http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/kilmer-herrera-beutler-urge-inclusion-of-fisheries-funds-in_administrations-disaster-relief-request
WASHINGTON, D.C. –Yesterday, Representatives Derek Kilmer (WA-06) and Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) led a bipartisan letter urging the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to develop a supplemental funding request to address the multiple fishery disaster declarations that have impacted Washington State’s commercial, recreational, and tribal fisheries.
In their letter, addressed to OMB Director Mick Mulvaney, the lawmakers said: “As we continue to assist those who have been so severely impacted by our unprecedented national disasters, we must not forget those who have suffered no less under previous disaster declarations. We strongly urge you to work with these communities to ascertain and fully address the unmet economic damages caused by these past disasters as an additional supplemental request is developed.”
Since 2014, the region’s fisheries have been devastated by multiple natural disasters including persistent harmful algal blooms and a devastating pocket of warm water, known as “the blob,” which has been attributed to devastating fish and bird die-offs, whale strandings and other environmental consequences.
These natural disasters have caused severe economic hardship in Washington, Alaska, Oregon, and California, where the lives and livelihoods of local communities depend on the health of these fisheries. According to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, commercial and recreational fishing supports an estimated 16,374 jobs and $540 million in personal income.
This funding request seeks to build on the $20 million the lawmakers secured when the House of Representatives passed H.R. 3354, the Make America Secure and Prosperous Act in September.
House Passes Evidence-Based Policy Legislation Which Includes Key Kilmer-Drafted Provision to Make Data More Transparent and Accessible--Congressman Kilmer press release issued 11/ 15/ 17
http://kilmer.house.gov/news/press-releases/house-passes-evidence-based-policy-legislation-which-includes-key-kilmer-drafted-provision-to-make-data-more-transparent-and-accessible
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the House of Representatives passed the Foundations for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act which includes a provision written by cosponsor Representative Derek Kilmer (D-WA) to make data more transparent. If passed by the Senate and signed into law, the measure would require federal agencies to designate a Chief Data Officer and establish data inventories to make data more available to the public while safeguarding private information.
The bill originated from Kilmer’s bipartisan, bicameral Open, Public, Electronic and Necessary (OPEN) Government Data Act which requires public data to be made available in a format computers recognize so people, organizations and other government offices can search it easily. That bill also includes a measure to protect privacy and national security information when making federal government data available to the public and when federal agencies use data to improve decision-making.
“Government data that’s easy to find helps Americans invent new technology, start businesses and create jobs,” Representative Derek Kilmer said. “From the Internet to more accurate GPS, the best advancements are made when the government’s data is available to all the people who paid for it. Congress gets more done when it works together, and I am glad the House leadership included my bill, the OPEN Government Data Act in this legislation.”
Speaker of the House Paul Ryan commended Rep. Kilmer for his work on the legislation. Today on the Floor of the House of Representatives Speaker Ryan said, “Blake Farenthold and Derek Kilmer were key drivers of this measure, and they made it stronger by incorporating their Open Government Data Act.”
Kilmer has been working hard to make government data more available to the public so it can be used in a wider variety of formats. Current examples include how the weather data powering apps on smartphones currently comes from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency (NOAA). Additionally, The Department of Education maintains a College Scorecard so consumers can compare schools, see which institutions provide the best price, and calculate potential financial aid.
The OPEN Government Data Act was originally introduced by Representatives Kilmer and Blake Farenthold (R-TX) along with Senators Brian Schatz (D-HI) and Ben Sasse (R-NE). Kilmer’s work on open data was endorsed by the Sunlight Foundation, the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF), and the Data Coalition.
Kilmer has consistently sought to enact open data policies into law. The OPEN Government Data Act was included as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) the Senate recently passed. In March the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee reviewed and discussed the data bill.
This is the most recent in a trio of bills passed by the House that included a Kilmer-drafted policy. Last Monday, the House passed the VA Management Alignment Act of 2017, a Kilmer-sponsored bill which would direct the head of the VA to report to Congress the steps required to reorganize the VA so it improves veterans’ access to quality health care. The House also passed H.R. 918, the Veteran Urgent Access to Mental HealthCare Act, which was originally sponsored by Rep. Mike Coffman in partnership with Kilmer. That bill allows veterans with an other than honorable discharge attributable to a health issue like PTSD or a traumatic brain injury to receive mental health care from the VA. The Congressman wrote extensively on that issue in a recent op-ed.
After Troubling Coverage Gap Discovered in VA Care, Senator Murray Introduces Fix to Better Serve Veterans with Newborn Babies Needing Emergency Transportation
Press release issued 11/ 16/ 17
https://www.murray.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/newsreleases?ContentRecord_id=AA8C91BD-26B7-4344-9DA0-F03223F620AE
(Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, introduced legislation to make clear the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has the authority to cover the costs of medically-necessary emergency transportation services for newborn babies of certain women veterans. Senator Murray took action after multiple reports of new mothers being stuck with thousands of dollars in bills because of a narrow interpretation of current law by VA.
“The idea that emergency transportation to get newborn infants into emergency care would not be covered by VA is a shocking and needless gap in care,” said Senator Murray. “We must ensure no veteran ever faces a surprise bill like this, especially new moms dealing with an emergency situation.”
In addition to ensuring that VA has the authority to cover medically-necessary emergency transportation, the legislation would:
Close a loophole on delivery location requirements that would potentially nullify an otherwise qualified newborn’s access to VA covered medical care
Expand the seven days of VA provided newborn medical care (through a waiver process) for a medically necessary extension
Remove unnecessary burdens on the veteran during the billing process
Waive any outstanding debts associated with medically-necessary emergency transportation services for a newborn incurred by the veteran
In 2008, Senator Murray introduced S. 2799, the Women Veterans Health Care Improvement Act of 2008 which, when ultimately enacted into law as part of the Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2010, originally gave VA authority to provide care for newborn babies born to women veterans.
UTC: State takes action against four illegal moving companies
https://www.utc.wa.gov/aboutUs/Lists/News/DispForm.aspx?ID=484
OLYMPIA, Wash. – State regulators took action against four residential moving companies that have been operating without permits in Washington.
An administrative law judge at the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission ordered the four moving companies to stop providing residential moving services until they obtain the required permit.
SeaTac-based Bogdan Delivery, owned by Bogdan Momotyuk, received a $5,000 penalty, of which $4,000 was suspended on the condition that the company does not operate without a permit.
Arlington-based You Got It Movers, owned by James Moseley, received a $5,000 penalty, of which $4,000 was suspended on the condition that the company does not operate without a permit.
Brier-based Royal Moving, owned by Jake Theis, received a $5,000 penalty, of which $4,500 was suspended on the condition that the company does not operate without a permit.
Federal Way-based Ready2Move and Haul, aka Won’t Stop Moving, owned by Christopher Neal, was held in default for failing to appear at its hearing and was assessed a $5,000 penalty.
The commission urges consumers to use caution before hiring a mover. Prior to moving, consumers should:
• Call the commission at 1-888-333-WUTC (9882) to verify the mover’s permit status and complaint history;
• Compare costs by getting at least two written estimates;
• Check online reviews and complaints about the mover;
• Know the mover’s full name, address, and phone number; and
• Get a written, signed inventory list from the company of all belongings being transported.
The UTC is the state’s watchdog agency in charge of enforcing consumer protection and safety regulations for more than 200 residential moving companies operating within the state. Movers must charge appropriate rates, carry proper insurance, and keep their vehicles safely maintained. The commission does not regulate interstate moving companies.
(page 2)
OUR PARKS AND FOREST
NEWS FROM THE US DEPT. OF INTERIORNonprofit Sought to Coordinate U.S.A.’s 250th Anniversary Commemoration
Press release issued 11/ 15/ 17
https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/nonprofit-sought-coordinate-usas-250th-anniversary-commemoration
WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Department of the Interior issued a Request for Proposal seeking a nonprofit partner to serve as secretariat and administrator of the United States Semiquincentennial Commission. The commission was established by Congress last year to coordinate and facilitate activities in 2026 to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. The nonprofit will raise funds for the commission’s work, prepare reports required by Congress, and provide administrative and financial support to the commission.
The commission, acting through the secretariat, will coordinate observances and activities related to the semiquincentennial, including special events, scholarly works, artistic displays, and historical exhibits. They will consult and cooperate with appropriate Federal agencies, State and local public bodies, learned societies, and historical, patriotic, philanthropic, civic, professional, and related organizations.
The 33-member commission is comprised of eight members of Congress, 16 private citizens, and nine non-voting ex officio federal officials. The commission is required by law to submit a comprehensive report to the president no later than July 22, 2018, that includes the specific recommendations for the commemoration of the 250th anniversary and related events.
The selected nonprofit organization, acting as secretariat for the commission, will perform duties which include:
Serving as the commission’s point of contact for all State, local, international and private sector initiatives regarding the Semiquincentennial of the founding of the United States, with the purpose of coordinating and facilitating all fitting and proper activities honoring the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.
Raising all funds required for the commission’s work. All expenditures of the commission shall be made solely from these donated funds.
Providing the commission financial and administrative services, including services related to budgeting, accounting and financial reporting, personnel, and procurement. Payments to provide these services shall be made in advance, or by reimbursement, from funds of the commission in such amounts as may be agreed on by the chairperson of the commission and the secretariat of the commission.
Housing the administrative offices of the commission. The administrative offices must be located in Washington, DC.
Organizing meetings for the commission. The Act states that all meetings shall be convened at Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Preparing an annual report detailing the commission’s activities, including an accounting of funds received and expended during the year covered by the report. The commission must submit this report once each year during the period beginning July 22, 2016 and ending on December 31, 2027.
Further information regarding this opportunity and bid instructions are contained in the request for proposal informational document, available here. Questions about this request for proposal can be submitted to NPS_BPC@nps.gov through November 28, 2017. NPS will provide responses to the submitted questions by December 1, 2017, and all proposals are due by December 29, 2017.
A panel will evaluate the proposals and provide a recommendation to the Secretary of the Interior, who will make the final selection.
Secretary Zinke Applauds President Trump’s Nomination of Tim Petty for Interior Department
Press release issued 11/ 14/ 17
https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/secretary-zinke-applauds-president-trumps-nomination-tim-petty-interior-department
WASHINGTON – Yesterday, President Donald J. Trump announced the nomination of Dr. Timothy R. Petty to be the Assistant Secretary for Water and Science at the U.S. Department of the Interior. U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke cheered the nomination. The Assistant Secretary for Water and Science is responsible for overseeing the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (USBR).
Dr. Petty currently serves as Deputy Legislative Director and Legislative Assistant on issues of water, natural resources, environment, science, technology and telecommunications and space for U.S. Senator James E. Risch of Idaho, a member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Previously, Dr. Petty served as Acting Assistant Secretary and Deputy Assistant Secretary for Water & Science at DOI under President George W. Bush.
“Dr. Tim Petty brings years of quality service and experience to the team at the Department, and we could not be happier with the President’s choice for the position,” said Secretary Zinke. “Dr. Petty has served as the Acting Assistant Secretary and Deputy Assistant Secretary for Water & Science at the Department before, and we are excited to put him back to work for the American people in the Trump Administration.”
“I am grateful to President Trump and his administration for this opportunity to serve at the Department of Interior,” said Dr. Tim Petty. “Secretary Zinke has a clear vision for addressing our nation’s water and earth science challenges, and I would be humbled to work alongside him to advance responsible solutions.”
“Throughout Tim Petty’s eight years of service in my office, he has proven his background in and deep understanding of the complex nexus of water and science,” said Senator James Risch. “I can’t imagine a more qualified individual than Tim to support the Secretary of the Interior as Assistant Secretary for Water & Science. I don’t feel my office is losing his incredible talent, rather our country is gaining it and will be exceptionally served under his leadership.”
“As a member of Senator Risch’s staff, Dr. Petty has intimate knowledge of Idaho’s water rights and the legal status of state control over water within our borders,” said Senator Mike Crapo. “Idahoans, and water users in general, are getting the right nominee for Interior in Dr. Petty.”
“I applaud Secretary Zinke on his nomination of Tim Petty for Assistant Secretary for Water and Science at DOI,” said Congressman Mike Simpson. “There is no doubt in my mind that Tim’s experience at DOI and in Congress will serve the agency well. It is also great for Idaho that someone with such direct knowledge of the issues in our state will be leading the way on solutions. I look forward to working with Tim and congratulate him on his nomination.” (read more from the link source)
Secretary Zinke & BLM invite sportsmen to enjoy upcoming deer season at the Sabinoso Wilderness
Press release issued 11/ 13/ 14
https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/secretary-zinke-blm-invite-sportsmen-enjoy-upcoming-deer-season-sabinoso-wilderness
Taos, N.M. – U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke and the Bureau of Land Management are pleased to announce that the Sabinoso Wilderness – which contains some of the most pristine habitat in the country for elk, mule deer, and other wildlife – is for the first time ever accessible to the public for hunting, fishing, and other recreational activities. The 16,000-acre Sabinoso was previously wholly surrounded by non-federal land, making it inaccessible to the general public. However, a donation of 3,595 acres (formerly known as the Rimrock Rose Ranch) that are adjacent to Sabinoso Wilderness was accepted by the Secretary and is now public.
"I'm happy to announce today the Sabinoso Wilderness Area is finally open and accessible to hunters and all members of the public for the first time ever," said Secretary Zinke. "Expanding access to hunting, fishing, and recreation on federal lands is one of my top priorities as Secretary. I originally had concerns about adding more wilderness-designated area, however after hiking and riding the land it was clear that access would only be improved. Thanks to the donation of a private organization, we we continue to move toward delivering this nonpartisan win for sportsmen and the community."
“The BLM strives to be a good neighbor in the communities we serve, and along with our partners we are pleased to better connect the public to the Sabinoso,” said Acting BLM Director Michael D. Nedd. “This action will provide folks with exceptional opportunities for hunting and fishing, as well as outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and backcountry camping in a pristine environment.”
"The Mule Deer Foundation commends Secretary Zinke on the completion of this project which will go a long way toward expanding and enhancing opportunities to access otherwise difficult to reach lands," said Miles Moretti, President/CEO of MDF. "This is yet another example of Secretary Zinke's execution of a pro-sportsman policy agenda which he announced immediately upon being sworn in to his position."
“For years, hunters and anglers have called on Congress and federal agencies to help us gain access to landlocked public lands. We applaud Secretary Zinke for his commitment to this priority and look forward to ‘unlocking the gate’ so that America’s sportsmen and women can experience what the Sabinoso has to offer by truly ‘Making Public Lands Public’,” said Jeff Crane, President of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation. (for more read link source)
AT THE STATE LEVEL
WDFW evaluates deer at rescue facility after euthanizing 4 habituated animals
Press release 11/ 13/ 17
http://wdfw.wa.gov/news/nov1317a/
(read full statement on link source)
OLYMPIA – State wildlife managers are evaluating the behavior of 11 young deer at a licensed wildlife rehabilitation center in Thurston County, where they euthanized three fawns and an elk calf last week after finding those animals had become habituated to humans.
An initial investigation found that the operators of the For Heaven's Sake Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation in Rochester had violated the terms of their state permit and have been prohibited from caring for deer, elk, or other large animals in the future.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is now trying to determine whether the remaining deer at the facility also have become too tame to release into the wild and – if so – whether new homes can be found for them.
Eric Gardner, head of the WDFW Wildlife Program, said the department has tentatively placed up to six female fawns in a longstanding nutritional study at Washington State University, but that no other qualified facilities have agreed to adopt the remaining animals since the problem was discovered in late September.
"This is a tough situation for everyone involved," he said. "The department licenses wildlife rehabilitators to prepare sick, injured and orphaned animals for release back into the wild, but those animals have virtually no chance of surviving if they become habituated to humans."
Gardner said habituated wildlife can also pose a threat to public safety, citing the example of a habituated buck deer that gored two people during a marathon run in Davenport, Wash., last month.
Rockport State Park hosts guided hikes, Junior Ranger activities through the winter
Press release issued 11/ 13/ 14
http://parks.state.wa.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=351
(read more on link source)
OLYMPIA – Nov. 13, 2017 –The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission invites the public to experience an ancient forest this winter at Rockport State Park, through guided hikes, educational programming and interpretive activities for all ages.
The Deep Forest Experience will take place between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from Dec. 1, 2017 to Feb. 18, 2018 at Rockport State Park, 51905 State Route 20, Rockport. (Directions)
Guided hikes depart from the Discovery Center at 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m. and 2 p.m.
Rockport State Park staff and volunteers will lead half-mile, 45-minute walks under a dense canopy of maple trees and old growth fir, cedar and hemlock. Many of the Rockport trees are more than 400 years old and top out at 250 feet. They include the 500-year old Grandmother Cedar.
During the walks, interpretive staff and guest speakers will discuss the ecosystems that keep forests healthy, including salmon-bearing streams, bird and animal scat and mycorrhizal fungi.
Participants are encouraged to dress for cold, wet, winter weather, including suitable footwear.
Visitors can also duck into the family-friendly Discovery Center, enjoy free refreshments and hot cocoa by the woodstove, explore interactive displays, watch nature videos, read books and make crafts.
Rockport will also offer Junior Ranger programs this winter, which combine age-appropriate opportunities for children to learn, play and protect natural spaces. Junior Rangers are encouraged to complete the Junior Ranger activity booklet as well as attend a guided hike. Booklets are available at the Discovery Center, and activities are suitable for children age five and older.
(page 3)
OUR ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
NEWS FROM THE EPA:
U.S. Seafoods to take action to prevent further releases of ozone-depleting substances in Alaska
Press release issued 11/ 16. 17
https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/us-seafoods-take-action-prevent-further-releases-ozone-depleting-substances-alaska
SEATTLE – U.S. Seafoods of Seattle will implement enhanced leak detection practices and replace freezer equipment to address violations of the Clean Air Act resulting from releases of ozone-depleting substances from two of its fish processing vessels in Alaska.
EPA investigators discovered that in 2012 the freezers on two vessels owned by U.S. Seafoods -- the F/V Seafreeze Alaska and the F/V Alliance -- were leaking an ozone-depleting refrigerant called R-22. EPA found that the vessel owners and operators failed to repair the leaks in a timely manner and failed to confirm that the freezers were not leaking when finally repaired.
Releases of refrigerants like R-22 deplete stratospheric ozone and violate requirements under the Clean Air Act National Recycling and Emission Reduction Program. The National Recycling and Emission Reduction Program governs the management of ozone-depleting substances and implements the United States’ mandates under the 1991 Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.
The ozone layer protects the earth and its inhabitants from the adverse effects of ultra-violet or UV radiation which is known to cause cancers, immune system suppression, and cataracts. In addition, excessive UV radiation can harm crops, plankton production, and the marine food chain.
U.S. Seafoods will pay a $135,000 penalty, replace some or all of its current R‑22 freezers with units that use ammonia, and retire those not replaced. The company will also implement enhanced leak detection and repair practices.
$1.29 Million Awarded in Grants to Improve the Health and Ecosystem of Long Island Sound
Press release issued 11/ 16/ 17
https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/129-million-awarded-grants-improve-health-and-ecosystem-long-island-sound
Stratford Point, CT – Today, top federal and state environmental officials announced 20 grants totaling $1.29 million to local government and community groups to improve the health and ecosystem of Long Island Sound. Eighteen projects, totaling $1.2 million benefit Connecticut. Two projects totaling $83,000 benefit the New England states of Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont.
The projects, which are funded through the Long Island Sound Futures Fund, will restore 39 acres of habitat for fish and wildlife including coastal forest, grassland, river, and tidal marshes. This grant program combines funds from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA), and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF).
"Protecting Long Island Sound is a priority for EPA," said Deb Szaro, Acting Regional Administrator, U.S. EPA, Region 1. "These projects will support vital and diverse initiatives throughout the region. We must all work to improve water quality and reduce pollution in the Long Island Sound watershed, while involving the public in protecting one of our natural treasures."
The Long Island Sound Futures Fund 2017 grants will reach more than 870,000 residents through environmental and conservation education programs. Water quality improvement projects will treat 439,000 gallons of water runoff, reducing more than 15,600 pounds of nitrogen, and collecting 2,800 pounds of floating trash. The grants will be matched by $1.1 million from the grantees resulting in $2.45 million in funding for on-the-ground conservation in Connecticut and New England.
"One of the greatest environmental challenges facing our nation and its communities is the protection and restoration of highly productive estuaries," said Jeff Trandahl, Executive Director and CEO, NFWF. "This year, funded projects will help youth become stewards of the outdoors and introduce them to wildlife in their schoolyards. Additionally, work will help restore the health of our rivers, coastal marshes, forests and grasslands for the benefit of fish, wildlife and to enhance the strength of coastal communities."
The Long Island Sound Study initiated the Long Island Sound Futures Fund in 2005 through the U.S. EPA's Long Island Sound Office and NFWF. To date the Futures Fund has invested $17 million in 380 projects. With grantee match of $33 million, the program generated $50 million for locally based conservation. The projects have opened up 157 river miles for fish passage, restored 1,090 acres of critical fish and wildlife habitat and open space; treated 202 million gallons of pollution, and educated and engaged 3 million people from communities surrounding the sound. (more at the link source)
EPA, New York State and Montgomery County, N.Y. Work Together to Remove Asbestos at Beech-Nut Nutrition Corp. Superfund Site, Canajoharie, N.Y.
Press release issued 11/ 16/ 17
https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-new-york-state-and-montgomery-county-ny-work-together-remove-asbestos-beech-nut
(New York, N.Y.) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Montgomery County have entered into a voluntary agreement today to address asbestos contamination at the former Beech-Nut Nutrition Corp. plant in the Village of Canajoharie, New York.
EPA began its assessment of the site in 2015. EPA’s assessment found extensive asbestos contamination, including in numerous outdoor debris piles left behind after prior demolition efforts. EPA took several actions to stabilize the site, including using a special spray to keep the asbestos intact and avoid exposure to the community. The agreement between EPA and Montgomery County was reached after Beech-Nut Nutrition Corp. and B & B Recycling, LLC refused to comply with an EPA Superfund order that required asbestos removal work that the county has now agreed to undertake.
Under the agreement, Montgomery County will remove over 2500 tons of material consisting of the debris piles, a roll-off container, and certain partial exterior walls, as well as certify that no residual asbestos remains in these areas after removal. The county will use grant funding to address the asbestos contamination that EPA determined needed to be properly removed and disposed.
“I commend County Executive Matthew Ossenfort and the Montgomery County Legislators for their leadership and commitment to protecting the community and public health. This agreement is a great example of what can be accomplished when federal, state and local governments work together,” said Pete Lopez, EPA Regional Administrator. “Even though the county is not legally responsible for cleaning up this site, we are so pleased that we found a willing partner to be part of the solution. This unique approach reinforces EPA’s nationwide efforts to reform and streamline the Superfund process to make it work better for communities.”
EPA and Montgomery County will coordinate with New York State during the cleanup. EPA is evaluating its enforcement options related to Beech-Nut Nutrition Corp. and B & B Recycling, LLC.
The Superfund program is a cornerstone of the work that the EPA performs for citizens and communities across the country. On July 25, 2017 Administrator Pruitt accepted recommendations from the task force established on May 22, 2017 to revitalize the Superfund program. “My goal as Administrator is to restore the Superfund program to its rightful place at the center of the agency’s core mission.”
The task force’s recommendations focused on five overarching goals: expediting cleanup and remediation, reinvigorating cleanup and reuse efforts by potentially responsible parties, encouraging private investment to facilitate cleanup and reuse, promoting redevelopment and community revitalization and engaging with partners and stakeholders. Work to prioritize and reinvigorate the program by the task force has been initiated and will be ongoing into the future.
AT THE STATE LEVEL
DOE: Nature's Path to assist Blaine environmental work
Penalty settlement with Ecology aids city park and stormwater projects
http://www.ecy.wa.gov/news/2017/085.html
BLAINE – Nature’s Path Foods, USA, Inc. will help the city of Blaine purchase land and restore streambank along Cain Creek, under a settlement agreement with the Washington state Department of Ecology.
The $29,000 package of environmental projects will settle the company’s appeal of a 2016 Ecology penalty for $22,000 and a companion order.
Ecology’s penalty alleged that the company violated its state water quality permit, which sets limits on pollutants in wastewater discharged to the city’s sanitary sewer. The company is complying with the order by installing improvements to its pre-treatment system for wastewater discharges.
“We’re pleased to see this excellent progress at the Nature’s Path facility and these valuable enhancements for the city,” said Tom Buroker, who directs Ecology’s Northwest Regional Office. “We value this partnership, because the assistance to the city goes above what our penalty assessed and, more importantly, beyond what’s required to comply with the permit.”
The settlement incorporates an agreement between Nature’s Path and Blaine under which the company will help the city develop Cain Creek Park between Blaine Avenue and I-5. Improvements include:
$20,000 to help cover the city’s costs to purchase two undeveloped lots along the creek.
$3,000 of funding, plus crews for at least two spring work parties, to restore the lots and other areas along the creek.
Approximately $800 for a pet waste station and three years’ supply of plastic bags.
A $5,000 contribution to the city’s planned stormwater treatment project at the creek’s outfall into Drayton Harbor.
Informational signage at the park’s Mitchell Avenue entrance about the restoration project and the importance of protecting streamside habitat.
(Page 4)
WORLD AND NATIONAL HEADLINE NEWS FROM REUTERS
North Korea rules out negotiations on nuclear weapons
GENEVA (Reuters) - North Korea on Friday ruled out negotiations with Washington as long as joint U.S-South Korea military exercises continue, and said that Pyongyang’s atomic weapons program would remain as a deterrent against a U.S. nuclear threat.
Saudi Arabia swapping assets for freedom of some held in graft purge: sources
BEIRUT/RIYADH (Reuters) - Saudi authorities are striking agreements with some of those detained in an anti-corruption crackdown, asking them to hand over assets and cash in return for their freedom, sources familiar with the matter said.
Corruption trial of Senator Menendez ends in mistrial
(Reuters) - The corruption trial of New Jersey’s Democratic U.S. Senator Bob Menendez ended in a mistrial on Thursday, after the jury said it was hopelessly deadlocked on bribery, fraud and other charges.
One in three U.S. adults to avoid talking politics over holiday season: Reuters/Ipsos poll
NEW YORK (Reuters) - Americans will sit down next week for what has become a holiday tradition in the United States: tiptoeing through a turkey dinner without mentioning the president.
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Psalm 119:105 NKJV
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