at industrial and chemical facilities. Catastrophic accidents at these facilities – historically about 150 each year – can result in fatalities and serious injuries, evacuations, and other harm to human health and the environment.

November 12, 2019

EPA Finalizes Cleanup Plan to Address Lead Contamination in Soil at the Matteo & Sons, Inc. Superfund Site in West Deptford, New Jersey
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized a cleanup plan to address lead and other contamination on a portion of the Matteo & Sons, Inc. Superfund Site in West Deptford, New Jersey. The portion of the Matteo site includes the Matteo facility at 1692 Crown Point Road as well as a property across the street formerly occupied by Mira Trucking. Former operations in this area of the Matteo site included crushing and recycling batteries and landfilling, which contaminated the soil, sediment and groundwater with lead, antimony and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).

November 7, 2019

EPA Seeks Nominations for the Farm, Ranch, and Rural Communities Federal Advisory Committee
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler is announcing a solicitation for 20-30 nominees to serve on the Farm, Ranch, and Rural Communities Committee (FRRCC). Established in 2008, the FRRCC provides independent policy advice, information, and recommendations to EPA’s Administrator on a range of environmental issues and policies that are of importance to agriculture and rural communities.

November 6, 2019

EPA and Bureau of Reclamation Advance Federal Cooperation on Funding for Water Supply and Reuse Projects
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that advances federal collaboration on funding for water supply and water reuse projects nationwide. Consistent with the Administration’s commitment to infrastructure resiliency, the agencies are collaborating on approaches to effectively and efficiently help ensure that all Americans have access to sustainable supplies of clean water by leveraging the core expertise of each agency.

EPA awards $30,000 to Chicago-based Legal Aid Chicago for pesticide awareness in rural communities
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced that Chicago, Illinois-based Legal Aid Chicago will receive a $30,000 grant to conduct pesticide research and educate farmworkers on pesticide use. In total, EPA is awarding $1.5 million in competitive grants to 50 organizations working to address environmental justice issues in their communities.

November 5, 2019

EPA awards environmental justice grants to communities and tribes in Alaska, Oregon and Washington
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will award Environmental Justice grants to the Seldovia Village Tribe, in Alaska, Northwest Center for Alternatives to Pesticides and Voz Workers Rights Education Project, in Oregon, and the Methow Valley Citizens Council, in Washington. In addition, EPA will award an Urban Waters Restoration Environmental Justice grant to Forterra Northwest, in Washington.

November 2019 Pesticide Registration Requests, Actions, and Tolerance Updates

• Pesticide Registration Review; Pesticide Dockets Opened for Review and Comment; Notice of Availability
  This notice announces the availability of the EPA's preliminary work plans for the following chemicals: Pyrimethanil and saflufenacil. With this document, the EPA is opening the public comment period for registration review for these chemicals. This notice also announces the availability of EPA's draft ecological risk assessment for the pesticide pyrimethanil and opens a 60-day public comment period on the draft risk assessment. EPA is also announcing that it will not be opening a docket, nor conducting registration review for meptyldinocap. (November 20)
• U.S. EPA settles with Arizona’s Decon7 Systems for selling unregistered and misbranded pesticides
  The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a settlement with Decon7 Systems LLC (Decon7) related to two pesticides produced by the Scottsdale company that were not registered with the EPA and were labeled with false and misleading claims about their safety and efficacy. The company also exported the unregistered pesticides without the necessary notifications and failed to comply with reporting obligations following a Stop Sale, Use or Removal Order (SSURO) issued to the company in 2018. Decon7 has agreed to pay a $200,000 civil penalty and has corrected all identified compliance issues. (November 18)
• Pesticide Registration Review; Draft Human Health and/or Ecological Risk Assessments for Several Pesticides; Notice of Availability
  This notice announces the availability of EPA’s draft human health and/or ecological risk assessments for the registration review of acequinocyl, boscalid, DBNPA, etridiazole, ethoxyquin, fenpyroximate, flonicamid, inorganic halides, mandipropamid, metolachlor/s-metolachlor, myclobutanil, phostebupirim (also known as tebupirimphos), propanil, terbacil, terbuthylazine, triclopyr, orthophenylphenol and salts, and phenol and salt. (November 18)
• Salt Lake City-based Thatcher Group to resolve alleged violations of pesticide registration and labeling requirements
  The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced a settlement with Thatcher Group, Inc. (Thatcher) of Salt Lake City, Utah, resolving alleged violations of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) in Nevada, New York and Utah. Under the terms of a Consent Agreement and Final Order filed on November 14, Thatcher will pay a civil penalty of $300,415 to resolve the alleged violations. (November 15)
• Pesticide Registration Review; Proposed Interim Decisions for Several Pyrethroids; Notice of Availability
  This notice announces the availability of EPA’s proposed interim registration review decisions and opens a 60-day public comment period on the proposed interim decisions for the following pesticides: cyphenothrin, flumethrin, imiprothrin, momfluorothrin, and tetramethrin. The Agency is also announcing the availability of the Pyrethroids and Pyrethrins Ecological Risk Mitigation Proposal for 23 Chemicals, which summarizes proposed labeling intended to address ecological risks for all the pyrethroids. (November 12)
• Tebuconazole; Pesticide Tolerances
  This regulation establishes tolerances for residues of tebuconazole in or on multiple commodities which are identified and discussed later in this document. In addition, this regulation removes certain established tebuconazole tolerances that are superseded by new tolerances established in this final rule. Interregional Research Project Number 4 (IR–4) requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA). (November 12)
• Propyzamide; Pesticide Tolerance for Emergency Exemptions
  This regulation establishes a time-limited tolerance for residues of propyzamide in or on cranberry. This action is in response to EPA’s granting of an emergency exemption under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) authorizing use of the pesticide on cranberry. This regulation establishes a maximum permissible level for residues of propyzamide in or on this commodity. The time-limited tolerance expires on December 31, 2022. (November 12)
• N-Methylpyrrolidone (NMP); Draft Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Risk Evaluation and TSCA Science Advisory Committee on Chemicals (SACC) Meeting; Notice of Availability, Public Meeting, and Request for Comment
  EPA is announcing the availability of and soliciting public comment on the draft Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) risk evaluation of NMethylpyrrolidone (NMP). The purpose of the risk evaluation process under TSCA is to determine, upon issuance of a final risk evaluation, whether a chemical substance presents an unreasonable risk of injury to health or the environment under the conditions of use, including an unreasonable risk to a relevant potentially exposed or susceptible subpopulation. EPA is also submitting the same document to the TSCA Science Advisory Committee on Chemicals (SACC) for peer review and is announcing that there will be an inperson public meeting of the TSCA SACC to consider and review the draft risk evaluation. Preceding the in-person meeting, there will be a preparatory virtual public meeting for the panel to consider the scope and clarity of the draft charge questions for the peer review. (November 7)
• Dinotefuran; Pesticide Tolerance for Emergency Exemption
  This regulation establishes a time-limited tolerance for residues of dinotefuran in or on fuzzy kiwifruit. This action is in response to EPA’s granting of an emergency exemption under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) authorizing use of the pesticide on fuzzy kiwifruit. This regulation establishes a maximum permissible level for residues of dinotefuran in or on this commodity. The time-limited tolerance expires on December 31, 2022. DATES: This regulation is effective November 7, 2019. Objections and requests for hearings must be received on or before January 6, 2020 and must be filed in accordance with the instructions provided in 40 CFR part 178 (see also Unit I.C. of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION) (November 7)
• EPA awards $30,000 to Chicago-based Legal Aid Chicago for pesticide awareness in rural communities
  The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced that Chicago, Illinois-based Legal Aid Chicago will receive a $30,000 grant to conduct pesticide research and educate farmworkers on pesticide use. In total, EPA is awarding $1.5 million in competitive grants to 50 organizations working to address environmental justice issues in their communities. (November 6)
• Pesticides; Agricultural Worker Protection Standard; Revision of the Application Exclusion Zone Requirements
  EPA is proposing changes to the Agricultural Worker Protection Standard (WPS) to simplify the application exclusion zone (AEZ) requirements. The proposed changes described in this document are the only changes EPA is currently planning to make to the WPS provisions that are now in effect. (November 1)
• Isotianil; Pesticide Tolerances-- This regulation establishes a tolerance for residues of isotianil in or on banana. Bayer CropScience requested this tolerance under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA). (November 1)

October 31, 2019

Reissuance of NPDES General Permits for Aquaculture Facilities in Idaho Excluding Facilities Discharging into the Upper Snake-Rock Subbasin (IDG131000) and Aquaculture Facilities Located in Indian Country in Idaho (IDG133000)
The Director of the Water Division, EPA Region 10, is reissuing two National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) General Permits for: (1) Aquaculture Facilities in Idaho Excluding Facilities Discharging into the Upper Snake-Rock Subbasin, and (2) Aquaculture Facilities Located in Indian Country in Idaho. The General Permits will authorize discharges of wastewater from cold and warm water Concentrated Aquatic Animal Production facilities, (also referred to as CAAPs or ‘‘hatcheries’’).

October 30, 2019

USDA, EPA, and FDA announce partnership with the Food Waste Reduction Alliance
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a new partnership with the Food Waste Reduction Alliance, the latest effort in the Winning on Reducing Food Waste Initiative launched by the three federal agencies in 2018.

October 29, 2019

EPA Grant of More Than $9.8 Million Will Support Environmental Programs in Texas
EPA and states share responsibility for protecting human health and the environment. By focusing EPA and state resources on the most pressing environmental problems and taking advantage of the unique capacities of each partner, Performance Partnership Grants can help achieve the greatest environmental and human health protection. PPG funds allow states to direct resources where they are needed most or try innovative solutions to environmental problems. Participants report benefits such as increased communications between EPA and states, better mutual understanding of issues and priorities, more clearly defined roles and responsibilities, increased flexibility, and more effective worksharing arrangements.

October 28, 2019

Renewable Fuel Standard Program: Standards for 2020 and Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2021, and Response to the Remand of the 2016 Standards; Supplemental Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
In a July 29, 2019 notice of proposed rulemaking, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed percentage standards for four categories of renewable fuel that would apply to obligated parties in 2020 under the Renewable Fuel Standard. This action takes into consideration certain comments received in response to the proposed rule. Based on these comments and additional information, EPA is issuing a supplemental proposal and requests comment on adjustments to the percentage standards for 2020 that result from the amended definitions of two of the terms used to calculate the percentage standards. We are proposing to project the volume of gasoline and diesel that will be exempt in 2020 due to small refinery exemptions based on a three-year average of the relief recommended by the Department of Energy (DOE). From 2016-2018 the relief recommended by the DOE would have resulted in a reduction to the renewable volume obligation of approximately 770 million RINs per year. The amended definitions proposed in this rule would effectively increase the percentage standards that apply to non-exempt obligated parties to offset future small refinery exemptions and help ensure that the required volumes are met.

October 25, 2019

Pesticide Program Dialogue Committee (PPDC); Notice of Charter Renewal
Notice is hereby given that the Environmental Protection Agency has determined that, in accordance with the provisions of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA), the Pesticide Program Dialogue Committee (PPDC) is in the public interest and is necessary in connection with the performance of EPA's duties. Accordingly, PPDC will be renewed for an additional two-year period. The purpose of PPDC is to provide advice and recommendations to the EPA Administrator on issues associated with regulatory development and reform initiatives, evolving public policy and program implementation issues, and science issues associated with evaluating and reducing risks from use of pesticides.

October 24, 2019

EPA Proposes Rule to Update Pesticide Application Exclusion Zone Requirements
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing narrow updates to the Worker Protection Standard (WPS) pesticide regulation to improve the long-term success of the agency’s Application Exclusion Zone (AEZ) requirements. The targeted updates would improve enforceability for state regulators and reduce regulatory burdens for farmers. It would also maintain public health protections for farm workers and other individuals near agricultural establishments that could be exposed to agricultural pesticide applications. The proposed updates are consistent with the newly enacted 2019 Pesticide Registration Improvement Act (PRIA).

October 23, 2019

Proposed Reissuance of NPDES General Permit for Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations Located in Idaho (IDG010000)
The Director of the Water Division, EPA Region 10, proposes to reissue the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) General Permit for Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) in the State of Idaho (permit). As proposed, all animal feeding operations (AFOs) that meet the regulatory definition of a CAFO and are subject to 40 CFR part 412 are eligible for coverage under the permit, excluding facilities in Indian Country. Eligible CAFOs may apply for authorization under the terms and conditions of the permit by a Notice of Intent (NOI) and nutrient management plan (NMP). Upon receipt, EPA will review the NOI and NMP to ensure that all permit requirements are met. If EPA makes a preliminary determination that the NOI is complete, the NOI, NMP, and draft terms of the NMP to be incorporated into the permit will be made available for a thirty (30) day public review and comment period. If determined appropriate by EPA, CAFOs will be granted coverage under the permit upon written notification by EPA. EPA is accepting public comments on the draft permit. Comments must be received by December 9, 2019.

U.S. EPA requires ag companies to better manage pesticides in San Joaquin Valley
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced settlements with two companies for the improper storage and labeling of agricultural pesticides. Ag Production Company and Watson Ag Chemicals Inc. have agreed to pay a total of $44,363 in civil penalties. The companies have corrected all identified compliance issues.

October 22, 2019

EPA and East Valley Cattle, LLC, settle federal wetland violations near Burley, Idaho
A Declo, Idaho, cattleman agreed to pay a fine and perform restoration work on a reach of the Raft River in Southeast Idaho following an enforcement action taken by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.  East Valley Cattle, LLC, Idaho, reached a settlement (Consent Agreement & Final Order and Administrative Order on Consent) with the EPA.

EPA Finalizes Cleanup Plan for Pesticides Storage Facility in Manati, Puerto Rico
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized a cleanup plan to address contaminated groundwater in Manati, Puerto Rico at the Pesticide Warehouse III Superfund Site. Historical pesticide operations at the site contaminated the soil and groundwater with pesticides. Under the interim Record of Decision, EPA will require, among other steps, the continued maintenance and monitoring of existing treatment systems that currently provide water to several industries near the site to ensure that the concentrations of contamination do not exceed protective levels.

October 17, 2019

EPA offers Guide to Help Translate Pesticide Safety information into Spanish
EPA is taking an important step in its efforts to improve risk communication by expanding the agency’s Spanish language resources that assist with translating the health and safety portions of agricultural product labels. The Spanish Translation Guide for Pesticide Labeling resource is available for anyone to use, including pesticide manufacturers, and provides a resource for pesticide registrants that choose to display parts of their pesticide product label in Spanish.

EPA awards Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment $1,170,000 to improve water quality in the Lower Arkansas and Lower Gunnison River basins
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded $1,170,000 to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) to improve water quality in streams, rivers and lakes. The funding comes through a Nonpoint Source Program Clean Water Act (Section 319) grant, which is given to states to implement programs that address various sources of pollution in surface and groundwater to meet and maintain water quality standards.

October 16, 2019

U.S. EPA ensures safe pesticide imports in Arizona, California
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it has prevented 15 companies from importing over 333,000 pounds of illegal pesticides and devices into the United States under federal pesticide laws. In addition, four of these companies have agreed to correct the violations and pay a combined $52,656 in penalties for attempting to import misbranded and illegal pesticides.

October 15, 2019

EPA Makes Paraquat Draft Risk Assessments Available for Public Comment
EPA is taking an important step in its regulatory review of paraquat—an herbicide used in agricultural and commercial settings only. The draft risk assessments are the product of an extensive evaluation of available data on the health and environmental impacts associated with the pesticide. The agency is seeking public input on draft human health and ecological risk assessments. These draft risk assessments are the next step in the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) registration review process and are not a denial or an approval of the herbicide. Public comments will be accepted until December 16, 2019.

Administrator Wheeler Announces Membership for the Science Advisory Board Following Public Comment Period
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler announced the appointment of members who will serve on the Science Advisory Board (SAB). Decisions on the SAB’s four standing committees are still pending.

EPA Issues Supplemental Proposal for Renewable Fuels Volumes
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking seeking additional comment on the recently proposed rule to establish the cellulosic biofuel, advanced biofuel, and total renewable fuel volumes for 2020 and the biomass-based diesel volume for 2021 under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program.

October 7, 2019

Trump Administration Partners with Rural Communities to Grow Outdoor Recreation Economy
In support of the Trump Administration’s Executive Order on Promoting Agriculture and Rural Prosperity in America, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service and the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) are announcing that they have selected 10 communities under the Recreation Economy for Rural Communities assistance program to help revitalize their Main Streets through outdoor recreation.

EPA’s environmental education grants help Northwest communities spur ecological awareness and local stewardship
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 10, is awarding $376,355 in environmental education grants to five organizations in Idaho and Washington to help students, teachers and community members boost their knowledge of science and increase their ecological awareness and stewardship.

October 4, 2019

What They Are Saying President Trump Delivers on a Key Promise to American Farmers as EPA, USDA Announce Agreement on Promoting Biofuels
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue announced an agreement on the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), successfully negotiated by President Donald J. Trump.

President Trump Delivers on a Key Promise to American Farmers as EPA, USDA Announce Agreement on Promoting Biofuels
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue issued the following statements after President Donald J. Trump successfully negotiated an agreement on the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS): “President Trump’s leadership has led to an agreement that continues to promote domestic ethanol and biodiesel production, supporting our Nation’s farmers and providing greater energy security,” said EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler. “Today’s agreement is the latest in a series of steps we have taken to expand domestic energy production and improve the RFS program that will result in sustained biofuel production to help American farmers."

October 2, 2019

EPA Awards $53,645 to Kent Conservation District to Bring Awareness to the Impact of Runoff on Water Quality
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded a $53,645 environmental education grant to the Kent Conservation District. The district’s “Connecting Urban and Rural Agricultural Stewardship” project will partner with schools and local farms to educate landowners and students on the various ways agriculture practices affect the health of the Grand River.

EPA Launches Agriculture Smart Sectors Program to Achieve Better Environmental Outcomes
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 9 office is announcing the launch of an agriculture focus in its Smart Sectors Pacific Southwest program, a partnership initiative between the agency and regulated business sectors that is aimed at achieving better environmental outcomes. Based on the national Smart Sectors program, this approach provides a significant opportunity for EPA to consider more forward-thinking ways to protect the environment through collaboration and dialogue with key sectors of the economy in Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Pacific Islands, as well as with 148 tribes in the region.

October 1, 2019

EPA removes portion of the South Minneapolis Residential Soil Contamination site from Superfund National Priorities List
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has removed part of the South Minneapolis Residential Soil Contamination Superfund site from the National Priorities List (NPL). About 600 residential properties where cleanup has been completed has been delisted. A small number of residential properties will remain on the NPL until EPA completes the cleanup.

October 2019 Pesticide Registration Requests, Actions, and Tolerance Updates

• Cancellation Order for Certain Pesticide Registrations and Amendments To Terminate Uses -- In notice document 2019-21122 beginning on page 51561 in the issue of Monday, September 30, 2019, make the following correction: On page 51564, in the second column, in the fourth paragraph, in the fourth line ``September 30, 2019'' should read ``September 30, 2020''. (October 28)
• Receipt of a Pesticide Petition Filed for Residues of Pesticide Chemicals in or on Various Commodities (September 2019) -- announces the Agency's receipt of an initial filing of a pesticide petition requesting the establishment or of regulations for residues of pesticide chemicals in or on various commodities. (October 28)
• Mandipropamid; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of mandipropamid in or on cacao, dried bean. Syngenta Crop Protection, LLC requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA). (October 28)
• Notice of Receipt of Requests To Voluntarily Cancel Certain Pesticide Registrations and Amend Registrations To Terminate Certain Uses -- In accordance with the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is issuing a notice of receipt of requests by the registrants to voluntarily cancel certain pesticide product registrations and to amend certain product registrations to terminate uses. EPA intends to grant these requests at the close of the comment period for this announcement unless the Agency receives substantive comments within the comment period that would merit its further review of the requests, or unless the registrants withdraw their requests. If these requests are granted, any sale, distribution, or use of products listed in this notice will be permitted after the registrations have been cancelled and uses terminated only if such sale, distribution, or use is consistent with the terms as described in the final order. (October 25)
• Pesticide Product Registration; Receipt of Applications for New Uses -- EPA has received applications to register new uses for pesticide products containing currently registered active ingredients. Pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is hereby providing notice of receipt and opportunity to comment on these applications. (October 25)
• Pesticide Product Registration; Receipt of Applications for New Active Ingredients -- EPA has received applications to register pesticide products containing active ingredients not included in any currently registered pesticide products. Pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is hereby providing notice of receipt and opportunity to comment on these applications. (October 25)
• Sulfoxaflor; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of sulfoxaflor in or on rice grain, rice hulls, and avocados. Dow AgroSciences LLC requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA). (October 25)
• Fenbuconazole; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of fenbuconazole in or on tea. Dow Agrosciences, LLC requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA). (October 25)
• Pendimethalin; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of pendimethalin in or on the leaf petiole vegetable subgroup 22B, monarda oil, monarda fresh leaves, rosemary oil, and rosemary fresh leaves. Interregional Research Project Number 4 (IR-4) requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA). (October 25)

• Paraquat Dichloride Draft Human Health and Ecological Risk Assessments -- 
  This notice announces the availability of EPA's draft human health and ecological risk assessments for the registration review of paraquat dichloride. Comments must be received on or before December 16, 2019. (October 16)

September 30, 2019

EPA Announces $15 Million in Grant Funding to Benefit Rural and Small Water Systems
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the availability of $15 million in funding for technical assistance and training providers to improve the water quality of small and private water systems that are often located in rural communities across the United States. Ensuring everyone has access to clean and safe water, no matter the size of the water system, is a top priority for EPA.

September 26, 2019

EPA awards North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality $3.8 million to improve water quality and watershed health
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded $3,799,000 to the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality (NDDEQ) to improve water quality in streams, rivers and lakes. The funding comes through a Nonpoint Source Program Clean Water Act (Section 319) grant, which is given to states to implement programs that address various sources of pollution in surface and groundwater to meet and maintain water quality standards.

EPA awards grants to support pollutant reduction plan tied to Conowingo reservoir infill
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced awards totaling nearly $600,000 for three projects to further a joint Chesapeake Bay Watershed Implementation Plan (WIP) to compensate for the loss of pollutant trapping capacity in the Conowingo Dam reservoir.

EPA Awards Nearly $6 Million to Indiana University to Monitor Airborne Pollution in the Great Lakes
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded $5,999,860 to Indiana University (IU) to continue the long-term monitoring of atmospheric deposition, or airborne pollutants, in the Great Lakes. The cooperative agreement will support the Integrated Atmospheric Deposition Network (IADN) pursuant to the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) Action Plan. The award consists of incremental funding of approximately $1.2 million per year over the next five years.

September 24, 2019

EPA Announces Competitive Grant Opportunity to Support Tribal Pesticide Program Council
At a meeting today with tribal leaders in Washington D.C., U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) officials announced that the agency is soliciting applications to provide technical support for the Tribal Pesticide Program Council (TPPC) as it works to protect public health and strengthen tribal pesticide programs. The total funding for the five-year period of the cooperative agreement is $975,000.

EPA to Hold Local Foods, Local Places Technical Assistance Workshop in Frankfort, Kentucky on Sept. 24-25
Representatives from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will hold a workshop in Frankfort on Sept. 24-25, intended to revitalize the downtown area, boost the local economy, improve public health, and protect the environment through local food enterprises.

September 23, 2019

EPA Funding for Local Groups Will Help Coastal Conservation and Restoration in Rhode Island
Funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency being awarded to seven Rhode Island organizations will help promote cleaner water and healthier coastal ecosystems. The awards, totaling $1.1 million for the Rhode Island groups, were announced by Restore America's Estuaries (RAE), who partners with EPA to administer the program to advance the health of coastal ecosystems in southeastern New England.

September 22, 2019

EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler Meets with New York City’s Leading Food Waste Reduction Organizations in the Bronx
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler participated in several events in the Bronx that focused on food waste.

September 19, 2019

North Carolina Receives $3,682,900 Million Grant to Support Efforts to Improve and Protect Water Quality
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently awarded $3,682,900 to the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality to support management of nonpoint sources of water pollution. The funding will be used for a variety of projects designed to improve water quality in priority watersheds across the state.

September 17, 2019

EPA Releases Draft Policy to Reduce Pesticide Testing on Birds
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released a draft science policy intended to reduce testing of pesticides on birds when registering conventional outdoor pesticides. The draft policy is open for public comment. This draft policy is in line with  EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler’s recent commitment to reduce animal testing at EPA.

September 13, 2019

What They Are Saying | EPA, U.S. Army Repeal 2015 Rule Defining “Waters of the United States”
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler and Department of the Army Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works R.D. James announced that the agencies are repealing a 2015 rule that impermissibly expanded the definition of “waters of the United States” (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act.

EPA Week in Review
Another busy week at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The week started in Music City, as EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler spoke at the National Rural Water Association conference, then traveled to visit the Southside Chattanooga Superfund Site to announce the completion of the Superfund Task Force and issue the Task Force’s final report. 

September 12, 2019

EPA, U.S. Army Repeal 2015 Rule Defining “Waters of the United States” Ending Regulatory Patchwork
At an event in Washington, D.C., U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler and Department of the Army Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works R.D. James announced that the agencies are repealing a 2015 rule that impermissibly expanded the definition of “waters of the United States” (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act. The agencies are also recodifying the longstanding and familiar regulatory text that existed prior to the 2015 Rule—ending a regulatory patchwork that required implementing two competing Clean Water Act regulations, which has created regulatory uncertainty across the United States.

EPA, IDEM, U.S. Army Representatives Highlight Benefits of Major Water Policy Change for Indiana Business and Agriculture
At an event at the Indiana Statehouse today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 Administrator Cathy Stepp, Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) Commissioner Bruno Pigott and representatives of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (U.S. ACE) were joined by Indiana business and agriculture leaders to discuss the benefits of today’s repeal of the 2015 rule which had expanded the definition of “waters of the United States” (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act. 

September 11, 2019

EPA Supporting Pennsylvania In Implementing Chesapeake Bay Restoration Projects
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is reallocating portions of its Pennsylvania Chesapeake Bay funding from two fiscal years to help apply the funds more quickly and efficiently to the commonwealth’s efforts to restore the bay and local waters.

September 10, 2019

EPA Seeks Comment and Commitment on Draft National Water Reuse Action Plan
At the 34th Annual WateReuse Symposium in San Diego, California, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the release of a draft National Water Reuse Action Plan that identifies priority actions and the leadership and collaboration that is needed between governmental and nongovernmental organizations to implement these actions. Water reuse represents a major opportunity to support our nation’s communities and economy by bolstering safe and reliable water supplies for human consumption, agriculture, business, industry, recreation and healthy ecosystems.

Two Vermont Citizens Recognized by EPA for Environmental Achievements
Two individuals from Vermont were recognized today by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for their work to protect New England's environment. These environmental leaders were among 25 recipients across New England honored by EPA's New England office at the 2019 Environmental Merit Awards ceremony at Faneuil Hall. 

September 9, 2019

EPA Updates Strategic Plan to Emphasize Current Environmental and Policy Goals
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) posted an update to its FY 2018-2022 Strategic Plan. While the overall plan remains largely unchanged, the Agency has revised the language of the strategic goals in the plan to better reflect EPA’s environmental and policy goals. 

September 6, 2019

EPA Launches Agriculture Smart Sectors Program in New York State to Achieve Better Environmental Outcomes
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the launch of a Smart Sectors agricultural program in EPA Region 2, a partnership between the Agency and regulated sectors that is focused on achieving better environmental outcomes in partnership with key sectors of the economy in New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, as well as with eight tribal Nations in New York State.

September 5, 2019

EPA Seeks Comment on New Policy Proposals to Facilitate Market-Based Opportunities to Improve Water Quality
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler announced an important step to help promote the use of market-based approaches to efficiently and cost-effectively improve water quality across the nation. Speaking at the Chesapeake Bay Executive Council meeting, Administrator Wheeler announced several new policy proposals that could simplify and give more flexibility to states, tribes and stakeholders seeking to develop market-based programs or to generate or use nutrient reduction credits.

September 4, 2019

EPA Awards $100,000 to Improve Water Quality Through Public Awareness
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded a $100,000 environmental education grant to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE). SIUE’s “From the Ground Up” project will increase public awareness and knowledge regarding three critical clean water issues: regulated pollutants, emerging pollutants, and biological contamination.

EPA Awards $96,000 to Improve Eau Claire River Watershed
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded a $96,000 environmental education grant to the West Central Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission. The commission plans to work with area farmers and farmland owners to implement farming principles and practices that increase biodiversity, enrich soils, improve surface and groundwater quality, and enhance the ecosystem within the Eau Claire River Watershed.

September 2019 Pesticide Registration Requests, Actions, and Tolerance Updates

• Registration Review; Draft Human Health and/or Ecological Risk Assessments for Several Pesticides; Notice of Availability -- Announces the availability of EPA's draft human health and/or ecological risk assessments for the registration review of alkylbenzene sulfonates, cyproconazole, etoxazole, fenamidone, fenbutatin-oxide, fluazifop-p-butyl, flumetralin, MCPB and salts, mecoprop (MCPP-p), oxyfluorfen, pinoxaden, pyraclostrobin, and pyraflufen-ethyl. Comments must be received on or before November 29, 2019. (September 30)
• Pesticide Product Registration; Receipt of Applications for New Uses (August 2019) -- EPA has received applications to register new uses for pesticide products containing currently registered active ingredients. Pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is hereby providing notice of receipt and opportunity to comment on these applications. Comments must be received on or before October 30, 2019. (September 30)
• Cancellation Order for Certain Pesticide Registrations and Amendments To Terminate Uses -- announces EPA's order for the cancellations and amendments to terminate uses, voluntarily requested by the registrants and accepted by the Agency, of the products listed in Table 1, Table 1A and Table 2 of Unit II, pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). This cancellation order follows a July 24, 2019 Federal Register Notice of Receipt of Requests from the registrants listed in Table 3 of Unit II to voluntarily cancel and amend to terminate uses of these product registrations. In the July 24, 2019 notice, EPA indicated that it would issue an order implementing the cancellations and amendments to terminate uses, unless the Agency received substantive comments within the 30-day comment period that would merit its further review of these requests, or unless the registrants withdrew their requests. The Agency did not receive any comments on the notice. Further, the registrants did not withdraw their requests. Accordingly, EPA hereby issues in this notice a cancellation order granting the requested cancellations and amendments to terminate uses. Any distribution, sale, or use of the products subject to this cancellation order is permitted only in accordance with the terms of this order, including any existing stocks provisions. (September 30)
• 2-Phenoxyethanol; Exemption from the Requirement of a Tolerance -- establishes an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of 2-phenoxyethanol when used as an inert ingredient (solvent or cosolvent) limited to 0.2% by weight in pesticide formulations applied to growing crops and raw agricultural commodities after harvest. The Dow Chemical Company submitted a petition to EPA under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), requesting establishment of an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance. This regulation eliminates the need to establish a maximum permissible level for residues of 2-phenoxyethanol when used in accordance with the terms of the exemption. (September 27)
• Florpyrauxifen-benzyl; Exemption from the Requirement of a Tolerance -- establishes an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of the florpyrauxifen-benzyl on all food and feed commodities when applied or used as an herbicide under good agricultural practices. This regulation eliminates the need to establish a maximum permissible level for residues of florpyrauxifen-benzyl. (September 26)
• Cyclaniliprole; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of cyclaniliprole in or on multiple commodities that are identified and discussed later in this document. ISK Biosciences Corporation requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA). (September 26)
• Pesticide Registration Maintenance Fee: Notice of Receipt of Requests to Voluntarily Cancel Certain Pesticide Registrations -- In accordance with the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is issuing a notice of receipt of requests by registrants through 2019 Pesticide Registration Maintenance Fee responses to voluntarily cancel certain pesticide registrations. EPA intends to grant these requests at the close of the comment period for this announcement unless the Agency receives substantive comments within the comment period that would merit its further review of the requests, or unless the registrants withdraw its requests. If these requests are granted, any sale, distribution, or use of products listed in this notice will be permitted after the registrations have been cancelled only if such sale, distribution, or use is consistent with the terms as described in the final order. Comments must be received on or before October 23, 2019. (September 23)
• Dinotefuran; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of dinotefuran in or on persimmon. Mitsui Chemicals Agro, Inc., c/o Landis International, Inc. requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA). (September 20)
• Spinosad; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of spinosad in or on tea, dried and tea, instant. Dow AgroSciences, LLC., requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA). (September 19)
• Pyraflufen-ethyl; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of pyraflufen-ethyl in or on multiple commodities which are identified and discussed later in this document. In addition, certain existing tolerances are removed as they are superseded by this action. Interregional Research Project Number 4 (IR-4) requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA). (September 12)
• Pesticide Product Registration; Receipt of Applications for New Uses (July 2019) -- EPA has received applications to register new uses for pesticide products containing currently registered active ingredients. Pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is hereby providing notice of receipt and opportunity to comment on these applications. Comments must be received on or before October 11, 2019. (September 11)
• Pesticide Experimental Use Permit; Receipt of Application; Comment Request (93167-EUP-E) -- announces EPA's receipt of an application from Oxitec, Ltd. requesting an experimental use permit (EUP) for the OX5034 Aedes aegypti mosquitoes expressing tetracycline Trans-Activator Variant (tTAV-OX5034) protein (identified by number 93167-EUP-E). The Agency has determined that the permit may be of regional and national significance. Therefore, because of the potential significance, EPA is seeking comments on this application. Comments must be received on or before October 11, 2019. (September 11)
• Pesticides; Interim Process for Evaluating Potential Synergistic Effects of Pesticides During the Registration Process; Notice of Availability and Request for Comments -- EPA is announcing the availability of and soliciting public comment on an interim process it developed to address risk estimate uncertainties associated with U.S. patent assertions of greater than additive effects (GTA effects) in mixtures of pesticide active ingredients for controlling pests (often referred to as "synergy''). EPA developed a process to document, review and, if necessary, revise ecological risk estimates; and invites public comment on this process to obtain and analyze GTA effects data identified in patent assertions. Comments must be received on or before October 24, 2019. (September 9)
• C10-C16 Alkylbenzene Sulfonates; Exemption from the Requirement of a Tolerance -- establishes an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of C10-C16 branched and linear alkylbenzene sulfonates, including benzenesulfonic acid, dodecyl (CAS Reg, No. 27176-87-0) and benzenesulfonic acid, dodecyl-, sodium salt (CAS Reg. No. 25155-30-0), when used as an active or inert ingredient in antimicrobial pesticide formulations applied to food-contact surfaces in public eating places, dairy-processing equipment, and food-processing equipment and utensils at a maximum concentration not to exceed 700 parts per million (ppm). Exponent, Inc., on behalf of Ecolab, Inc., submitted a petition to EPA under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), requesting establishment of an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance. (September 9)
• Abamectin; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of abamectin in or on multiple commodities which are identified and discussed later in this document. Interregional Research Project No. 4 (IR-4) and Syngenta Crop Protection, LLC requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA).(September 9)
• Product Cancellation Order for Certain Pesticide Registrations; Correction --  EPA issued a cancellation order in the Federal Register of August 14, 2019, concerning the cancellations voluntarily requested by the registrants and accepted by the Agency. This notice is being issued to correct the cancellation order in Table 1, of Unit II., to remove three entries that the registrant inadvertently requested be cancelled. (September 4)
• Pesticide Product Registration; Receipt of Applications for New Active Ingredients (July 2019) -- EPA has received applications to register pesticide products containing active ingredients not included in any currently registered pesticide products. Pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is hereby providing notice of receipt and opportunity to comment on these applications. Comments must be received on or before October 3, 2019. (September 3)

August 27, 2019

EPA Proposes Cleanup Plan for Contaminated Properties in Vineland, New Jersey
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing a cleanup plan to address about 40 non-residential contaminated properties that remain impacted by the Former Kil-Tone Company Superfund Site in Vineland, New Jersey. Previous operations at the former Kil-Tone Company pesticides facility contaminated the soil with arsenic and lead.

EPA selects Virginia’s Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden for $100,000 for community education program to reduce stormwater run-off
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency awarded the Richmond, Va.-based Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden a $100,000 Environmental Education grant to lead educational opportunities for community volunteers to help reduce stormwater runoff pollution and create water-friendly landscapes. This grantee was selected through a competitive process and is one of four awarded this year in EPA’s Mid-Atlantic region.

August 23, 2019

EPA Provides $1.2 Million to Hypoxia Task Force States, Including Iowa and Missouri, and Continues to Promote National Dialogue to Reduce Excess Nutrients and Enhance the Nation's Waters
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced that it is providing a total of $1.2 million to the 12 state members of the Hypoxia Task Force (HTF), including Iowa and Missouri, to help implement state plans to reduce excess nutrients in the Mississippi River/Atchafalaya River Basin. Through this funding, EPA is promoting tailored and effective nutrient reduction efforts that are developed through state leadership in coordination with EPA.

August 22, 2019

EPA Awards State of Texas Over $3.7 Million to Manage Water Pollution
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently announced a grant of $3,729,500 to the Texas State Soil & Water Conservation Board (TSSWCB). The funding will support management programs for nonpoint-source water pollution, which is caused when rainfall or snowmelt carries pollutants into rivers, lakes, and other waterbodies.

EPA Provides $1.2 Million to Hypoxia Task Force States and Continues to Promote National Dialogue to Reduce Excess Nutrients and Enhance the Nation's Waters
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that it is providing a total of $1.2 million to the 12 state members of the Hypoxia Task Force (HTF) to help implement state plans to reduce excess nutrients in the Mississippi River/Atchafalaya River Basin. Through this funding, EPA is promoting tailored and effective nutrient reduction efforts that are developed through state leadership in coordination with EPA.

August 21, 2019

EPA Seeks Public Comment on Pesticide Applications for Hemp
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing the receipt of 10 pesticide applications to expand their use on hemp. The 10 requests are the result of the December 2018 Farm Bill provisions that removed hemp from the Controlled Substances Act, legalizing hemp for commercial use and production.

South Platte Water Renewal Partners win EPA water quality “Challenge”
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) with four federal partners announced the winners of a technology-accelerating water quality challenge. This year’s winners demonstrated how data from low cost water quality monitoring sensors can be used to inform local-scale nutrient management decisions.

EPA and Federal Partners Announce Winners of Water Quality “Challenge”
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) with four federal partners announced the winners of a technology-accelerating water quality challenge. This year’s winners demonstrated how data from low cost water quality monitoring sensors can be used to inform local-scale nutrient management decisions.

EPA Recognizes League of Women Voters of Illinois for Water Quality Challenge Win
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and four federal partners announced the winners of its technology-accelerating water quality challenge. The League of Women Voters of Illinois in Jo Daviess County is one of three national teams selected for the Challenge’s prize of $50,000 each. The winning teams demonstrated how data from low-cost water quality monitoring sensors can be used to inform local decision-making on nutrient management.

August 14, 2019

EPA Announces the November 19-22, 2019, FIFRA SAP Public Meeting and Requests Nominations of Ad Hoc Expert Reviewers
On August 13, 2019, EPA published a Federal Register notice announcing the 4-day, public, in-person meeting of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act Scientific Advisory Panel (FIFRA SAP) to consider and review the Approaches for Quantitative Use of Surface Water Monitoring Data in Pesticide Drinking Water Assessments. The location of the 4-day, public, in-person meeting will be announced on the FIFRA SAP website.

University of Iowa Receives $1.07 Million for Water Quality from EPA
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the University of Iowa will receive a $1.07 million EPA Farmer to Farmer Cooperative Agreement to fund a project that improves water quality, habitat, and environmental education.

Practical Farmers of Iowa Receives $936K for Water Quality from EPA
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced Practical Farmers of Iowa will receive a nearly $936K EPA Farmer to Farmer Cooperative Agreement to fund a project that improves water quality, habitat, and environmental education.

EPA announces $3.2 million in water quality cooperative agreements in Mississippi
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that it anticipates awarding three Gulf of Mexico Division cooperative agreements totaling more than $3.2 million to fund projects that improve water quality, habitat, and environmental education in Mississippi.

EPA announces more than $7.5 Million in water quality cooperative agreements through Gulf of Mexico Division
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that it anticipates awarding seven Gulf of Mexico Division cooperative agreements totaling more than $7.5 million to fund projects that improve water quality, habitat, and environmental education in the Gulf of Mexico watershed.

August 13, 2019

EPA Proposes Low-Priority Substances Under TSCA, Meets Another TSCA Milestone
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing to designate 20 chemical substances as Low-Priority Substances under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). This proposal marks EPA’s meeting another major milestone under the Frank R. Lautenberg Chemical Safety Act for the 21st Century amendments to TSCA – which require EPA through a variety of transparent processes to prioritize existing chemical substances for high- or low-priority designations. A final designation of “low-priority” means that the risks associated with the chemical substances are low, and risk evaluation for that chemical substance is not warranted at this time.

What They Are Saying | EPA Takes Action to Provide Accurate Risk Information to Consumers, Stop False Labeling on Products
On Friday, Aug. 9, EPA issued guidance to registrants of glyphosate to ensure clarity on labeling of the chemical on their products. EPA will no longer approve product labels claiming glyphosate is known to cause cancer – a false claim that does not meet the labeling requirements of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). The State of California’s much criticized Proposition 65 has led to misleading labeling requirements for products, like glyphosate, because it misinforms the public about the risks they are facing. This action will ensure consumers have correct information, and is based on EPA’s comprehensive evaluation of glyphosate.

EPA Solicits Applications for National Farmworker Training Program
EPA’s Office of Pesticide Programs is soliciting applications for a cooperative agreement to support a National Farmworker Training Program. This program will develop national pesticide safety training, education and outreach for farmworkers and their families in rural agricultural areas.

Iowa Agriculture and Water Quality Focus of $3 Million in EPA Grants to Be Announced Aug. 14 at Iowa State Fair
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will announce more than $3 million in Farmer to Farmer cooperative agreements for three Iowa grantees at the Iowa State Fair, Wednesday, August 14, in Des Moines. The program supports projects that improve water quality, habitat, and environmental education in the Gulf of Mexico watershed.

EPA Awards over $2 Million to Oklahoma to Prevent Water Pollution
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently awarded $2,023,115 to the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality to support the state’s water pollution control program. The grant will help prevent, reduce and eliminate water pollution through monitoring, standard setting, enforcement and compliance activities.

EPA awards $3,5280,000 to Indiana for water quality protection
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded $3,528,000 to the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) to improve the health of Indiana’s watersheds. The funding is awarded under Section 319 of the Clean Water Act, which authorizes EPA to provide grant money to states to implement nonpoint pollution control programs.

August 12, 2019

EPA Accepting Public Comments on Candidates for the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act Scientific Advisory Panel (FIFRA SAP)
On August 12, 2019, EPA published a Federal Register notice (FRN) providing the names and professional affiliations of persons recently nominated to serve on the Scientific Advisory Panel (SAP) established under section 25(d) of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). Selected additional biographical data for these nominees are available at www.regulations.gov (docket number EPA-HQ-OPP-2019-0448). The Agency anticipates selecting three new members to serve on the panel to replace members whose terms will expire during the next year.

August 9, 2019

EPA Announces Biofuel and Small Refinery Exemption Priorities
EPA will announce its final decisions related to 31 small refinery exemptions and 6 application denials this afternoon on its web page, Public Data for the Renewable Fuel Standard - Small Refinery Exemptions (https://www.epa.gov/fuels-registration-reporting-and-compliance-help/rfs-small-refinery-exemptions). Under EPA’s Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program, a small refinery may be granted a temporary exemption from its annual Renewable Volume Obligations (RVOs) if it can demonstrate that compliance with the RVOs would cause the refinery to suffer disproportionate economic hardship. EPA evaluates submissions to determine whether an exemption may be granted, based on information presented by the petitioning refinery and on the statutory and regulatory requirements for exemption.

August 8, 2019

EPA Takes Action to Provide Accurate Risk Information to Consumers, Stop False Labeling on Products
EPA is issuing guidance to registrants of glyphosate to ensure clarity on labeling of the chemical on their products. EPA will no longer approve product labels claiming glyphosate is known to cause cancer – a false claim that does not meet the labeling requirements of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). The State of California’s much criticized Proposition 65 has led to misleading labeling requirements for products, like glyphosate, because it misinforms the public about the risks they are facing. This action will ensure consumers have correct information, and is based on EPA’s comprehensive evaluation of glyphosate.

August 6, 2019

Call for Applications: Trump Administration to Support Community Revitalization, Local Food Initiatives
In support of the Trump Administration’s Executive Order on Promoting Agriculture and Rural Prosperity in America, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced an opportunity to apply for technical assistance for communities interested in revitalizing neighborhoods through development of local food systems. Since its launch in 2014, Local Foods, Local Places has selected 108 communities across the country to help develop local food enterprises, such as farmers markets, community gardens, and cooperative grocery stores, that improve environmental, economic and health outcomes.  The assistance will be provided through the Local Foods, Local Places (LFLP) program. The deadline for applications is September 30, 2019.

August 2, 2019

Newly Available Data to be Incorporated into Pyrethroid Proposed Interim Decisions
Based on a thorough review of recent data, EPA concluded that there are reliable data to support reducing the current threefold (3X) Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA) safety factor for pyrethroids to 1X, and that margin will be safe for infants and children. This reduced safety factor will be incorporated into the upcoming pyrethroid proposed interim decisions for registration review.

August 2019 Pesticide Registration Requests, Actions, and Tolerance Updates

• Pesticide Product Registration; Receipt of Applications for New Uses -- EPA has received applications to register new uses for pesticide products containing currently registered active ingredients. Pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is hereby providing notice of receipt and opportunity to comment on these applications. Comments must be received on or before September 30, 2019 (August 30)
• Information Collection Request Submitted to OMB for Review and Approval; Comment Request; EPA Worker Protection Standards for Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (Renewal) -- The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has submitted an information collection request (ICR), EPA Worker Protection Standards for Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (August 30)
• Receipt of a Pesticide Petition Filed for Residues of Pesticide Chemicals in or on Various Commodities (July 2019)-- announces the Agency's receipt of an initial filing of a pesticide petition requesting the establishment or modification of regulations for residues of pesticide chemicals in or on various commodities. Comments must be received on or before September 30, 2019 (August 30)
• Buprofezin; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of buprofezin in or on multiple commodities which are identified and discussed later in this document (August 29)
• Tolerance Crop Grouping Program V -- EPA is proposing revisions to its pesticide tolerance crop grouping regulations, which allow the establishment of tolerances for multiple related crops based on data from a representative set of crops. EPA is proposing to revise one commodity definition, add three new commodity definitions, and amend the current herbs and spices crop group currently provided in Crop Group 19. Comments must be received on or before October 28, 2019 (August 27)
• Oxirane, 2-methyl-, Polymer With Oxirane, Monoundecyl Ether, Branched and Linear; Exemption From the Requirement of a Tolerance -- establishes an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of oxirane, 2-methyl-, polymer with oxirane, monoundecyl ether, branched and linear when used as an inert ingredient in a pesticide chemical formulation (August 27)
• Emamectin Benzoate; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of emamectin benzoate (referred to as emamectin in this document) in or on multiple commodities which are identified and discussed later in this document (Ausgut 27)
• Nitrapyrin; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of nitrapyrin in or on multiple commodities which are identified and discussed later in this document (August 27)
• Sedaxane; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes a tolerance for residues of sedaxane in or on legume vegetables (dried or succulent), crop group 6 (August 27)
• Pesticide Reregistration Performance Measures and Goals; Annual Progress Report; Notice of Availability -- announces the availability of EPA's progress reports in meeting its performance measures and goals for pesticide reregistration during fiscal years 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2016. The progress reports also present total numbers of products registered under the “fast-track” provisions of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). Submit comments on or before October 25, 2019 (August 26)
• Pesticide Product Registrations; Receipt of Applications for a New Site -- EPA has received applications to add a new site (hemp) to the labeling of currently registered pesticide products that contain active ingredients with established tolerance exemptions. Comments must be received on or before September 23, 2019 (August 23)
• Lipochitooligosaccharide (LCO) MOR116; Exemption From the Requirement of a Tolerance -- establishes an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of lipochitooliosaccharide (LCO) MOR116 in or on all food commodities when used in accordance with label directions and good agricultural practices (August 22)
• Cancellation Order for Certain Pesticide Registrations and Amendments To Terminate Uses -- announces EPA's order for the cancellations and amendments to terminate uses, voluntarily requested by the registrants and accepted by the Agency, of the products listed in Table 1, Table 1A, Table 1B, Table 1C, Table 1D, Table 1E and Table 2, pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) (August 21)
• Product Cancellation Order for Certain Pesticide Registrations -- announces EPA's order for the cancellations, voluntarily requested by the registrants and accepted by the Agency, of the products listed in Table 1 of Unit II, pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA)(August 14)
• Clonostachys rosea Strain CR-7; Exemption From the Requirement of a Tolerance -- establishes an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of Clonostachys rosea strain CR-7 in or on all food commodities when used in accordance with label directions and good agricultural practices (August 14)
• Nominations to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act Scientific Advisory Panel; Request for Comments -- provides the names, addresses, and professional affiliations of persons recently nominated to serve on the Scientific Advisory Panel (SAP) established under section 25(d) of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). The Panel was created on November 28, 1975, and made a permanent Panel by amendment to FIFRA, dated October 25, 1988. The Agency, at this time, anticipates selecting three new members to serve on the panel because of membership terms that will expire during the next year. Public comments on the current nominations are invited, as these comments will be used to assist the Agency in selecting the new members for the chartered Scientific Advisory Panel (August 12)
• Propiconazole; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of propiconazole in or on multiple commodities which are identified and discussed later in this document. Interregional Research Project No. 4 (IR-4) requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) (August 12)
• Pydiflumetofen; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of pydiflumetofen in or on multiple commodities which are identified and discussed later in this document. Syngenta Crop Protection requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) (August 12)
• Pesticide Experimental Use Permit; Receipt of Application; Comment Request -- announces EPA's receipt of application requesting an experimental use permit (EUP) for 1-Aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid. EPA has determined that the permit may be of regional or national significance. Therefore, because of the potential significance, EPA is seeking comments on this application. Comments must be received on or before September 6, 2019 (August 7)
• Pesticide Product Registration; Receipt of Applications for New Uses in June 2019 -- EPA has received applications to register new uses for pesticide products containing currently registered active ingredients. Pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is hereby providing notice of receipt and opportunity to comment on these applications. Comments must be received on or before September 5, 2019 (August 6)
• Pesticide Product Registration; Receipt of Application for New Active Ingredient in June 2019 -- EPA has received an application to register a pesticide product containing an active ingredient not included in any currently registered pesticide products. Pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is hereby providing notice of receipt and opportunity to comment on this application. Comments must be received on or before September 5, 2019 (August 6)
• Interim Registration Review Decisions and Case Closures for Several Pesticides; Notice of Availability -- This notice announces the availability of EPA's interim registration review decision for the following chemicals: abamectin, ametryn, bicarbonates, butralin, citronellol, corn glutens, diphenylamine, IAA [Indole acetic acid], LPE [Lysophosphatidylethanolamines, egg yolk], methiocarb, oil of black pepper, oryzalin, predator urines, prohexadione-calcium, pyrithiobac-sodium, Quillaja extract [Quillaja saponins], quinoa saponins [saponins of Chenopodium], sodium cyanide, sodium fluoroacetate, tebuthiuron, Verticillium dahlia Isolate WCS 850, yeast extract hydrolysate, and zinc borate. In addition, it announces the closure of the registration review cases for diallyl sulfides because the last U.S. registrations for these pesticides have been canceled (August 6)
• Fluoxastrobin; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of fluoxastrobin in or on cotton, undelinted seed and cotton, gin byproducts. Bayer CropScience requested these tolerances under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) (August 6)
• Receipt of a Pesticide Petition Filed for Residues of Pesticide Chemicals in or on Various Commodities for June 2019 -- Announces the Agency's receipt of an initial filing of a pesticide petition requesting the establishment or modification of regulations for residues of pesticide chemicals in or on various commodities. Comments must be received on or before September 3, 2019 (August 2)

July 30, 2019

EPA Proposes Cleanup Plan for Contaminated Properties in Vineland, New Jersey
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing a cleanup plan to address about 40 non-residential contaminated properties that remain impacted by the Former Kil-Tone Company Superfund Site in Vineland, New Jersey. Previous operations at the former Kil-Tone Company pesticides facility contaminated the soil with arsenic and lead.

July 25, 2019

Ipswich, Mass. Students Honored by White House and EPA for Environmental Project
A group of students from Ipswich, Mass. were recognized today as awardees of the 2019 President's Environmental Youth Award (PEYA). The program recognizes outstanding environmental stewardship projects by K-12 youth. These students demonstrate the initiative, creativity, and applied problem-solving skills needed to tackle environmental problems and find sustainable solutions. The Ipswich Green Team, composed of students from grades 6 through 12 from Massachusetts, had a vision to develop a partnership between Ipswich schools and the greater community that would enrich the lives of people through local agriculture. The effort, called "Generation Growers," brought older adults and community members of all abilities together with youth to create green space on a quarter-acre public fruit and vegetable garden.

USDA Announces Pesticide Regulatory Training Funding Opportunity
On July 9, 2019, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agriculture Service (FAS) opened a Notice of Funding Opportunity to develop a series of web-based training modules. This training will help foreign pesticide regulators better understand EPA’s pesticide regulatory approach.

Festus, Missouri, Students Win President's Environmental Youth Award
The Festus RVI School District Quest Program students were awarded the President’s Environmental Youth Award (PEYA) in a ceremony in Washington, D.C. This national award is presented to K-12 students who demonstrate the initiative, creativity, and problem-solving skills needed to address environmental problems and find sustainable solutions.

July 24, 2019

EPA funding to Maryland will support regulation of pesticides use, worker protections
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a $359,870 Pesticides Performance Partnership grant to the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA). The funding will support the state’s enforcement of pesticide regulations, implement programs for certifying and training pesticide applicators, and improving agricultural worker protections.

EPA Settles Case Against Stepan Company for Selling Misbranded Pesticide
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced an agreement with the Stepan Co. of Northfield, Illinois, resolving allegations that the company – through a distribution agreement with the Spartan Chemical Co. – violated the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) on 89 occasions by selling or distributing a misbranded pesticide. Stepan agreed to pay a $612,718 administrative penalty and to coordinate with Spartan to correct the labeling and formulation violations.

July 19, 2019

EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler Visits Cleveland, Announces Trash-Free Great Lakes Grant Program
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler and Region 5 Administrator Cathy Stepp visited Cleveland to announce an upcoming new Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) grant program specifically focused on funding trash-free water projects in the Great Lakes.

July 18, 2019

EPA Proposes Cleanup for Pesticides Storage Facility in Manati, Puerto Rico
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing a cleanup plan to address contaminated groundwater in Manati, Puerto Rico, at the Pesticide Warehouse III Superfund Site. Historical pesticide operations at the site contaminated the soil and groundwater with pesticides. Under the proposal, EPA will require, among other steps, the continued operation, maintenance, and monitoring of existing treatment systems that clean the groundwater using a variety of technologies such as carbon filtration, the use of chlorine and ultraviolet light, depending on the well location.

July 12, 2019

EPA Registers Long-Term Uses of Sulfoxaflor While Ensuring Strong Pollinator Protection
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is issuing a long-term approval for the insecticide sulfoxaflor— an effective tool to control challenging pests with fewer environmental impacts. After conducting an extensive risk analysis, including the review of one of the agency’s largest datasets on the effects of a pesticide on bees, EPA is approving the use of sulfoxaflor on alfalfa, corn, cacao, grains (millet, oats), pineapple, sorghum, teff, teosinte, tree plantations, citrus, cotton, cucurbits (squash, cucumbers, watermelons, some gourds), soybeans, and strawberries.

July 11, 2019

Vermont Animal Feed Facility Settles EPA Toxic Chemical Right-to-Know Allegations
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) New England regional office has reached a settlement with a Vermont animal feed supplement supplier that failed to report information about toxic chemical compounds at its manufacturing facility.

EPA Announces Policy to Enhance Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Partnerships with States
EPA announced today a final policy to enhance effective partnerships with states in civil enforcement and compliance assurance work.  Articulated in a memorandum from EPA’s Assistant Administrator for Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Susan Bodine, the final policy describes procedures and practices for effective coordination between EPA and states when carrying out shared responsibilities under environmental laws.

July 10, 2019

EPA awards Utah Department of Environmental Quality $959k to restore fisheries, improve water quality and rehabilitate lakes
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded $959,049 to the Utah Department of Environmental Quality (UDEQ) to help protect human health and the environment through a Nonpoint Source Program Clean Water Act (Section 319) grant.  This grant is given to states to implement environmental programs that address various sources of pollution in surface and groundwater in order to meet and maintain water quality standards. 

EPA Recognizes Employees for Extraordinary Contributions to Agency’s Mission at National Honor Awards
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler recognized more than 700 employees for their extraordinary contributions to the agency’s mission of protecting human health and the environment in fiscal year 2018 at the National Honor Awards ceremony.

July 9, 2019

Wheeler Highlights America's Environmental Progress
Administrator Wheeler joined President Trump and members of his cabinet to address the progress America has made cleaning up and protecting our nation's environment. All six criteria air pollutants have been reduced, our nation's access to clean drinking water is ranked number one in the world, and under President Trump we have reached the highest number of Superfund deletions in a year since 2005.

July 1, 2019

EPA Extends Comment Period on Draft Revised Method for Endangered Species Act Pesticide Assessments
EPA is extending the public comment period for 45 days on a draft revised method for assessing pesticide risk to endangered and threatened species. The comment period will now close on Aug. 15, 2019.

July 2019 Pesticide Registration Requests, Actions, and Tolerance Updates

• Registration Review Proposed Interim Decisions for Several Pesticides; Notice of Availability -- announces the availability of EPA's proposed interim registration review decisions and opens a 60-day public comment period on the proposed interim decisions for the following pesticides: 2,4-DB, 3-Methyl-2-cyclohexen-1-one, alkyl imidazolines, bromoxynil, dikegulac sodium, fluthiacet-methyl, imazalil, inorganic polysulfides (also known as lime sulfur), IR3535, linuron, octenol, o-benzyl-p-chlorophenol, p-Menthane-3,8-diol (PMD), pyridaben, starlicide, uniconazole-P, tri-n butyl tetradecyl phosphonium chloride, zinc and zinc salts, and zoxamide (July 31)
• Lactic Acid; Exemption From the Requirement of a Tolerance -- establishes an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of lactic acid when used as an inert ingredient (acidifier) on food-contact surfaces in public eating places, dairy processing equipment, food-processing equipment and utensils at 10,000 parts per million (ppm) (July 26)
• Notice of Receipt of Requests To Voluntarily Cancel Certain Pesticide Registrations and Amend Registrations To Terminate Certain Uses -- In accordance with the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is issuing a notice of receipt of requests by the registrants to voluntarily cancel certain pesticide product registrations and to amend certain product registrations to terminate uses. Comments must be received on or before August 23, 2019 (July 24)
• Sulfoxaflor; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of sulfoxaflor in or on multiple commodities (July 24)
• Chlorpyrifos; Final Order Denying Objections to March 2017 Petition Denial Order -- EPA denies the objections to EPA's March 29, 2017 order denying a 2007 petition from the Pesticide Action Network North America (PANNA) and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) to revoke all tolerances and cancel all registrations for the insecticide chlorpyrifos. This order is issued under section 408(g)(2)(C) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) and constitutes final agency action on the 2007 petition. The objections were filed by Earthjustice on behalf of 12 public interest groups, the North Coast Rivers Alliance, and the States of New York, Washington, California, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, and Vermont. This Order is effective July 24, 2019 (July 24)
• Notification of Submission to the Secretary of Agriculture; Pesticides; Agricultural Worker Protection Standard; Revision of the Application Exclusion Zone Requirements -- notifies the public as required by the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) that the EPA Administrator has forwarded to the Secretary of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) a draft regulatory document concerning “Pesticides; Agricultural Worker Protection Standard; Revision of the Application Exclusion Zone Requirements.” The draft regulatory document is not available to the public until after it has been signed and made available by EPA (July 22)
• Acrylamide-Sodium Acrylamidomethylpropanesulfonate Copolymer; Tolerance Exemption -- establishes an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of Acrylamide-Sodium Acrylamidomethylpropanesulfonate Copolymer; number average molecular weight greater than 1,000,000 daltons when used as an inert ingredient in a pesticide chemical formulation (July 15)
• 2-Propenoic Acid, Methyl Ester, Polymer With Ethene and 2,5-Furandione; Tolerance Exemption -- establishes an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of 2-propenoic acid, methyl ester, polymer with ethene and 2,5-furandione when used as an inert ingredient in a pesticide chemical formulation (July 9)
• Acetic Acid Ethenyl Ester, Polymer With Ethene and Ethenol; Tolerance Exemption -- establishes an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of acetic acid ethenyl ester, polymer with ethene and ethenol; when used as an inert ingredient in a pesticide chemical formulation (July 8)
• Indoxacarb; Pesticide Tolerances for Emergency Exemptions -- establishes time-limited tolerances for residues of indoxacarb in or on grass forage and grass hay. This action is in response to EPA's granting of an emergency exemption under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) authorizing use of the pesticide on mixed stands of alfalfa and grasses (July 5)
• Pesticides; Draft Revised Method for National Level Endangered Species Risk Assessment Process for Biological Evaluations of Pesticides; Extension of Comment Period -- EPA issued a notice in the Federal Register of May 16, 2019, opening a 45-day comment period for a draft revised method for conducting national level threatened and endangered species biological evaluations for pesticides (July 1)
• Valifenalate; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of valifenalate in or on bulb vegetable crop group 3-07, celery, cucurbit vegetables crop group 9, fruiting vegetables crop group 8-10, potato, potato-granules/flakes, and tolerances without U.S. registrations in/on grape; and grape, raisin (July 1)
• Fluopyram; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of fluopyram in or on cranberry; lentil, dry seed; and pea, dry seed (July 1)

June 20, 2019

Information Collection Request Submitted to OMB for Review and Approval; Comment Request; NESHAP for Prepared Feeds Manufacturing (Renewal)
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has submitted an information collection request (ICR), NESHAP for Prepared Feeds Manufacturing (EPA ICR Number 2354.05, OMB Control Number 2060-0635), to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act. This is a proposed extension of the ICR, which is currently approved through June 30, 2019.

Statement on Sulfoxaflor Section 18 Emergency Exemptions
EPA has reissued emergency exemptions for the use of sulfoxaflor in 12 states to control tarnished plant bugs on cotton and to control sugarcane aphids on sorghum in 14 states for 2019. The exemptions will authorize treatment of defined geographic areas within each state for a finite period.

June 12, 2019

EPA and USDA Launch Innovative Nutrient Financing Webinar Series to Help Improve America’s Water Quality
As part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ongoing efforts to promote creative problem solving and market-based approaches to reduce excess nutrients in our nation’s waterways, EPA and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) are kicking off a webinar series to educate the public on financing opportunities that are available to improve water quality.  

EPA announces FY 2020-2023 Priorities for Enforcement and Compliance Assurance
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced seven enforcement and compliance assurance priority areas for fiscal years 2020-2023. Six of the seven priorities are National Compliance Initiatives (NCIs), which will be led by EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance (OECA). For the seventh priority area, OECA will contribute to the agency’s implementation of the Lead Action Plan, which was issued by the President's Task Force on Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks to Children in December 2018.  

June 6, 2019

U.S. EPA honors Sprouts Farmers Markets for leading food recovery efforts nationwide
Sprouts Farmers Market was recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for its outstanding efforts in food recovery.

EPA Administrator Hosts Interagency Endangered Species Act Working Group Meeting
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler is hosting U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue, Department of Commerce Secretary Wilbur L. Ross, Jr., Department of Interior Secretary David Bernhardt, and Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) Chairman Mary B. Neumayr to discuss improving the Endangered Species Act (ESA) consultation process for pesticides.

June 5, 2019

EPA Brownfields Funding Announced for Five Communities in Georgia
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) selected 149 communities across the country including five in Georgia to receive funding for brownfield site revitalization to help local governments redevelop vacant and unused properties, transforming communities and local economies.

June 4, 2019

EPA Reaches Agreement with Soulard Second Street, LLC, to Redevelop Portion of Former J.F. Queeny/Monsanto/Solutia Facility in St. Louis
Soulard Second Street, LLC, will purchase, restore, and redevelop a portion of the former J.F. Queeny/Monsanto/Solutia manufacturing facility, located at 201 Russell Boulevard near downtown St. Louis, as part of a recent agreement with EPA. The agreement will allow for remediation of the site and the construction of a proposed 155,400-square-foot industrial warehouse.

Administrator Wheeler Signs Final Rule to Add Reporting Exemption Under EPCRA for Air Emissions from Animal Waste
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler signed a final rule amending the emergency release notification regulations under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA). The amendments clarify that reporting of air emissions from animal waste at farms is not required under EPCRA.

June 2019 Pesticide Registration Requests, Actions, and Tolerance Updates

• Receipt of Several Pesticide Petitions Filed for Residues of Pesticide Chemicals In or On Various Commodities (May 2019) -- announces the Agency's receipt of several initial filings of pesticide petitions requesting the establishment or modification of regulations for residues of pesticide chemicals in or on various commodities. Comments must be received on or before July 29, 2019 (June 28)
• Mefentrifluconazole; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of mefentrifluconazole in or on multiple commodities which are identified and discussed later in this document (June 28)
• Ethiprole; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of the insecticide ethiprole in or on coffee, green bean (June 28)
• Glyphosate Proposed Interim Registration Review Decision; Extension of Comment Period -- EPA issued a notice in the Federal Register of May 6, 2019, concerning the availability of EPA's Proposed Interim Registration Review Decision for glyphosate. This document extends the comment period for 60 days, from July 5, 2019 to September 3, 2019. This action to extend the public comment period is being taken after receiving public comments requesting additional time to review the Glyphosate Proposed Interim Registration Review Decision and supporting materials (June 26)
• Trifloxystrobin; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of trifloxystrobin in or on tea (dried and instant) (June 24)
• Melamine Formaldehyde Polycondensate Resin; Tolerance Exemption -- establishes an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of formaldehyde, reaction products with melamine; 1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6-triamine, polymer with formaldehyde; formaldehyde reaction products with melamine and methanol; and 1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6-triamine, polymer with formaldehyde, methylated; collectively referred to as melamine formaldehyde polycondensate resin; when used as an inert ingredient in a pesticide chemical formulation (June 20)
• Pesticide Product Registration; Receipt of Applications for New Active Ingredients (April 2019) -- EPA has received applications to register pesticide products containing active ingredients not included in any currently registered pesticide products. Pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is hereby providing notice of receipt and opportunity to comment on these applications. Comments must be received on or before July 19, 2019 (June 19)
• Bacillus amyloliquefaciens subspecies plantarum strain FZB42; Exemption From the Requirement of a Tolerance -- establishes an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens subspecies plantarum strain FZB42 in or on all food commodities when used in accordance with label directions and good agricultural practices (June 18)
• Pesticide Emergency Exemptions; Agency Decisions and State and Federal Agency Crisis Declarations -- EPA has granted emergency exemptions under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) for use of pesticides as listed in this notice. The exemptions were granted during the period October 1, 2018 to March 30, 2019, except for one granted in September 2018, to control unforeseen pest outbreaks (June 17)
• 24-Epibrassinolide; Exemption From the Requirement of a Tolerance -- establishes an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of 24-epibrassinolide in or on all food commodities when used in accordance with label directions and good agricultural practices (June 17)
• Ortho-Pthalaldehyde; Receipt of Application for Emergency Exemption, Solicitation of Public Comment -- EPA has received a specific exemption request from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to use the pesticide ortho-phthalaldehyde to treat the coolant fluid of the internal active thermal control system of the International Space Station to control aerobic/microaerophilic bacteria in the aqueous coolant (June 14)
• Penthiopyrad; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of penthiopyrad in or on multiple commodities (June 6)
• Notice of Receipt of Requests to Voluntarily Cancel Certain Pesticide Registrations and Amend Registrations To Terminate Certain Uses -- In accordance with the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is issuing a notice of receipt of requests by the registrants to voluntarily cancel certain pesticide product registrations and to amend certain product registrations to terminate uses (June 5)

May 31, 2019

EPA Delivers On President Trump’s Promise To Allow Year-Round Sale Of E15 Gasoline And Improve Transparency In Renewable Fuel Markets
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler signed the final action that would remove the key regulatory barrier to using gasoline blended with up to 15% ethanol (E15) during the summer driving season and reform the renewable identification number (RIN) compliance system under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program to increase transparency and deter price manipulation. Taken together, these steps follow through on the Trump Administration’s commitment to responsible environmental protection that promotes energy independence, regulatory reform, and increasing the use of biofuels to give consumers more choices, while supporting American farmers.

May 30, 2019

EPA Regional Administrator to Attend Elite Octane Ethanol Plant Grand Opening in Atlantic, Iowa, and Provide E-15 Update
On Friday, May 31, EPA Region 7 Administrator Jim Gulliford will share an E-15 update during the grand opening celebration of the Elite Octane Ethanol Plant in Atlantic, Iowa, west of Des Moines.

May 28, 2019

May 21, 2019

EPA Makes it Easier to Find Information on Pesticide Registration Review Actions
To increase transparency and ensure information is easily accessible, EPA has created a new web-based table of the most recent pesticide registration review actions. Making this information available in one place on our website will save stakeholders time, energy, and resources. This provides an alternative to searching individual Federal Register notices on each registration review action.

May 20, 2019

May 17, 2019

Innovative Water Quality Project by New Jersey High School Student Wins EPA Award
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that Harshal Agrawal, a senior at Dr. Ronald E. McNair Academic High School in Jersey City, New Jersey, has won the 2019 Patrick H. Hurd Sustainability Award at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) 2019 in Phoenix, Arizona. Harshal’s ISEF project, “Large-Scale Field Testing of Stropharia Mycelium Buffer Strips for Harmful Algae Bloom Prevention, Year 5,” has a long-term goal of developing a low-cost, eco-friendly, and efficient way of preventing Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs). 

May 16, 2019

EPA Joins Pennsylvania Partners To Support Sustainable Farming To Benefit Local Streams, Chesapeake Bay
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) joined partners in Pennsylvania in signing a letter of intent to support sustainable farming practices in Pennsylvania that will lead to environmental benefits for local streams and the Chesapeake Bay.

Preparatory Virtual Meeting of the FIFRA SAP on EPA’s Proposed Guidelines for Efficacy Testing of Certain Flea and Tick Pet Products
EPA is announcing a preparatory virtual meeting (via teleconference and webcast) for the FIFRA Scientific Advisory Panel (SAP) members and the public to comment on and ask questions regarding the scope and clarity of the draft charge questions to be used for the peer review of proposed guidelines for efficacy testing of certain flea and tick pet products.

May 13, 2019

U.S. EPA settlement with Producers Dairy Foods improves chemical safety at Fresno, California, facility
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reached a settlement with Producers Dairy Foods Inc. over chemical safety and risk management violations at its facility in Fresno, California, Producers Dairy Foods, one of the largest family-owned and operated dairies in the West, has agreed to pay a $89,960 civil penalty and make improvements to its risk management practices. In addition, the company will purchase more than $26,000 in emergency response equipment for the Fresno City Fire Department.

May 10, 2019

EPA to Hold Public Meeting on Revisions to Draft Framework on Endangered Species Act Process for Pesticides
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking comment on draft revisions to the framework used to evaluate the impacts pesticides have on endangered species under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act. The draft revisions would ensure this process is efficient, protective, transparent, and based on the best available science.

May 9, 2019

Maine Wood Products Facility Settles EPA Toxic Chemical Right-to-Know Allegations
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) New England regional office has reached a settlement with a Maine wood products facility that will result in regular reporting about the facility's use of toxic chemicals.

May 8, 2019

U.S. EPA honors ProduceGood for leading food recovery efforts in San Diego County
As part of the Winning on Reducing Food Waste Initiative, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recognized Encinitas, California-based ProduceGood for its outstanding efforts in food recovery. This is the first Food Recovery Challenge award received by the nonprofit organization.

May 7, 2019

Trump Administration to Support Community Revitalization, Local Food Initiatives
In support of the Trump Administration’s Executive Order on Promoting Agriculture and Rural Prosperity in America, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) joined the U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Marketing Service and the Northern Border Regional Commission in announcing assistance to help 15 communities with revitalization strategies that boost the local economy, improve health, and protect the environment. The assistance is provided through Local Foods, Local Places (LFLP), a federal initiative that helps communities reinvest in existing neighborhoods and improve quality of life as they develop the local food economy. The communities include:

• Two Virginia communities -- Charlottesville & Pulaski -- In Charlottesville, the city and the Charlottesville Food Justice Network, in partnership with young people, residents, and local urban and rural farmers, are working to develop an integrated plan to advance food equity through affordable food markets and urban agriculture in low-income neighborhoods slated for future development. The town of Pulaski wants to explore how various food access and healthy living programs can contribute to ongoing downtown revitalization, including adaptive reuse of former industrial and manufacturing spaces.

• Russellville, AR -- The city of Russellville is interested in creating a culinary incubator in a former fire station in the Main Street district to support entrepreneurs and revitalize downtown. LFLP partner communities work with a team of agricultural, environmental, public health and regional economic development experts to set goals and identify local assets that can support the local food economy. Communities also develop an action plan and identify potential resources from the participating federal agencies to support implementation.

• Little Falls, Minnesota -- In Little Falls, Sprout MN will engage residents in downtown revitalization and economic development opportunities that support the local food economy.

• Indianapolis -- In Indianapolis, NEAR wants to increase access to affordable, healthy food while accelerating economic growth and neighborhood revitalization and putting former industrial spaces to use.

• Mt. Pulaski, Illinois -- In Mt. Pulaski, the Economic Development and Planning Board is working to create a local food hub, community food co-op, and a community garden on an underused empty lot to revitalize the downtown business district and support surrounding farms.

• Frankfort, Kentucky -- The city of Frankfort is seeking assistance to determine the best location for their farmers market and assess the feasibility of creating a commercial kitchen to improve downtown foot traffic and spur revitalization. The city hopes to spur economic development and tourism, which will create jobs, grow the city’s tax base, support neighborhood revitalization, and expand the middle class.

• Duluth, Minnesota -- In Duluth, Ecolibrium3 is working to expand community garden spaces to vacant lots, establish a commercial kitchen for neighborhood residents, and create a year-round, indoor food vendor to further neighborhood revitalization, improve food access, and increase economic activity.

• Malone, New York -- Through LFLP, a team of agricultural, environmental, public health and regional economic development experts will work directly with the Malone Chamber of Commerce and other community leaders to plan for a new downtown farmers market to increase foot traffic, offer a source of fresh food for residents, and provide a new retail outlet for area farmers.

• Peoria, Illinois -- Nestled along the Illinois River, the City of Peoria lies at the heart of the vibrant Central Illinois region. LFLP will assist the city and its partners in its efforts of wellness-focused community development, with a specific focus on the city’s South Side, creating an action-oriented plan that can be used for future projects and developments.

May 3, 2019

Final Rule Clarifying Toxicology Data Requirements for Antimicrobial Pesticides Used on Food Contact Surfaces
EPA issued a final rule clarifying data requirements for antimicrobial pesticides in 40 CFR Part 158 Subpart W (158W), making the registration process for these pesticides more efficient and transparent. View the final rule at www.regulations.gov, docket ID # EPA-HQ-OPP-2018-0668-0004.

May 1, 2019

EPA provides $3.8 million to Alaska and NW states and partners for diesel pollution reduction efforts
As we celebrate Air Quality Awareness week, clean diesel projects throughout the Northwest and Alaska are receiving a $3.8 million boost from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) grants program. 

EPA appoints Gregory Sopkin as Region 8 Administrator
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler announced the appointment of Gregory Sopkin of Colorado to become regional administrator for Region 8.  Mr. Sopkin will oversee environmental protection efforts in the states of Colorado, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming and in 27 Tribal Nations.

May 2019 Pesticide Registration Requests, Actions, and Tolerance Updates

• Notice of Receipt of Requests To Voluntarily Cancel Certain Pesticide Registrations -- In accordance with the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is issuing a notice of receipt of requests by registrants to voluntarily cancel certain pesticide registrations. EPA intends to grant these requests at the close of the comment period for this announcement unless the Agency receives substantive comments within the comment period that would merit its further review of the requests, or unless the registrants withdraw its requests. Comments must be received on or before June 28, 2019 (May 29)
• Product Cancellation Order for Certain Pesticide Registrations and Amendments To Terminate Uses; Correction -- EPA issued a notice in the Federal Register on March 19, 2019, concerning the cancellation of certain pesticide registrations and amendments to terminate uses (May 29)
• Clofentezine; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of clofentezine in or on guava (May 29)
• Pesticide Program Dialogue Committee; Request for Nominations to the Pesticide Program Dialogue Committee -- The Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) Office of Pesticide Programs is inviting nominations from a diverse range of qualified candidates to be considered for appointment to the Pesticide Program Dialogue Committee (PPDC). Nominations should be submitted no later than June 27, 2019 (May 28)
• Registration Review Proposed Interim Decisions for Several Pesticides; Notice of Availability -- announces the availability of EPA's proposed interim registration review decisions and opens a 60-day public comment period on the proposed interim decisions for the following pesticides: Aliphatic solvents, bispyribac-sodium, diclosulam, florasulam, flucarbazone-sodium, hydramethylnon, imazamox, imazapic, imazaquin, imazethapyr, penoxsulam, phosphorous acid and salts, polyoxin D zinc salts, and trifluralin. Comments must be received on or before July 23, 2019 (May 24)
• Notification of Submission to the Secretary of Agriculture; Protection of Human Research Subjects -- notifies the public as required by the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) that the EPA Administrator has forwarded to the Secretary of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) a draft regulatory document concerning protection of human research subjects. The draft regulatory document is not available to the public until after it has been signed and made available by EPA (May 24)
• Fluensulfone; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes and amends tolerances for residues of fluensulfone in or on multiple commodities which are identified and discussed later in this document (May 24)
• Information Collection Request Submitted to OMB for Review and Approval; Comment Request; Collection of Information on Anaerobic Digestion Facilities Processing Wasted Food To Support EPA's Sustainable Food Management Program (Revision) -- The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has submitted an information collection request (ICR), Collection of Information on Anaerobic Digestion Facilities Processing Wasted Food to support EPA's Sustainable Food Management Program (EPA ICR Number 2533.02, OMB Control Number 2050-0217) to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (May 22)
• Pesticide Product Registration; Receipt of Applications for New Active Ingredients -- EPA has received applications to register pesticide products containing active ingredients not included in any currently registered pesticide products. Pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is hereby providing notice of receipt and opportunity to comment on these applications. Comments must be received on or before June 20, 2019 (May 21)
• Product Cancellation Order for Certain Pesticide Registrations -- This notice announces EPA's order for the cancellations, voluntarily requested by the registrants and accepted by the Agency, of the products listed in Table 1 of Unit II, pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). (May 21)
• Product Cancellation Order for Certain Pesticide Registrations -- announces EPA's order for the cancellations, voluntarily requested by the registrants and accepted by the Agency, of the products listed in Table 1 of Unit II, pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA)(May 20)
• Pesticides; Draft Revised Method for National Level Endangered Species Risk Assessment Process for Biological Evaluations of Pesticides; Notice of Availability and Public Meeting -- The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking comment on a draft revised method for conducting national level threatened and endangered (listed) species biological evaluations (BEs) for pesticides. EPA is also announcing a public meeting on June 10, 2019, where EPA will present the draft revised method and provide an additional opportunity for the public to provide feedback. Meeting: The public meeting will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, Eastern Standard Time, on June 10, 2019 (May 16)
• Pesticides; Draft Guidance for Pesticide Registrants on Plant Regulator Label Claims, Including Plant Biostimulants; Extension of Comment Period -- In response to public requests for an extension of the comment period, EPA is extending the comment period for the draft guidance document that was released for public comment in the Federal Register of March 27, 2019, for an additional 60 days. Comments, identified by docket identification (ID) number EPA-HQ-OPP-2018-0258, must be received on or before July 28, 2019 (May 15)
• Interim Registration Review Decisions and Case Closures for Several Pesticides; Notice of Availability -- announces the availability of EPA's interim registration review decision for the following chemicals: 2,4-xylenol, Bacillus popilliae, barium metaborate, biobor, cyhalofop-butyl, emamectin benzoate, german cockroach pheromone, gibberellins, m-cresol, methyl eugenol, methyl isopropenyl, prodiamine, rhamnolipid biosurfactant, and salicylic acid (May 15)
• Glufosinate Ammonium; Pesticide Tolerances -- amends tolerances for residues of glufosinate ammonium in or on Olive; Fruit, Stone (crop group 12-12); Nuts, Tree (crop group 14-12) and Soybean Hulls (May 15)
• Registration Review; Draft Human Health and/or Ecological Risk Assessments for Several Pesticides; Notice of Availability -- announces the availability of EPA's draft human health and/or ecological risk assessments for the registration review of 2,4-DP-p, clopyralid, flumioxazin, and thiabendazole. Comments must be received on or before July 12, 2019 (May 13)
• Product Cancellation Order for Certain Pesticide Registrations and Amendments To Terminate Uses -- announces EPA's order for the cancellations and amendments to terminate uses, voluntarily requested by the registrants and accepted by the Agency, of the products listed in Table 1, Table 1A and Table 2 of Unit II, pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA)(May 13)
• Receipt of Several Pesticide Petitions Filed for Residues of Pesticide Chemicals in or on Various Commodities -- announces the Agency's receipt of several initial filings of pesticide petitions requesting the establishment or modification of regulations for residues of pesticide chemicals in or on various commodities. Comments must be received on or before June 12, 2019 (May 13)
• Pesticide Product Registration; Receipt of Applications for New Uses -- EPA has received applications to register new uses for pesticide products containing currently registered active ingredients. Pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is hereby providing notice of receipt and opportunity to comment on these applications. Comments must be received on or before June 10, 2019 (May 9)
• Mefentrifluconazole; Receipt of Applications for Emergency Exemptions, Solicitation of Public Comment -- EPA has received specific exemption requests from the North Dakota Department of Agriculture (NDA), the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) to use the fungicide mefentrifluconazole to treat up to 376,000 acres of sugarbeets to control Cercospora leaf spot disease (May 9)
• Receipt of Several Pesticide Petitions Filed for Residues of Pesticide Chemicals in or on Various Commodities -- announces the Agency's receipt of several initial filings of pesticide petitions requesting the establishment or modification of regulations for residues of pesticide chemicals in or on various commodities.Comments must be received on or before June 10, 2019 (May 9)
• Dinotefuran; Receipt of Application for Emergency Exemptions, Solicitation of Public Comment -- EPA has received specific exemption requests from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) to use the insecticide dinotefuran (CAS No. 165252-70-0) to treat up to 29,000 acres of pome fruits and stone fruits to control the brown marmorated stinkbug. Comments must be received on or before May 23, 2019 (May 8)
• Cyflumetofen; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of the insecticide cyflumetofen in or on tea, dried (May 8)
• Petition To Modify the Tolerance and Product Labels for Glyphosate With Regard to Oats; Notice of Filing -- EPA is seeking public comment on a September 27, 2018 petition from the Environmental Working Group (EWG), Ben & Jerry's Homemade, Inc., Happy Family Organics, MegaFood, MOM's Organic Market, National Co+op Grocers, Nature's Path Foods Inc., One Degree Organic Foods USA, Inc., and Stonyfield Farms, Inc. requesting that the agency reduce the tolerance of the pesticide glyphosate in or on oats and require glyphosate-containing product labels to explicitly prohibit preharvest use on oats. Comments must be received on or before June 5, 2019 (May 6)
• Proposed Information Collection Request; Comment Request; Pesticide Registration Application, Notification and Report for Pesticide-Producing Establishments -- The Environmental Protection Agency is planning to submit an information collection request (ICR), “Pesticide Registration Application, Notification and Report for Pesticide-Producing Establishments'' to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act. Comments must be submitted on or before July 5, 2019 (May 6)
• Glyphosate Proposed Interim Registration Review Decision; Notice of Availabilitys -- announces the availability of EPA's Proposed Interim Registration Review Decision for glyphosate and opens a 60-day public comment period on the proposed decision. Comments must be received on or before July 5, 2019 (May 6)
• Pesticides; Technical Amendment to Data Requirements for Antimicrobial Pesticides -- EPA is finalizing a correction pertaining to the “200 ppb (parts per billion) level” described in the antimicrobial pesticides data requirements regulation to clarify that the 200 ppb level is based on total estimated daily dietary intake for an individual and not on the amount of residue present on a single food, as was incorrectly implied by the previous regulatory text. This change is intended to enhance understanding of the data required to support an antimicrobial pesticide registration and does not alter the burden or costs associated with these previously-promulgated requirements (May 3)
• Bentazon; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes a tolerance for residues of bentazon in or on pea, dry, seed (May 1)

April 30, 2019

EPA Takes Next Step in Review Process for Herbicide Glyphosate, Reaffirms No Risk to Public Health 
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is taking an important step in the agency’s review of glyphosate. As part of this action, EPA continues to find that there are no risks to public health when glyphosate is used in accordance with its current label and that glyphosate is not a carcinogen.

April 29, 2019

U.S. EPA honors Food Forward for leading food recovery efforts nationwide
As part of Winning on Reducing Food Waste Month, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognized Food Forward for its outstanding efforts in food recovery. This is the fourth Food Recovery Challenge award received by the nonprofit organization.

April 26, 2019

Haskell Indian Nations University in Lawrence, Kansas, Earns Regional Award for Food Recovery Efforts
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognized Haskell Indian Nations University in Lawrence, Kansas, with a 2018 Food Recovery Challenge Regional Award. As part of EPA's Food Recovery Challenge, organizations pledge to improve their sustainable food management practices and report their results.

EPA Launches Smart Sectors Program in Pacific Southwest to Achieve Better Environmental Outcomes
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 9 office is announcing the launch of Smart Sectors Pacific Southwest, a partnership initiative between the agency and regulated business sectors that is focused on achieving better environmental outcomes. Based on the national Smart Sectors program, this approach provides a significant opportunity for EPA to consider more forward-thinking ways to protect the environment through collaboration and dialogue with key sectors of the economy in Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Pacific Islands, as well as with 148 tribes in the region.

April 25, 2019

EPA presents Mariners/T-Mobile Park with national award for food recovery
Thursday April 25, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Regional Administrator, Chris Hladick, will present the Seattle Mariners and T-Mobile Park with the agency’s 2018 Food Recovery Challenge National Award for the team’s efforts to reduce food waste. The presentation will occur on the field shortly before the Mariners game against the Texas Rangers.

April 24, 2019

EPA and federal partners seek public input on draft GLRI Action Plan III
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and its federal partners are seeking additional input from the public on developing the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) Action Plan III. The plan will outline priorities and goals for the GLRI for the years 2020-2024. Input will be received until May 24, 2019.

April 23, 2019

Kansas Dairy Ingredients of Hugoton, Kansas, Receives EPA Region 7 Pollution Prevention Award for Second Year in a Row
Kansas Dairy Ingredients, a dairy production facility in Hugoton, Kansas, received a second consecutive EPA Region 7 Pollution Prevention (P2) Award today during ceremonies at the Midwest Environmental Compliance Conference at the Kansas City Convention Center.

April 22, 2019

EPA Awards Oregon State University with the National Pesticide Information Center Cooperative Agreement
EPA has awarded a cooperative agreement to Oregon State University (OSU) to support the National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC), which provides the public with objective, science-based information on pesticide-related subjects through a website, toll-free telephone service, and outreach. Trained experts will respond to questions on the risks associated with pesticide use, restrictions on pesticide use, who to contact for regulatory enforcement, and how to report information on incidents. NPIC will also collect information on suspected incidents that callers give voluntarily.

April 19, 2019

Pesticide Program Dialogue Committee Meeting May 8-9, 2019
EPA’s Office of Pesticide Programs will hold a public meeting of the Pesticide Program Dialogue Committee (PPDC) on May 8-9, 2019. EPA will hold the meeting in the first-floor conference center at One Potomac Yard South, 2777 South Crystal Drive, Arlington, VA 22202. Read the Federal Register notice announcing the meeting.

April 18, 2019

EPA Seeks Public Input for Development of National Water Reuse Action Plan
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking public input on the development of an action plan to accelerate the application of water reuse as a safe, reliable, and sustainable way to meet the country’s current and future water demands.

April 15, 2019

EPA Solicits Proposals for Cooperative Agreement for the Pesticide Regulatory Education Program
EPA is soliciting applications to implement the Pesticide Regulatory Education Program (PREP) for FY 2020 through FY 2024. Eligible applicants include states, federally recognized Indian tribes, Alaska Native Villages, inter-tribal consortia and state and tribal institutions.   

FIFRA Scientific Advisory Panel Meeting on Proposed Guidelines for Efficacy Testing of Certain Flea and Tick Products
On April 15, 2019, EPA published a Federal Register notice announcing a meeting of the FIFRA Scientific Advisory Panel (SAP) on June 11-14, 2019. At the meeting the SAP will review EPA’s Proposed Guidelines for Efficacy Testing of Topically Applied Pesticides Used Against Certain Ectoparasitic Pests on Pets. Information on attending the meeting in person and via webcast can be found on the FIFRA SAP website.

April 12, 2019

EPA Proposes to Reduce TSCA Reporting Burden; Align Reporting with Amended TSCA
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing amendments to the Chemical Data Reporting (CDR) rule to better support Agency data collection efforts, align reporting with the Frank R. Lautenberg Chemical Safety for the 21st Century Act by requiring that confidentiality claims be substantiated, and make chemical reporting easier by streamlining complex submissions.

April 11, 2019

Trump Administration to Help Rural Communities Grow Recreation Economy
Today, in support of the Trump Administration’s Executive Order on Promoting Agriculture and Rural Prosperity in America, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) joined the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service and the Northern Border Regional Commission  in announcing assistance to help communities revitalize their economy through outdoor recreation.

EPA, DNREC, DHSS sign partnership agreement with Delaware State University to enhance environmental stewardship
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Delaware State University signed a renewed memorandum of understanding (MOU) to continue to work together to enhance research, teaching, outreach, career development, and stewardship in the environmental sciences at the university.

EPA Community Grants Available to Protect Public Health and the Environment in New England
The US Environmental Protection Agency is making grants available for New England communities to support EPA's "Back-to-Basics" agenda to reduce environmental risks, protect and improve human health and improve the quality of life. EPA New England's Healthy Communities Grant Program is accepting applications for projects that will benefit one or more New England communities. EPA plans to award about 10 cooperative agreements, for a total of approximately $250,000 under this funding opportunity. The deadline to submit applications is May 28.

April 9, 2019

EPA to Award $110,000 to Food Waste Management and Infrastructure Projects
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that the City of Madison, Wisconsin, Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation, and Washington State University’s Energy Program have been selected to receive funding for projects to help reduce food waste and loss and divert food waste from landfills by expanding anaerobic digester capacity in the United States. These projects further the federal government’s efforts set forth in the Winning on Reducing Food Waste Initiative.

EPA, USDA, and FDA Unveil Formal Strategy to Reduce Food Waste, Bring State and Local Partners Together to Increase Collaboration
As part of the Trump Administration’s Winning on Reducing Food Waste Month, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the release of a federal interagency strategy to address food waste. The agencies held an event at EPA headquarters to hear from state, local and community leaders and other stakeholders on how all levels of government can work together to reduce food waste.

EPA to Award $43,551 to Food Waste Management and Infrastructure Project in Vermont
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation was selected to receive funding for projects to help reduce food waste and loss and divert food waste from landfills by expanding anaerobic digester capacity in the United States. These projects further the federal government's efforts set forth in the Winning on Reducing Food Waste Initiative. 

EPA to Award $39,000 to Madison for Food Waste Management and Infrastructure Project
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that the City of Madison, Wis., has been selected to receive funding to evaluate an anaerobic digester program to divert wasted food from landfills. Madison’s project is one of three selected projects nationwide which further the federal government’s Winning on Reducing Food Waste Initiative.  

April 2, 2019

EPA, USDA, and FDA Recognize April as Winning on Reducing Food Waste Month
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) kick off Winning on Reducing Food Waste Month by calling for greater collaboration with public, private, and nonprofit partners as well as state and local officials to educate and engage consumers and stakeholders throughout the supply chain on the need to reduce food loss and waste.

April 2019 Pesticide Registration Requests, Actions, and Tolerance Updates

March 26, 2019

EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler Concludes Visit to Cincinnati
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler concluded his visit to Cincinnati, Ohio where he toured the Andrew W. Breidenbach Environmental Research Center and delivered the keynote address at the 28th Annual Business and Industry's Sustainability and Environmental Health and Safety Symposium.

March 25, 2019

EPA update on Bonita Peak Superfund site water treatment plant and sampling data
EPA released preliminary water quality sampling data related to the temporary shutdown of the Interim Water Treatment Plant at the Bonita Peak Mining District Superfund site at Gladstone, Colorado. EPA’s analysis confirms that there were no adverse impacts to downstream drinking water or agricultural users associated with the short-term shutdown of the plant based on data that indicate minimal to no changes in water quality at sampling points downstream of Silverton in Durango. There were no observed impacts to aquatic life. Any impacts to aquatic life would be limited to the Animas River near Silverton.

Assistant Administrator Issues Message about Protecting the Safety of our Farmworkers
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention (OCSPP) Assistant Administrator Alexandra Dunn issued a statement in response to National Farmworker Awareness Week: "Today marks the beginning of National Farmworker Awareness Week. We depend on over 2 million agricultural workers in the U.S. to feed families around the world. No farmworker should have to suffer harm caused by pesticide exposure. A serious farmworker injury changes lives forever, for families, friends and entire communities. The health and welfare of our farmworkers is also essential to our abundant and healthful food supply..." Read the Assistant Administrator's full statement.

March 21, 2019

New RT25 Data Will Help Beekeepers and Farmers Protect Pollinators
EPA is updating its Residual Time to 25% Bee Mortality (RT25) Data table with information the agency has collected since the table was first published in 2014. EPA published the RT25 data as one of many actions we have taken since 2006 to protect pollinators.

EPA Releases for Public Comment Draft Guidance for Plant Regulators, Including Plant Biostimulants
EPA is releasing for public comment Draft Guidance for Plant Regulators, Including Plant Biostimulants.

March 20, 2019

EPA Administrator Wheeler's Wilson Center Remarks on Global Water Issues
As Administrator of the U.S. EPA, I believe that water issues are the largest and most immediate environmental and public health issues affecting the world right now.

March 19, 2019

U.S. EPA honors MGM Resorts’ Bellagio Hotel and Casino for leading food recovery efforts nationwide
MGM Resorts International (MGM) was recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for its outstanding efforts in food recovery.

March 18, 2019

EPA extends application period for environmental educator awards
The application period has been extended for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Presidential Innovation Award for Environmental Educators (PIAEE).

March 15, 2019

EPA Launches Environmental Justice Training for States
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced training to build the capacity of states to integrate environmental justice into their decision-making process. Over the next year, EPA will conduct a national webinar series developed in collaboration with state partners.

March 11, 2019

EPA Applauds Presidential Signature of Key Pesticide Fees and Worker Protection Law
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention (OCSPP) Assistant Administrator Alexandra Dapolito Dunn issued the following statement in response to President Donald Trump signing into law S. 483, the “Pesticide Registration Improvement Extension Act of 2018,” also known as PRIA 4: “Since 2004, PRIA has been a key statute to ensuring timely review by EPA of pesticide registrations. PRIA 4 is supported by farmers and ranchers, environmental justice and worker protection organizations, and a broad array of manufacturers. EPA looks forward to implementing the new law to further the agency’s mission of protecting human health and the environment.”  

March 8, 2019

Paraquat Certified Applicator Training to Prevent Poisonings Now Available
A new certified applicator training module for paraquat dichloride (also known as paraquat) is now available. The training was developed by paraquat manufacturers as part of EPA’s 2016 risk mitigation requirements and approved by EPA.

March 4, 2019

Administrator Wheeler Announces New Staff Additions and Updated Assignments
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler announced new additions and assignments for EPA staff as he begins his first full week as Administrator following his Senate confirmation last Thursday.

March 1, 2019

Rescheduled Public Meeting - Environmental Modeling of Vapor-Phase Pesticides
EPA has rescheduled the Environmental Modeling Public Meeting to March 27, 2019. This meeting is a public forum for pesticide registrants, other stakeholders, and EPA to discuss current issues related to modeling pesticide fate, transport, and exposure for pesticide risk assessments in a regulatory context.  This meeting offers a forum for presentations on offsite exposure from vapor-phase pesticides.

March 2019 Pesticide Registration Requests, Actions, and Tolerance Updates

• Pesticides; Draft Guidance for Pesticide Registrants on Plant Regulator Label Claims, Including Plant Biostimulants; Notice of Availability -- announcing the availability of and seeking public comment on a draft guidance document entitled “Guidance for Plant Regulator Label Claims, Including Plant Biostimulants.” Guidance documents are issued by the Office of Pesticide Programs (OPP) to inform pesticide registrants and other interested persons about important policies, procedures, and registration related decisions, and serve to provide guidance to pesticide registrants and OPP personnel. This draft guidance document is intended to clarify that products with label claims that are considered to be plant regulator claims are subject to regulation as a pesticide.  Comments must be received on or before May 28, 2019 (March 27)
• Sulfometuron-methyl; Pesticide Tolerance -- establishes tolerances for residues of sulfometuron-methyl in or on sugarcane, cane (March 27)
• Potassium Chloride; Receipt of Application for Emergency Exemption, Solicitation of Public Comment -- received a quarantine exemption request from the Maryland Department of Agriculture to use the pesticide potassium chloride to treat Hyde's Quarry in Carroll County, Maryland, to control zebra mussels. The Applicant proposes the use of a new chemical which has not been registered by EPA as a pesticide. EPA is soliciting public comment before making the decision whether to grant the exemption. Comments must be received on or before April 9, 2019 (March 25)
• Notice of Receipt of Requests To Voluntarily Cancel Certain Pesticide Registrations -- EPA is issuing a notice of receipt of requests by registrants to voluntarily cancel certain pesticide registrations. EPA intends to grant these requests at the close of the comment period for this announcement unless the Agency receives substantive comments within the comment period that would merit its further review of the requests, or unless the registrants withdraw its requests. If these requests are granted, any sale, distribution, or use of the products listed in this notice will be permitted after the registrations have been cancelled only if such sale, distribution, or use is consistent with the terms as described in the final order. Comments must be received on or before April 24, 2019 (March 25)
• Mandipropamid; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of mandipropamid in or on multiple commodities which are identified and discussed later in this document (March 22)  
• Product Cancellation Order for Certain Pesticide Registrations and Amendments To Terminate Uses -- announces EPA's order for the cancellations and amendments to terminate uses, voluntarily requested by the registrants and accepted by the Agency pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) (March 19)  
• Pesticide Product Registration; Receipt of Applications for New Uses -- EPA has received applications to register new uses for pesticide products containing currently registered active ingredients. Pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is hereby providing notice of receipt and opportunity to comment on these applications. Comments must be received on or before April 17, 2019 (March 18)
• Registration Review Proposed Interim Decisions for Several Pesticides; Notice of Availability -- announces the availability of EPA's proposed interim registration review decisions and opens a 60-day public comment period on the proposed interim decisions for the following pesticides: Aviglycine hydrochloride, buprofezin, diflubenzuron, lufenuron, oxytetracycline, prohexadione calcium, pymetrozine, streptomycin, tebuthiuron, and thiobencarb. This notice also announces the availability of EPA's human health and ecological risk assessments for the pesticides oxytetracycline and streptomycin and opens a 60-day public comment period on the risk assessments. Comments must be received on or before May 17, 2019 (March 18)
• Pesticide Product Registration; Receipt of Applications for New Uses -- received applications to register new uses for pesticide products containing currently registered active ingredients. Pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is hereby providing notice of receipt and opportunity to comment on these applications. Comments must be received on or before April 17, 2019 (March 18)
• Pesticide Product Registration; Receipt of Applications for New Active Ingredients -- EPA has received applications to register pesticide products containing active ingredients not included in any currently registered pesticide products. Pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is hereby providing notice of receipt and opportunity to comment on these applications. Comments must be received on or before April 17, 2019 (March 18)  
• Pesticide Experimental Use Permit; Receipt of Application; Comment Request -- announces EPA's receipt of application requesting an experimental use permit (EUP) for chlormequat chloride. EPA has determined that the permit may be of regional or national significance. Therefore, because of the potential significance, EPA is seeking comments on this application. Comments must be received on or before April 17, 2019 (March 18)
• Interim Registration Review Decisions and Case Closures for Several Pesticides; Notice of Availability -- announces the availability of EPA's interim registration review decision for the following chemicals: Ammonia and Ammonium Sulfate, Azoxystrobin, Benfluralin, Chloropropham, Clomazone, Cytokinins, Dichlobenil, Diflufenzopyr and Diflufenzopyr-sodium, Fenhexamid, Fluopicolide, Fluridone, Indole-3-Butyric Acid, Indoxacarb, Naphthenate Salts, Nuranone, Prometryn, Spinetoram, Spinosad, Trifloxystrobin, and (Z)-9-tricosene. It also announces the amended interim decisions for Ethalfluralin and Hexazinone. In addition, it announces the closure of the registration review case for triforine because the last U.S. registrations for this pesticide have been canceled (March 18)
• Receipt of Several Pesticide Petitions Filed for Residues of Pesticide Chemicals in or on Various Commodities -- announces the Agency's receipt of several initial filings of pesticide petitions requesting the establishment or modification of regulations for residues of pesticide chemicals in or on various commodities. Comments must be received on or before April 17, 2019 (March 18)
• Receipt of Several Pesticide Petitions Filed for Residues of Pesticide Chemicals in or on Various Commodities -- announces the Agency's receipt of several initial filings of pesticide petitions requesting the establishment or modification of regulations for residues of pesticide chemicals in or on various commodities. Comments must be received on or before April 17, 2019 (March 18)
• Pesticide Maintenance Fee: Product Cancellation Order for Certain Pesticide Registrations -- announces EPA's order for the cancellations, voluntarily requested by the registrants and accepted by the Agency, of the products listed in Table 1 of Unit III., pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) (March 14)
• Methoxyfenozide; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of methoxyfenozide in or on imported tea.
• S-Metolachlor; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of S-metolachlor in or on multiple commodities which are identified and discussed later in this document (March 11).
• Notice of Receipt of Requests To Voluntarily Cancel Certain Pesticide Registrations and Amend Registrations To Terminate Certain Uses -- In accordance with the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is issuing a notice of receipt of requests by the registrants to voluntarily cancel certain pesticide product registrations and to amend certain product registrations to terminate uses. Comments must be received on or before April 4, 2019 (March 5)
• Notice of Receipt of Requests To Voluntarily Cancel Certain Pesticide Registrations -- In accordance with the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA is issuing a notice of receipt of requests by registrants to voluntarily cancel certain pesticide registrations. Comments must be received on or before September 3, 2019 (March 5)

February 28, 2019

U.S. EPA settles with E. & J. Gallo Winery of Fresno, Calif., over chemical safety violations
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reached a settlement with E. & J. Gallo Winery to resolve risk management violations at its wine production facility in Fresno, Calif. E. & J. Gallo Winery, the world’s largest privately held wine company, will pay a $57,839 civil penalty and spend an estimated $350,000 to reduce the risk of chemical accidents at its facility.

EPA Exhibit at 2019 Philadelphia Flower Show Highlights the Ecological Power of Flowers
This year’s Philadelphia Flower Show showcases the Power of Flowers, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s exhibit “E=mc2: Eco-Power” hits the mark.  The exhibit shows how elements of a formal garden such as using native plants and on-site water management techniques can help power an ecosystem while enhancing the landscape.

February 27, 2019

EPA Announces Development of Water Reuse Action Plan
At a water reuse workshop in San Francisco, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the development of a Water Reuse Action Plan that will leverage the expertise of both industry and government to ensure the effective use of the Nation’s water resources.

February 21, 2019

Extension for Complying with Certain Antimicrobial Product Performance Test Guidelines to August 28, 2019
EPA is extending the testing compliance implementation deadline by six months for three final guidelines. EPA announced the availability of final test guidelines for “Series 810 – Product Performance Test Guidelines: Group B – Antimicrobial Efficacy Test Guidelines” on February 28, 2018. The Product Performance 810 Efficacy guidelines are a series of documents that provide recommendations for the design and execution of laboratory studies to evaluate the effectiveness of antimicrobial pesticides that work against public health pests.

U.S. EPA orders Greka to study potential hazardous waste releases at Santa Maria, Calif. Refinery
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ordered Greka to conduct sampling at its Santa Maria, Calif. refinery to determine whether improper storage and management of hazardous wastes contaminated local soil and groundwater. Greka’s Santa Maria facility is surrounded by agricultural land and close to residential neighborhoods of Santa Maria and Guadalupe.

February 19, 2019

Information Collection Request Submitted to OMB for Review and Approval; Comment Request; Agricultural Worker Protection Standard Training, Notification, and Recordkeeping (Renewal)
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has submitted the following information collection request (ICR) to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA): “Agricultural Worker Protection Standard Training, Notification, and Recordkeeping” (EPA ICR Number 2491.04 and OMB Control Number 2070-0190).

February 13, 2019

EPA Acting Administrator Wheeler Signs MOU with National FFA Organization to Enhance Environmental Education
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Acting Administrator Andrew Wheeler signed a first-time Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the National FFA Organization to advance educational outreach for EPA’s ongoing environmental and public health initiatives. 

February 6, 2019

EPA and Army Announce Public Hearing on Proposed New “Waters of the United States” Definition
Following President Trump’s directive to provide certainty to American farmers and landowners so that the economy can continue to expand while waters are protected, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of the Army (Army) are moving to the next steps in proposing a new definition of the “Waters of the United States.” EPA and the Army will hold a public hearing on the proposed new “Waters of the United States” definition in Kansas City with sessions on February 27 and 28, 2019. All persons wanting to speak are encouraged to register in advance. EPA and the Army will also hold an informational webcast on February 14, 2019.

EPA Acting Administrator Wheeler Promotes President Trump's State of the Union Address In GA
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Acting Administrator Andrew Wheeler visited Georgia today to promote President Trump's successful State of the Union address. While meeting with local and state officials at McCorkle Nursery in Dearing, Georgia, Acting Administrator Wheeler discussed EPA's ongoing efforts to redefine the “Waters of the United States” rule as well as EPA's efforts to improve America's infrastructure through reforms in the Agency and direct funding through EPA's Water Infrastructure Financing and Innovation Act (WIFIA) program. Finally he unveiled EPA's new nutrient reduction policy.

February 5, 2019

EPA’s Chemical Safety Office Launches Twitter Account
EPA’s Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention (OCSPP) is excited to talk about what’s going on in our office and share our work with everyone. To help with that we’ve launched a Twitter account, @EPAChemSafety. Follow this account for the latest news on chemicals and pesticides, updates on our chemical review initiatives under TSCA, information on upcoming webinars and public meetings, and much more. 

February 1, 2019

Applications Now Being Accepted for K-12 Student and Teacher Awards
Applications are now being accepted for the President’s Environmental Youth Award (PEYA) and The Presidential Innovation Award for Environmental Educators Award (PIAEE).

EPA Signs MOU with The Water Research Foundation Advancing Nutrient Management Efforts
As part of the Trump Administration’s commitment to protecting America’s waters through smart partnerships and market-based approaches, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with The Water Research Foundation (WRF) to accelerate progress on reducing excess nutrients in the nation’s waterways.

February 2019 Pesticide Registration Requests, Actions, and Tolerance Updates

• Abamectin; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of abamectin in or on bananas and tea (February 27)
• Waxes and Waxy Substances, Rice Bran, Oxidized; Exemption From the Requirement of a Tolerance -- establishes an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of waxes and waxy substances, rice bran, oxidized when used as an inert ingredient in pesticide formulations applied to growing crops and raw agricultural commodities after harvest, on animals, and in antimicrobial formulations (food-contact surface sanitizing solutions) (February 26)
• Trifluralin; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes tolerances for residues of trifluralin in or on rosemary fresh leaves, rosemary dried leaves, and rosemary oil (February 15)
• Trifloxystrobin; Pesticide Tolerances -- establishes a tolerance for residues of trifloxystrobin in or on flax seed and amends an existing tolerance for aspirated grain fractions (February 15)
• Product Cancellation Order for Certain Pesticide Registrations and Amendments To Terminate Uses -- announces EPA's order for the cancellations and amendments to terminate uses, voluntarily requested by the registrants and accepted by the Agency, of the products listed in Table 1 and Table 2 of Unit II, pursuant to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) (February 14)
• Pesticide Emergency Exemptions; Agency Decisions and State and Federal Agency Crisis Declarations -- EPA has granted emergency exemptions under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) for use of pesticides as listed in this notice. The exemptions were granted during the period of April 1, 2018 to September 30, 2018 to control unforeseen pest outbreaks (February 14)
• Glycine betaine; Exemption From the Requirement of a Tolerance -- establishes an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of glycine betaine when used as an inert ingredient (plant nutrient) in pesticide formulations applied to growing crops only (February 7)
• Receipt of Several Pesticide Petitions Filed for Residues of Pesticide Chemicals in or on Various Commodities -- This document announces the Agency's receipt of several initial filings of pesticide petitions requesting the establishment or modification of regulations for residues of pesticide chemicals in or on various commodities. Comments must be received on or before March 8, 2019 (February 6)
• Fenoxaprop-ethyl, Flufenpyr-ethyl, Imazapyr, Maleic hydrazide, Pyrazon, Quinclorac, Triflumizole, et al.; Proposed Tolerance and Tolerance Exemption Actions -- EPA is proposing to revoke certain tolerances for fenoxaprop-ethyl, flufenpyr-ethyl, maleic hydrazide, pyrazon, and quinclorac in follow up to canceled products or where a commodity is no longer a significant livestock feed item or a tolerance is no longer needed. Comments must be received on or before February 5, 2019 (February 5)
• Approval of State Plans for Designated Facilities and Pollutants; Missouri; Diammonium Phosphate Fertilizer Units -- proposing to rescind the current state plan and associated regulation and accept the negative declaration submitted by the State of Missouri for Diammonium Phosphate Fertilizer units. Comments must be received on or before March 4, 2019 (February 1)

January 31, 2019

EPA Appoints New Members to the Science Advisory Board and Subcommittees
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Acting Administrator Andrew Wheeler announced the appointment of members who will serve on the Science Advisory Board (SAB) and four subcommittees including; the Agricultural Science Committee (ASC), the Chemical Assessment Advisory Committee (CAAC), the Drinking Water Committee (DWC), and the Radiation Advisory Committee (RAC).  

January 28, 2019

EPA Releases 2018 Year in Review Highlighting Agency Accomplishments and Environmental Progress under President Trump & Acting Administrator Andrew Wheeler
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released the2018 Year in Review outlining major accomplishments and environmental progress during the Trump Administration.