Background
The Federal Register notice (FRN) is asking the public to comment on the effects of ocean acidification as it relates to the Section 303(d) program. EPA is soliciting specific input on what considerations EPA should take into account when deciding how to address listing of waters as threatened or impaired for ocean acidification under the Section 303(d) program. If EPA issues guidance on the listing of waters as threatened or impaired for ocean acidification, the Agency is using this opportunity to ask for input on what are the specific elements EPA should consider in regards to monitoring and assessment. Other questions EPA is requesting comment on include:
- How can States or EPA otherwise aid in monitoring ocean acidification and its impacts on marine life and ecosystems?
- If waters were determined to be threatened or impaired for ocean acidification under 303(d), what issues should EPA and States take into account when considering how to address TMDL development for such waters?
- What other Federal ocean acidification programs and initiatives should EPA take into account when deciding how to approach ocean acidification under the 303(d) program?
By November 15, 2010, EPA will complete a memorandum that describes how EPA intends to proceed with its Section 303(d) program in light of the comments received from the Federal Register notice. EPA is not required to pursue any type of rulemaking after considering all the comments.
Comments from the public are due 60 days after the solicitation is published in the Federal Register. We anticipate it will be published on Monday, March 22, 2010.
EPA, 19 March 2010. Article and Federal Register Notice.
