Publication Number: EPA-402-B-11-001
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Office of Air and Radiation
Fiscal Year 2012
Final
National Program & Grant Guidance
April 22, 2011
-------
Contents
Executive Summary 1
1. Program Office 1
2. Purpose and Organization of Document 1
3. Collaboration with Co-Regulators 1
4. OAR National Priorities 2
5. Priorities for Regional Offices 2
6. Cross-agency Priorities 3
7. State and Tribal Assistance Grants 6
8. Implementation Strategies 6
9. Work Sharing 7
10. Efficiency in Operations 8
11. Performance Measures 8
12. Tracking Progress 8
Improving Outdoor Air Quality 9
Clean Air Allowance Trading Programs 10
Federal Stationary Source Regulations 15
Federal Vehicle and Fuels Standards and Certifications 17
Federal Support for Air Quality Management 19
State and Local Air Quality Management 30
Tribal Air Quality Management 42
Taking Action on Climate Change 49
Mandatory Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program 49
PSD and Title V GHG Tailoring Rule 51
Vehicle GHG Standards 51
Renewable Fuel Standard Program 52
New Source Performance Standards 53
Clean Automotive Technology 53
Non-regulatory Climate Protection Programs 54
Stratospheric Ozone 58
Domestic Programs 58
Multilateral Fund 59
Indoor Environments 60
Healthy Indoor Environments/Healthy Buildings 60
Addressing Asthma, Radon, and Other Indoor Air Pollutants in the Home 61
Radiation Protection 65
Radiation Protection 65
Radiation Emergency Response Preparedness 67
Homeland Security: Preparedness, Response, and Recovery 68
Appendix A Performance Measures (including State Grant Performance Measures)
Appendix B Effective Utilization and Distribution of STAG Funds
Appendix C Ambient Monitoring
Appendix D Key Changes from 2010
Appendix E Program Contacts (for questions or more information)
Appendix F Comments and Responses to Comments Summary
-------
Executive Summary
1. Program Office. Office of Air and Radiation (OAR).
2. Purpose and Organization of Document
This document describes operational air and radiation program implementation priorities and
milestones for Fiscal Year (FY) 2012, and provides information and guidance on FY 2012 state,
local, and tribal assistance grants. The guidance consists of this Executive Summary, five topical
chapters covering OAR's main areas of concern (Outdoor Air, Climate Protection, Stratospheric
Ozone, Indoor Environments, and Radiation Protection), and several appendices. Each topical
chapter provides an overview of the program and the key activities expected to be undertaken in
FY 2012 by Headquarters, Regions, states, local agencies, and tribes, as applicable.
Information on state and tribal assistance grants is provided in this main document.
Developments and changes in program emphasis and associated program support are discussed
under the State and Tribal Assistance Grants heading in this Executive Summary, in the
Improving Outdoor Air Quality chapter under the State and Local Air Quality Management
heading, and in the Radon portion of the Indoor Environments chapter. In addition, key changes
from last year's guidance are highlighted in Appendix D. Appendices are also provided for:
Performance measures for EPA Regions and co-implementers (Appendix A)
Policies and procedures for effective grants management (Appendix B)
More detailed information on changes in ambient monitoring (Appendix C)
Our responses to questions and comments on the Draft Guidance received from partners
and stakeholders (Appendix F)
3. Collaboration with Co-Regulators. Protection of public health and the nation's air
resources is a partnership among federal, state, local, and tribal agencies, and cannot be
accomplished effectively without constructive, ongoing relationships and regular open
communication. OAR and the National Association of Clean Air Agencies (NAC AA) continue
to work closely together on many issues, and initiatives regarding the effective use of available
resources, greenhouse gas program implementation, state air quality implementation plan
reforms, and multi-pollutant and sector based approaches to air pollution control are well
underway.
4. OAR National Priorities. In FY 2012, OAR's national priorities include:
Adopting standards to achieve the public health protections of the Clean Air Act,
including the Transport Rule and major sector-based air toxics and criteria pollutant
standards for utilities, boilers and other priority sectors;
Reviewing and, as appropriate, revising national ambient air quality standards for ozone,
particulate matter, and carbon monoxide;
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 1 of 68
-------
Assisting states with implementation of existing and new air health standards and
standards for stationary and area sources;
Adopting and implementing new standards to address fuel economy and greenhouse gas
emissions from mobile sources, including heavy duty standards, light duty vehicle
standards, and a new fuel economy label;
Implementing, and assisting the states to implement, greenhouse gas programs including
permitting and reporting; and
Providing technical assistance on indoor air issues and leadership to a collaboration of
federal agencies and non-governmental stakeholders to make progress on radon
awareness and reduction activities.
5. Priorities for Regional Offices. OAR works with and through the Regional Offices. The
Regional Offices work with state, local, and tribal governments, communities, and others, to
implement OAR's priorities and programs and to address regional or local environmental
priorities, issues, and concerns. OAR recognizes that Regions have their own priorities, and
strives to provide them with the programmatic flexibility they need to address their priorities as
well as those of OAR. For FY 2012, the OAR national priorities for Regions are:
GHGs. Assist in implementing the GHG Reporting Program, and work with states and
local agencies to build their capacity to implement the Prevention of Significant
Deterioration (PSD) and Title V programs for GHGs. Continue to promote and expand
awareness and encourage participation in non-regulatory GHG reduction programs and
activities.
Lead, NO?, SO?, Ozone PM^, and Regional Haze. Act on State Implementation Plan
(SIP) submissions and redesignation requests including any remaining unsubmitted
regional haze SIPs, and assist in the designations process for the revised NO2, SO2, PM2.s,
and ozone standards.
Clean Air Interstate Rule. Assist states with CAIR emissions monitoring and reporting and
potential requirements from the 201 1 Transport Rule. Operate the allowance tracking and
emissions tracking systems supporting the program and perform reconciliation/determine
compliance for affected sources.
Ambient Monitoring. Work with state and local agencies to implement the second phase
of the near-source lead monitoring network; develop NO2 monitoring plans; provide
assistance for changes in 2012 ozone monitoring season, if required; communicate required
changes to each state's ozone monitoring network for non-urban and lower-population
areas for inclusion in annual monitoring network plans; and ensure certification of 201 1
data submitted to the Air Quality System database by May 1, 2012. Also, work with HQ
and state and local agencies to expand community-based air toxics monitoring, particularly
in communities disproportionately impacted by air pollution.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 2 of 68
-------
Mobile Sources. Manage clean diesel grants and loans awarded in prior years, assist with
and comment on conformity determinations, process conformity-related SIP revisions, and
make determinations and act on mobile budgets at time of SIP processing.
Air Toxics. Delegate and provide assistance to co-regulators for section 111, section 112,
and section 129 standards; increase emphasis on implementing programs and activities that
contribute to reducing exposure to air toxics in areas that are experiencing disproportionate
impacts. Support the ongoing OAR/Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance
(OECA) effort to reduce toxic air pollution through standards, permitting, compliance
monitoring and assistance activities, and enforcement, especially in communities that are
disproportionately affected by pollution. Improve opportunities for meaningful
involvement of the public in the rulemaking process, particularly minority, low-income
and indigenous communities through enhanced outreach, training, and opportunities for
dialog with rule development teams.
Title V Permits. Work on overseeing state permitting activities, issuing PSD and Part 71
permits in Indian Country and on the Outer Continental Shelf, permitting the pollution
sources that remain to be addressed, and completing permit renewals. Improve public
involvement opportunities in permitting process.
Indoor Environments. Improve indoor air quality and increase the number of people
breathing healthier indoor air by working with state, local, tribal, and other stakeholders to
build community capacity to reduce exposure to asthma triggers and radon in homes,
schools, and workplaces.
Radiation. Continue to prepare for and respond to radiological emergencies. Continue to
provide technical assistance, outreach, and education related to radioactive mine wastes
that contaminate tribal lands and water resources with radionuclides and heavy metals.
State, Local and Tribal Planning. Support multi-pollutant planning and efforts to reduce
emissions of all air pollutants, while addressing other considerations such as land use,
transportation, and energy.
6. Cross-Agency Priorities
Cutting Air Pollution in Communities
OAR will continue to focus on reducing air pollution in vulnerable communities and will
work with OECA and other EPA offices to address air pollution at the community scale.
Consistent with this focus, OECA has established air-related enforcement priorities based
on outreach to EPA programs and Regions, states and tribal governments, environmental
advocacy groups, environmental justice groups, and the public: cutting toxic air pollution
in communities, and reducing air pollution from largest sources.
For air toxics, OECA will target and reduce emissions of toxic air pollutants from
facilities' failure to comply with EPA's leak detection and repair requirements and
restrictions on flaring as well as target and reduce excess emissions at sources that have a
significant impact on air quality and health in communities. For large sources, OECA will
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 3 of 68
-------
focus on illegal emissions from facilities lacking NSR/PSD permits. The benefits may be
felt at a distance from the point of emission reduction, due to transported air pollution.
Targeting analyses will identify where emissions of criteria air pollutants are occurring and
where communities may be disproportionately exposed to criteria pollutants. For FY
2011-2013, OECA is targeting four industrial sectors: coal-fired electric utilities, cement
manufacturing, sulfuric and nitric acid manufacturing, and glass manufacturing.
OAR will be working on a number of large stationary source rules that will lead to greatly
reduced air emissions that affect vulnerable communities. In addition, EPA will undertake
rulemaking to respond to the mandate issued by the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals in
October 2009 vacating language in the General Provisions that govern the Maximum
Achievable Control Technology (MACT) program. The ruling had impacts on whether
sources are exempt from MACT compliance during periods of startup, shutdown, and
malfunction (SSM). Emissions can be large during SSM events, and impacts on nearby
communities can be significant. EPA is working to address the issue and reduce the risks
posed by these emissions.
Children's Environmental Health
Children's environmental health should be an intrinsic part of decision-making at every
level of the Agency. As stated on page 30 in EPA's 2011-2015 Strategic Plan, EPA must
build on existing activities and accomplishments so that children's health protection is not
just a consideration in Agency decision-making, but a driving force in our decisions. We
must use a variety of approaches to protect children from environmental health hazards,
including regulation, implementation of community-based programs, research, and
outreach. At the same time, we must periodically evaluate our performance to ensure that
we are making progress towards this goal. In all of our efforts, Regions, states, and tribes
should identify and assess environmental health risks that may disproportionately affect
children throughout their life stages, including fetal development, infancy, childhood, and
adolescence.
Regional programs must ensure that policies, programs, activities, and standards address
disproportionate risks to children. Within each Region is a Children's Health Coordinator
who serves as a resource to assist offices and divisions with children's environmental
health programs and planning. The regional Children's Health Coordinator is also a
liaison between the Region and the Office of Children's Health Protection and
Environmental Education at HQ. Actions Regions can take in FY 2012 to expand efforts
to protect children's environmental health include:
Reviewing existing performance measures that are specific to or refer to children's
health to determine if these can be modified or supplemented to better report
outcomes and results in children's environmental health for inclusion in future
planning and reporting agreements;
Formulating discussions and agenda topics on children's health outcomes for EPA
programs in national meetings, such as division directors meetings;
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 4 of 68
-------
Implementing the Agency's Children's Environmental Health Guidance for Human
Health Risk Assessments (http://epa.gov/risk/guidance.htm):
Sponsoring joint meetings with counterparts in state and tribal environmental
departments and health departments to facilitate coordinated actions to better
protect children's environmental health; and,
Developing regional strategies to focus on addressing critical children's health
issues unique to the Region.
Environmental Justice
OAR supports the Cross-Cutting Fundamental Strategy: Working for Environmental
Justice and Children's Health established in the FY 2011 - 2015 Strategic Plan. As we
make decisions and implement our programs, we will connect with those who have been
historically under-represented in EPA decision-making, including communities of color,
Native Americans, the poor, and people disproportionately impacted by pollution, and our
programs and policies will reflect our consideration of the burdens that pollution has
placed on vulnerable subpopulations. At the same time, we will strengthen our internal
mechanisms to assure adequate funding for critical projects, including those that focus on
incorporating environmental justice into our work, and accountability for improving air
quality in areas that are disproportionately impacted by air pollution.
OAR will work with the Regions to help educate and raise awareness with states on
opportunities to address environmental justice, and promote the use of an integrated
problem solving strategy in the regional EJ Showcase Communities. This strategy engages
all appropriate EPA programs as well as state, local, tribal and non-government partners.
The strategy also coordinates the use of all appropriate tools to address the issues identified
in the Showcase Communities, including meaningful community involvement, outreach
and education, environmental research, risk assessment, monitoring and modeling,
alternate dispute resolution, permitting and regulatory tools, as well as many voluntary
efforts. OAR is also working with OECA to reduce toxic air pollution in communities that
are disproportionately affected by pollution.
In late FY 2010, EPA released Draft Plan EJ 2014, an overarching strategy intended to
advance the Administrator's priority to expand the conversation on environmentalism and
work for environmental justice. Draft Plan EJ 2014 is available at
http://www.epa.gov/environmentaljustice/resources/policy/plan-ej-2014.html. OAR is co-
chairing the Environmental Justice and Permitting Workgroup, and will be helping to lead
an effort to identify recommendations for how environmental justice can be meaningfully
addressed in permitting.
Use of the National Environmental Information Exchange Network
OAR places a high priority on increasing the use the Exchange Network for the
transmission of air quality measurement data from states, tribes, and localities to EPA.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 5 of 68
-------
Specific actions are discussed in the Improving Outdoor Air Quality chapter under the
State and Local Air Quality Management heading.
7. State and Tribal Assistance Grants
State, tribal, local, and multi-jurisdictional agencies are essential in the development and
implementation of programs for preventing and controlling air pollution and for implementing
the NAAQS to protect the public health and environment. Congress appropriates grant
assistance and associated program support for these co-implementers under the Agency's State
and Tribal Assistance Grants (STAG) appropriation. Eligible entities are defined by statute, the
Agency's annual plan and budget request, and by the appropriation.
Funds for continuing air programs are awarded to state, tribal, and local air pollution control
agencies using Section 105 of the Clean Air Act (CAA) and require a recipient cost share.
Section 103 provides 100% federal funding to eligible entities to conduct studies, investigations,
experiments, surveys, demonstrations, training, and certain forms of research, on the nature,
prevention, causes, and effects of air pollution. Section 106, which also requires a recipient
match, provides EPA with the authority to fund interstate air pollution control agencies,
including interstate transport commissions, to develop or carry out plans for designated air
quality control regions. Beyond the CAA, significant funds have previously been provided
under Sections 791-797 of the 2005 Energy Policy Act for the support of programs to reduce
diesel emissions.
For FY 2012, EPA's budget request includes a significant increase in STAG funds over the FY
2010 enacted level to assist states and local agencies with new as well as expanded core program
responsibilities under the CAA. These include: the development and implementation of plans to
address revised, more protective NAAQS; ambient air monitoring provisions related to the new
NAAQS; enhanced capacity for agencies with approved or delegated responsibility for
permitting large sources of GHGs; and the continued characterization of air toxics problems and
the implementation of measures to reduce their risks. A modest increase for inflation has also
been included for tribal air programs.
8. Implementation Strategies. EPA's array of tools to facilitate the implementation of the
CAA includes statutory and regulatory activities, market-based program activities, partnership
and community-based activities, and activities related to developing or implementing innovative
approaches. EPA works with co-implementers to assemble the mix of strategies and activities
most appropriate for their circumstances and prevailing environmental issues while also
addressing base program requirements. These strategies are described in the technical sections
of this document. EPA Regions work closely with states to identify opportunities for enhanced
work sharing, resource flexibility, and phased implementation of program requirements. For
example, Performance Partnership Grants and Performance Partnership Agreements are two
examples of the tools available to address workload issues.
9. Work Sharing.
Both EPA and the states fulfill critical roles in protecting and improving human health and the
environment. By law and through shared experience, EPA and the states must effectively
collaborate in the planning and implementation of environmental programs, and by ensuring
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 6 of 68
-------
compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements to succeed. The current economic
challenges facing the states is requiring the Agency to seriously consider alternate approaches in
work planning to maintain the current levels of delivery of its environmental and public health
programs. Further, the Administrator has placed renewed emphasis on improving the Agency's
relationships with the states through the Strategic Plan's Cross-Cutting Fundamental Strategy,
Strengthening State, Tribal and International Partnerships. To maintain program performance
nationally and to ensure the success of the Partnerships Strategy, the Regions and their state
partners are to expand the utilization of work sharing in developing their FY 2012 program
performance commitments.
EPA HQ and Regional Offices are continually seeking more efficient and pragmatic ways to
work with co-implementers to achieve clean air beyond the traditional regulatory and oversight
relationship, whether through work sharing or overall business process improvements. The
Regions in particular carry out numerous collaborative efforts to share responsibilitiesin
regional air quality forecasting, working with utility plant operators on energy conservation and
efficiency, pooling expertise and policy development to address mercury emissions in gold
mines, sharing information on case development and penalty calculations, dividing
responsibilities related to oversight of high risk 112(r) plans and facilities, implementing
asbestos NESHAP (National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants) program
responsibilities, working with multi-jurisdictional state/local organizations to help tailor regional
CAA training programs, sharing space and expertise in federal lab facilities, collaborating in
staffing indoor air public outreach efforts, and assisting and bring states together in the
development of their climate change action plans.
We have also found it prudent to provide proactive, stop-gap assistance to states and local
agencies in meeting their responsibilities when it is clear that they are not currently equipped to
handle their clean air responsibilities. For example, Regions have reviewed PSD modeling to
assist state permitting, provided enforcement and compliance assistance, used direct
implementation authority to develop a regional haze plan at the request of a state, cooperated in
the provision of technical support on air quality impacts of oil and gas development, provided
technical and quality assurance support to state/local air monitoring programs, and provided
outreach assistance for states' small business technical assistance programs.
EPA is also examining improvements in business processes that impact states and locals. Most
recently, one Region completed an evaluation of the overall state implementation plan
development process and identified ways to reduce its typical seven year duration by over 50
percent. An EPA workgroup is currently assessing whether these findings can be applied on a
wider basis. We are also currently examining the roles and functions of multi-jurisdictional and
regional planning organizations in order to determine if they could provide more efficient and
effective ways to provide planning, analytical, and technical support to states, locals and tribes.
10. Efficiency in Operations. As noted in OMB Circular No. A-123, "Management's
Responsibility for Internal Control," the first objective of internal controls is to ensure the
effectiveness and efficiency of operations. OAR and Regional Offices are continually seeking
more efficient and pragmatic ways to achieve our goals and objectives. For example, we are
currently examining the roles and functions of multi-jurisdictional and regional planning
organizations in order to determine if they could provide more efficient and effective ways to
provide planning, analytical, and technical support to states, locals and tribes. In addition, we
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 7 of 68
-------
also provide states and locals with access to national procurement contracts for cost savings
through the bulk purchase of monitoring equipment, supplies, and lab quality assurance
functions.
11. Performance Measures. OAR and Regions have collaborated to develop and agree on the
performance measures listed in Appendix B. These were determined through discussions among
HQ and regional program experts and managers. OAR plans to seek additional comment on how
to better express the annual grant-related performance of states, local agencies, and tribes.
12. Tracking Progress. OAR tracks progress through existing monitoring, data reporting, and
information systems used by OAR, Regions, and state, tribal, and local agencies, and through
EPA's performance measure database. We also track and discuss program progress via
conference calls, face-to-face meetings, and the exchange of written information.
++ End ++
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 8 of 68
-------
Improving Outdoor Air Quality
EPA's strategy for improving outdoor air combines national, regional, and local measures,
reflecting different federal, state, tribal, and local government roles. States are primarily
responsible for maintaining and improving air quality and meeting national ambient air quality
standards (NAAQS) established by EPA. State programs develop emission inventories; operate
and maintain air monitoring networks; implement construction and operating permit programs
for major and minor sources of criteria pollutants, toxics, and other regulated air pollutants;
perform air quality modeling; develop State Implementation Plans (SIPs) that lay out control
strategies for improving air quality and meeting NAAQS; conduct compliance and enforcement
activities; and, engage in public education activities.
EPA assists states by providing technical guidance and financial assistance, issuing
regulations, and implementing programs designed to reduce pollution from the most widespread
and significant sources of air pollution: mobile sources, such as cars, trucks, buses, and
construction equipment; and stationary sources, such as power plants, oil refineries, chemical
plants, and dry cleaning operations. Interstate transport of pollutantsa problem no state can
solve on its ownmakes a major contribution to air pollution problems. To address this issue,
EPA requires control of upwind sources that contribute to downwind problems in other states.
EPA has authority and a responsibility to protect air quality in Indian country, but tribes may
choose to develop and implement their own air quality programs. In collaboration with EPA,
tribes and some states are working to fill the gap in air quality data/information on tribal lands,
build tribal capacity to administer air programs in Indian country, and establish mechanisms to
work with tribal governments on regulatory development and regional and national policy issues.
Our strategies for improving outdoor air are implemented through the following programs:
Clean Air Allowance Trading Programs
Federal Vehicle and Fuels Standards and Certifications
Federal Stationary Source Regulations
Federal Support for Air Quality Management (including air toxics)
State and Local Air Quality Management
Tribal Air Quality Management
The first four programs are federally-implemented programs and the latter two are grant
programs that support state, tribal, and local program implementation. All these programs and
their 2012 Priorities are described below. Although this chapter is organized to reflect EPA's
internal organization, there is substantial coordination between and among HQ and Regional
Offices. Where topics are repeated, it is an indication of a cross-office activity.
CLEAN AIR ALLOWANCE TRADING PROGRAMS
This program includes development, implementation, and evaluation of federally-
administered emission reduction programs that include the trading of emissions allowances.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 9 of 68
-------
Trading programs help implement the NAAQS and reduce acid deposition, toxics deposition,
and regional haze. Pollutants include 862, NOx, and, as a co-benefit of 862 emission reduction
programs, mercury. Current operating programs include the Acid Rain Program authorized
under Title IV of the 1990 CAA Amendments, and the Clean Air Interstate Rule (CAIR)
seasonal and annual programs for interstate control of ozone and PM2.5 pollution.
Our overall strategy to promote more flexible and cost-effective pollution control and
achievement of environmental objectives includes the use of: rules with associated allowance
trading programs, an integrated utility strategy, program accountability, and program support to
co-implementers.
Rules and Allowance Trading Programs
Clean Air Interstate Rule (CAIR): Continue implementation of this rule, consistent with
the decision by the D.C. Circuit Court in December 2008 to "allow CAIR to remain in
effect until it is replaced by a rule consistent with [the Court's July 11, 2008] opinion" so
as to "at least temporarily preserve the environmental values covered by CAIR."1 CAIR
enables states to use the proven cap-and-trade approach to achieve substantial reductions
in SO2 and NOx emissions. CAIR is a powerful component of EPA's plan to help over
450 counties in the eastern U.S. meet and maintain health-based, protective air quality
standards for ozone or PM2.5 by reducing transported pollution that drifts into a state from
sources in upwind states. All affected states are achieving the mandated reductions
primarily by controlling power plant emissions through an EPA-administered interstate
cap-and-trade program.
Existing Programs: Implement, operate, and assess existing allowance trading programs,
including the programs established under CAIR.
Transport Rule (CAIR Replacement): EPA expects to finalize the rule in 2011 with
implementation beginning in 2012. More information regarding the Transport Rule can
be found at http://www.epa.gov/airtransport/.
Integrated Utility Strategy
In the next few years, EPA, as a result of statutory requirements and court decisions, will
be promulgating a number of regulations that will affect the electric power industry: the
Transport Rule, a rule to reduce air toxics from utilities, and New Source Performance
Standards for particulate matter, SO2, and NOx. The power sector is a sizeable emitter of all
of these pollutants. Preliminary analyses show that the public health benefits of these
rulemakings will likely be enormous. EPA will also be issuing new rules to protect water
quality, fish, and other aquatic wildlife. There will be a need to integrate all of these rules
with any climate regulatory strategy since the power sector will be an important element to
any future climate strategy. The most cost-effective way to implement these programs is
through a coordinated set of actions for this industry. EPA's integrated approach will assure
that, despite the different underlying statutory authorities, the various policies, and
1 U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, No. 05-1244, page 3 (decided December 23, 2008).
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 10 of 68
-------
regulations work together in a coherent manner. It will allow companies to take advantage of
co-control opportunities and efficiencies in developing compliance strategies while
promoting energy security and a cleaner economy for the future.
Program Accountability
EPA will maintain an integrated assessment program that includes enhanced ambient and
deposition monitoring, surface water monitoring and chemistry analysis, efficiency measures,
and indicators to track health and environmental benefits, as called for in state of science
reports by the National Academy of Sciences (NAS)2 and the Heinz Center for Science,
Economics, and the Environment.3 The Clean Air Status and Trends Network (CASTNET)
is a long-term air quality monitoring network established in 1987 that serves as the nation's
primary source for atmospheric data used to assess trends in the dry deposition component of
acid deposition, rural ground-level ozone, and other forms of particulate and gaseous air
pollution. Surface water chemistry is a direct indicator of the effects of acid deposition and
enables assessment of how water bodies and aquatic ecosystems are responding to reductions
in sulfur and nitrogen emissions. The Temporally Integrated Monitoring of Ecosystems
(TIME) program, and the Long-Term Monitoring (LTM) program, are designed to assess
ecological response to acid deposition and the effectiveness of implementation of the 1990
CAA Amendments in reducing the acidity of surface waters in sensitive areas.
EPA tracks, conducts compliance true-up procedures, and assesses program progress each
year, and publishes an annual report on program compliance and environmental results (see
US EPA, The Acid Rain Program: 15 Years of Results, December 2010, at
http://www.epa.gov/airmarkets/progress/nbp08.html) and also The Clean Air Interstate Rule
2009 Progress Reports, September 2010 at
http://www.epa.gov/airmarkets/progress/nbp08.html). EPA produces these annual progress
report as a four-part series of timely web-based publications: (1) Emission and Compliance;
(2) Emission, Compliance, and Market Analyses; (3) Environmental Results; and (4)
Highlights. The third report segment contains measures, trends, and interpretive analyses of
environmental outcomes such as improvements in ground-level ozone and acid deposition,
reductions in ambient sulfate and total ambient nitrate concentrations, and decrease in areas
with significant damage to ozone-sensitive tree species based on CASTNET, TEVIE/LTM,
and other monitoring network data.
Program Support to Co-Implementers
States that participate in the CAIR seasonal NOx program will be transitioning into the
seasonal NOx program under the Transport Rule for ozone control and will need to continue
to contribute STAG resources to support this effort. EPA: (1) provides support in the form
of EPA FTE and contract resources to operate the centralized allowance trading and
emissions tracking systems utilized by the participating states, (2) determine compliance for
2 National Research Council (NRC) of the National Academies, Air Quality Management in the United States (The
National Academies Press: 2004). The report recommends that EPA's implementation of air quality regulations
should place "more emphasis on results than process and should be designed to protect ecosystems as well as
people." (http://books.nap.edu/catalog.php7record id= 10728)
3 The H. John Heinz III Center for Science, Economics, and the Environment. Indicators of Ecological Effects of
Air Quality. (Washington, DC: 2009).
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 11 of 68
-------
affected sources, and (3) assesses program results and environmental outcomes. Jurisdictions
not affected or not participating in the trading programs do not contribute their grant
resources to support them. 2009 was the first compliance season for the CAIR seasonal NOx
program. There were 3,279 affected units: 3,071 electricity generating units (EGUs) and
208 industrial units. Through a wide range of pollution control strategies and an active
seasonal NOx allowance trading market, emissions by the affected sources have continued to
decrease. Between 2008 and 2009, ozone season NOx emissions fell in DC and every state
of the 25 states participating in the CAIR NOx seasonal program. Units in the program
reduced their overall NOx emissions from 689,000 tons to 495,000 tons. An 11 percent drop
in heat input and a 22 percent improvement in NOx rate accounted for this reduction in total
summer NOx emissions. The volume of emissions data EPA processed under the CAIR
seasonal program in 2009 was 29% higher than in 2008 and the emissions data almost tripled
in volume from 2003 through 2008.
EPA has continued to invest in software development activities that contain or lower
program operating costs and, as a result, the processing costs per source are lower than they
would have been otherwise. EPA completed a multi-year software re-engineering project
and deployed the Emissions Collection and Monitoring Plan System (ECMPS) tool. ECPMS
provides users with a single client tool for checking and submitting data, direct access to
EPA's database, and the ability to quality assure emissions data prior to submission. EPA
administers the allowance trading program; quality assures and processes reported emissions
data, monitor certifications, and unit operating data; performs end-of-season reconciliation of
emissions with allowances, and performs other administrative and assessment functions on
behalf of the states through a national contract and associated program support. Support for
operating the CAIR seasonal NOx trading program comes from grant funds of participating
states in addition to EPA FTE and contract resources. As shown Table 1, state shares are
based on the number of affected sources per state times a unit cost per source. EPA will
reconsider the approach and funding allocation when the Transport Rule is finalized. For
more information contact Larry Kertcher at 202-343-9121 or Doris Price at 202-343-9067 in
the Clean Air Markets Division (CAMD) of the Office of Atmospheric Programs (OAP).
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 12 of 68
-------
Table 1 - Contribution to CAIR Seasonal NOX Trading Program by Region and State
(Update to be provided for Transport Rule implementation after the rule is finalized)
Region/ State
Region 1
Connecticut
Massachusetts
Region 2
New Jersey
New York
Region 3
Delaware
District of Columbia
Maryland
Pennsylvania
Virginia
West Virginia
Region 4
Alabama
Florida
Kentucky
Mississippi
North Carolina
South Carolina
Tennessee
Region 5
Illinois
Indiana
Michigan
Ohio
Wisconsin
Region 6
Arkansas
Louisana
Region 7
Iowa
Missouri
Total Annual $
Units Affected by
CAIR Seasonal
Program
(FY 2007)
152
62
90
541
178
363
523
40
5
50
211
137
80
1,001
126
299
109
103
159
100
105
924
280
187
158
193
106
156
49
107
189
68
121
3,486
CAIR Seasonal
Program Cost*
FY 2008 -201 2
$101,080
$41 ,230
$59,850
$359,765
$118,370
$241 ,395
$347,795
$26,600
$3,325
$33,250
$140,315
$91,105
$53,200
$665,665
$83,790
$198,835
$72,485
$68,495
$105,735
$66,500
$69,825
$609,856
$181,596
$124,355
$105,070
$128,345
$70,490
$103,740
$32,585
$71,155
$125,685
$45,220
$80,465
$2,318,190
* Processing cost per source calculated as $665 by OAP/CAMD.
In FY 2012, EPA will continue to assist states with CAIR implementation, especially with
activities related to allowance trading, emissions monitoring, and end-of-season reconciliation
of emissions and allowances. EPA will also assist states and sources in transitioning to the
Transport Rule implementation in the latter part of FY 2012 assuming rule finalization occurs
on schedule.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011
13 of 68
-------
FY 2012 Priorities: CAIR/Transport Rule-Ozone (Seasonal NOx) Program
HQ (Clean Air Markets Division (CAMD)), Regions, and states assist sources with
monitor certifications and recertifications, emissions monitoring and reporting.
CAMD assists sources and other allowance account holders with allowance transfers and
recordation.
CAMD performs end-of-season reconciliation of emissions against allowances held in
source accounts, determines program compliance, and deducts penalty allowances for any
source not in compliance.
CAMD and states perform electronic and field audits of monitor certifications, Part 75
continuous emissions monitoring systems (CEMS), and emissions reporting by sources.
Part 75 CEMS field audits will be performed in accordance with EPA 430-B-96-038.
States will provide electronic or hard copy reports of the audits and any corrective actions
needed to the appropriate EPA Regional Office and CAMD. EPA encourages states to
submit the Part 75 CEMS field audit reports using the Field Audit Checking Tool
(FACT) developed by EPA to simplify and streamline the field audit process. CAMD
will store FACT reports in a database where they will be available for states to access and
track. EPA will issue a quarterly report listing the number of field audits performed by
each state.
CAMD assesses program, tracks performance against baselines and objectives, and
reports on emissions, compliance, market analyses, program performance, and
environmental results.
Working with Regions, CAMD assists states and sources with transition to Transport
Rule-ozone program implementation.
FY 2012 Priorities: CAIR/Transport Rule-PMrs (SO? and Annual NOy Control ) Program
CAMD assists states and sources with monitor certifications and re-certifications,
emissions monitoring, and reporting.
CAMD assists sources and other allowance account holders with allowance transfers and
recordation.
CAMD performs end-of-year reconciliation of 862 and NOx emissions against
allowances held in source accounts for the SO2 and annual NOx control programs,
determines program compliance, and deducts penalty allowances for any source not in
compliance.
CAMD and states perform electronic and field audits of monitor certifications, Part 75
continuous emissions monitoring systems (CEMS), and emissions reporting by sources.
Part 75 CEMS field audits will be performed in accordance with EPA 430-B-96-038.
States will provide electronic or hard copy reports of the audits and any corrective actions
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 14 of 68
-------
needed to the appropriate EPA Regional Office and CAMD. EPA encourages states to
submit the Part 75 CEMS field audit reports using the Field Audit Checking Tool
(FACT) developed by EPA to simplify and streamline the field audit process. CAMD
will store FACT reports in a database where they will be available for states to access and
track. EPA will issue a quarterly report listing the number of field audits performed by
each state.
CAMD assesses program, tracks performance against baselines and objectives, and
reports on emissions, compliance, market analyses, program performance, and
environmental results.
Working with Regions, CAMD assists states and sources with transition to Transport
Rule-PM2.s program implementation.
FY 2012 Priorities: Acid Rain Program
CAMD performs end-of-year reconciliation of SC>2 emissions against allowances held in
facility accounts, determines compliance for annual NOx emission rates, and performs
electronic and field audits of monitor certifications, Part 75 continuous emissions
monitoring systems (CEMS), and emissions reporting by sources. Part 75 CEMS field
audits will be performed in accordance with EPA 430-B-96-038. States will provide
electronic or hard copy reports of the audits and any corrective actions needed to the
appropriate EPA Regional Office and CAMD. EPA encourages states to submit the Part
75 CEMS field audit reports using the Field Audit Checking Tool (FACT) developed by
EPA to simplify and streamline the field audit process. CAMD will store FACT reports
in a database where they will be available for states to access and track. EPA will issue a
quarterly report listing the number of field audits performed by each state. Working with
states, tribes, local agencies, Regional Planning Organizations, and other partners in
CASTNET, CAMD develops and continues implementation of an operations plan that
will assure supportability over the next five years.
CAMD reports progress in reducing sulfur and nitrogen deposition and in reducing the
number of chronically-acidic water bodies in acid-sensitive regions, and SO2 emissions
reduced.
CAMD disseminates information from the TEVIE/LTM program cooperators on surface
water quality on monitored lakes and streams to states and sources in the Acid Rain
Program.
FEDERAL STATIONARY SOURCE REGULATIONS
This program includes activities directed toward reducing air emissions of toxic pollutants
from stationary sources. Specifically, this program provides for the development of control
technology-based standards for major sources (i.e., Maximum Achievable Control Technology -
MACT standards) and area sources, the development of standards of performance and emissions
guidelines for waste combustion sources, the assessment and regulation of residual risk
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 15 of 68
-------
remaining after implementation of the control technology-based standards, the periodic review
and revision of the control technology-based standards, and associated national guidance and
outreach. The program also includes issuing, reviewing, and periodically revising, as necessary,
New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) for criteria and certain listed pollutants, setting
standards to limit emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOC) from consumer and
commercial products, and establishing Reasonably Available Control Technology (RACT)
through issuance and periodic review and revision of control technique guidelines.
EPA is continuing to implement a strategy to develop regulations for sectors of stationary
sources that reduce multiple pollutants in the most efficient and cost-effective manner, while
simultaneously meeting multiple statutory obligations (MACT, Residual Risk, NSPS, etc.) and
addressing environmental justice and other concerns.
On October 16, 2009, the DC Circuit Court of Appeals issued a mandate vacating language in
the General Provisions governing the MACT program to control emissions of air toxics. That
language exempted sources from having to comply with the MACT standards during periods of
startup, shutdown, and malfunction (SSM). This vacatur immediately affected about 35 of
EPA's MACT standards that had referred to the General Provision rule for the exemption. An
additional 64 of EPA's MACT standards contain SSM exemptions within the rules themselves
and do not rely on the General Provisions exemptions. EPA plans to review these other MACT
standards and determine whether to remove the exemptions for periods of malfunction and to
clean up numerous other SSM-related provisions that were created to deal with the exemptions,
such as recordkeeping, reporting, testing, etc., within these standards. EPA will also determine
how to address startup and shutdown provisions within these 64 rules. We expect that if we
eliminate the malfunction exemptions from these rules, the environmental benefits to
communities located near facilities impacted by these rules will be significant. The Agency
intends to address the malfunctions issue in an integrated rulemaking, which will provide
assurance that facilities do not have incentives to routinely operate in a manner that allows
excess or uncontrolled emissions.
FY 2012 HO Priorities
Propose and promulgate area source standards and residual risk standards according to
court ordered schedules.
Promulgate National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) for
Brick and Structural Clay.
Promulgate NESHAP for Polyvinyl Chloride and Copolymers.
Propose and promulgate additional amendments to prior NESHAP/MACT standards.
Develop Response to Remand for Large Municipal Waste Combustion Units (MWCs).
Develop Response to Remand for Small Municipal Waste Combustion Units (MWCs).
Promulgate MACT for Utilities.
Develop revisions to NSPS for residential wood heaters.
NSPS Review Strategy - Promulgation.
NSPS for Nitric Acid - Final.
Finalize the reconsideration of NSPS Electric, Utility, and Industrial Steam Generating
Units.
Propose Other Solid Waste Incineration Units.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 16 of 68
-------
Develop sector information for the Iron and Steel Industry MACT & NSPS.
Develop sector information for the Chemical Industry, MACT, NSPS, RTR.
Proposal for the Petroleum Refinery Industry, MACT, NSPS, RTR (sector).
Develop NSPS that consider greenhouse gases for utilities and refineries.
Engage communities in rulemakings by expanding outreach and capacity building,
improving accessibility of decision makers, and improving transparency.
FEDERAL VEHICLE AND FUELS STANDARDS AND CERTIFICATION
This program includes federal activities that support the development, implementation, and
evaluation of regulatory, market-based, and voluntary programs to reduce pollutant emissions
from mobile sources and fuels. Types of mobile sources addressed include: light-duty vehicles
and engines (cars, light-duty trucks, sport utility vehicles); heavy-duty engines (buses, large
trucks); nonroad vehicles/engines (construction, farm equipment, locomotives, marine); and fuels
(diesel, gasoline, renewable). The strategy for reducing emissions from mobile sources has four
elements.
Clean Vehicles: Develop, implement and ensure compliance with stringent emission
standards for cars, light-duty trucks, sport utility vehicles, buses, large trucks, and
nonroad vehicles/engines.
Clean Fuels: Implement the renewable fuels program and cleaner gasoline and diesel
fuel regulations and develop reformulated gasoline, diesel fuel, and non-petroleum
alternatives.
Clean Transportation Alternatives: Develop strategies to encourage transportation
alternatives that minimize emissions and address continued growth in vehicle miles
travelled.
Clean Technology: Work with industry to certify low emission vehicles that use new
engine technologies, such as clean diesel, exhaust gas recirculation for diesel, new
catalyst technology, fuel cells, and hybrid-electric vehicles. Continue in-house
assessment and development of clean engine and fuel technologies and conduct
technology reviews to evaluate progress toward implementation of new vehicle and
engine standards.
Efforts related to greenhouse gases are discussed in the Climate Protection chapter.
FY 2012 Priorities
Headquarters
Propose Tier 3 vehicle and fuel standards in response to the May, 2010 Presidential
Directive.
Develop program to further reduce criteria pollutant emissions from light-duty vehicles,
including program for cleaner fuel.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 17 of 68
-------
Participate in international forums for ocean-going vessels and aircraft to coordinate and
advance emission controls from these sources.
Begin development of proposal to control lead in aviation gasoline.
Continue to develop and implement the Verify information management system that
centralizes emission-related and fuel economy data for all mobile source industries.
Model fuel pathways not yet modeled and continue to develop and update lifecycle
models to allow assessment of new biofuel technologies and to evaluate feedstocks and
fuel pathways for future fuels and processes.
Continue testing activities for fuel economy, Tier II testing, reformulated gasoline, future
fleets, alternative fuel vehicle conversion certifications, onboard diagnostics (OBD)
evaluations, certification audits, and recall programs.
Review and approve approximately 5,000 vehicle and engine emissions certification
requests, including light-duty vehicles, heavy-duty diesel engines, nonroad engines,
marine engines, locomotives, and others.
Ensure compliance with certification as well as in-use requirements for foreign-built
engines and equipment.
Develop a rule establishing OBD requirements for nonroad engines.
Continue to support implementation of existing vehicle, engine, and fuel regulations
including the Tier II light-duty (LD) vehicle program, the Mobile Sources Air Toxics
(MS AT) programs, the 2007-2010 Heavy-Duty (HD) Diesel standards, and the Non-Road
Diesel Tier 4 standards (and earlier non-road standards) in order to ensure the successful
delivery of cleaner vehicles, equipment, and fuel.
Continue to evaluate and develop the new fuel economy labelling program and ongoing
assessment and analysis of emissions and fuel economy compliance data.
Conduct follow-up implementation work related to the mobile source air toxics
rulemaking (work includes the assessment of refineries' pre-compliance reports and early
credit generation, in order to monitor the viability of the benzene credit market).
Continue implementation activities for the Locomotives/Marine rule finalized in 2008
and for small gasoline engine standards that began with model year 2009.
Continue expansion and improvement of OTAQ's transportation emission model,
MOVES, by incorporating new emission data collected under EPAct/EISA.
Work with Regions to assist states in developing, implementing, and transitioning I/M,
OBD, and fuel programs.
As necessary, assist Regions in processing conformity determinations made by
metropolitan planning organizations or state agencies.
As necessary, assist Regions in making adequacy determinations for identified mobile
source budgets in control strategy SIPs and maintenance plans submitted by states.
Work with OAQPS on implementation and other guidance related to revisions of
NAAQS, especially with respect to I/M, Stage 2, and conformity.
Regions
Assist states in preparing SIPs and developing, implementing, and transitioning mobile
source control strategies such as I/M, OBD, and state fuel programs.
Assist states and local air quality and transportation agencies in future conformity
determinations as needed.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 18 of 68
-------
Review and comment on transportation conformity determinations made by metropolitan
planning organizations or state agencies.
Complete processing of transportation conformity SIPs submitted by states in FY 2012 as
necessary.
Make adequacy/inadequacy determinations, as necessary, for identified mobile source
budgets included in control strategy SIPs and maintenance plans submitted by states
and/or approve/disapprove such budgets at the time of SIP processing.
Work with OTAQ to provide training in the use of the MOVES model, and review
modeling results for state and local agencies.
Work with states to develop creditable mobile source programs.
Continue to manage Diesel Emission Reduction grants and loans issued in prior years.
FEDERAL SUPPORT FOR AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT
The federal support program includes HQ and Regional Office non-financial support to state,
tribal, and local air pollution control agencies for the following programs: NAAQS, regional
haze, Title V, New Source Review (NSR), and air toxics.
The NAAQS program includes: regular reviews of, revisions to, and establishing standards
for the criteria pollutants; developing associated national regulations, guidance and outreach
information for implementing these standards, including air quality reporting to the public; and
developing emission limiting regulations for specific categories of sources. The federal support
program also includes working with other federal agencies to ensure a coordinated approach, and
with international governments to address sources of air pollutants that lie outside our borders
but contribute to air quality degradation within the United States. Federal financial support is
addressed under State and Local Air Quality Management and Tribal Air Quality Management.
The regional haze program includes developing national rules and guidance for protecting
visibility in national parks and wilderness areas.
NSR is a CAA program that requires industrial facilities to install modern pollution control
equipment when they are built or when making a change that increases emissions significantly.
The program accomplishes this when owners or operators obtain permits limiting air emissions
before they begin construction. EPA issues permits on tribal lands and in some states,
establishes permit program rules, reviews state programs, and provides guidance on permitting
decisions.
Large sources ("major" sources) of emissions and a limited number of smaller sources (called
"area" sources, "minor" sources, or "non-major" sources) are required by Title V of the CAA to
obtain an operating permit. Permits include pollution-control requirements from federal or state
regulations that apply to the source. Most of the permits are issued by state or local agencies
("part 70" permits); a small number are issued by EPA ("part 71" permits). EPA also establishes
rules, reviews state programs, and reviews citizen petitions.
The air toxics program includes non-financial support to state, tribal, and local air pollution
control agencies for: modeling, inventories, monitoring, assessments, strategy and program
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 19 of 68
-------
development; community-based toxics programs; voluntary programs including those that reduce
inhalation risk and those that reduce deposition to water bodies and ecosystems; voluntary efforts
to address diesel emissions; international cooperation to reduce transboundary and
intercontinental air toxic pollution; National Emissions Inventory (NET) development and
updates; Persistent Bioaccumulative Toxics (PBT) activities; and training for air pollution
professionals. In addition, the air toxics program includes activities for implementation of
MACT, Residual Risk, and Area Source standards and the National Air Toxics Assessment
(NATA) and the National Air Pollutant Assessment (NAPA).
NAAQS Program Strategy
Over the next several years, we will continue to focus on required reviews of the NAAQS and
on implementing the revised lead, nitrogen dioxide (NO 2) and sulfur dioxide (802) NAAQS and
the current PM and ozone NAAQS, including the 1997 PM2.5 NAAQS, the 2006 revised 24-hour
PM2.5 NAAQS, the 1-hour ozone NAAQS (through anti-backsliding requirements) and the 1997
8-hour ozone NAAQS. EPA plans to finalize rulemaking for carbon monoxide (CO) by August
2011, ozone in July 2011, PM2.5 in spring 2012, and NOX/SOX secondary NAAQS in March
2012. EPA plans to place greater emphasis on integrating across OAR programs, specifically as
it relates to energy issues and air quality planning. EPA will provide opportunities for greater
collaboration with states, tribes and other federal agencies in addressing these air quality
problems with continued emphasis on innovative strategies to improve air quality. EPA will
provide technical assistance to states on emission reduction measures for PM2.5 and ozone
nonattainment areas through issuing guidance documents and training of air pollution
professionals. We will also be focusing on implementing the lead NAAQS in the 16 areas
recently designated as non-attainment for lead.
As previously discussed under the Clean Air Allowance Trading Programs subheading, EPA
is currently addressing the DC Circuit Court's concerns with CAIR. During the rulemaking
process, EPA will continue to implement the current CAIR. Through the implementation
process, EPA will ensure that the current CAIR and the new Transport Rule are integrated with
other NAAQS programs and the regional haze program and will determine the degree those
programs may still rely on the emissions reductions from the current CAIR.
Over the next few years, EPA, as a result of statutory requirements and court decisions, will
be promulgating a number of regulations that will affect the electric power industry: a Transport
Rule to replace CAIR; a rule to reduce air toxics from utilities, and New Source Performance
Standards for particulate matter, SO2, and NOx. The power sector is a sizeable emitter of all of
these pollutants. Preliminary analyses show that the public health benefits of these rulemakings
will likely be enormous. EPA will also be issuing new rules for the power sector to protect water
quality, fish, and other aquatic wildlife. There will also be a need to integrate all of these rules
with any climate regulatory strategy since the power sector will be an important element to any
future climate strategy. The most cost-effective way to implement these programs is through a
coordinated set of actions for this industry. EPA's integrated approach will assure that, to the
extent allowed by statute, the various policies and regulations work together in a coherent
manner. It will allow companies to take advantage of co-control opportunities and efficiencies in
developing compliance strategies while promoting energy security and a cleaner economy for the
future.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 20 of 68
-------
We will continue to work with states, tribes, and local air quality and transportation agencies
to implement transportation conformity regulations and to ensure the technical integrity of
mobile source controls in SIPs. We will also assist states, tribes, and local governments in
crafting strategies that accommodate growth and economic development while minimizing
adverse effects on air quality and other quality-of-life factors. This may include strategies to
integrate air quality management into land use, transportation, energy use, and community
development plans.
We will also continue to work with states, tribes, and local agencies to implement an
integrated ambient monitoring strategy which maximizes resource efficiency by deploying
coordinated monitoring networks (i.e. combining platforms where feasible) toward current data
collection needs for ozone, PM, SO2, NO2; lead, regional haze, and air toxics.
We will continue to redesign our current emissions factor program for both criteria and air
toxics pollutants to: (1) make the development of emissions factors more self-supporting and
open to fuller participation by external organizations; (2) increase the use of electronic means to
standardize the development process, quantify the quality components, and streamline all aspects
of emissions factors development and use; (3) make the emissions factors uncertainties and
emissions quantification methodologies more transparent to users; (4) provide direction on the
proper application of emissions factors consistent with non-inventory program goals including
clearer guidance and direction on use of more direct quantification tools (e.g., emissions
monitoring) in lieu of emissions factors; and (5) consider environmental justice in prioritizing the
development of factors.
NAAOS - FY 2012 Priorities
Headquarters
Provide annual air quality reports to Regions by June 1, 2012, and work with Regions to
develop appropriate actions to bring new violating attainment areas into compliance with
theNAAQS.
Work with Regions on a consistent approach for making final clean air determinations for
2008 lead nonattainment areas, 1997 and 2006 PM2.5 nonattainment areas and 1997 8-
hour ozone NAAQS nonattainment areas that attained based on the Clean Data Policy.
Work with Regions on a consistent approach for taking action to approve attainment date
extensions and making findings of failure to attain as necessary for 1997 PM2.5
nonattainment areas and 1997 8-hour ozone NAAQS nonattainment areas.
Provide support to Regions and states on local ozone reduction programs to help achieve
attainment of 2011 8-hr ozone NAAQS prior to designations process.
Issue final implementation rule for 2011 ozone NAAQS.
Work with Regions on a consistent approach for designating areas for the 2011 ozone
NAAQS.
Develop designations guidance for 2011 NO2, and SO2 NAAQS and 2012/2013 PM2.5
NAAQS state recommendations.
Complete initial designations for NO2 and SO2 primary NAAQS.
Continue to encourage and implement programs that result in cleaner burning appliances,
provide information to the public on how to burn biomass more cleanly, and identify tools
and resources for innovative financing approaches.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 21 of 68
-------
Continue to coordinate and provide technical and policy guidance to the Regions on the
implementation programs for the 1997 8-hour ozone and PM2.5 NAAQS.
Issue revised implementation guidance for 2006 PM2.5 NAAQS.
Work with federal, state, and tribal partners to address fire emissions impact on
attainment of the NAAQS and the regional haze progress goals.
Provide technical and policy guidance to Regions on implementing the lead, NO2, and
SO2 NAAQS.
Provide guidance for the Lead infrastructure SIPs due October 2011, the NO2 §110(a)(2)
infrastructure SIPs due January 2013 and the SO2 §110(a)(2) infrastructure SIPs due June
2013.
Finalize CAFO emission estimation methodologies.
Coordinate best management practice (BMP) studies with USDA for CAFO minimizing
emissions.
Continue outreach and education of public and animal industry on CAFO air emission
issues.
Explore/evaluate potential tools to develop the CAFO process-based model for emission
estimates.
Provide support on integrated and multi-pollutant air pollution planning activities.
Work with Regions on development and review of fee programs to satisfy CAA §185.
Issue final NOx /SOx secondary NAAQS.
Provide guidance for the implementation of the Exceptional Events Rule.
Develop baselines for measuring air quality in areas with potential environmental justice
concerns.
Improve analytical tools to assess environmental justice impacts of rulemakings.
Improve communication and outreach to environmental justice communities to promote
meaningful involvement in the rulemaking process.
Develop a web-based SIP resource center and SIP best practices.
Promote and provide technical assistance to States, local agencies and Tribes to conduct
air quality reporting and forecasting, especially in potential new nonattainment areas.
Administer a wood smoke reduction program.
Work with regional offices to improve timeliness of taking action on SIPs.
Engage state/local agencies in guidance and regulation development process.
Regions
Review air quality reports and work with states to develop appropriate actions to bring
new violating attainment areas into compliance with the NAAQS.
Take final rulemaking action within 18 months of receipt of any redesignation request
that is not impacted by national policy developments.
Track allowable and actual processing times for SIPs processed during the fiscal year and
submit midyear and end-of-year reports to the National SIP Processing Workgroup.
Manage the processing of SIP revisions to ensure final rulemaking actions on all ozone
and PM2.s SIPs are completed consistent with the annual SIP processing goal.
Process voluntary and mandatory reclassifications for 8-hour ozone areas.
Take final rulemaking actions on remaining 1997 PM25 and 1997 8-hr ozone NAAQS
SIP submittals (e.g., RFP, attainment demonstrations).
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 22 of 68
-------
Work with state to submit SIPs due for the 1997 8-hr ozone moderate nonattainment areas
that were reclassified to serious.
Assist states to develop and submit SIPs due for the 1997 8-hr ozone Subpart 1
nonattainment areas that were reclassified to Subpart 2.
Issue clean air determination actions and grant attainment date extensions, as appropriate,
for 1997 PM2.5 nonattainment areas with an April 5, 2010 attainment date.
Issue attainment determination actions for 1997 8-hour ozone nonattainment areas
including mandatory reclassifications, clean air data findings, or one-year attainment
extensions.
Coordinate with states and tribes on areas designated nonattainment for the 2006 PM2.5
NAAQS and assist them to develop plans due December 2012 to attain the 2006 PM2.5
NAAQS.
Work with HQ and states to finalize initial designations for the NC>2 and SC>2 NAAQS.
Assist states with developing 2011 CO, 2012/2013 PM2.5, and ozone NAAQS state
recommendations for designations.
Assist states to develop and implement local ozone reductions programs to help achieve
attainment of 2011 8-hr ozone NAAQS prior to designations process.
Assist states on developing timely 110(a)(2) infrastructure SIPs for NC>2 due January 2013
and SO2 due June 2013.
Assist states to develop timely §110(a)(2) infrastructure SIP submittals due October 2011
and for the 2008 lead NAAQS and attainment demonstration SIPs due June 2012 for
states with nonattainment areas designated in December 2010.
Coordinate with states, tribes, and local governments on developing air quality
forecasting for ozone and PM2.5 and in enhancing public reporting
(http://enviroflash.info).
Work with and assist regional enforcement staff.
Work with states to recognize and address environmental justice issues that can be
addressed in SIPs.
Actively promote and assist states, tribes, and local governments in implementing wood
smoke reduction programs (e.g., woodstove changeouts and Burnwise education
campaigns).
Assist with outreach and capacity building for minority, low-income and indigenous
communities to improve understanding of and engagement in regulatory and permitting
processes.
Regional Haze - FY 2012 Priorities
Headquarters
Continue to coordinate with Federal Land Managers on regional haze issues.
Continue to coordinate with Regions and provide technical and policy assistance to ensure
submission of any remaining unsubmitted regional haze SIPs and review of submitted
SIPs
Assist Regions with completing any remaining Federal Implementation Plans (FIPs)
needed to fulfill statutory obligations.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 23 of 68
-------
Regions
Manage the processing of SIP revisions to ensure that final rulemaking actions on all
regional haze SIPs are completed consistent with legal deadlines and the annual SIP
processing goal.
Complete any remaining Federal Implementation Plans (FIPs) needed to fulfill statutory
obligations.
NAAQS Ambient Monitoring - Remaining FY 2011 Priorities, and FY 2012 Priorities
Headquarters
Provide technical monitoring support and training for revised NAAQS and NAAQS
reviews.
Manage the national contracts for filter purchases, and the national contracts for
laboratory analysis of filters for speciation and analysis of filters for lead TSP, including
providing data for review by states and submitting data to AQS.
Monitor timeliness and completeness on the national scale for EPA-supported monitoring
and flag still-unresolved issues for Regional Office resolution.
Review data certification documentation and set certification flags on AQS data where
certification/QA requirements have been met.
Complete Management System Reviews of at least two regional monitoring programs.
Publish/Prepare National report on precision and bias performance by September 30,
2011.
Coordinate with Regions to ensure the independent QA of NAAQS monitoring sites.
Publish/prepare National report on 2011 Performance Evaluation Program (PEP) and
National Performance Audit Program (NPAP) findings within two months of each audit
and overall by July 1, 2012.
Award/manage interagency agreement with National Park Service for operation of
IMPROVE monitors for regional visibility. Allow states and tribes to use this mechanism
for EVIPROVE-protocol sampling at other locations.
Review and approve/disapprove requests for Federal Equivalent Methods (FEM) for
continuous PM2.5 methods within 120 days of completed application, and similarly act on
each first request for each Approved Regional Method (ARM).
Develop ambient monitoring portion of the FY 2013 national program and grant guidance
consistent with NAAQS final monitoring rules, the national strategy, in collaboration with
state, tribal, and local leadership, and Regions by April 2012.
Regions
Identify and resolve completeness and timeliness issues with regard to quarterly data
submission by monitoring agencies.
Evaluate submitters' annual data certification requests and documentation and forward to
HQ when adequate.
Review the evidence that state/local monitoring programs meet 40 CFR Part 58
appendices A, C, D, and E as applicable (evidence is a required element in annual
monitoring plans due July 1) and seek corrective action by monitoring agencies where
needed.
Review requests for changes in state monitoring plans and act on them within 120 days.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 24 of 68
-------
Manage contracts for independent performance audits of state/local monitor networks
(PEP and NPAP), for those states choosing that approach to independent audits (some
Regions only).
Perform Technical Systems Audits on 1/3 of reporting organizations, or as required to
achieve an audit of each agency within a 3-year period.
Support state monitoring network and tribal implementation of lead and rural ozone
monitors.
Transfer State and Tribal Air Grant (STAG) funds to OAQPS for any additional
state/tribal IMPROVE-protocol sites requested by state, tribal, or local agencies by May
2012 for monitoring to begin/continue in July 2012.
Title V and NSR- FY 2012 Priorities
Headquarters
Support Regions in issuing permits and evaluating Title V and NSR permit programs.
Support and maintain Title V permit activity database (TOPS).
Support tribal efforts in developing Title V and NSR permitting programs and delegation
requests.
Continue to assist Regions on NSR regulatory revisions and proposed regulations.
Continue to assist Regions in implementing the final regulations for permitting new and
modified sources in Indian country.
Continue to modify existing NSR permit regulations, as necessary, to be consistent with
revisedNAAQS.
Prepare and issue final orders on Title V citizen petitions based on drafts from Regions.
Provide training and technical guidance to Regions and states.
Develop sector- and source-specific guidance that will help permitting authorities and
affected sources better understand program requirements for GHGs, GHG emissions for
the selected source categories, methods for estimating those emissions, control strategies
for GHG emissions, and available GHG measurement and monitoring techniques.
Develop the Tailoring Step 3 rule.
Incorporate environmental justice considerations into permitting guidance, including
meaningful public involvement.
Regions
Review proposed initial, significant modifications and renewal operating permits, as
necessary, to ensure consistent implementation of the Title V program.
Report active Title V permits via the Title V Operating Permits database (TOPS) and
update all applicable TOPS data.
For purposes of updating TOPs, report outstanding renewals of Title V permits (permits
older than 5 years that have not been renewed).
Issue Title V permits to respond to objections when permitting authority fails to act.
Continue working on Title V program evaluations pursuant to March 2002 Office of
Inspector General (OIG) report.
Prepare draft orders to citizen (public) petitions based upon OAQPS' petition handling
process.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 25 of 68
-------
Perform at least one Title V program evaluation for programs with at least 20 permits
pursuant to February 2005 OIG report and set target to issue evaluation report within the
fiscal year.
Issue PSD and Part 71 permits in Indian country. Regions will issue PSD permits within
one year of receipt of a complete application.
Continue to assist permitting authorities on NSR regulatory revisions and proposed
regulations.
Evaluate NSR permit programs, as warranted and set target to issue reports within 120
days of evaluation.
Provide training and technical guidance and support to permitting authorities and the
public, as necessary.
Take action on all NSR SIPs/TIPs.
Continue issuance of Title V permits on tribal and other federal lands, as necessary.
Review major NSR/PSD permits for new and modified sources, as necessary, to ensure
consistent implementation of the NSR program.
Provide End-of-Year Regional Progress Report for status of EPA review of NSR permits.
Support efforts to build capacity of communities to engage in permit process in a
meaningful manner.
Air Toxics Program
To reduce the public's exposure to air toxics, EPA develops and issues federal standards for
major stationary sources and area sources, and conducts national, regional, and community-based
efforts to reduce risks from air toxics. EPA develops and refines tools, training, handbooks, and
information to assist partners in characterizing risks from air toxics, and works with them on
strategies for making local decisions to reduce those risks. EPA will work with state and local
agencies to continue to expand the national toxics monitoring network with a particular focus on
community-scale assessments, and will compile and analyze information from local assessments
to better characterize risk and assess priorities. The toxics program and strategies include the
following:
Work with partners to: (1) improve the technical specifications and procedures for the
National Air Toxics Trends Stations (NATTS) ambient monitoring network, (2) support
short-duration local-scale (also known as community-scale) monitoring studies, and (3)
develop improved emission factors. (Federal funding support for the NATTS network
and local-scale monitoring studies is addressed under the State and Local Air Quality
Management section below, and in Appendix C.)
Continue to implement the residual risk program and support community assessment and
risk reduction projects, and compile and analyze the information collected from them to
better characterize risk and assess priorities for further action. These air toxics mandates
will be used as a driver for multi-pollutant reductions.
Write rules for source categories (Note: Rules are listed under the Federal Stationary
Source Regulations subheading earlier in this chapter).
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 26 of 68
-------
Provide technical expertise, training, and support to state, tribal, and local air toxics
programs in assessing and reducing major stationary source, area source, and mobile
source air toxics.
Continue to develop and improve risk assessments and management methodologies.
Develop and implement innovative emission reduction approaches.
Work with communities through EPA's Communities for a Renewed Environment
(CARE) program and other community-based efforts to address environmental justice
issues that are associated with disproportionate exposure to air toxics. (See additional
CARE discussion below.)
Improve analytical tools to assess environmental justice and improve communications
and outreach to promote meaningful involvement of these communities in the rulemaking
process.
EPA activities that assist in the toxics reduction strategy include the NEI, NATA, NAP A, air
quality modeling, the National Clean Diesel Campaign, and data analysis programs. In addition,
the Air Toxics Monitoring Program indirectly and in some cases directly supports all the
technical tools as well as the programs noted above.
CARE is a community-based, multi-media collaborative program designed to help local
communities address the cumulative risk of toxics exposure. Through the CARE program, EPA
program experts work together to provide technical guidance to communities. This support helps
them build partnerships and use collaborative processes to select and implement actions to
improve community health and the environment.
CARE promotes cross-media collaboration across the Agency. The program also coordinates
with a broad range of governments, organizations, and businesses to help communities find the
partners they will need to succeed. Furthermore, CARE makes best practices, lessons learned
and other tools accessible to other communities.
CARE helps communities choose from the range of EPA programs designed to address
community concerns and improve their effectiveness by working to integrate the programs to
better meet the needs of communities. These programs include Diesel Retrofits, Brownfields,
National Estuary Program, Design for Environment, Environmental Justice Revitalization
Projects, Tools for Schools and Regional Geographic Initiatives. More program information is
available at www.epa.gov/CARE.
Air Toxics Implementation - FY 2012 Priorities
Headquarters
Continue to support the EIS and finalize the 2008 Inventory.
Continue development of the 2008 NAT A/NAP A assessment.
Work with Regions, states, tribes, and local governments to develop and implement
community-based air toxics programs that address outdoor, indoor, and mobile sources,
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 27 of 68
-------
including areas near schools and areas with potential environmental justice concerns.
This includes efforts that support the Urban Air Toxics Strategy, CARE program, and
OAR-OECA toxics effort.
Develop implementation assistance tools (e.g., education and outreach materials,
technical support) for states, tribes, and local governments for section 111, 112, and 129
standards, as needed.
Continue developing tools and guidance for communities and support a learning center or
institute for minority, low-income and indigenous communities to build capacity to
engage in air quality programs, including air toxics programs, in a meaningful way.
Continue to pilot development of enhanced public outreach and involvement activities
both before and after rule proposal to promote meaningful involvement of communities
that may be disproportionately impacted.
Continue to develop baselines for measuring air quality in areas with potential
environmental justice concerns.
Undertake biannual assessments of the environmental benefits being achieved in
environmental justice areas as a result of diesel emission reduction programs.
Continue to oversee and approve qualification of Phase 2 for outdoor hydronic heaters.
Continue to implement partnership programs for biomass fueled appliances, e.g.,
hydronic heaters, fireplaces including evaluation of retrofits for existing fireplaces.
Continue to redesign our emission factors program.
Regions
Work with states, tribes, and local governments on reviewing the draft 2008
NATA/NAPA.
Review the 2008 NEI and assist states, tribes, and local governments with similar
reviews.
Provide feedback to HQ on the 2008 NEI.
Work with HQ on developing risk-based programs and assist in developing area source
standards.
Work with states, tribes, and local governments to: (1) implement a residual risk
program, and (2) assess and address the combined impact of multiple sources of air
toxics, encouraging voluntary reductions of air toxics from indoor and outdoor sources
including residential woodsmoke.
Assist states, tribes, and local governments, where appropriate, in conducting data
analysis and assessment for air quality management implications in general. (Applies to
states conducting air toxics monitoring regardless of funding source.)
Work with states, tribes, and local governments to develop and implement area source
programs.
Delegate and provide implementation assistance to states, tribes, and local governments
for section 111, 112, and 129 standards, as needed.
Work with HQ to implement section 111, 112 and 129 standards, including Federal
11 l(d)/129 plans, in areas where states do not.
As appropriate, provide assistance, data, and information to HQ in order to help facilitate
revisions/amendments to section 111,11 l(d), 112 and 129 rules, and associated Federal
Plans.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 28 of 68
-------
Work with HQ, states, tribes, and local governments to develop and implement
community-based air toxics programs that address outdoor, indoor, and mobile sources,
including areas near schools and areas with potential environmental justice concerns.
This includes efforts that support the Urban Air Toxics Strategy, CARE program, and the
OAR-OECA toxics effort.
As appropriate, participate in residual risk analyses for MACT and/or GACT standard
source categories, and standard setting process.
Provide training to states, tribes, and local governments on air toxics program
requirements.
Work with HQ to support development of enhanced public outreach and involvement
activities both before and after rule proposal to promote meaningful involvement of EJ
communities.
CARE Program: Regions should:
o Provide multi-media regional support needed to ensure the success of the
Regions' CARE cooperative agreements.
o Identify experienced project officers/leaders for each of the CARE projects and
provide training and support to them, as needed.
o Strengthen cross-program regional teams organized to support CARE project
leaders and CARE community needs with dedicated technical and programmatic
support.
o During CARE Level I projects, provide the technical support needed for
communities to identify and rank their risks and build long-term, viable
partnerships.
o During CARE Level II projects, help communities' access EPA programs and
expertise to create and implement local solutions and measure and track their
results.
o Encourage staff participation in training new project leaders and at sessions
during the national CARE workshop.
o Ensure required reporting of progress and results through the Quarterly and End
of Year Reports and assist in other efforts to aggregate program results on a
national level.
o Support work to capture best practices and lessons learned to help other
communities replicate these approaches.
o Support CARE national teams that have been organized to manage the CARE
program and provide support to Regional Office teams and projects.
Air Toxic Monitoring - FY 2012 Priorities
Headquarters
Transfer 103 funds for NATTS grants to affected Regional Offices.
Manage national contract for NATTS lab analysis.
Conduct Proficiency Testing and Technical System Audits for national contract lab and
state/local labs servicing NATTS, and report results within 60 days of audit after
opportunity for state/local lab review of draft audit report.
Provide national/regional-scale analysis of currently available air toxics data by
September 2012, with conclusions relevant to air quality management and to establishing
future goals for the NATTS program and other monitoring initiatives.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 29 of 68
-------
Monitor NATTS data submissions for completeness and timeliness.
Conduct a grant competition for community-scale air toxics ambient monitoring projects.
Provide guidance to Regions for negotiating individual grants to ensure that data meet
risk screening, risk characterization, and/or risk assessment requirements where
appropriate given study objectives that were material in selecting the project for funding.
Provide mechanism for optional participation in Proficiency Testing and Technical
System Audits by labs which are not direct NATTS participants. (Cost would be borne
by the approved state/local lab.)
Provide tools and guidance for analyzing local air toxics data.
Review Technical Assistance Document and update if appropriate.
Regions
Ensure NATTS work plans are consistent with program office template guidance.
Ensure NATTS QAPP is adequate to provide quality data for submission to AQS.
Participate in at least 50% of NATTS TSA lab and field site audits.
Track status and coordinate needed follow-up actions between the program office and
states, tribes, and local agencies in support of the NATTS QA program (e.g., TSA and PT
activities).
Identify and resolve completeness and timeliness issues with regard to quarterly data
submission by monitoring agencies.
Award the community-scale air toxics ambient monitoring grants, as applicable.
Assist states, tribes, and local governments in siting, installing, and operating new and
upgraded toxic monitoring equipment for community-scale grant projects.
Review QA programs and ensure compatibility of community-scale air toxics
measurements across projects and with NATTS, where appropriate.
Assess and review existing air toxics networks, and assist states, tribes, and local
agencies in the siting, installation, and operation of new and upgraded toxic monitoring
equipment.
STATE AND LOCAL AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT
Program Description
The state and local air quality management program includes funding and associated program
support to assist state and local air pollution control agencies in developing and implementing
continuing programs to attain and maintain the NAAQS and to assess, prevent, and control air
pollution such as hazardous air pollutants. Continuing program activities include not only state
plan preparation and implementation for the NAAQS, but also related air quality monitoring and
network upkeep, emission inventories, modeling and analysis, training, permitting, and
conducting oversight and compliance activity associated with non-Title V sources including
small and area air toxics sources, providing technical assistance, and responding to citizen
complaints. The annual details of many of these activities, including the HQ and Regional
Office roles, are articulated in the 'priorities' sections of the various program descriptions.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 30 of 68
-------
The program also provides funding to interstate transport commissions, and other multi-
jurisdictional organizations (MJOs) to help coordinate the air quality improvement efforts of
states and locals. MJOs are composed of state and local agency representatives.
State and local agencies also maintain Title V operating permit programs for major stationary
and other sources. Title V activities are funded through operating permit fees and are not grant-
eligible. While Title V permit fees cannot be used to fund grant-eligible activities, in FY 2012,
the President's budget request does include grant funding for state and local agencies to build
their capacity to implement Title V and PSD permitting programs for GHGs. The request also
retargets resources from the Agency to expand STAG assistance to state and local agencies to
support their participation in the registry of GHG sources.
Program Strategy
EPA's overall strategy for achieving clean outdoor air includes a comprehensive, multi-
pollutant approach that combines national, regional, and local measures with responsibilities for
implementation carried out by the most appropriate and effective level of government.
Typically, problems with broad national or global impact are best handled at the federal level.
State and local agencies can best address regional and local problems that remain after federal
measures are applied. Inherent in these efforts is EPA's policy to ensure that collaborative and
timely consultation occurs with its partners in the areas of planning, priority-setting, budgeting,
and implementation. It is EPA's policy to seek prior consultation with partners on the allocation
and use of grant resources. This guidance reflects input from states, local agencies, and tribes on
EPA's continuing efforts to identify and resolve issues associated with the purposes, distribution,
and use of grant resources.
In implementing the state and local air quality management component of this strategy EPA
will:
Work with state, local, and other governmental partners to target available STAG
resources to those air pollution problems which pose the greatest risk to public health
(e.g., fine particles, ozone, and hazardous air pollutants; disparate impacts affecting low-
income, minority, tribal or other disadvantaged populations);
Secure and allocate resources to address not only the attainment of PM2.5, ozone, and
other NAAQS, but also support ongoing state and local air program operations and
delegated programs which help maintain healthy air quality;
Encourage support for regional and community-scale strategies that complement the
impacts of federal measures (e.g.: action day programs; air quality reporting; wood
smoke reduction programs; diesel retrofits and other mobile source initiatives; and,
integrated air toxics monitoring, risk assessment, and reduction projects);
Provide support to assist states, tribes, and local agencies to develop air quality
forecasting programs, especially the addition of forecasting particle pollution;
Target significant resources to recipients to develop, refine, and maintain monitoring
systems and emission inventories which help provide a clear picture of the nature and
sources of air pollution and help gauge the impacts of preventive and mitigative measures
employed;
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 31 of 68
-------
Support the efforts of states and multi-jurisdictional organizations (MJOs) to develop
information and strategies for use by states and tribes in reducing haze and improving
visibility across the country, including formerly pristine areas;
Provide resources that focus on transboundary or bi-national, geographically-specific
environmental issues involving a multi-pollutant, multi-state, and sometimes a multi-
media approach;
Work with state and local government partners to make training on new programs and
fundamental air pollution program training more widely accessible;
Provide support for training and other associated program support to assist state, local,
multi-state, and other agencies in addressing their air pollution problems;
Provide training and technical support to assist states, tribes, and local agencies in
developing and conducting wood boiler and wood stove changeout programs to reduce
particle pollution; to implement a clean burning education campaign; and,
Provide resources to eligible entities to support diesel engine retrofits, rebuilds and
replacements, and idling reduction technologies that target reductions from the existing
diesel fleet.
Grant Assistance to Co-Implementers: FY 2012 Increases
The President's FY 2012 budget request includes a total of $327.14 million in STAG funds
for outdoor and indoor air grant programs carried out by multi-state, state, local, and tribal
agencies, and other eligible entities. Of this amount, $305.5 million is targeted for continuing air
programs carried out by state and local air agencies. This is an increase of $81.5 million over the
FY 2009 level and $78.9 million over the FY 2010 enacted level. An increase of $266K has also
been requested for tribal air programs while requested support for the state indoor radon grant
program has not changed. The FY 2012 request does not include funds for three areas funded in
FY 2010: Climate Showcase, Diesel Emission Reduction Programs and Targeted Airshed
grants. Table 2 compares the FY 2012 request to FY 2010 enacted and FY 2011 projected
continuing enacted levels.
Table 2 - Comparison of State and Tribal Assistance Grants for Air: FYs 2010-2012 (in $M)*
Program Area
Continuing State/Local Air Program
Diesel Emission Reduction Program**
State Indoor Radon
Tribal Air Program*
Climate Showcase Communities
Targeted Airshed Grants
Total
FY 20 10 Enacted
$226.580
$60.000
$8.074
$13.300
$10.000
$20.000
$337.954
FY 20 11 Continuing
Resolution
$226.580
$60.000
$8.074
$13.300
$307.954
President's FY
20 12 Request
$305.5
$8.074
$13.566
$327.140
* At publication, final FY 2011 funding status was still pending. The Agency was operating under a CR at its FY 2010 level. However, a final
enacted level for STAG for FY 2011 is expected to be slightly below the FY 2010 enacted level.
** Includes Clean School Bus Initiative funds.
The President's budget request divides the $78.9 million increase into three components:
$37.4 million to support the expanded core state and local agency workload associated with
implementing more protective ozone, NC>2, 862, lead, and fine paniculate NAAQS and
addressing risks from air toxics; $25 million to address development of state and local technical
capacity to address GHG emissions in permitting of large sources identified pursuant to
Final Guidance April 22, 2011
32 of 68
-------
regulation under the CAA; $1.5 million to assist states and local agencies in the collection and
analysis of GHG registry emissions data and the operation of linked state-based reporting
systems and, $15 million specifically targeted for the increased number of monitors required by
the new or revised NAAQS.
Core Activities: State and local agencies, which have been grappling with constrained budgets,
are also facing an increasing workload as EPA updates and issues more protective NAAQS. The
NAAQS have triggered, and will continue to trigger, the preparation of new or updated SIPs.
Due to the multi-pollutant, and often regional nature of air pollution, preparation and
implementation of the plans to deal with it will become increasingly complex requiring
additional modeling, technical analysis, updated emission inventories, monitoring, and increased
stakeholder involvement and coordination. The requested $37.4 million core increase is intended
to supplement the existing level of funds that state and local agencies have been using for
continuing program responsibilities. Despite these requested increases, EPA is sensitive to the
continued fiscal challenges that many state and local agencies are facing given today's economic
conditions. Given this growing agenda and the possibility of flat or reduced federal grant
funding, OAR has begun a process that engages the Regional Offices as well as state, local, and
tribal representatives, including the memberships of the Environmental Council of States
(ECOS) and the National Association of Clean Air Agencies (NACAA), in joint discussions on
the prioritization and implementation of critical aspects of the continuing air program. As part
of this collaborative process, EPA will continue to seek specific comments on the prioritization
and distribution of state/local grant resources. This process is expected to extend beyond the
publication of this document. Accordingly OAR is not yet ready to publish a preliminary
national (region-by-region) allocation of FY 2012 STAG resources but expects to do so by early
late May or early June 2011.
Increasing Capacity for GHG Permitting: Initial rules and guidance covering the permitting of
sources to include GHG emissions were issued starting in FY 2010. EPA anticipates that state
and local agencies with approved or delegated permitting authority will require additional grant
resources to effectively prepare for increased GHG-related program responsibilities. This
includes staff development and training, program planning and analysis, source identification,
outreach to industry, and responding to the public. EPA is still developing an allocation
rationale for a requested $25 million increase in this area and will be requesting additional
comment from states, locals, and tribes before issuing a final allocation as part of the final FY
2012 guidance.
Monitoring: The CAA requires EPA to review, and revise, if necessary, each NAAQS every five
years. Each revision of the NAAQS provides greater protection of public health and may place
new monitoring requirements on our state and local partners. The additional funding requested
for FY 2012 will help defray the purchase costs of new monitors for ozone, lead, SO2, and NO2
for state and local agencies. Air monitoring is addressed in greater detail in Appendix C. The
Agency is still in the process of developing a detailed allocation for these resources. The
allocation will largely be influenced by the final NAAQS rules.
Other Grant Programs
A discussion of state indoor radon grants can be found in the Indoor Environments chapter.
Also note that information on allocation of tribal air grants will be provided at a later date. The
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 33 of 68
-------
EPA tribal air program contact is Barrel Harmon at 202-564-7416. Finally, information on
competitive grant opportunities and programs is typically provided via separate announcement
at: http://www.epa.gov/air/grants_funding.html.
Diesel Emission Reductions Grant Program
On January 4, 2011, the President signed into law the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act of
2010, which modifies and reauthorizes the EPA's Diesel Emission Reduction Program through
FY 2016. Through the Diesel Emission Reduction Program (DERA), EPA continues to focus on
reducing PM emissions from existing diesel engines (which are not subject to the new, more
stringent emission standards that took effect in 2007 and later). These engines often remain in
service for 20 or more years, and this program helps to provide immediate reductions by
retrofitting these engines with emission control technologies sooner than would otherwise occur
through normal turnover of the fleet. Implementation of the program produces criteria air
pollutant and air toxics benefits.
The President's FY 2012 budget request does not include funds for DERA. In FY 2012, EPA
will continue to manage diesel emission reduction grants and loans issued in prior years. Over
the last several years, EPA has awarded over $500 million in grant funding through the DERA
programs to state and local governments, NGOs, port authorities, school districts, and others.
Past awards were made using the following methodology:
Competitive National Clean Diesel Campaign (NCDC) grants that directly fund and/or
finance retrofits, rebuilds, and replacements, as well as fuel switching and fuel efficiency
measures associated with diesel trucks, ships, school buses, and other diesel equipment.
Formula grants to states to implement state diesel emission reduction programs defined
under DERA. State governors have the discretion to use these funds as direct grants or
revolving loans as they see fit.
EPA also will continue to provide diesel emission reduction technology verification as well as
quantification and evaluation of emissions reduction strategies and their cost effectiveness.
Clean Air Act Training
Section 103(b) of the CAA authorizes EPA to provide training for air pollution control
personnel and agencies and make training grants related to the causes, effects, extent, prevention,
and control of air pollution available to air pollution control agencies and other qualified entities.
In addition to the Agency resources that EPA targets, EPA is again targeting approximately $2
million in STAG funds for the support of CAA training provided by multi-jurisdictional
organizations and other state training programs in FY 2012. These funds are subject to
consultation and concurrence with participating state and local air pollution control agencies.
An additional $1 million in STAG training funds from FY 10 has been committed to procure a
learning management system, update self-instructional courses, and develop a training
curriculum for state and local agencies. EPA is working with NACAA to complete this work by
2012. In addition, EPA continues to support training by maintaining and updating training
courses, presenting training videos and webinars, and continues to coordinate with NACAA's
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 34 of 68
-------
Training Committee. For more information, contact Debbie Stackhouse in OAQPS at 919-541-
5281.
Northeast Ozone Transport Commission (OTC)
The OTC was created pursuant to sections 176A and 184 of the CAA and is funded under
CAA §106. The OTC represents Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic States in the Ozone Transport
Region (OTR) in: a) assessing interstate transport of ozone and its precursors; and b)
determining the need for, and appropriateness of, additional control measures within the OTR, or
areas affecting the OTR. The OTC is supported by a small executive staff that functions largely
to coordinate OTC activities, facilitate communication among members, and serve as the point of
contact for organizations external to the OTC, including EPA. The OTC also serves as the multi-
pollutant and regional haze planning organization for the OTR (minus Northern VA) in concert
with the Northeast States for Coordinated Air Use Management and the Mid-Atlantic Regional
Air Management Association (collectively known as MANE-VU). For FY 2012, the OTC's
activity is expected to continue to focus on six areas: general analytical support to member
states; analysis of mobile, stationary, and area source measures, particularly new clean air
technologies; member communications; solicitation of non-governmental stakeholder input;
coordination with other organizations; and consensus building. The focus areas are supported by
OTC committees that develop and recommend specific action items for the Commission and the
member states. The OTC implements its policy recommendations through consensus resolutions
and draft model rules that provide guidance to member states. For more information contact Pat
Childers in OAR at 202-564-1082 or at childers.pat@epa.gov.
Multi-Jurisdictional Organizations (MJOs)
National Association of Clean Air Agencies (NACAA)
NACAA is the national association of state, territorial, and local air pollution control
agencies. It comprises representatives from member air pollution control agencies and is
supported by a small staff in Washington, D.C. Member agencies support NACAA with their
STAG funds. They do this by either providing their prior consent to EPA to target a portion
of the funds that would otherwise be allotted to them instead for direct award to NACAA; or
they direct that NACAA bill them directly for their membership contribution. Section 105
recipients who are not members of NACAA do not have their allotments affected. The award
of funds to NACAA is still subject to review by the Agency including the applicability of the
Agency's Competition Policy. See Appendix B.
NACAA provides associated program support to its member state and local agencies by
coordinating the air quality activities of state and local air pollution control officials at the
national level and engaging in activities that enhance the effectiveness of their agencies. This
includes: the dissemination of information to membership via electronic and print means,
support for member technical advisory committees, planning and sponsoring of air quality
conferences and technical workshops, serving as a state/local liaison to EPA, coordination of
member participation on EPA and joint State-EPA technical committees, production of
technical assistance for members such as model rules and implementation strategies, and
addressing air pollution control issues in concert with other public and private interests. For
more information, contact William Houck at 202-564-1349 or at houck.william@epa.gov.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 35 of 68
-------
Regional-level Multi-Jurisdictional Organizations
Numerous state and local agencies have found it advantageous to form multi-jurisdictional
organizations (MJOs) to help coordinate their geographically-specific clean air interests at the
regional level. These organizations typically comprise the member agencies and develop
relevant mission statements, charters and budgets. A state or local agency wishing to fund an
MJO may: a) direct that the EPA Regional Office set aside that agency's desired contribution
from its prospective portion of the regional allotment (i.e., on a pre-allotment basis); or, b)
directly fund the organization once the state or local agency receives its allotment. An EPA
Regional Office may provide STAG funding to such an organization using §103 authority
only if the contributing agencies provide their prior consent, the MJO is eligible for the
funding, and the MJO's activities are appropriate as associated program support.
Additionally, EPA must make a finding as to whether the organization should receive its grant
on a non-competitive basis consistent with the Agency's Competition Policy. During FY
2011, probably by early summer, the Agency expects to release clarifications to the policy
that will streamline its applicability to MJOs when STAG funds are sought. See Appendix B
for more information. Note that funding for regional-scale MJOs is not delineated as part of
the national region-by-region allocation of STAG funds but is instead identified within the
respective Region's allotments to its state and local agencies.
Regional Planning Organizations
Regional Haze Planning Organizations (RPOs), drawn from existing multi-jurisdictional
organizations, were created to assist states, tribes and other stakeholders in identifying,
analyzing, and addressing their multi-jurisdictional regional haze and visibility problems. The
RPOs were instrumental in providing states, locals, and tribes with the needed materials to
complete the preparation of the required Regional Haze SIPs. The plans were due to EPA
from the states by December 17, 2007.
The Agency has continued to receive comments from some states and tribes that key
analytical tools, expertise, and the regional forums that the regional haze planning
organizations provided merit continued support. Their point is that continued support for
RPOs is needed not only for future regional haze SIP work but also for broader regional
planning needs given the regional nature of air pollution and the increasingly complex plans
and strategies necessary to address iti.e., regional air quality management strategies based
on additional and more complex modeling, refined emissions inventories, and increased
stakeholder involvement.
To address these concerns, OAR initiated a program evaluation in early CY 2011 of the
RPOs' role in, and impacts on, regional haze program. An EPA contractor has been gathering
data and interviewing the various stakeholders involved in the programHQ, Regional
Offices, MJOs, RPOs, states, local agencies, tribes, and other key parties. The results of the
program evaluation study should enable EPA to address key questions about the continued
role of regional planning entities (i.e., the continued need, available resources, and optimum
organizational structure for support of broader, multi-pollutant and regional planning). OAR
is open to additional input from state, local, and tribal agencies, multi-jurisdictional
organizations, and other stakeholders on this matter. For additional information please
contact Jerry Kurtzweg or Shani Harmon in the Office of Air and Radiation at 202-564-1234.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 36 of 68
-------
For information on current RPO functions please contact Jeff Whitlow in the Office of Air
Quality Planning and Standards at 919-541-5523.
Transboundary Programs
Great Lakes Air Deposition (GLAD) Program
The goal of EPA's Great Lakes program is to restore and maintain the ecosystem, as required
by the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement and the Clean Water Act. Extensive work of
the Great Lakes Interagency Task Force and its wide variety of stakeholders and non-
governmental partners culminated in the 2005 Great Lakes Regional Collaboration (GLRC)
Strategy. In 2009, the President announced a new Great Lakes Restoration Initiative,
committing the Federal government to significantly advance protection and restoration of the
Great Lakes.
The Great Lakes Air Deposition (GLAD) program is a portion of this effort and is coordinated
by the Great Lakes Commission to address the deposition of toxic pollutants and to promote
coordinate efforts to reduce such deposition and the resulting adverse impacts on human and
wildlife health. The program, which also supports the Great Lakes Bi-National Air Toxics
Strategy with Canada, supports scientific research, information gathering, and collaboration
among policy makers. The GLAD program shares STAG resources among the eight Great
Lakes states: Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Michigan, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and
Wisconsin. In FY 2010 and FY 2011, funds were awarded under the CAA §105 and are
provided to the states via their categorical air program grant or as an air work plan element in
a performance partnership grant.
Priority activities of the program include: identification of air toxics sources, development of
accurate and comprehensive air toxics emission inventories, monitoring of air toxics
deposition, modeling of atmospheric dispersion and deposition of toxic pollutants, assessment
of long-range atmospheric transport of toxic pollutants to the Great Lakes region, and
assessment of the effects of atmospheric toxic pollutants on fish and wildlife. These activities
are consistent with the goals of the CAA, the Great Lakes Binational Toxics Strategy, the
Great Waters Program, and the Office of Water's Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL)
Program. Development of this information is critical in establishing the basis to create further
regulations and strategies to minimize atmospheric loadings to the Great Lakes and other
inland water bodies. The results of this work are used to guide federal, state, and local policy
for the Great Lakes and other fresh water ecosystems.
EPA is currently consulting with the eight Great Lakes states regarding how best to
administer the GLAD program and distribute funds to support GLAD activities in FY 2012.
Approaches include whether to allocate funds to a multi-jurisdictional organization (MJO)
representing the eight Great Lakes states, or to continue to allocate GLAD funding directly to
the states to support their specific air deposition priority activities as done in FYs 2010 and
2011. For the past 15 years, a MJO has coordinated the Great Lakes regional air toxics
inventory project. Additionally, from FY 2004 until FY 2009, a MJO also began coordinating
a program to award of additional GLAD funding to meet the research needs of state agencies.
The states have found this to be a productive method of addressing persistent,
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 37 of 68
-------
bioaccumulative, and toxic chemicals in the Great Lakes Basin. For more information on the
program, please contact Erin Newman in Region 5 (312-886-4587).
US-Mexico Border Air Program
Under the 27-year old La Paz Agreement between the U.S. and Mexico, EPA and its Mexican
counterpart, SEMARNAT, have established a bi-national programBorder 2012that
focuses on cleaning the environment, protecting the public health, and ensuring emergency
preparedness for the 12 million people who live along the U.S.-Mexico border. The program
supports the initiatives of the affected state, local and multi-jurisdictional agencies on both
sides of the border and uses regional workgroups, task forces, and policy forums to develop
and implement pollution reduction strategies. In encouraging local and grass-roots strategies,
the Border 2012 Program empowers a larger number of state, local, tribal entities (also
working with academics and NGOs) to become active participants in border air quality
improvements.
For example, OAR and SEMARNAT lead the Border 2012 Air Policy Forum, established
to employ a collaborative, stakeholder-driven approach to develop strategies for cooperative
and sustainable air emissions reduction efforts along the border. The Air Policy Forum has
developed an integrated, border-wide air quality strategy, to guide emissions reduction
projects taking place in the border region. This includes a new border-wide objective and
reduction strategy for GHGs that lays the path for baseline development, climate action
planning, energy efficiency, and other related border projects. Air Policy Forum members
additionally advise EPA and Mexico's SEMARNAT on potential strategic funding needs and
opportunities.
EPA activities fall into three primary areas: (1) public outreach and education using Border
2012 task forces and work groups with a growing focus on GHGs; (2) the enhancement of
scientific knowledge including emissions inventories and action plans with a focus on GHGs
and air quality monitoring; and (3) the support of mobile source, stationary source and/or
GHG projects that deliver tangible emission reductions and may also promote border energy
conservation, sustainability, or renewable energy efforts. The new/revised NAAQS (NC>2,
PM, ozone, etc) will have a significant impact on the border areas, and additional efforts will
be needed to meet those standards. For more information on the Border 2012 Program please
contact: Ruben Casso in Region 6 (214-665-6763); and in Region 9, Christine Vineyard (415-
947-4125) or Andrew Steckel (415-947-4115).
NAAOS - FY 2012 Priorities
Regions should: Work with states to review air quality reports and take appropriate actions to
eliminate future violations in attainment areas that violate any of the NAAQS.
States should:
As appropriate, submit redesignation requests including maintenance plans for areas with
clean air quality data.
Continue to implement SIPs for 1997 PM2.5 and ozone NAAQS.
Develop and submit 2006 PM2.5 NAAQS SIPs due no later than December 2012.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 38 of 68
-------
Submit any outstanding 1997 PM2.5 and ozone SIP elements including SIPs due for the
1997 8-hr ozone Subpart 1 nonattainment areas that were reclassified to Subpart 2 and
SIPs due for the 1997 8-hr ozone moderate nonattainment areas that were reclassified to
serious.
Work with Regions to develop and implement local ozone reductions programs to help
achieve attainment of 2011 8-hr ozone NAAQS prior to designations process.
Submit § 110(a)(2) infrastructure SIPs for Lead due October 2011. For Lead
nonattainment areas designated in December 2010, submit attainment demonstration SIPs
that are due June 30, 2012.
Consult with EPA as necessary to finalize area designations for the NO2 primary and SO2
primary NAAQS.
Begin evaluating technical information used to support 2011 CO and ozone NAAQS state
recommendations for designations.
Air Quality Management Plans (AQMPs) for the States of New York and North Carolina,
and for the city of St. Louis (Missouri and Illinois) were available in spring 2010 (see
www.epa.gov/oar/aqmp). States should refer to this information and should begin to
integrate activities affecting or affected by air quality (e.g. land use, transportation,
energy, climate, environmental justice, and ecosystem impacts) into their planning
efforts.
Conduct public notification and education efforts, including reporting air quality
forecasts and current conditions for ozone and particle pollution.
Submit NAAQS pollutant data, PAMS, and QA data to AQS directly or indirectly
through another organization according to schedule in 40 CFR Part 58 (applies to all
state/local primary quality assurance organizations).
Implement strategies for controlling emissions from wood smoke where it is a primary
contribution to air quality problems, including woodstove changeout and Burnwise
education campaigns.
Regional Haze - 2012 Priorities
States should:
Continue to work with Regions on any remaining issues related to submitted regional
haze SIPs.
Implement BART requirements.
Submit any outstanding regional haze SIP elements.
NAAOS Ambient Monitoring - 2012 Priorities
Regions should: Work with states to ensure that state monitoring networks for NAAQS, NCore,
PM2.s speciation, and PAMS meet applicable regulatory and guidance requirements.
States should:
Implement second phase lead monitoring at near-source locations.
Implement lead monitoring at non near-source locations as part of each state's annual
monitoring network plan due to EPA by July 1, 2011.
Submit 2013 annual network plan required by 40 CFR § 58.10, by July 1, 2012, unless
another schedule has been approved (state/local only, unless tribal work plan
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 39 of 68
-------
requirement). The plan should provide for the movement or start-up of additional ozone
monitoring stations associated with smaller urban areas and non-urban areas, if required.
Operate monitors for other NAAQS pollutants, NCore, PIVb.s speciation, and PAMS
according to 40 CFR Part 58, approved monitoring plans, and/or grant agreements
including QMPs and QAPPs.
Submit NAAQS pollutant data, PAMS, NCore and QA data to AQS according to
schedule in 40 CFR Part 58.
Certify 2011 NAAQS pollutant data in AQS and provide supporting documentation by
May 1, 2012 (state/local only, unless tribal work plan requirement).
Ensure adequate, independent QA audits of NAAQS monitors, including PEP and NPAP
or equivalent (state/local only, unless tribal work plan requirement).
Conduct monthly QA checks for flow rates of PM2.5 speciation monitors and submit data
quarterly to AQS. Target is for 75% completeness, (state/local only, unless tribal work
plan requirement).
Report real time ozone and PM2.5 data to AirNOW for cities required to report the AQI
(state/local only).
Air Toxics Ambient Monitoring - 2012 Priorities
Regions should: Work with states to ensure NATTS sites are operated according to EPA's
technical guidance and the QAPP and QMP.
States should:
Operate NATTS sites according to national technical guidance and the QAPP and QMP.
Participate in inter-laboratory Proficiency Testing and Technical System Audit programs
according to national guidance and the approved QAPP and QMP (state/local only).
Submit NATTS data to AQS quarterly, within 120 days of end of each quarter. The data
objective for completeness rate is 85% of the potential concentration values for each
quarter (state/local only).
Conduct federally-funded community assessment projects consistent with grant terms
(including schedule), technical guidance, and QAPP and QMP (state/local/tribal).
Submit data from federally-funded community monitoring projects to AQS quarterly,
within 120 days of end of each quarter. The data objective for completeness rate is 85%
of the potential concentration values for the study period (state/local/tribal).
Operate study sites based on the terms of QAPP and QMP (state/local/tribal).
Title V and NSR- 2012 Priorities
Regions should: Work with states to assist them in developing the technical capacity to address
GHG emissions in the permitting of large sources.
States should:
Ensure sources submit Title V applications for renewal.
Provide timeliness data on new Title V permits and significant permit modifications to
EPA Regional Offices for entry into TOPS.
Continue to issue initial permits, significant modifications, and renewal Title V permits
and reduce backlog of renewal permits.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 40 of 68
-------
Participate with EPA in Title V permit program evaluations, set targets to respond within
90 days to EPA's evaluation report and implement recommendations as warranted.
Issue new Title V permits and significant permit modifications within 18 months of
application completeness determined by permitting authority.
Issue 78 % of major NSR permits within one year of receiving a complete permit
application.
Issue NSR permits consistent with CAA requirements and enter BACT/LAER
determinations in the RACT/BACT/LAER Clearinghouse (RBLC).
Provide timeliness data on NSR permits issued for new major sources and major
modifications by entering data including "the application accepted date" and "the permit
issuance date" in to the RBLC national database.
Air Toxics Implementation - 2012 Priorities
States should:
Quality assure, validate, and revise NEI facility data using EIS.
Submit data for the integrated 2008 HAP emissions inventory.
Develop 11 l(d)/129 plans and implement delegated or approved section 112, 11 l(d) and
129 standards, as appropriate, for major sources and area sources.
Implement delegated residual risk standards.
Work with communities to develop and implement voluntary air toxics programs that
address outdoor, indoor, and mobile sources with emphasis on areas with potential
environmental justice concerns.
Use of the Exchange Network for Reporting Air Quality Monitoring Results
In a July 2009 memorandum, EPA Administrator Jackson included enhanced use of the
National Environmental Information Exchange Network as part of her strategic vision for the
Agency. She wrote in response to a unanimous request from the Environmental Council of the
States emerging from their spring 2009 meeting that she intends "the Agency to work with the
states to set an aggressive timetable for completing the transition to the Exchange Network (EN)
for regulatory and national system reporting...." The FY 2011 NPM Guidance identified specific
actions and commitments for HQ and the Regions, focusing on efforts needed to increase state
participation in the Air Quality System (AQS) data flow and meet the Exchange Network 2012
strategic goal, which includes full implementation of the AQS flow. OAR is pleased by the
progress being made towards meeting these commitments. For example, EPA OEI/OIC has
plans to deploy a web-based EN node client that allows users with a valid account to submit air
quality data from any computer with a web browser. All AQS submitters will be able to
transition to this client, enabling EPA to turn off legacy pathways, streamlining the Agency's
infrastructure and reducing costs. OAR also wishes to note that, consistent with the FY 2011
guidance, data submitted through a network node or node client will now automatically be
placed in AQS. Submitters will no longer have to log into AQS and manually promote the file
into the AQS system. The manual promotion requirement was the most frequent barrier cited for
not using the Exchange Network for reporting AQS data.
Full implementation of the AQS flow, however, will require additional actions on the part of
Headquarters, the Regions and the states. These actions are described in the following sections.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 41 of 68
-------
OAR Actions
As part of preparing this guidance, EPA has examined the current process for submitting Air
Quality data, and will do the following in FY 2012 to address potential obstacles to increased use
of the exchange network:
Fund enhancements to AQS to allow automatic loading of data submitted via the
Exchange Network;
Continue efforts (e.g., coordination with the Network Governance and ECOS and air
quality data management software vendors to facilitate deployment of upgraded software
that produces compatible XML formatted files) to make available information, tools, and
guidance needed to help states and other partners transition from "flat files" to the EN
XML standard;
Develop and conduct necessary training sessions for staff submitting air quality
measurement results in conjunction with the Regions and ECOS;
Stop accepting "flat file" submissions from states by the end of 2013; and
Stop accepting "flat file" submissions from tribal, territorial, and locally delegated
programs by the end of 2015.
Regional Actions
Using the resources developed in FY 2011, Regions should work with states to:
Obtain commitments in the grant workplans from all or all but one state in each Region to
submit XML-formatted AQS data by the end of 2012;
Obtain commitments in the grant workplans from the remaining state in each Region to
submit XML formatted AQS data by the end of 2013; and
Increase the use of the exchange network by non-state submitters of air quality information
by making the EN client, XML tools and the necessary training available to them with the
goal of 100 percent reporting using the Exchange Network by the end of 2015.
TRIBAL AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT
The national Tribal Air Quality Management Program includes funding for Indian tribes and
Tribal Air Pollution Control Agencies, as well as providing training and support for tribes with
typically small staffs and limited resources. Through CAA §103 grants, tribal air pollution
control agencies, among others, may conduct and promote research, investigations, experiments,
demonstrations, surveys, studies and training related to air pollution. Tribes typically use this
funding to research and investigate the air quality, and emissions sources affecting, lands within
their jurisdiction (most often, all lands within the exterior boundaries of their reservation).
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 42 of 68
-------
Through CAA §105 grants, tribes may develop and implement programs for the prevention and
control of air pollution or for the implementation of national primary and secondary ambient air
quality standards, NSR and permit programs, and delegated federal programs like Part 71 and
MACT standards. Tribes have the authority to set standards and develop additional programs to
meet their unique needs. This authority is grounded in the CAA and the Tribal Authority Rule,
as well as their inherent sovereign authority as Indian tribes.
EPA is committed to work with the tribes, our regulatory partners, to assist them in
understanding their air quality, completing air quality assessments, setting appropriate air quality
goals, and developing air quality management programs appropriate to meet those goals. The
completion of air quality assessments in Indian country is achieved through a combination of
training and technical support of tribal staff in areas such as conducting assessments, source
characterizations, emission inventories, monitoring programs, modeling, and other analyses, as
appropriate. At the same time, work continues to improve and facilitate tribal participation in the
policy and programmatic aspects of the national air quality management program. As tribes gain
experience, they are then better able to address their air quality concerns, and enhance their
overall program development and participation. EPA is committed to supporting the National
Tribal Air Association (NTAA) as a policy and coordination organization, working to promote
communication between and amongst tribes and EPA. NTAA serves an important role in
facilitating tribal involvement in EPA policy and regulatory development.
EPA is also committed to building tribal capacity, where appropriate, to implementeither
directly through tribal regulations and Tribal Implementation Plans (TIPs), title V programs, or
as partners in implementation of applicable Federal Implementation Plans (FIPs)CAA
protections for human health and the environment for federally-recognized tribes. A primary
mechanism for this priority is to fund the American Indian Air Quality Training Program
(AIAQTP) in its role as a leader in tribal air quality training and technical support. The AIAQTP
provides a curriculum developed especially for the unique needs of Indian country. This
program has been instrumental in assisting tribes to develop the necessary skills to start and
implement air quality management programs in Indian country. The AIAQTP and EPA together
implement the Tribal Air Monitoring Support (TAMS) Center.
Grant Assistance to Tribes
Tribal STAG funds are allocated to tribes through each Regional Office (except Region 3
which has no federally-recognized tribes) based on a formula that includes factors such as tribal
population, number of tribes, nonattainment areas, and number of title V sources. Regional
offices then allocate funds to tribes based on additional factors related to risk, environmental
goals, and tribal capacity. EPA STAG funding in recent years has been unable to provide grants
to every tribe requesting support, so this methodology allows funding decisions to be made in a
nationally-consistent manner while seeking to maximize the local environmental benefit.
OAR supports many tribal efforts to understand and address air quality, and many tribes
include monitoring and emission inventory programs in their activities. OAR provides funding
to 55 tribes to monitor a variety of pollutants of concern to them, and many tribes have provided
an exemplary level of reliability and data capture in operating monitors of every type. In
addition, 55 tribes have completed emissions inventories to help determine potential air quality
and programmatic concerns for their tribe; some of these tribes have updated their initial
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 43 of 68
-------
emission inventories regularly as appropriate for their needs. To continue the effectiveness and
relevancy of these tribal programs, OAR expects the Regional Offices and tribes to jointly
determine where monitoring or other air quality assessments including emissions inventory
development is necessary, while OAR provides technical assistance through the TAMS Center.
Overall, 117 tribes currently receive CAA funding support to develop and operate air quality
management programs to address their air quality concerns and participate in the national
program.
EPA's strategy is to provide flexibility for tribes and Regions to address the many different
air quality situations on tribal lands on a case-by-case basis, rather than setting objectives for
tribes at the national level. Ambient air monitoring often, but not always, will be an appropriate
one-time or continuing element of a tribal air quality assessment and management program.
Appendix C of this document provides revised interim guidance to help tribal and Regional
Office staff achieve clarity on the objectives of monitoring efforts. Tribes are also encouraged
(but not required) to develop programs that address air pollution. While tribes may be treated
like states for purposes of implementing CAA programs, they are not required to take delegation
of programs other that those that they believe are necessary to address their concerns in areas
where they have jurisdiction. EPA retains responsibility to implement the Clean Air Act in
Indian country where tribes are unwilling or unable, and may develop a Federal Implementation
Plan in implement necessary actions. Three tribes have approved Tribal Implementation Plans
and one additional Tribe has delegation of Part 71 program. Tribes are encouraged to develop
programs that meet their needs and to participate in local, regional, and national regulatory and
policy planning and development.
OAR expects tribal grants awarded in FY 2012 to include a commitment for quality-assured
monitoring data to be submitted (directly by the tribe or other agreed arrangement) on a timely
basis to AQS or other national database (e.g., AQS is not able to directly receive the data from
the CASTNET or IMPROVE networks at this time). EPA also encourages tribal participation in
forecasting and reporting air quality data to the public, but this should not be a condition required
in the grants.
In FY 2012, attention should continue to be paid to the quality assurance aspects of tribal air
monitoring programs. Every new or renewed grant supporting ambient monitoring on tribal
lands should require preparation and Regional Office approval of Quality Management Plans
(QMPs) and Quality Assurance Project Plans (QAPPs) that clearly identify the purposes to be
served by the monitoring. OAR has worked with the Regions and monitoring organizations to
develop a graded approach for the development of these documents. The QAPP should provide
that tribal monitoring include regular precision and accuracy checks, using Appendix A of 40
CFR Part 58 as general guidance, unless other quality assurance procedures are justified as more
appropriate to the monitoring objectives. Data reporting to AQS should include reporting of the
precision and accuracy check results. The TAMS Center provides training on these QA aspects
of monitoring programs and has developed Turbo-QAPP software approved for use by OAQPS.
Tribal QAPPs developed using this software should be generally approvable.
Many tribes are very concerned about climate change. Many tribes are directly affected by
climate change and are generally less able to address it than states and local agencies. In FY
2012, OAR will work with tribes as the Agency develops climate change policies and
regulations.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 44 of 68
-------
Our strategy includes supporting tribal interest in air toxics in air toxics via toxics monitoring
inventory development and other assessments. Tribes have increased their participation in air
toxics issues, but are limited by availability of funding and resources to assess the level of impact
and risk. However, tribes continue to be concerned about toxics, and often have disproportional
impacts due to subsistence activities and lifestyles. This is particularly true where local
problems may be caused by local and regional sources such as residential wood smoke, industrial
facilities, and mobile sources. This also applies to deposition of persistent bioaccumulative
toxins, such as mercury, dioxin, and PCBs. The 229 Alaska Native Villages, many of whom rely
on traditional subsistence lifestyles, have expressed particular concern over local and
international toxics, and Arctic peoples are known to suffer disproportionately high exposures to
these toxic and persistent compounds.
We will also work with tribal governments to develop tribal capacity and expertise to directly
participate and represent tribal concerns in local, regional, and statewide efforts to understand
and address air quality concerns.
Finally, to enhance the visibility of the OAR Tribal Program and to further integrate tribal
issues and concerns into EPA's daily programmatic activities, Regions should, where
appropriate, provide the tribes with the funding assistance necessary for reasonable participation
in regional and national level conferences, meetings, and planning activities. For example, there
are several national conferences on topics such as monitoring, emission inventories, quality
assurance, and data analysis. There are also a number of strategic planning efforts underway
under the auspices of the Clean Air Act Advisory Committee that could benefit from consistent
and meaningful tribal participation. Such provisions should be added, as appropriate, to the
tribal grant workplans. Tribes and tribal organizations, as our regulatory partners, should also be
invited and encouraged to participate in regional advisory bodies and workgroups to assist EPA
in developing and implementing new regulations and policies wherever those actions may affect
tribal governments as well as state and local authorities.
FY 2012 Priorities
Headquarters
Provide training and technical support to tribes and Regions for completion of emissions
inventories and their submission to EIS.
Provide training and technical support to tribes for air quality assessment and monitoring,
including submission of quality assured data into the AQS system.
Work with Regions to provide air quality outreach and training events to tribal staff, as
appropriate.
Support tribal participation in local, regional, and national policy developments and
actions through the National Tribal Air Association.
Provide grant and staff support to national tribal organizations to support effective tribal
participation in policy development.
Provide grant and staff support for training on national CAA policy issues.
Invite tribes to participate in policy development and implementation workgroups.
Support training for tribes on the SIP process where state programs may impact tribal
lands.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 45 of 68
-------
Provide meaningful notice and access to tribes for participation in policy, rule, or
program development that may impact them.
Support training for tribes on the TAS and TIP processes.
Review draft FIPs and provide guidance to support Regional Office FIP efforts.
Finalize and support Regional and tribal implementation of the tribal NSR rules.
Provide support for toxics training and outreach events to tribes and other opportunities
for tribes to participate in air toxics reduction efforts.
Provide support for training to tribes on voluntary programs such as asthma and indoor
air.
Provide support for tribal efforts to understand, assess, and respond to indoor air quality
concerns in Indian country.
Work with Regions to assist interested tribes in implementing voluntary emission control
retrofit programs for existing heavy-duty diesel engines/school buses and wood
stove/hydronic heater changeouts.
Continue to support tribes and Regions with information and training to address wood
smoke emissions, both indoors and out.
Continue to provide guidance to tribes on planning and implementing air monitoring
programs.
Continue to support tribal participation in assessment and monitoring activities related to
the atmospheric deposition of mercury on tribal lands.
Continue to facilitate distribution of information to tribes by maintaining the Tribal Air
website and the Tribal Newsletter.
Support and encourage early and frequent consultation with tribal governments on OAR
actions that may affect them.
Directly, and working closely with the Regions, support tribal efforts to understand,
assess, mitigate and adapt to climate change.
Work with Regions to implement voluntary programs to integrate nontraditional planning
(e.g., land use, transportation, and energy) into air quality management.
Regions
Provide grant and technical support to interested tribes for the purpose of conducting air
quality management activities.
Provide support to tribal air quality assessment activities such as emissions inventories,
monitoring, and submission of monitoring data into national databases as appropriate.
Work with HQ to provide air quality outreach and training events to tribal staff, as
appropriate.
Provide grant resources and staff support for tribes to participate in regional and national
level activities.
Provide support for tribes to be an active part in the SIP process, where state programs
may impact Indian country.
Provide grant resources and support to tribes for participation in rule or program
development.
Provide support for tribes on the TAS and TIP processes and act on TAS and TIP
submittals.
Use Direct Implementation Tribal Cooperative Agreement (DITCA) authority to directly
implement federal responsibilities as appropriate.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 46 of 68
-------
If necessary, identify areas requiring a FIP development and implementation process.
Issue Part 71 and pre-construction (PSD) permits.
Implement and enforce federal standards (NSPS, NESHAP, etc.).
Work with tribes to implement tribal, CAA, and voluntary emission control programs,
including retrofit programs for existing heavy-duty diesel engines and woodstove
changeout programs.
Work with tribes to implement NSR in Indian country.
Support tribal capacity building with regard to understanding and addressing air toxics
issues impacting Indian country, as needed or appropriate.
Support tribal participation in activities related to regional planning and technical
support, particularly as a collaborative effort involving EPA, states, and locals.
Provide support for outreach events to tribes and other opportunities for tribes to
participate in air toxics reduction efforts.
Make outreach and training on voluntary programs available to tribes.
Provide support and technical assistance to tribes to understand and address indoor air
quality concerns.
Work with HQ to conduct formal consultations with tribal leaders when appropriate.
Support OTS Tribal Database by regularly inputting appropriate data and ensuring tribal
activities are accurately reflected.
Provide support and technical assistance to tribes to address residential wood and coal
burning.
Tribes
Provide air quality monitoring or assessment data to EPA and/or AQS.
Work with Regions to register minor sources for NSR permit planning.
Complete and submit emissions inventories to the EIS.
Attend air quality outreach events; participate in ozone or PM policy development, and/or
regulatory response, as appropriate.
Participate in regional and national level meetings, conferences, and teleconferences on
CAA policy development and seek training and support to build capability for effective
participation.
Participate in CAA rules and policy development that may have potential to impact
tribes.
Submit eligibility determinations under the TAR.
Submit TIPs to address air quality conditions for lands within the tribes' jurisdiction.
Assist in FIP development and implementation process, as appropriate.
Review the 2008 NEI and provide feedback.
Participate in and support the NTAA to encourage a strong role for tribes in the
development of activities related to regulations, programs and policy development.
Conduct outreach to tribes on indoor and outdoor air toxics issues.
Participate in training and technical support activities conducted as part of the AIAQTP,
including attending workshop training both as students and instructors and assisting tribes
in learning from each other.
Participate in training on voluntary programs to address air quality concerns.
Attend indoor air quality training.
Participate in indoor air quality assessment and outreach to tribes.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 47 of 68
-------
Implement voluntary emission control retrofit programs for existing heavy-duty diesel
engines and wood stove and hydronic heater changeout campaigns.
Participate in EPA's climate change-related policy and regulatory development activities.
++ End ++
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 48 of 68
-------
Taking Action on Climate Change
Through both regulatory and non-regulatory efforts, EPA will reduce greenhouse gas (GHG)
emissions in ways that promote the President's vision of a clean energy future. Nearly four years
ago, the U.S. Supreme Court ordered EPA to determine, based on available scientific evidence,
whether GHG emissions from motor vehicles endanger public health and welfare. EPA
conducted that inquiry and determined through a public rulemaking that GHG emissions from
motor vehicles do endanger public health and welfare. That finding triggered a Clean Air Act
(CAA) mandate to issue GHG emissions standards for motor vehicles. EPA also has a number
of pending rulemaking petitions and other legal obligations to consider regulating GHGs from a
variety of mobile and stationary sources.
In responding to these obligations, OAR will consider applying the CAA regulatory authority
to GHG emissions in ways that meet our statutory obligations while using common sense
approaches that focus requirements on the largest GHG sources and use multi-pollutant, sector-
based strategies. In combination with our on-going efforts to continually enhance and refocus
our non-regulatory programs, these actions will encourage cost-effective, energy-efficient
operating practices, promote the development and use of innovative technologies, create new
green jobs, and most importantly, reduce air pollution that threatens human health contributes to
climate change.
Additionally, as part of ongoing HQ-Regional Offices communications and coordination,
OAR and its program offices, including the Office of Atmospheric Programs (OAP), Office of
Air Quality Planning and Standards (OAQPS), and Office of Transportation and Air Quality
(OTAQ), will regularly share talking points, presentations, and other outreach materials with the
Regional Offices on climate change science, public health impacts, policy, and other program
developments. These materials will be provided through frequent e-mail updates, weekly
communications calls with OAR, regional air division communications contacts, and the
monthly climate sub-lead calls. To respond to the Agency's overall interest in consistent
messaging, OAP and the Regional Offices will work together to develop the Agency's climate
change microsite. This will ensure consistency of publicly accessible regional climate internet
websites with "One EPA" criteria.
MANDATORY GREENHOUSE GAS REPORTING PROGRAM
In September 2009, EPA issued a final rule for mandatory GHG reporting from large GHG
emissions sources.4 In developing the reporting requirements, EPA considered the substantial
amount of work already completed and underway in many states, Regions, and non-regulatory
programs. The new reporting requirements apply to suppliers of fossil fuel and industrial
chemicals, manufacturers of motor vehicles and engines, as well as large direct emitters of
GHGs. In 2011, the requirements cover approximately 85-90% of the nation's GHG emissions,
and apply to roughly 13,000 facilities. The first annual reports will be submitted to EPA in 2011
4 Final rule and related information available at http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/emissions/ghgrulemaking.html
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 49 of 68
-------
for the calendar year 2010, except for vehicle and engine manufacturers, which begin reporting
for model year 2011.
The Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance and OAR will implement the National
Implementation Strategy for the reporting rule. The strategy provides guidance to Regions on
compliance monitoring and assistance activities, and guidance on an appropriate enforcement
response to support the integrity of the monitoring and reporting system.
FY 2012 Priorities
Headquarters
Continue a comprehensive outreach and training effort with covered facilities,
including the identification of facilities that are likely to meet the applicability
thresholds.
Complete the development, testing, dissemination, and training on the electronic
reporting system.
Work with states on ways to leverage data reported to multiple jurisdictions for the
development and implementation of programs
Carry out a comprehensive QA/QC and verification program on the data reported
March 31,2012.
Provide support to the Regions in identifying and listing reporting facilities, and in
outreach to facilities that are priorities within specific Regions.
Regions
Outreach, training, and facility identification
Assist HQ in developing and implementing a strategy to notify covered facilities of
reporting requirements and reporting deadlines. Approximately 13,000 facilities meet
the applicability requirements of the GHG reporting rule and will need to report
emissions by March 31, 2012.
Participate in EPA-sponsored training sessions and present on the GHG reporting rule
in other meetings, conferences, etc., in order to reach important targeted audiences
(e.g., industry associations, multi-state meetings, GHG conferences). Since different
industries may be prominent in specific Regions (e.g., pulp and paper in Region 4), the
regional emphases for training and outreach should reflect these differences.
Electronic Reporting System
EPA will conduct training sessions and operate a help desk for its electronic reporting
tool. To supplement this effort, Regions should develop familiarity with the reporting
tool so that they can assist and direct reporters to appropriate Help resources. This
effort will be greatest during the second quarter of FY 2012.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 50 of 68
-------
Work with HQ in the verification process to follow up with specific facilities on
questions raised during the early stages of review, and potentially with site visits later
in the process. The reporting rule will use centralized EPA verification of reported
data, taking advantage of electronic reporting and automated checks, in combination
with direct follow up to a subset of facilities and site visits when needed to support
verification. EPA will need to coordinate with certain states at various steps in the
verification process in order to leverage all available information for specific facilities.
Again, the Regions should consider the prominent industries in their parts of the
country in developing expertise for verification.
PSD AND TITLE V GHG TAILORING RULE
Effective January 2, 2011, EPA implemented the Prevention of Significant Deterioration and
Title V Greenhouse Gas Tailoring Rule, which specifies new thresholds for GHG emissions to
determine when CAA permits under the New Source Review and Title V operating permits
programs would be required. The thresholds tailor these permit programs to limit which
facilities are required to obtain permits and cover nearly 70% of the nation's largest stationary
source GHG emittersincluding power plants, refineries, and cement production facilities,
while shielding small businesses and farms from permitting requirements. As noted in the State
and Local Air Quality Management section of the Outdoor Air chapter, the Agency has
requested additional grant resources to help state, local, and tribal agencies with appropriate
permitting authority enhance their capacity to adequately assume responsibilities in this area.
FY 2012 Priorities
Headquarters: Headquarters priorities for this program are in the Federal Support for Air Quality
Management section.
Regions: Implement GHG PSD FIPs in some states.
VEHICLE GHG STANDARDS
In April 2010, EPA and the Department of Transportation's National Highway Safety
Administration (NHTSA) promulgated a national program to dramatically reduce greenhouse gas
(GHG) emissions and improve fuel economy for new passenger cars, light-duty trucks, and
medium-duty passenger vehicles, covering model years 2012 through 2016. The program
requires these vehicles to meet an estimated combined average emissions level of 250 grams of
carbon dioxide per mile, equivalent to 35.5 miles per gallon if the automobile industry were to
meet this carbon dioxide level solely through fuel economy improvements. Together, these
standards will cut carbon dioxide emissions by an estimated 950 million metric tons and 1.8
billion barrels of oil over the lifetime of the vehicles sold under the program (model years 2012-
2016). A similar GHG program for heavy-duty vehicles was proposed in October 2010 and is
being finalized in 2011.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 51 of 68
-------
In 2012, EPA will finalize a second GHG program with NHTSA, aimed at further reducing
GHG emissions for light-duty vehicles for model years 2017-2025.
In addition, EPA has received petitions to consider regulating GHG emissions from other
categories of mobile sources. EPA will investigate the possibility of proposing standards for
those categories.
FY 2012 Priorities
Begin implementing the GHG standards for light-duty vehicles (model years 2012
through 2016) and heavy-duty vehicles.
Finalize second-phase of GHG standards for light-duty vehicles for model years 2017
through 2025.
Investigate the need to regulate GHG emissions from additional categories of mobile
sources.
RENEWABLE FUEL STANDARD PROGRAM
In 2010, EPA finalized revisions to the National Renewable Fuel Standard program
(commonly known as the RFS program).5 This rule makes changes to the Renewable Fuel
Standard program as required by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (EISA).
The revised requirements establish new specific annual volume standards for cellulosic biofuel,
biomass-based diesel, advanced biofuel, and total renewable fuel that must be used in
transportation fuel. The revised requirements also include new definitions and criteria for both
renewable fuels and the feedstocks used to produce them, including new GHG thresholds as
determined by lifecycle analysis. The requirements for RFS will apply to domestic and foreign
producers and importers of renewable fuel used in the U.S.
As required by EISA, an annual RFS standard was promulgated in 2011. The annual RFS
standard for 2012 will be promulgated this year.
FY 2012 Priorities
Headquarters
Continue implementing the new Renewable Fuel Standards (RFS2) program and take
other actions required by the Energy Policy Act (EPAct) of 2005 and the Energy
Independence and Security Act (EISA) of 2007, including outreach to stakeholders and a
National Academy of Sciences review of the final lifecycle methodology.
Promulgate the annual RFS2 standard for 2012, as required by EISA.
5 Final rule and related information available at http://www.epa.gov/OMS/renewablefuels/
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 52 of 68
-------
Finalize a rule to address the impacts of renewable fuels on emissions (Anti-backsliding
rule).
Continue to implement a real-time reporting system to ensure compliance with the RFS2
program.
Continue our on-going conversations with states, local governments, and other groups on
our ongoing analyses and rule developments related to the Renewable Fuel Standard.
NEW SOURCE PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
EPA will proceed in performing analyses to develop NSPS for sources of greenhouse gases
for the utility and refinery sectors, consistent with the requirements of the CAA. In selecting
these sectors, EPA utilized emission inventory data to determine that emission control is feasible
within a reasonable timeframe, that significant emission reductions could be achieved cost
effective, and that the Agency is required to undertake activities for other regulated pollutants.
Under this effort, EPA will undertake analyses to understand approaches for mitigating
greenhouse gas emissions in a cost-effective manner. Analyses will include developing emission
estimates, evaluating costs of control, and to the extent possible, quantifying economic,
environmental, and energy impacts. Based on these analyses, EPA may develop NSPS to
address carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide emissions in conjunction with the revision of
NSPS for other regulated pollutants.
CLEAN AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY
EPA manages the Clean Automotive Technology (CAT) and the Fuel Cell and Hydrogen
programs, which develop advanced clean and fuel-efficient vehicle technology to better protect
the environment and save energy. These programs are designed to help recognize and remove
barriers in the marketplace and to more rapidly deploy cost-effective low GHG technologies into
the transportation sector of the economy.6
FY 2012 Priorities
Headquarters
Continue technology transfer of EPA's advances in hydraulic hybrid technologies
(promote adoption of technology and technical assistance), providing continuity in EPA's
commitments to the truck and fleet industry for development and deployment. In FY
2012, EPA will be focusing on its newest industry partners desiring to commercialize
hydraulic hybrids in high volume for large light-duty vehicles such as minivans, and for
medium commercial on-road trucks through retrofits.
6 (For more information see: http://www.epa.gov/otaq/technology
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 53 of 68
-------
The program will also continue the technology transfer of EPA's advances in clean
combustion technologies, and promote the adoption of technology and technical
assistance by providing continuity in EPA's commitments to the automotive and truck
industry for development and deployment.
Field test various hydraulic-hybrid and clean engine technologies that are achieving
better fuel economy than the typical baseline vehicles.
Partner with commercial fleets to evaluate the real-world effectiveness of the CAT
Program's high-efficiency, low GHG, clean combustion E-85/M-85 alcohol engine for
use in conventional and hydraulic hybrid vehicles.
Begin working with the Department of Transportation on our hydraulic hybrid/clean
engine demonstration partnership vehicle that came out of EPA's work with the
California South Coast Air Quality Management District. The new work with DOT will
demonstrate the low GHG potential possible from a shuttle bus suitable for Bus Rapid
Transit systems equipped with series hydraulic hybrid technology and powered by the
world's first gasoline homogeneous-charge, compression-ignition (HCCI) engine which
gets diesel efficiency from gasoline fuel without the need for costly diesel aftertreatment.
The partnership will also begin its initial work on ways to demonstrate the use of clean
low GHG renewable fuel with hydraulic hybrid vehicles.
NON-REGULATORY CLIMATE PROTECTION PROGRAMS
This program includes non-regulatory domestic and international programs, other than clean
vehicle technology, that address GHG and climate change issues. Efforts are aimed at reducing
emissions of GHGs and mitigating the effects of global climate change on the environment and
human health while growing the economy. This program includes implementation of the
Memorandum of Understanding regarding the ENERGY STAR program with the Department of
Energy (DOE) signed in September 2009. Under the agreement with DOE, EPA will manage
the specification process for more than 60 product categories, the residential programs, and the
commercial and industrial programs. This includes more frequent product specification revisions
to ensure appropriate stringency.
As appropriate, OAP and Regional Offices will coordinate in the development of Agency
plans for outreach to stakeholders regarding non-regulatory climate programs and projects.
Assuming available resources, Regions may engage a variety of regional stakeholders in these
non-regulatory programs. Regions will use available materials from OAP to develop such
programs and projects.
Finally, OAP and Regional Offices may partner to develop and implement strategies to
engage state environmental agencies, public utility commissions, and energy offices in
cooperative energy resources planning for GHG emissions mitigation and adaptation.
EPA's strategy is to:
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 54 of 68
-------
Continue the successful ENERGY STAR partnerships in the residential and commercial
buildings sector by adding new products to the ENERGY STAR family.
Continue an ambitious array of ENERGY STAR program enhancements including more
frequent specification revisions, new products, integrated lighting program, third-party
certification program, and pilot most efficient program.
Oversee a brand-new, program-wide third-party certification program, which includes
transitioning to requiring products to be tested in EPA-recognized laboratory before
qualifying for the ENERGY STAR.
Raise awareness of the ENERGY STAR label for products, buildings, and homes, and
promote superior energy management to public and private sector organizations of all
sizes in all regions of the country.
Continue building on the success of non-regulatory programs in the industrial sector.
This includes:
o Enhancing the rate of energy and resource efficiency improvements through the
ENERGY STAR and WasteWise programs.
o Promoting the ENERGY STAR label for industrial plants and expanding
opportunities to provide energy benchmarking tools to industry.
o Promoting the increased deployment of combined heat and power.
o Cost-effectively keeping emissions of methane at 1990 levels or below through
2010.
o Cost-effectively limiting emissions of the more potent greenhouse gases (HFCs,
PFCs, SF6), and facilitating the use of clean energy technologies and purchases of
renewable energy.
Reduce GHG emissions in the U.S and internationally through the Global Methane
Initiative and our domestic methane partnership programs, including Natural Gas STAR,
AgSTAR, the Landfill Methane Outreach Program, and the Coalbed Methane Outreach
Program, by promoting and deploying cost-effective methane recovery technologies in
cooperation with the U.S. private sector.
Increase the use of renewable energy throughout the public and private sector by
promoting membership in the Green Power Partnership and the Combined Heat and
Power Partnership, particularly for larger organizations.
Support GSA's pilot to assist small federal suppliers in developing their GHG inventories
as called for in E.G. 13514.
Promote energy efficiency and the generation of increased amounts of renewable energy
through a variety of utility-focused programs.
Promote the integration of integrate energy efficiency and clean energy into air quality
plans (i.e., SIPs).
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 55 of 68
-------
Continue the SmartWay Transport Partnership to increase energy efficiency and lower
greenhouse gas and other emissions from freight transportation. This includes:
o Increasing the market penetration of advanced heavy-duty diesel tractor and
trailer technologies.
o Implementing innovative financing strategies, and developing a supply chain
system to allow companies to select, measure, and certify the environmental
performance of goods movement across multiple freight modes.
o Enhancing existing SmartWay GHG measurement and tracking tools so they can
be used to certify emission reductions from freight transport activities.
o Implementing targeted GHG reduction efforts in specific freight transport sectors
including ports, borders, and freight distribution hubs (including those located
near disadvantaged communities).
o Demonstrating SmartWay as an international role model through partnership
programs and outreach efforts.
Help consumers and businesses more easily identify light and heavy duty vehicles that
deliver superior fuel economy and emissions by identifying vehicles that meet the
SmartWay criteria for superior environmental performance.
Work with financial experts to identify and develop tools, resources, and programs for
states and regional authorities to implement innovative financing programs to deliver
lower cost financing to diesel truck and nonroad equipment buyers (many of who are
low-income and minority owner operations and businesses) for the purpose of upgrading
the environmental performance of their diesel trucks or equipment.
Continue to develop, test, and demonstrate innovative fuel-efficient and clean vehicle and
engine technologies, including: enhancing the SmartWay technology verification
program to provide reliable information on a wider range of low carbon retrofit
technologies; and ongoing work with auto and commercial vehicle industry partners to
transfer EPA's engineering expertise and advanced technologies to commercial
application.
FY 2012 Priorities for Regions
Promote GHG reduction programs and activities to stakeholders. This may include but is not
limited to the following:
Participate in implementation of the Climate Showcase Communities grant program.
Make commitments to procure ENERGY STAR-qualified products and encourage other
organizations to do the same.
Encourage tribal governments and communities to be partners in GHG activities and
participate in and benefit from ongoing coordinated efforts and outreach programs,
including ENERGY STAR.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 56 of 68
-------
Rate the energy performance of buildings using EPA's national energy performance
rating system, apply for the ENERGY STAR label for the qualifying buildings, and
determine improvement plans for those that do not currently qualify; and encourage other
organizations to do the same.
Encourage organizations to join the ENERGY STAR Buildings Challenge and promote a
10% or more reduction in energy use in buildings, and assist local governments that have
already joined to implement the Challenge.
Ensure that new building designs are "Designed to Earn the ENERGY STAR" where
applicable, and encourage others to do the same.
Promote the use of the ENERGY STAR@Home, ENERGY STAR Yard Stick, and
Home Energy Advisor web-tools to help homeowners make informed decisions about
energy efficiency for their homes.
Engage in the ENERGY STAR Awards.
Educate trucking companies and shippers about the SmartWay Partnership program and
encourage them to join the program.
Encourage major companies and organizations headquartered in the Region to join the
Green Power Partnership and the Combined Heat and Power Partnership.
Promote the integration of integrate energy efficiency and clean energy into air quality
plans (i.e., SIPs).
Promote the recovery and use of methane as a clean energy source through EPA's
methane partnership programs (e.g., landfills, agricultural waste, coal mines, and oil/gas
operations).
Operate pilot programs to use commercially-available advanced technology in fleets
(such as state/municipal vehicles, school buses, or refuse vehicles) to produce cost-
effective emissions and fuel consumption reductions.
++ End ++
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 57 of 68
-------
Stratospheric Ozone
As a signatory to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer
(Montreal Protocol), the U.S. is obligated to regulate and enforce its terms domestically. In
accordance with this international treaty and related Clean Air Act (CAA) requirements, EPA
will continue to implement the domestic rulemaking agenda for the reduction and control of
ozone-depleting substances (ODS), such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs),
hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and methyl bromide, and enforce rules controlling their
production, import, and emission.
Implementation involves a combination of marketable allowances, requirements for servicing
of ODS equipment, bans on non-essential products, and listing of alternatives to ozone-depleting
substances that reduce overall risk to the environment and human health. We will strengthen
outreach efforts to ensure efficient and effective compliance, and continue to identify and
promote safer alternatives to curtail stratospheric ozone depletion and support climate protection
goals. In particular, while responding to a CAA petition, we will review the current suite of
alternatives and determine whether certain alternatives with high global warming potentials
should no longer be considered acceptable. To help reduce international emissions, specifically
in light of the more aggressive phase-down requirements adopted by Montreal Protocol
signatories in September 2007, we will assist developing countries through the transfer of
technology and U.S. expertise, such as in the development and implementation of cap-and-trade
licensing systems. The Parties to the Montreal Protocol are also examining controls to reduce
hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) production and consumption. While HFCs do not pose a risk to
stratospheric ozone, their use as replacements for CFCs and HCFCs covered under the Montreal
Protocol and their high global warming potentials represents a serious threat to the climate
system.
Because the ozone layer is not expected to recover until the middle of this century at the
earliest, the public will continue to be exposed to higher levels of UV radiation than existed prior
to the use and emission of ODS. Recognizing this fact and the public's current sun exposure
practices, EPA will continue education and outreach efforts to encourage behavioral changes as
the primary means of reducing UV-related health risks.
DOMESTIC PROGRAMS
EPA leads regulatory and non-regulatory programs to restore the ozone layer and reduce
public health risk. For 2012, EPA's domestic strategy for stratospheric ozone protection will
focus on:
Undertaking measures to ensure the successful transition of industries out of class II
ozone-depleting substances (HCFCs), which beginning in 2010 became subject to further
consumption, production, and use controls under the Montreal Protocol and CAA.
Limiting production of class I substances such as CFC-11, CFC-12, and methyl bromide
to uses identified as critical or essential under the Montreal Protocol.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 58 of 68
-------
Listing new alternatives that pose less overall risk to human health and the environment.
FY 2012 Milestones and Priorities
Administer the critical use exemption for production of methyl bromide as allowed under
the Montreal Protocol.
Allocate production and consumption allowances for HCFCs to ensure U.S. compliance
with caps under the Montreal Protocol.
Continue the combination of regulatory and non-regulatory activities to ensure safe
handling, recovery, and disposal of ozone-depleting refrigerants, including
implementation of the GreenChill and Responsible Appliance Disposal voluntary
partnerships that build on the regulatory requirements established under CAA Title VI.
Expand the list of alternatives with overall better risk profiles under the Significant New
Alternatives Policy (SNAP) regulatory program to foster the transition to safer
alternatives.
Determine whether any currently acceptable alternatives under the SNAP program need
to be re-evaluated.
Carry out enforcement actions related to programs under Title VI of the CAA including
service of motor vehicle air conditioners, recovery and reuse of ODS during use and
disposal, and avoidance of illegal ODS imports. For additional information, see the
National Program Guidance issued by the Office of Enforcement and Compliance
Assurance.
MULTILATERAL FUND
This program includes the Multilateral Fund, which promotes international compliance with
the Montreal Protocol by financing the incremental cost of converting existing industries in
developing countries to cost-effective, ozone layer-friendly technology. Our strategy is to
continue to support the Ozone Secretariat's Multilateral Fund, which provides resources to
developing nations to facilitate their transition to ozone-safe alternatives. In 2012 we will focus
on:
Maximizing developing country reductions in ODS production by moving aggressively
from a project-by-project approach to a national phase-out strategy approach.
Accelerating the shift to CFC alternatives by accelerating the closure of CFC
manufacturers in developing countries.
Continuing to ensure the cost-effectiveness of projects through our leadership on the
Multilateral Fund Executive Committee.
Increasing support to developing country institutions to enable effective implementation
of policy measures.
++ End ++
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 59 of 68
-------
Indoor Environments
EPA addresses indoor air quality issues by developing and implementing voluntary outreach
and partnership programs that inform and educate the public about indoor air quality and actions
that can reduce potential risks in homes, schools, and workplaces. EPA provides guidance on
addressing environmental triggers of asthma, mold contamination, radon, secondhand tobacco
smoke, carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and indoor air toxics including formaldehyde,
pesticides and other organic chemicals. EPA supports states, tribes, and communities in
developing and implementing comprehensive multi-stakeholder indoor air toxics reduction
efforts to reduce exposures to potentially harmful levels of indoor air pollutants. Stakeholders
include national, international, state, tribal, and local governments; industry and professional
groups; and the public. EPA works with other federal agencies to provide guidance and
assistance on how to reduce the exposure levels of these contaminants in all communities.
Through the State Indoor Radon Grant (SIRG) Program, EPA helps states that have not yet
established the basic elements of an effective radon assessment and mitigation program, and
supports innovation and expansion in states that already have programs.
EPA also transfers technology by providing technical support and detailed guidance on indoor
air-related building design, operation, and maintenance practices to building owners, building
managers, and school facility managers, and easy-to-use tools to educators and school facility
managers.
HEALTHY INDOOR ENVIRONMENTS/ HEALTHY BUILDINGS
In 2012, EPA will emphasize a "healthy buildings" or "settings" approach to foster more
creative and integrated thinking across Headquarters and Regions in order to more efficiently
design and deliver programs that will have the greatest positive impact on public health. Within
this healthy buildings framework, special emphasis will be placed on reducing exposures to
asthma triggers and radon. EPA will focus on a more holistic healthy buildings approach to
better leverage available resources and assets and to broaden the stakeholder groups through
which we promote healthy indoor environments. As part of this holistic approach, the national
program is consolidating and synthesizing existing program guidance to provide protocols and
specifications that promote good IAQ in homes, schools, and commercial buildings.
The Healthy Indoor Environments Vision:
To use the importance of healthy buildings to create change in building design and
maintenance to reduce risks from indoor air pollutants, including radon and asthma
triggers
To demonstrate that everyone deserves healthy indoor environments that are safe from
radon and asthma triggers
To provide a model for better building design, construction, retrofitting, and maintenance
by successfully improving human health indoors
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 60 of 68
-------
Goals:
Achieve major health gains by reducing public exposure to indoor air pollutants
Identify, address and communicate indoor environmental risks to decrease health risks
Foster a revolution in the design of new and renovated buildings
Promote integrated building design by showing benefits, cost savings, and processes
Stimulate nationwide action to enhance health in existing structures
Ensure healthy building operation, maintenance, and retrofitting are achievable through
guidance
Create and use innovative products, materials, and technologies to prevent and reduce
indoor air pollutants, including asthma triggers and radon .
Support private sector standards, testing, technologies, and market incentives that reduce
risk from indoor products and materials.
Promote increased IAQ awareness and action for consumers, professionals, and decision
makers through healthy home programs and outreach
ADDRESSING ASTHMA, RADON, AND OTHER INDOOR AIR POLLUTANTS IN
HOMES, SCHOOLS, AND OTHER BUILDING TYPES
EPA's top priorities for improving indoor air quality in buildings are to:
1) Emphasize holistic approaches for integrating exposure reduction strategies for multiple
indoor contaminants in homes, schools and other indoor environments
2) Within this holistic framework, emphasize high risk contaminants, including radon and
environmental asthma triggers :
a. increase testing for and mitigation of radon;
b. reduce exposure to environmental asthma triggers (e.g., secondhand smoke,dust
mites, pests, molds, nitrogen dioxide, and pet dander);
3) Increase participation in the Indoor airPLUS new home construction labeling program
and promote adoption of the new Health and Safety Protocols for Home Energy
Upgrades
Reducing Radon in Homes and Schools
The voluntary radon program aims to significantly reduce the number of radon-induced lung
cancer deaths in the U.S. The national goal is to approximately double the number of lives saved
through radon risk reduction by 2014 (from a baseline in 2006). The program's primary focus is
on radon risk reduction in homes. EPA uses information dissemination, social marketing
techniques, and partnerships with influential public health and environmental organizations to
drive action, primarily thru the SIRG program, at the state, tribal, and local level.
The principal ways to reduce radon exposure are:
Builders voluntarily building radon-resistant new homes or homes with active systems;
State and local governments adopting building codes that include radon reduction;
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 61 of 68
-------
Homeowners with high radon levels voluntarily fixing their homes;
Including radon in green or healthy housing programs;
Schools reducing radon through "IAQ Tools for Schools" or other programs;
Leveraging action during other federal efforts such as weatherization; and
Increasing action to reduce risk in property the federal government owns and manages.
In 2012, EPA will continue efforts to accelerate radon risk reduction by collaborating with
other federal Departments and Agencies as well as those in the private, public health, healthy
housing, and other sectors. In 2012, the Agency will work with other federal partners to
implement a new federal radon action plan developed in 2011 designed to increase radon risk
reduction in the housing the federal government owns or influences.
The State Indoor Radon Grants (SIRG) Program distributes state assistance grant (STAG)
funds under the authority of Section 306 of TSCA (Title III). Details on the SIRG Program can
be found in EPA's State and Tribal Indoor Radon Grants Program Guidance and Handbook,
located at: http://www.epa.gov/radon/pdfs/guidance and handbook.pdf See also:
http ://www. epa.gov/radon/sirgprogram. html.
Recipients of FY 2012 SIRG funds should emphasize radon risk reduction by: (1) increasing
testing and mitigation of existing homes by consumers, homeowners, non-profit partnerships,
and real estate professionals; (2) builders voluntarily including radon-reducing features in new
homes, including the use of green-building standards; (3) promoting the adoption or revision of
state-local building codes for radon-reducing features; and, (4) promoting public education and
awareness. Funded projects should clearly achieve one or more of the following outcomes:
New homes built with radon-reducing features;
Testing and mitigation of existing homes;
Other projects and activities that clearly contribute to achieving the preceding outcomes.
EPA is considering a revision to the grant allotment methodology for the SIRG program. HQ
will work with the Regions to ensure appropriate oversight of the SIRG program, including a
strong role for Regions in determining state SIRG allocations. EPA and SIRG recipients must
continue working towards the bottom-line outcomes above. SIRG workplans should reflect
radon program priorities and measurable results and outcomes.
Reducing Asthma Triggers in Homes and Schools
EPA has identified the reduction of asthma attacks as a national environmental justice
priority. Our strategy is targeted to improve the environmental health outcomes of people
including segments of at-risk populations that are socio-economically disadvantaged or
disproportionately impacted such as children and low-income individuals. Our strategy includes:
implementing a national, multi-faceted asthma education and outreach program to improve and
expand the delivery of comprehensive asthma care; a secondhand smoke program primarily
focused on protecting young children from secondhand smoke exposure by collaborating with
federal, state, and local organizations on promoting smoke-free homes and cars; and a national
education and outreach program to inform the public, schools, school districts, educators, and
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 62 of 68
-------
building professionals about the importance of creating and maintaining healthy indoor
environments in homes, schools, and workplaces.
The program relies on several key implementation/educational tools:
National public awareness and media campaigns;
Community-based outreach and education (e.g., educating caregivers of children on
environmental triggers of asthma and exposure to secondhand smoke);
Sound, user-friendly guidance tailored to the program's varied constituencies;
Enhancement and application of programmatic support data; and
Knowledge and technology transfer (e.g. training health care providers on asthma trigger
management strategies, building community capacity to deliver comprehensive asthma
care).
Increasing Participation in the Indoor airPLUS labeling Program as well as Promoting
Adoption of the new Health and Safety Protocols for Home Energy Upgrades
The Indoor airPLUS program allows builders of new homes to qualify for an EPA label if
they first earn the ENERGY STAR new home label and are verified to have implemented all of
the indoor air quality specifications developed by EPA. The Indoor airPLUS label indicates that
a home incorporates measures designed to help improve IAQ in new homes compared to homes
built to minimum code requirements. The specifications represent a fully integrated approach to
indoor air quality in new home construction, incorporating moisture control, radon control, pest
barriers, HVAC systems, combustion pollutant control, low emission materials, and home
commissioning.
New Health and Safety Protocols for Home Energy Upgrades provide concise minimum and
recommended practices for ensuring that energy retrofit activities do not diminish indoor
environmental quality or pose health and safety risks to occupants or workers. These protocols
provide a much-needed complement to existing weatherization and energy efficiency efforts and
offer significant opportunities for integrating indoor environmental quality issues into high
priority administration policies and programs.
The Indoor airPLUS specifications and new Health and Safety Protocols for Home Energy
Upgrades provide a clear set of metrics that may be used by a wide range of Federal, state, and
local public and private sector programs, initiatives and standard setting bodies to better define
good indoor air quality and good indoor air quality practices in buildings. Among other
initiatives, EPA will collaborate with public and private sector organizations to integrate these
protocols and specifications into a wide range of initiatives such as energy weatherization and
retrofit, green and healthy homes, and school and commercial building programs to foster
healthy IAQ as an integral component of these high priority programs.
FY 2012 Priorities for the Regions
Increase the number of homes and schools mitigated for radon. Increase the number of
new homes built with radon-reducing features;
Promote the use of radon measurement and mitigation consensus standards in schools;
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 63 of 68
-------
Encourage the timely expenditure of SIRG funds (older funds first);
Design and run regional radon stakeholder meetings that involve states and industry;
Support the Radon Leaders Saving Lives campaign; and
Use Radon Action Month as a way to drive action throughout the year.
Negotiate yearly radon workplans with states and tribes and track progress throughout the
year through quarterly reports and frequent communication;
Report on SIRG and ORIAIAQ indicators at the end of the FY (as described in
Appendix A) using the ACS system.
Work with national partner affiliates, state, tribal, and local partners, and coalitions to
reduce risks from indoor pollutants, including radon and asthma triggers in homes and
schools
Support the expansion of the Communities in Action asthma campaign through increased
support for at-risk communities, bringing these communities into the Communities in
Action Network, providing targeted training and outreach to underserved communities
and schools;
Work with local communities to foster integration and collaboration between asthma
programs and local housing, school, weatherization/energy efficiency or other
community development initiatives;
Work with internal EPA programs and external state, regional and local energy programs
to educate them about the new Health and Safety Protocols for Home Energy Upgrades
and encourage their adoption and integration into existing energy programs (eg
Weatherization programs).
Serve as a local, community-based point of contact to disseminate information about
Healthy Homes and Indoor airPLUS and support implementation of the program by
active stakeholders in the community.
Work with Healthy Home and green home programs, EPA's ENERGY STAR and Water
Sense programs to promote adoption of Indoor airPLUS in target markets.
Participate in national program meetings.
++ End ++
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 64 of 68
-------
Radiation Protection
EPA works with federal, state, tribal, and local agencies to prevent public exposure to harmful
levels of radiation in the environment. The Agency assesses exposure risks, manages radioactive
releases and exposures, ensures proper management of radioactive materials, and provides the
public with information about radiation and its hazards. EPA also maintains a high level of
preparedness to respond to radiological emergencies and potential acts of terrorism. EPA's
strategies for radiation include:
Radiation Protection;
Radiation Emergency Response Preparedness; and
Homeland Security and Emergency Response and Recovery
EPA continues to improve radioactive waste management through guidance, technical tools,
assessment, and regulatory amendments as necessary and radiation-specific analytical and
technical support. EPA also continues its commitment to Emergency Response/Homeland
Security.
EPA's Radiation Program continues to integrate radiation data into the Agency's information
systems and make radiation information more accessible to the public. The program is
enhancing the national environmental radiation monitoring system (RadNet) to better respond to
radiation emergencies and prepare for potential terrorist threats and continues programs to
provide guidance and tools to other federal agencies, as well as state, tribal, and local
governments, our stakeholders, and partners.
RADIATION PROTECTION
This program includes activities for radiation clean up, federal guidance, risk modeling,
Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP), radiation air toxics, or National Emissions for Hazardous Air
Pollutants (NESHAPs), technologically-enhanced naturally-occurring radioactive material
(TENORM), radioactive waste management, radioactive and mixed-waste operations, and
laboratory analyses.
Using a collaborative strategy, EPA works with the public, industry, states, tribes, and other
governmental agencies to inform and educate people about radiation risks and promote actions
that reduce human exposure. EPA also provides radiation guidance and tools and develops
regulations as appropriate, to control radiation releases. Key programmatic activities include:
Ensuring continued compliance with EPA regulations and EPA oversight for DOE waste
disposal activities at the WIPP;
Promoting the reduction and management of radiation risks in a consistent and safe
manner at Superfund, DOE, DOD, state, local, tribal, and other federal sites;
Maintaining appropriate methods to manage radioactive releases and exposures including
evaluating remediation technologies for radioactively contaminated sites;
Assessing exposure risks and providing information about radiation and its hazards;
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 65 of 68
-------
Evaluating the human health and environmental risks from radiation exposure and
mitigating impacts to the public;
Providing national-level guidance on the risks posed by radioactive materials in the
environment;
Enhancing voluntary programs to track radioactive materials more effectively, find
alternatives to radiation sources in industry, and improve disposal options for radioactive
sources in commerce;
Providing a national monitoring program for environmental radioactivity;
Improving EPA, state, and commercial radioanalytical capacity and capabilities:
o Providing analytical capability to evaluate radioactive and mixed waste
concentrations in all environmental media;
o Providing improved methods and practices for sampling and assessing radioactive
material in the environment; and
o Providing reference laboratory support to review new methods and confirm other
laboratory analyses.
FY 2012 Priorities
Additional quantities of radioactive waste certified by EPA as properly disposed will be
deposited at the WIPP in 2012;
EPA radiation laboratories will improve analytical capacity through updated technology
and methods;
EPA will improve state radiation laboratory capabilities and capacity through training
and evaluation;
EPA will respond to issues related to the resurgence of nuclear power, including the
development of new nuclear power plants;
EPA will respond to increased uranium extraction and processing, including Regional
review of extraction facility Environmental Impact Statements and permits;
EPA will publish a proposed regulation implementing the Uranium Mill Tailings
Radiation Control Act at 40 CFR 192;
EPA will determine if its review of 40 CFR Part 61, Subpart W will result in a revised
regulation; a positive determination will result in a proposed regulation;
EPA will continue to provide technical assistance to states and Regions on
decommissioning and other issues related to nuclear power facility operations;
Laboratories will support Regional remediation projects;
Regions will continue to serve as the local, community-based point of contact to
disseminate information on EPA's radiation protection program;
Regions will continue to coordinate regional radiation issues among Regional Offices;
Regions will continue to implement regulatory programs (e.g., radiological NESHAPs);
Regions will continue as requested, to provide technical support to state radiation, solid
waste, environmental and health programs and Headquarters radiation regulatory, policy
and technical workgroups;
Regions will continue to provide technical support to Superfund;
Regions will continue to work with states on issues involving TENORM that include
issues associated with mining legacy waste disposal and water treatment residuals.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 66 of 68
-------
RADIATION EMERGENCY RESPONSE PREPAREDNESS
This program includes federal preparedness activities, ORIA programmatic readiness,
Radiological Emergency Response Team (RERT) personnel and equipment readiness,
development and participation in exercises, training and outreach, radiological emergency
response guidance, extensive laboratory capability for radioactive and mixed waste analyses, and
RadNet, EPA's national environmental radiation monitoring system.
Using a collaborative strategy, EPA works with tribes, federal, state and local agencies to
ensure that the appropriate parties are fully informed and prepared to respond should an incident
involving radiation occur. EPA's key activities supporting radiation response preparedness
include:
Preparing to respond to incidents involving radioactive materials through training,
infrastructure development, regular exercises, and field experience;
Issuing Protective Action Guides;
Coordinating with other organizations to ensure thorough response and preparedness
planning;
Providing radioanalytical laboratory capabilities to assess radioactive contamination
during all phases of an incident;
Providing national, near-real time data on airborne radioactive material concentrations;
Supporting nationwide development of increased laboratory capacity and capability; and
Providing waste disposal options for wastes resulting from a radioactive dispersal device
(ROD).
FY 2012 Priorities
EPA's Radiological Emergency Response Team (RERT) will maintain its high level of
team readiness;
Laboratories will support urgent regional removal operations;
RERT staff will support Regions with training and at exercises;
Regions will continue to serve as the local, community-based point of contact to
disseminate information on EPA's radiation response and preparedness program,
activities, and capabilities. As appropriate, Regions should:
o Provide technical support to state radiation control programs;
o Support EPA's radiation emergency response operations, including the
assignment of personnel to serve as Regional Radiation Advisor and RERT
Liaison;
o Participate in state and national radiological response exercises including Amber
Waves; and
o Support radiological response training to increase the capacity of the Agency's
Response Support Corps.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 67 of 68
-------
HOMELAND SECURITY: PREPAREDNESS, RESPONSE, AND RECOVERY
EPA will continue coordinating homeland security activities across the Agency, with the
Department of Homeland Security and other federal agencies to ensure consistency with the
National Response Framework.
EPA's strategy for Homeland Security Preparedness, Response, and Recovery builds upon the
efforts discussed under Radiation Response Preparedness. In addition to overall coordination
activities, EPA has significantly upgraded its environmental monitoring network for radiation
(RadNet) by expanding its ambient radiation monitoring capabilities. RadNet provides EPA data
on ambient levels of radiation in the environment, with data for radiological emergency response
assessments, and data for public officials and the general public.
Reference laboratories serve as an authoritative source in the Environmental Response
Laboratory Network (ERLN) for method development, verification, and validation. EPA's
National Air and Radiation Environmental Laboratory (NAREL) will continue to serve as the
Agency's radiological reference laboratory. The Agency will also continue to upgrade its
radiological laboratory response capability which will include a network of "go-to" public and
private sector laboratories to ensure a minimal level of surge capacity for radiological terrorism
incidents.
FY 2012 Priorities
Regions will continue to provide leadership in coordinating inquiries from RadNet
monitor site personnel and station operators and serve as the local, community-based
point of contact to disseminate information on EPA's national radiation monitoring
system; and
The Agency will continue its pilot project to improve state radiological laboratory
capacity through provision of additional laboratory instruments, training, proficiency
testing and audits of the selected state laboratories.
++ End ++
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 68 of 68
-------
Appendix A
Appendix A - Performance Measures
Office of Air & Radiation
Note: Bracketed text in the table below provides clarifying information about the performance measure. Within the Annual Commitment System database, this text
appears in the Explanation/Comment field.
ACS
Code
OAQPS
N001
OAQPS
N002
OAQPS
N003
OAQPS
N004
OAQPS
N005
OAQPS
N07
OAQPS
N08
OAQPS
N09
OAQPS
N10
OAQPS
Nil
OAQPS
N29
OAQPS
N30
Measure Text
Cumulative percentage reduction in population- weighted ambient concentration of ozone in all monitored counties from 2003 baseline.
[HQ reports this measure.]
Cumulative percentage reduction in population- weighted ambient concentration of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in all monitored counties
from 2003 baseline. [HQ reports this measure.]
Cumulative percentage reduction in the number of days with Air Quality Index (AQI) values over 100 since 2003, weighted by population
and AQI value. [HQ reports this measure.]
Cumulative percentage reduction in the average number of days during the ozone season that the ozone standard is exceeded in baseline
nonattainment areas, weighted by population. [HQ reports this measure.]
Percentage improvement in the number of days to process State Implementation Plan revisions weighted by complexity. [HQ reports this
measure.]
Number of final rulemaking actions on PM2.5 SIPs (due April 2008) consistent with the annual SIP processing goal.
Number of final rulemaking actions taken on regional haze SIPs consistent with the annual SIP processing goal.
Number of final rulemaking actions taken on redesignation requests for CO, SO2, PM10, and lead areas, consistent with the annual SIP
processing goal.
Number of final rulemaking actions taken on redesignation requests for 8-hour ozone, consistent with the annual SIP processing goal.
Number of final rulemaking actions taken on redesignation requests for PM2.5, consistent with the annual SIP processing goal.
Number of completed voluntary reclassificationsfor 8-hour ozone nonattainment areas.
Percentage of newly violating areas/counties that Region is targeting for developing appropriate actions to bring designated attainment
areas into compliance with the NAAQS.
Non-
Cmmit
Ind
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
State
Grant
Measure
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
National
Target
12%
15%
41%
32%
-2.9%
58 actions
(39 areas)
53 states &
territories
Sum of
Bids
Sum of
Bids
Sum of
Bids
Sum of
Bids
100%
Final Guidance April 22, 2011
Appendix A - Page 1 of 7
-------
Appendix A
ACS
Code
OAQPS
N31
OAQPS
N32
OAQPS
N33
OAQPS
M06
OAQPS
MOV
OAQPS
M08
OAQPS
M09
OAQPS
M10
OAQPS
Mil
OAQPS
M12
OAQPS
Ml 8
OAQPS
Ml 9
OAQPS
M20
Measure Text
Number of states or local agencies developing and/or commencing implementation of innovative and voluntary emission reduction
projects, particularly local ozone reductions programs to help achieve attainment of 8-hr ozone NAAQS and strategies for controlling
emissions from wood smoke where it is a primary contribution to PM2.5 NAAQS problems.
Number of completed attainment determination actions for 8-hour ozone nonattainment areas, including mandatory reclassifications, clean
air data requests, and one-year extension requests.
Number of final rulemaking actions taken on SIPs for 0.08 ppm 8-hour ozone for moderate areas that were formerly subpart 1 or subpart 2
marginal areas reclassified to moderate.
Percentage of state and local monitoring agency certification requests Region evaluates and forwards to HQ when deemed adequate. [Note:
CY 201 1 annual data certifications are due May 1, 2012.]
Percentage of required Technical Systems Audits conducted to achieve an audit of each organization within a 3-year period.
Percentage of state and local annual monitoring plans reviewed and approved within 120 days when network changes are proposed.
Percentage of 2nd and later Approved Regional Method (ARM) requests acted on by the Region in accordance with HQ guidance.
Percentage of affected entities that operate monitors in accordance with Part 58, grant terms, and QAPP.
Percentage of affected entities who submit data to AQS in accordance with Part 58.
Percentage of AQS quarterly data reviews completed and resolved for timeliness and completeness.
Percentage of NATTS Technical Systems Audits the Region participates in over a 3-year period.
Percentage of community-scale air toxics ambient monitoring programs for which Region will review QA requirements and ensure
measurement consistency with NATTS when appropriate.
Percentage of affected entities that operate NATTS in accordance with national guidance and QAPPs.
Non-
Cmmit
Ind
Yes
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
State
Grant
Measure
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
Yes
No
No
No
Yes
National
Target
No Target
Sum of
Bids
Sum of
Bids
100%
All
Regions
meet once
in 3 -year
goal
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
All
Regions
meet 50%
goal
100%
100%
Final Guidance April 22, 2011
Appendix A - Page 2 of 7
-------
Appendix A
ACS
Code
OAQPS
M22
OAQPS
P001
OAQPS
P06
OAQPS
P09
OAQPS
Pll
OAQPS
P12
OAQPS
P13
OAQPS
P14
OAQPS
P19
OAQPS
P20
OAQPS
P21
OAQPS
T001
OAQPS
T002
OAQPS
T05
OAQPS
T06
Measure Text
Percentage of 2012 Annual Monitoring Plans reviewed for required new and/or modification to existing population- and source-oriented
lead monitoring sites.
Percentage of major NSR permits issued within one year of receiving a complete permit application. [HQ reports this measure]
Number of Title V program evaluations conducted and reports completed within the fiscal year.
Percentage of state/local major NSR/PSD permits reviewed by Region for new and modified sources to ensure consistent implementation
of the NSR program.
Percentage of permitting authorities reporting complete Part 70 TOPs data.
Percentage of Part 7 1 significant modifications issued by Region within 1 8 months of receiving a complete permit application.
Percentage of Part 71 initial permits issued by Region within 18 months of receiving a complete permit application.
Part 71 renewals: Percentage reduction of total Part 71 extended permits.
Percentage of PSD permits issued by Region within one year of receiving a complete permit application.
Percentage of Part 70 initial permits reviewed by Region.
Percentage of Part 70 permit renewals reviewed by Region.
Cumulative percentage reduction in tons of toxicity- weighted (for cancer risk) emissions of air toxics, compared to 1993 baseline. [HQ
reports this measure]
Cumulative percentage reduction in tons of toxicity- weighted (for noncancer risk) emissions of air toxics, compared to 1993 baseline. [HQ
reports this measure]
Number of communities (e.g. CARE communities/projects) the Region is working with to assess and address sources of air toxics,
including the use of voluntary air toxic reduction programs in their communities.
Percentage of requests from states, local agencies, and tribes for delegation of section 112 standards processed within 180 days of receipt.
Non-
Cmmit
Ind
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
State
Grant
Measure
No
Yes
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
Yes
Yes
No
No
National
Target
100%
78%
1 program
per Region
75%
100%
100%
94%
10%
80%
75%
25%
37%
59%
No Target
100%
Final Guidance April 22, 2011
Appendix A - Page 3 of 7
-------
Appendix A
ACS
Code
OAQPS
TR01
OAQPS
TR02
OAQPS
TR03
OAQPS
TR04
OAQPS
TR06
OAQPS
TR08
OTAQ
Ola
OTAQ
Olb
OTAQ
Olcl
OTAQ
Olc2
OTAQ
Olc3
Measure Text
Cumulative number of tribes with approved eligibility determinations under the Tribal Authority Rule.
Cumulative number of tribes with delegation of federal programs to address air quality conditions on tribal lands.
Cumulative number of tribes with approved TIPs to address air quality conditions on tribal lands.
Number of tribes conducting air quality monitoring activities.
Number of tribes implementing voluntary or other non-regulatory programs.
Number of reservations that completed or updated an emission inventory during FY201 1 .
Number of projects implemented that promote diesel emissions reductions. [The baseline is set to zero at the beginning of each fiscal year.
At the end of each quarter, report the cumulative number of projects since the beginning of the Fiscal Year in the Current Value field. In
the Explanation field, report the numbers and categories of projects in accordance with the Diesel Work Group's instructions and
definitions for reporting. Also in the Explanation field, report whether the data has been entered into National Clean Diesel Database. Also
in the Explanation field, report the number of diesel grants awarded to projects that affect or are likely to affect areas that may be
disproportionately impacted in whole or part, as determined by the grant recipient having indicated that in their grant proposal, or as
determined by the Region.]
Number of existing heavy duty diesel engines (including school bus engines) that have been retrofitted, replaced, or retired. [The baseline
is reset to zero at the beginning of each fiscal year. At the end of each quarter, report the cumulative number of engines since the beginning
of the Fiscal Year in the Current Value field. Use the Explanation field to report whether that data has been entered into the National Clean
Diesel Database.]
Annual tons of NOx emissions avoided. [Include NCDC and SmartWay projects. The baseline is reset to zero at the beginning of each
fiscal year. At the end of each quarter, report the cumulative reductions of NOx since the beginning of the fiscal year in the Current Value
field. Use the "Explanation" field to report whether the data has been entered into the National Clean Diesel Database.]
Annual tons of PM emissions avoided. [Include NCDC and SmartWay projects. The baseline is reset to zero at the beginning of each
fiscal year. At the end of each quarter, report the cumulative reductions of PM since the beginning of the fiscal year in the Current Value
field. Use the "Explanation" field to report whether the data has been entered into the National Clean Diesel Database.]
Annual tons of HC emissions avoided. [Include NCDC and SmartWay projects. The baseline is reset to zero at the beginning of each
fiscal year. At the end of each quarter, report the cumulative reductions of HC since the beginning of the fiscal year in the Current Value
field. Use the "Explanation" field to report whether the data has been entered into the National Clean Diesel Database.]
Non-
Cmmit
Ind
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
State
Grant
Measure
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
National
Target
11
3
6
No Target
No Target
No Target
No Target
No Target
No Target
No Target
No Target
Final Guidance April 22, 2011
Appendix A - Page 4 of 7
-------
Appendix A
ACS
Code
OTAQ
Olc4
OTAQ
Olc5
OTAQ
Olc6
OTAQ
Olc7
OTAQ
Olc8
OTAQ
Olc9
OTAQ
OlclO
OTAQ
02a
OTAQ
02b
OTAQ
03a
OTAQ
03b
Measure Text
Annual tons of CO emissions avoided. [Include NCDC and SmartWay projects. The baseline is reset to zero at the beginning of each
fiscal year. At the end of each quarter, report the cumulative reductions of CO since the beginning of the fiscal year in the Current Value
field. Use the Explanation field to report whether the data has been entered into the National Clean Diesel Database.]
Annual tons of CO2 emissions avoided. [Include NCDC and SmartWay projects. The baseline is reset to zero at the beginning of each
fiscal year. At the end of each quarter, report the cumulative reductions of CO2 since the beginning of the fiscal year in the Current Value
field. Use the Explanation field to report whether the data has been entered into the National Clean Diesel Database.]
Lifetime tons of NOx emissions avoided. [Include NCDC and SmartWay projects]
Lifetime tons of PM emissions avoided. [Include NCDC and SmartWay projects]
Lifetime tons of HC emissions avoided. [Include NCDC and SmartWay projects]
Lifetime tons of CO emissions avoided. [Include NCDC and SmartWay projects]
Lifetime tons of CO2 emissions avoided. [Include NCDC and SmartWay projects]
Percentage of timely adequacy /inadequacy determinations made by the Region for identified mobile source budgets included in control
strategy SIPs or maintenance plans for transportation-related criteria pollutants (e.g., ozone, CO, PM2.5, PM10) submitted by states.
[Report % in the Current Value field. Use Explanation field to report the actual number of determinations made, for what SIPs, and which
pollutants.]
Percentage of approval/disapproval rulemaking actions taken on mobile budgets included in control strategy SIPs or maintenance plans for
transportation-related criteria pollutants (e.g., ozone, CO, PM2.5, PM10) at the time of final rulemaking on such SIPs. [Report % in the
Current Value field. Use the Explanation field to report the actual number of approval/disapproval rulemaking actions taken for what SIPs
and which pollutants.]
Percentage of transportation conformity determinations submitted by US DOT or an MPO that the Region reviewed and commented on for
8-hour ozone, PM2.5, PM10, and CO nonattainment and maintenance areas. [Report % in the Current Value field. Use the Explanation
field to list the conformity determinations reviewed, where, and for which pollutants.]
Number of final rulemaking actions taken by the Region on Transportation Conformity-related SIP revisions consistent with the annual SIP
processing goal. [Report number in the Current Value field and use the Explanation field to provide the actual total number of submitted
SIPs where the due date for final rulemaking falls in FY1 1 . Also explain if bidding fewer than the universe, and if reporting Status as "not
on target" or "measure not met."]
Non-
Cmmit
Ind
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
No
No
No
State
Grant
Measure
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
National
Target
No Target
No Target
No Target
No Target
No Target
No Target
No Target
100%
100%
100%
Sum of
Bids
Final Guidance April 22, 2011
Appendix A - Page 5 of 7
-------
Appendix A
ACS
Code
OTAQ
04
OTAQ
06
OTAQ
08
SIRG1
SIRG2
SIRG3
ORIA
IAQ5
ORIA
IAQ6
ORIA
IAQ7
ORIA
RAD1
ORIA
RAD 2
OAP1
OAP7
Measure Text
Number of outreach activities conducted by the Region to support SmartWay programs. [Bid the number of events Region believes it will
do in FY1 1 . Report the number of events in the Current Value. In the Explanation field list the outreach events including names and dates
of events.]
Percentage of I/M reports submitted by states for existing I/M programs (including OBD) reviewed by the Region. [Report % in the
Current Value field. In the Explanation field provide the actual number of I/M reports that were submitted and reviewed, and from which
states.]
Number of CMAQ-funded clean diesel projects implemented by state and local governments. [Report the actual number of projects in the
Current Value field. In the Explanation field indicate whether the data has been entered into the National Clean Diesel Database.]
Number of additional homes with operating mitigation systems.
Number of additional homes built with radon-resistant new construction.
Number of additional schools mitigated and/or built with radon-resistant new construction.
Aggregate number of children with asthma and/or their caregivers, in EJ areas of concern, educated about environmental management of
asthma and childhood exposure to ETS, in homes, schools, and other settings.
Aggregate number of health care professionals trained about environmental management of asthma and childhood exposure to ETS.
Total number of programs enrolled in www.AsthmaCommunitvNetwork.org. [Reporting reflects the total current regional programs in
Communities in Action for Asthma Friendly Environments) network found at (www.AsthmaCommunitvNetwork.org'l at the EOY. Report
numbers in Current Value field and use Explanation field to describe highlights, innovations, and anecdotal information about health and
other outcomes.]
Number of radiation exercises the Region participates in. [Bid projected number of exercises. Report numbers in Current Value field and
use Explanation field to describe the name, location, and type of each exercise as well as the number of regional radiation program
participants.]
Number of individuals identified and trained to fill RERT liaison and radiation advisor positions. [Bid projected total number of personnel
identified and fully qualified for the RERT liaison and radiation advisor positions. Each Region should have 1 RERT liaison and 1
radiation advisor position. Report numbers in Current Value field.]
Percentage increase in total square footage benchmarked compared to the total square footage benchmarked in CY 2010. [This data is
provided by HQ and has an expected lag of two months after the end of the quarter. Therefore, reporting will usually lag one quarter.]
Number of people reached (impressions) during regional outreach/education activities in promoting ENERGY STAR. [These activities
would include presentations, publications, interviews, and webinars. When reporting results, in the Explanation field, break impressions
into categories of Residential, Commercial, Products, or Programmatic Overview.]
Non-
Cmmit
Ind
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
No
Yes
No
No
No
No
State
Grant
Measure
No
No
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
National
Target
100
100%
No Target
No Target
No Target
No Target
No Target
2,000
No Target
No Target
20
15%
5,000
Final Guidance April 22, 2011
Appendix A - Page 6 of 7
-------
Appendix A
ACS
Code
OAP8
NEW
CARE-2
NEW
CARE-3
Measure Text
Number of ENERGY STAR technical support activities. [Technical support includes, but is not limited to, planning meetings, award
ceremonies, direct assistance to the public, expertise requests, and meetings to develop future relationships with stakeholders. When
reporting results, in the Explanation field, break these points of contact into categories of Residential, Commercial, Products, or All.]
Number of communities who have developed and agreed on a list of priority toxic and environmental concerns using the CARE partnership
process (annual).
Number of communities who, through the CARE Program, implement local solutions to address an agreed upon list of priority toxic and
environmental concerns using the CARE partnership process (annual).
Non-
Cmmit
Ind
No
Yes
Yes
State
Grant
Measure
No
No
No
National
Target
240
No Target
No Target
++ End ++
Final Guidance April 22, 2011
Appendix A - Page 7 of 7
-------
Appendix B
Appendix B - EFFECTIVE USE AND DISTRIBUTION OF STAG FUNDS
This appendix includes information necessary for the effective management of state and
local air program grants. Covered are key administrative provisions and, when available, a
preliminary national allocation of air grant funds on a region-by-region basis.
Effective Grants Management and Results
Administrative and programmatic provisions for effective oversight and utilization of
continuing program and project-specific grants awarded to state, local, tribal and multi-
jurisdictional entities are summarized in this section of the appendix. The list is not exhaustive
but includes: the proper use of award authority, adherence to specific grant program
requirements, effective post-award oversight, identification of performance measures and results,
the funding of co-regulator organizations, and the promotion of competition. Links are provided
to Agency internet and intranet sites where additional information, including the full text of the
current guidance, is available.
Using Proper Authorities for Award
Guidance to clarify who is eligible for grant assistance given the purpose of the funded
activity, the appropriation, and the grant authority associated with the funds is available for EPA
program and regional offices at: http://intranet.epa.gov/ogd/state/Guid Office of OAR.pdf.
OAR updates the guidance to reflect changes associated with its annual appropriation as needed.
Program contacts are: Courtney Hyde at 202-564-1227 or William Houck at 202-564-1349.
Administrative Guidance for OAR Grant Programs
In FY 2009 OAR issued a reference document consolidating the various statutory,
regulatory and policy provisions that govern administration of the CAA §105 continuing air
grant program for state, local and some Tribal agencies. This guidance also addresses cost-
sharing provisions under the CAA. The guidance is intended as a resource for HQ and regional
staff and can be accessed by EPA staff on the Agency's intranet at:
http://intranet.epa.gov/ogd/state/Consolidated_Gui d_Adm_S_105_Air_Grant_Program.pdf.
The program contact, William Houck, can be reached at 202-564-1349. For the tribal air
program, additional guidance and links to tribal air program information may be found at:
http://www.epa.gov/air/tribal. The program contact, Barrel Harmon, may be reached at: 202-
564-7416. The program contact for Diesel Emissions Reduction Assistance (DERA) grants is
Jennifer Keller in the Office of Transportation and Air Quality at 202-343-9121. Additional
information and links to guidance on the State Indoor Radon Grant (SIRG) program may be
found in the State and Local Air Quality Management section of this guidance document. The
program contact is Phil Jalbert at 202-343-9431.
Ensuring Effective Oversight of Assistance Agreements
Updated EPA Order 5700.2A2 streamlines the post-award management of grants and
cooperative agreements. It became effective January 1, 2008. The Order requires EPA offices to
monitor a recipient's compliance with its programmatic terms and conditions, the correlation of
the work plan and application content with actual grant progress, the use of equipment, and
Final Guidance May 3, 2011 Appendix B - 1 of 5
-------
Appendix B
compliance with relevant statutory and regulatory requirements. Offices are required to submit
oversight plans and document their execution. The Order may be found at:
http://intranet.epa.gOv/ogd/policy/4.0-PostAward-Topics.htm .
Improving Workplans and Measurement of Performance for Grants
The Agency commitment to improve grant oversight and results is also reflected in its
efforts to promote accountability and transparency in its categorical grant programs through clear
work plans, relevant measures of performance, and consistent reporting. States, locals and
Tribes seeking single media air and radon categorical grants and States and Tribes seeking
Performance Partnership grants containing air or radon elements should submit grant work plans
that enable EPA to identify clear linkages between the recipient's efforts and the Agency's
Strategic Plan. The Agency's long-term goal is for EPA and the States to achieve greater
consistency in work plan formats.
To this end the Agency's Office of Grants and Debarment (OGD), in concert with the
national program offices, convened a State Grant Work Plan Workgroup, composed of EPA and
State grant practitioners, in FY 2009 to develop and test various work plan formats for EPA and
state and local agencies to use when negotiating grants awarded under the 14 categorical
programs identified by the Agency. This includes grants for the continuing air program under
CAA §105 and grants for the State Indoor Radon program under §306 of Title HI TSCA. In
developing various acceptable formats, the workgroup built upon the results of FY 2009 work
plan pilots carried out by several volunteering States.
After several years of experience the Office of Grants and Debarment (OGD) recently
issued Grants Policy Issuance (GPI) 11-03, "State Grant Workplans and Progress Reports". See:
http://intranet.epa.gov/ogd/policy/final_grants_policy_issuance_l l_03_state_grant_workplans.pdf. The
GPI was developed by the Workgroup to replace an earlier trial state grant performance
measures template approach originally developed for OMB purposes. To allow Regions and
States sufficient time to adjust to the new requirements, the effective date of GPI 11-03 is
October 1, 2012. Based on that effective date, the Agency's goal is to have all covered grants
awarded on or after October 1, 2012 to comply with GPI 11-03. Regions and States, however,
should begin planning now to transition to the new approach and, at a minimum. More
information is available at: http://intranet.epa.gov/ogd/state/nondiscretionary.htm . GPI 11-03
should be considered in the negotiations of FY 2012 workplans. As the policy is implemented,
OAR, will work with its regional and program offices as well as recipients to provide appropriate
guidance, technical assistance, and outreach. In addition, OGD will work with the Regions on a
case-by-case basis to address any implementation challenges. Please contact Jennifer Bogus,
OARM/OGD, at 202-564-5294 should you have questions related to GPI 11-03.
For FY 2012, while the administrative approach for aligning and highlighting grant-
funded work plan activity with appropriate measures of performance has changed, the obligation
to report on the results has not. Reporting on measures where results can be articulated at the
Regional level remains the responsibility of the Regions and grant recipients. Appendix A of
this guidance contains the overall set of performance measures applicable for FY 2012 including
those that pertain to the categorical grant programs. OAR is also working to develop a better
activity-oriented performance measure or indicator that would better reflect the annual grant-
funded contributions of its state and local co-implementers. The measure would complement the
Final Guidance May 3, 2011 AppendixB-2 of 5
-------
Appendix B
program's existing short and long term environmental measures of performance. OAR will work
with OMB and its state and local partners before finalizing any improved measure of
performance beginning in FY 2012 or beyond.
In addition to clear workplans and measures, regular and consistent performance
reporting should enable the meaningful comparison of a categorical grant program recipient's
past and planned activities and performance. OAR and the Regional Offices are also working
with recipients and the rest of the Agency in a continuing process to assess, reduce, refine, or
affirm existing reporting requirements. OAR is always receptive to comment from state, local,
and tribal agencies on ways to reduce reporting burdens as well as ways to improve performance
reporting and performance measures. This includes discussion of improved short-term
environmental indicators and performance measures and their incorporation in annual and multi-
year assistance agreements. Comments on refining reporting requirements and other approaches
to burden reduction can be forwarded to: Mike Hadrick at hadrick.michael@epa.gov or Bill
Houck at: houck.william@epa.gov .
Achieving Programmatic and Environmental Results
Sound measures of performance should yield insightful and useful results data. EPA
Order 5700.7 applies to all Agency grants not just categorical grants to States and covers all
phases of the grants process from development of a solicitation to evaluation of results. The
Order requires EPA project officers to assure that each grant: (a) can be linked to the Agency's
strategic architecture, (b) articulates measurable outputs and outcomes, and (c) reports the
programmatic and, where possible, environmental results achieved. For more information
Regions should refer to: http://intranet.epa.gOv/ogd/policy/order/5700.7.pdf.
Approval Process for STAG Awards to Co-Regulator Organizations
A co-regulator organization is defined by EPA as a national or regional (i.e., multi-
jurisdictional) organization that represents the interests of co-regulators/co-implementors (state,
tribal or local governments) in the execution of national or regional environmental programs.
EPA issued a policy on December 1, 2006 that clarified that the head of the affected State agency
or department (e.g., the State environmental commissioner or head of the State public health or
agricultural agency) be involved in the funding process and that EPA request and obtain the prior
consent of this official before taking funds off the top of a state grant allotment for direct award
to a state/local co-regulator organization.
It is also important to note that the award of funds to a co-regulator organization is still
subject to a determination as to whether it can be exempted from competition. Effective October
1, 2007, the Agency's Competition Policy found that co-regulator status alone for a multi-
jurisdictional, co-implementer organization did not warrant an exception from competition, and
The definition of co-regulator or co-implementor may be found in the Agency's Order (5700.5A1) - Revised Competition
Policy. . In various regions of the country state and local agencies have formed multi-jurisdictional organizations (MJO) to help
coordinate their geographically-specific air quality interests. These agencies have directed their Regional Offices to target
portion of their grant allotment to their MJO. For OAR, the only co-regulator grant awarded at the national level with STAG
resources has been to the National Association of Clean Air Agencies (formerly STAPPA-ALAPCO). See the State and Local
Air Quality Management section for more details.
Final Guidance May 3, 2011 Appendix B - 3 of 5
-------
Appendix B
that other exceptions, including the 'public interest' exception, were available for consideration.
However, the Agency indicated that it would reassess the competition policy relative to multi-
jurisdictional, co-implementer organizations after several years of award experience. During this
fiscal year, hopefully by June 2011, EPA will issue an update on how its competition policy
applies to organizations representing multiple co-regulators. The Agency will clarify that co-
regulator organizations will be exempted from competition for awards made using funds
appropriated by Congress under the State and Tribal Assistance Grant (STAG) appropriation for
certain co-regulator activities that clearly support, or are extensions of, core state, local or tribal
agency responsibilities. The clarification will also note that awards made to co-regulators using
other than STAG funds, though not exempted from competition, could qualify for an exception
from competition on a case-by-case basis, if properly justified. The current Competition Policy
may be found at: http://intranet.epa.gov/ogd/policv/order/5700 5.pdf.
Promotion of Competition
Agency policy is to promote competition in the award of grants and cooperative
agreements where practical. EPA Order 5700.5Al presents the Agency's competition policy.
The Order exempts grants for continuing environmental programs, such as those funded under
§105 as well as §103 grants for fine particulate monitoring, §103 national air toxics monitoring
trends network grants, federally-recognized tribes and inter-tribal consortia under OAR's tribal
grant program; and TSCA §306 grants for state indoor radon programs. Radon grants to tribes
and intertribal consortia under TSCA §10 grants must be competed. EPA is not precluded from
awarding grants through competition for a portion of the exempted programs if the Agency
determines it is in the best interest of the public to do so. Contact Courtney Hyde at 202-564-
1227 for more information on competition of grants.
Efficient Exchange of Environmental Information
As earlier noted in the Cross-Cutting Priorities section of the Executive Summary portion
of the main document - states, tribes and territories exchanging both regulatory and non-
regulatory environmental data with one another, or with EPA, should make the Exchange
Network and EPA's connection to it, the Central Data Exchange (CDX), where available, the
standard way to exchange data. Other legacy methods should be phased out. As a reminder,
data exchange operations and maintenance remain eligible expenses under the CAA §105
continuing air grant program. More information on the Exchange Network can be obtained at:
http ://www. exchangenetwork.net/.
Preliminary Allocation for State/Local Continuing Air Program Grants
The President has requested STAG funding for FY 2012 significantly above the enacted
levels in both FY 2010 and FY 2011. The requested increase includes: (a) nearly $37.4 million
in additional funds for core air program work; (b) $15 million for monitoring equipment
purchases (and related site preparation) to support the revised NAAQS; (c) $25 million for
program capacity building for GHG permit program development; and (d) $1.5 million for GHG
registry support to states.
OAR has indicated that it would consider implementing an updated allocation scheme if,
and when, a significant increase in STAG funds for core air program activity was to be received.
Final Guidance May 3, 2011 AppendixB-4 of 5
-------
Appendix B
Any final allocation would still be subject to: (a) the appropriation and direction of funds by
Congress, and (b) further consultation with both EPA Program and Regional Offices, as well as
with the affected state, local, and tribal agencies.
Typically, OAR would issue a preliminary air grant allocation reflecting the President's
request as part of the final NPM guidance document. Given current economic and budgetary
circumstances, however, both EPA and its co-implementors have found it prudent to initiate a
collaborative process to take a much closer look at ordering relative programmatic priorities
given uncertain budget scenarios. The collaborative process will extend beyond the publication
of this final NPM guidance and will also address budget implications on the level, use and
allocation of STAG funds. Accordingly, rather than issue a preliminary allocation at this point,
OAR will proceed to examine and discuss possible allocation scenarios as part of the
collaborative process with co-implementors. The objective would be to provide a more strategic
ordering of priorities and preliminary allocation or allocation options for use by Regions and co-
implementors that can be used in the development and negotiation of FY 2012 grant work plans
(i.e., by June, 2010).
Similarly, preliminary final FY 2012 allocations both the State Indoor Radon grants and
Tribal Air grants have also not yet been proposed. The distribution of funds for these programs
is subject to further consultation with co-implementers and other stakeholders and is also subject
to Congressional appropriation.
Final Guidance May 3, 2011 Appendix B - 5 of 5
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
Appendix C.
BIENT AIR MONITORING
EPA and its partners at state,
local, and tribal agencies, manage
and operate ambient air monitoring
networks across the country with
three primary objectives: to ensure
the public has access to clean air by
comparing data and implementation
of the National Ambient Air Quality
Standards (NAAQS) and other
health indicators for toxics, to
provide the public with reports and
forecasts of the Air Quality Index,
and to provide information to health
and atmospheric scientists to better
inform future reviews of the
NAAQS.
EPA works with state, local, and
tribal air monitoring agencies to
continuously improve the ambient
air monitoring networks for current
and future needs. This work
includes milestones that have
resulted from planning the ambient
air monitoring network through a
stakeholder driven process known as
the Ambient Air Monitoring
Strategy1 (monitoring strategy) as
well as through NAAQS reviews
that include both public and
scientific input.
While recent NAAQS reviews are
resulting in changes to the
monitoring networks, the overall
goals and themes of the monitoring
strategy remain the same. The major
purpose of the monitoring strategy is
to optimize the networks to be more
responsive to current and future needs (e.g., assess air quality trends, better characterize the
multi-pollutant nature of air pollution, provide for more timely information through continuous
monitoring, better support development of improved air quality simulation models, etc.). EPA
NAAQS Related Monitoring Highlights
Lead (Pb) NAAQS monitoring required near sources with
lead emissions of 0.50 to 1.0 tons per year. This is in addition
to existing lead monitoring requirements near sources over
1.0 TPY. Addition of lead monitoring at NCore stations in
CBSAs over 500,000 people. Lead monitoring required at 15
specified airports for at least one year. All new lead
monitoring to begin by December 27,2011.
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) NAAQS strengthened with addition
of one-hour standard to protect against short-term exposures;
monitors will be necessary in locations to measure peak
concentrations that occur over shorter periods of time; these
locations will typically be near major roads in urban areas.
Revised network must be in place by January 1,2013. Area-
wide component of network will be retained. Additional 40
NO2 monitors required to protect susceptible and vulnerable
populations.
Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) NAAQS strengthened by replacing the
existing primary SO2 NAAQS with a one-hour standard.
Monitoring required in Core Based Statistical Areas
(CBSA's) based on population size and SO2 emissions.
Reporting requirement added to include maximum 5-minute
block average of each hour. All new SO2 monitoring required
to be operational by January 1, 2013.
Ozone (O3) NAAQS reconsideration. EPA is reconsidering
the level of the ozone NAAQS that was finalized in Spring of
2008 as the NAAQS is not as protective as recommended by
EPA's panel of science advisors, the Clean Air Scientific
Advisory Committee.
Ozone (O3) Monitoring Requirements - Separate from the
NAAQS reconsideration, EPA has proposed changes to the
ozone monitoring requirements that would add monitors in
smaller urban areas not already required to monitor, non-
urban areas to characterize ozone in sensitive ecosystems and
provide coverage in less populated areas, and lengthening the
ozone monitoring season. If finalized, new monitors would
need to be operating by the first day of the ozone season in
2013; monitoring season changes would take effect on the
first day of ozone monitoring in 2012.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) NAAQS: Changes proposed January
28, 2011 and will be finalized byAugust 12, 2011. The
CASAC CO Review Panel has noted concerns with the
adequacy of the current network and the sensitivity of
currently deployed ambient methods.
Particulate Matter (PM2 5 and PM10) NAAQS: Review is
currently ongoing EPA is consulting with CASAC on the
appropriate methods and network design that might be needed
to support a secondary PM NAAQS designed to protect urban
visibility.
Available at http://www.epa.gov/ttn/amtic/monstratdoc.html
Final Guidance April 22, 2011
Appendix C- 1 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
finalized revisions to the ambient air monitoring regulations in 2006 to align the ambient air
monitoring requirements with the themes and objectives of the monitoring strategy. Two major
implementation items from these changes were recently completed. In July of 2010 monitoring
agencies completed the first required assessment of their air quality monitoring system3. The
assessment is required of States every five years and is intended to determine, at a minimum, if
networks meet the monitoring objectives defined in regulation, whether new sites are needed,
whether existing sites are no longer needed and can be terminated, and whether new technologies
are appropriate for incorporation into the ambient air monitoring network. Copies of the
Network Assessments are available on the web at: http://www.epa.gov/ttn/amtic/plans.html. The
second major implementation item is the
start of the National Core (NCore)
network which began on January 1, 2011.
The NCore network measures major
gases, particles, and meteorology in order
to provide support to integrated air quality
management needs. EPA and monitoring
agencies have been working to implement
about 80 NCore stations across the county;
about 63 of these are in urban or suburban
locations with the balance in rural
locations.
Additional Key Monitoring Highlights
Continued improvement of the ambient air monitoring
program:
> The first 5-year assessment of each States Air
Quality Monitoring Network was completed and
submitted to EPA by July 1, 2010.
> NCore stations fully operational as of January 1,
2011
> Daily carbon speciation to be implemented in
FY2011 in 8 additional cities, to support multiple
objectives including accelerating the pace of health
studies
> Emphasis on air toxics "hot-spots" such as schools
as part of next community-scale monitoring projects
As part of its commitment to review
each NAAQS within a five-year period, EPA has recently revised NAAQS for nitrogen dioxide
(NC>2) and sulfur dioxide (802). Both of these final rules resulted in changes to the monitoring
requirements which are summarized in Table C-l below. In most cases necessary monitoring
changes to support the NAAQS are included in the proposed and final rules associated with each
NAAQS review. However, EPA also recently reconsidered the lead monitoring requirements
and is in the process of preparing a final rule to revise the ozone monitoring requirements. Each
of these are summarized in Table C-l below. In 2011 EPA is expected to issue a final decision
on reconsideration of the ozone NAAQS as well finish reviews on the carbon monoxide, PM,
and SOx/NOx secondary NAAQS.
With the large number of new and changing needs, EPA remains committed to working
closely with its State and local monitoring partners through forums such as the Ambient Air
Monitoring Committee of the National Association of Clean Air Agencies (NACAA) and the
Ambient Air Monitoring Steering Committee (co-chaired by the NACAA State and local
Monitoring Co-chairs and the Director of EPA's Air Quality Assessment Division within the
Office of Air and Radiation's Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards) to ensure
monitoring agencies and EPA are working together to improve the ambient air monitoring
networks. EPA monitoring staff also works closely with tribal air monitoring agencies through
participation in the Tribal Air Monitoring Support (TAMS) Center. In addition, EPA has
numerous consultative meetings with the Ambient Air Methods and Monitoring Subcommittee
(AAMMS) of the Clean Air Scientific Advisory Committee (CAS AC) to obtain independent
reviews of proposed monitoring changes.
2 40 CFR Part 53 and Part 58, October 17, 2006.
3 §58.10 Annual Monitoring Network Plan and Periodic Network Assessment (d)
Final Guidance April 22, 2011
AppendixC-2 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
Table C-l is provided to: help assist agencies in understanding the status of each NAAQS
review; identify important dates that affect monitoring implementation; and find where more
detailed information can be found.
Table C-l - Summary of NAAQS and Ambient Air Monitoring Implementation Timeline
NAAQS
Lead-
Monitoring
N02-
Primary
NAAQS and
Monitoring
S02-
Primary
NAAQS and
Monitoring
Ozone -
Primary and
Secondary
NAAQS
Ozone -
Monitoring
SO2andNO2
- Secondary
NAAQS and
Monitoring
CO -
Primary and
Secondary
NAAQS and
Monitoring
PM-
Primorv cuid
SGCondcirv
NAAQS and
Monitoring
Date of Proposed
or Final Rule, if
available
Final Rule-
Published
December 27,
2010
Final rule -
published February
9,2010
T-Tirial T?ll1p
1 llltll JXU.1C
published June 22,
2010
Proposed Rule -
Published January
19,2010
Proposed
Monitoring Rule
Published July 16,
2009; Final
Monitoring Rule
expected in 2011.
Proposal expected
by July 12,2011;
Final Rule by
March 20, 2012.
Proposed rule
expected by
Tannarv 98 901 1
J (Hindi y ^O, jL\J 1 1 .
Final rule expected
by August 12,
2011
Proposal expected
May 2011; Final
rule expected
February 2012.
Summary of Changes to Monitoring
Requires monitoring near lead sources
with emissions of 0.50 to 1.0 tons per year
(TPY). This is in addition to existing
requirement above 1 .0 TPY.
Addition of non-source lead monitors at
NCore stations in CBSAs over 500,000
people
Requires lead monitoring at 15 specified
airports for at least one year.
Addition of near-roadway monitoring
Area- wide monitoring remains and
becomes required
Additional 40 monitors required to protect
susceptible and vulnerable populations
Monitoring required in Core Based
Statistical Areas (CBSA's) based on
population size and SO2 emissions.
Additional monitoring would also be
required based on the state's contribution
to national SO2 emissions, which could be
placed either within or outside a CBSA's.
Reporting requirement added to include
maximum 5-minute block average of each
hour (started in 2010).
Date Monitoring
must be Operating
by:
Newly required
monitoring to be
operational by
December 27, 20 11
January 1,2013
January 1,2013
No specific changes for monitoring. A few more required monitors would
be triggered by existing rules if more protective NAAQS is finalized
Lengthening the ozone monitoring season Ozone monitoring season
where appropriate; addition of monitors changes would take effect on
in: the first day of the revised
smaller urban areas not already ozone monitoring season in
required to monitor; and 2012.
non-urban areas to characterize Revisions to the ozone
ozone in sensitive ecosystems network would take place on
and provide coverage in less the first day of the ozone
populated areas. monitoring season in 20 1 3
NAAQS review on-going
NAAQS review on-going
NAAQS review on-going. Review includes assessment of a potential
separate secondary PM NAAQS for urban visibility.
More information
on final/proposed
rule available at:
http://epa.gov/air/le
ad/ac tions.html
http://www.epa.gov/
airquality/nitrogeno
xides/actions.html#j
anlO
http://www.epa.gov/
airquality/sulfurdiox
ide/actions .html#j un
10
http://www.epa.gov/
air/ozonepollution/a
ctions.html
http://www.epa.gov/
ttn/naaqs/standards/
no2so2sec/index.ht
ml
http://www.epa.gov/
ttn/naaqs/standards/
co/s_co_index.html
http : //www. epa.gov/
air/particlepollution/
Final Guidance April 22, 2011
AppendixC-3 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
This document provides guidance and seeks comment on the use of STAG resources under
sections 103 and 105 for air toxics and criteria pollutant monitoring networks, as well as
important associated networks such as the Chemical Speciation Network (CSN), NCore,
IMPROVE, and PAMS. The document provides information on directions and priorities for
ambient monitoring that attempt to take into account the emerging needs identified in various
NAAQS reviews while adhering to the themes identified in the Ambient Air Monitoring Strategy
for state, tribal, and local, air agencies. These include an emphasis on multi-pollutant monitoring
and favoring continuous over integrated PM samplers. This guidance is also consistent with the
revisions to the ambient air monitoring regulations for applicable monitoring of NCore, lead,
NC>2 and 862. Guidance associated with NAAQS pollutants where we have not yet proposed or
finalized any changes (i.e., NOx/SOx secondary and PM secondary NAAQS monitoring needs)
have not been provided since these pollutants are still in review
Highlights of Changes in Monitoring Funding for FY 2012
In FY 2011, EPA requested an additional $15 million in STAG resources to help fund new
monitoring requirements as a result of revising the NAAQS for lead, NC>2, 862, and ozone. EPA
has again requested these funds for 2012. EPA proposes to use the $15 million for purchasing
monitoring equipment using the section 105 authority of the CAA. Beginning in FY 2012, and
through FY 2015, EPA is proposing to transition the funding authority for PM2.5 monitoring
from § 103 to § 105 on the basis of a 25% transition per year over a four year period. OAR is
seeking comment on this approach. Federal funding for on-going operations of all other
pollutants is expected to utilize § 105 authority. EPA will work with the states on the
deployment of new monitors, including minimizing expenses to EPA and the states, as a result of
the various changes to the NAAQS. Some additional details of EPA's plans for funding
monitoring in FY 2012 follow:
EPA proposes to target $2.7M in §105 funds to Regions for award to states for the on-going
operation and maintenance of the revised lead network, based on the 2008 Lead NAAQS and
monitoring rulemaking and the anticipated impact of the lead monitoring revisions that were
finalized in December 2010. The $2.7M represents the 60% Federal share of the expected
$4.5M in costs it will take to operate the lead network in FY 2012 Funds for lead monitoring
and program support have been included in the amount of funds targeted for the Regions for
direct award to section 105 recipients and will need to be separately identified.
In developing the PM2.5 monitoring allocation for FY 2012, OAR will employ the same
region-by-region funding approach used in prior years - i.e., determination of per month
costs of operating the existing network. This cost per month is based on examining prior
year grants in detail and determining a cost per month for each grantee. For FY 2011, all
PM2.5 monitoring grants are expected to end on March 31, 2012. Therefore, funding for FY
2012 will be for a 12 month period beginning April 1, 2012.
Funding for the portion of the IMPROVE program that addresses progress in improving
visibility in Class I areas is proposed to remain the same as in previous years. This includes
funding for the 110 IMPROVE stations needed to meet the regional haze rule requirements
of states monitoring Class I areas for long-term trends through and beyond the 10-year SIP
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 Appendix C -4 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
period (2008 to 2018). This is also useful in the periodic assessments of progress that are
required in achieving the national visibility goal.
The level of funds for the nationally administered, independent Performance Evaluation
Program (PEP) provided as associated program support for PM2.5 monitoring is expected to
be approximately $1.8 million. Monitoring agencies with an adequate level of independence
between quality assurance and monitoring groups may conduct the PEP themselves. In these
cases monitoring agencies that conduct the PEP will receive the refundable portion of the
EPA program costs that would otherwise have been used to pay for EPA regional lab
contract staff.
The level of funds for the nationally administered, independent lead (Pb) Performance
Evaluation Program (Pb-PEP) provided as associated program support is $250,000. The PEP
is required to support the requirements of the 2008 Lead NAAQS and 2010 monitoring final
rule. This program will operate similar to the PM2.5 PEP with a call letter for participation to
be sent at the same time as the call for participation in other federally implemented
performance evaluation programs. Where federally implemented, EPA Regional ESAT
contract staff are expected to leverage audits for multiple programs when visiting an area.
The level of funds for the nationally administered, independent National Performance Audit
Program (NPAP) is expected to be approximately $510,000. This level assumes no significant
increase in monitoring sites for FY 2012. Table C-l shows that potential increases in the number
of monitoring sites will occur in 2012 and later. Similar to the PEP, in the NPAP, monitoring
agencies with an adequate level of independence between quality assurance and monitoring
groups may conduct the NPAP themselves and receive the §105 funds that otherwise would have
supported their participation in the national program. In FY 2012, we expect that NCore stations
will be fully operational at all required sites and that a percentage will require NPAP audits.
Current NPAP analyzers will need to be replaced to accomplish audits at the lower levels needed
for the NCore program and required by the 2006 revisions to Appendix A of the monitoring
requirements, 40 CFR Part 58. In 2012, $135,000 is proposed to be allocated to upgrade half of
the NPAP mobile laboratories with high sensitivity audit equipment. In 2012, EPA proposes to
reallocate $20,000 to implement the annual certification of the Standard Reference Photometers
(SRPs) that are distributed in many of the EPA regions and serve as level 1 standards from which
the monitoring organizations, on an annual basis, bring their level 2 standards to be certified in
order to calibrate the ozone monitors in their networks. Every year EPA then sends the two
OAQPS travelling SRPs to NIST to have them certified against NIST's National SRP. Once
certified, the OAQPS traveling SRP is sent to the SRPs in the Regions to establish traceability to
the NIST SRP. Funding covers the IAG with NIST for certification of the two EPA SRPs, costs
for software upgrades, shipping the traveling SRP to the EPA Regions, and
maintenance/repairs/parts for all SRPs in the EPA fleet.
For FY 2012, EPA proposes to utilize $150,000 prorated from each PAMS recipient, to
perform regional and national scale assessments of the network and of the data. This is
planned to be follow-up to the existing assessments to enhance the usefulness and utility of
the PAMS data. Assessments will be performed to address a number of questions on the
wealth of data collected by agencies operating PAMS. As in the past, EPA will solicit input
among PAMS data users, including State and local agencies, on priorities for national and
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 Appendix C - 5 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
regional assessments. In the preliminary allocation these funds are contained within the
respective region by region allotments.
For FY 2012, EPA proposes to reserve of 5% of the PAMS funds ($700K) for the expressed
purpose of purchasing new capital equipment (e.g., gas chromatographs and upper air
meteorology equipment) for participating agencies. All funds will be utilized as either direct
award to a PAMS program or equipment will be purchased and provided. A PAMS Re-
engineering workgroup has been convened to conduct an overall assessment of the PAMS
program to include a review of PAMS equipment needs. Several PAMS agencies have reported
they are unable to purchase new equipment and much of their existing inventory of PAMS
monitoring equipment is outdated. The workgroup will work closely with all PAMS agencies to
ensure the most effective approach is utilized to purchase equipment. In the preliminary
allocation these funds are contained within the respective region by region allotments.
In FY 2012, EPA anticipates funding air toxics monitoring at the existing 27 National Air
Toxics Trends Stations (NATTS).
For the 2012 community-scale air toxics funds, EPA plans to continue support for
monitoring projects involving "hot-spots," such as locations where communities that may
be impacted from a local source or sources with elevated levels of air toxics emissions.
EPA will emphasize monitoring in disproportionately affected communities.
Fine Particulate (PMi.5) Monitoring Network
The PM2.5 monitoring network includes three well-established components: the network of
filter-based FRM/FEMs used for comparison to the NAAQS; continuous mass monitors used in
public reporting of the Air Quality Index; and speciation samplers operated as part of the
Chemical Speciation Network (CSN). The latter include the Speciation Trends Network,
supplemental speciation sites, and the IMPROVE program that is used to characterize the
chemical composition that makes up fine particulate matter. Smaller dynamic components of the
PM2.5 monitoring program include a small network of continuous speciation monitors and the
measurement of precursors to PM2.5 at NCore multi-pollutant stations. Areas of interest to
enhance PM monitoring include expanding the network of PM2.5 continuous monitors with
recently approved FEMs and planning for daily speciation sampling in a small number of the
most populated cities in the country where this information can support data needs in a state and
for use in helping expedite health studies.
The PM2.5 NAAQS was last updated in October of 2006. At that time EPA revised the PM2.5
NAAQS by lowering the 24-hour (or daily) standard from 65|ig/m3 to 35|ig/m3. EPA also
retained the existing annual fine particle standard at 15 |ig/m3. EPA is actively reviewing the
PM NAAQS and expects to issue a notice of proposed rulemaking by May of 2011, with a final
rulemaking by early 2012.
In planning a PM2.5 monitoring network for 2012, each agency is expected to use information
from their five-year assessment submitted to EPA in 2010. Agencies should identify appropriate
changes to their networks in the annual monitoring network plan due by July 1, 2011. However,
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 Appendix C -6 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
given that a PM NAAQS proposal is expected in May 2011, EPA is not expecting substantial
changes in 2012. EPA does envision that state/local agencies will continue to maintain a large
robust network of PM2.5 monitors to support several monitoring objectives including protection
of public health through the NAAQS.
Overall Direction
FY 2012 continues the multi-year transition of the ambient air monitoring carried out by state
and local air monitoring agencies along the path outlined by the Monitoring Strategy. For PM2.5
this means continued operation of high value FRM and speciation sites; PM2.s continuous
monitoring and associated data management systems for timely reporting of high quality data;
and precursor gas analyzers, data analyses and quality assurance activities that will support better
understanding of particle formation. With several recently approved PM2.5 continuous FEMs,
monitoring agencies may replace existing PM2.s SLAMS sites operating filter-based FRMs with
continuous FEMs.
The networks will continue operation of high value sites, with investments and divestments.
To provide a clearer understanding of the expected outcomes of the ambient air monitoring
objectives, the following goals for the fine particulate monitoring network have been developed:
Appropriate spatial characterization of PM2.5 NAAQS;
Public Reporting of PM2.5 in the AQI;
Characterization of PM2.5 chemical speciation data for long term trends, development and
accountability of emission control programs, tracking of regional haze, and for use in health
studies;
Operation of NCore trace-level CO, SO2, NO2/NOy and PM (PM2.5 and PMio-2.s) monitoring
to support characterization of PM precursors;
Assessment of PM2.5 data quality;
Procurement and testing of PM2.5 filters.
Disinvestments and other Changes
For FY 2012, EPA is not expecting significant changes to the PM2.5 monitoring networks.
EPA is planning to issue a notice of proposed rulemaking on the PM NAAQS during 2011, with
a final rule by early 2012. However, monitoring agencies will want to consider what changes
may be appropriate to their network in consideration of both the recently completed five-year
assessment and final decisions from the PM NAAQS review. Any such changes, if necessary,
would likely begin to occur no sooner than in FY 2013 or beyond. In cases where the five-year
assessment shows problems with the currently deployed networks (e.g., the current network
design is not being appropriately implemented) EPA encourages addressing that issue in this
year's annual monitoring network plan.
Chemical speciation data from the Speciation Trends Network, IMPROVE, and the remaining
supplemental speciation sites will continue to be utilized to track progress over time as the
national and local control programs are implemented. There are some areas that are expected to
be in residual nonattainment for PM2.5 even after the national control strategies are implemented
or that may be designated nonattainment with the revised 24-hour PM2.5 NAAQS. In these cases
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 Appendix C - 7 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
the regional office and the state, and where appropriate, local agencies should work out an
appropriate network design for the chemical speciation component of their PM2.s monitoring
network as part of their annual network review within the available allocation,. States and local
agencies may consider divesting of low-value supplemental speciation stations in areas that are
not expected to be in violation of the PM2.5 NAAQS.
As in 2011, monitoring organizations will again be asked to determine whether they plan on
implementing the PM2.5 Performance Evaluation Program (PEP) or allow for continued Federal
implementation of this program. Monitoring organizations must meet the minimum
requirements of adequate and independent in order to implement the PEP. OAQPS has provided
guidance to Regional Offices on how to assess adequacy and independence of proposed audit
programs.4 Information on this decision process will be provided in a memorandum from the
EPA regional office to the monitoring organizations each year in order to make decisions that
will affect the next calendar year audit activities. OAQPS anticipates that a FY 2012 guidance
memorandum covering details on participation in the PM2.5 PEP will be issued to the EPA
Regional Offices in June 2011.
Investments
EPA's Office of Research and Development has now approved several PM2.5 continuous
monitors as FEMs.5 These methods are now available and their data can be compared to the
NAAQS as well as for public reporting of the Air Quality Index (AQI). Monitoring agencies
that are comfortable with an approved FEM could benefit by discontinuing operation of some or
all (with the exception of required FRMs for QA purposes) of their FRMs, which tend to be
costly to operate due to pre- and post- sampling laboratory analysis. These savings could be
used to pay for some of the cost of the new monitors; however, capital acquisition funds would
need to be provided up-front for the new monitors. Therefore, EPA regions will work closely
with state and local agencies within the existing funding allocations on whether new monitors
should be purchased. Technical direction on implementing and reporting data from continuous
PM2.5 FEM and FRM monitors is available on EPA's AMTIC web site.6
Gas monitoring at NCore with high sensitivity measurements of CO, SO2, and NO/NOy will
continue as part of the PM2.5 monitoring network to support characterization of PM precursors in
FY 2012. Planning over the last few years has resulted in funding being available for all
approved NCore multi-pollutant sites for these pollutants. While almost all required NCore
stations are operational, there are just a few stations that have yet to be implemented. EPA will
work through our Regional Offices to target one-time funds for the capital acquisition of these
planned NCore stations.
For daily speciation, EPA expects to work with a small number of monitoring agencies to
pilot daily characterization of fine particle chemical speciation using a combination of
continuous and filter-based technologies. For FY 2012, most of this effort will focus on
operation of semi-continuous Sunset carbon monitors.
4 January 8, 2007 memorandum from Phil Lorang (Ambient Air Monitoring Group Leader) to Regional Office
ambient monitoring managers.
5 http://www.epa.gov/ttn/amtic/criteria.html
6 http ://www. epa. gov/ttn/amtic/datamang. html
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 Appendix C - 8 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
Monitoring agencies may also find it useful to use a portion of their direct awards to
implement additional meteorology equipment that supports forecasting of the AQI. Of specific
interest may be recently commercialized, high quality, and lower priced instruments that
characterize the vertical thermal structure of the boundary layer.
For FY 2012, PM2.s monitoring grant funds allocated to states can be directed towards
improvements in data management systems to support timely reporting of high quality data from
PM continuous mass monitors, PM continuous speciation monitors, and precursor gas monitors.
Of specific note is the need to transition PM2.5 continuous FEM monitors from analog to digital
data systems so that important diagnostic data (e.g., sample flow rates, operational relative
humidity or temperature) is readily available for validation of data used in NAAQS decisions.
Resources dedicated to this area will support processing, validating, and reporting of data that
supports the PM monitoring program.
Distribution of Funds
The FY 2012 national program guidance does not yet include a final allocation of PM2.5
monitoring funds among Regional Offices for use in direct awards based on a schedule for
phasing out the use of section 103 authority. EPA will be consulting further with stakeholders
on this topic once we have more detailed information on the funding for FY2011 and FY 2012.
A final allocation will include tables that will provide more detailed information on the
region-by-region allocation including cost estimates for associated program support. Cost
estimates will be based on an assumption that monitoring organizations will not reduce their
networks (and the services/ materials needed to support them) in 2012 compared to previous
years. The estimates should help inform how the program costs may change this coming year
and are subject to change based on monitoring organizations' actual plans for the numbers of
sites that will need these services in FY 2012.7 These numbers may decline if states choose not
to maintain their existing PM2.5 monitoring networks.
For more information on PM2.5 monitoring, contact Tim Hanley at 919-541-4417 or via email
at hanley.tim@epa.gov.
Monitoring Networks for Other NAAQS Pollutants
Support of Established NAAQS Networks
With a number of NAAQS decisions already final or to be final by FY 2012, EPA will need
to work closely with affected air monitoring programs on deploying new or revised monitoring
networks, where necessary. This section summarizes both the new monitoring that will need to
be implemented during FY 2012 as well as new operations and maintenance for monitoring that
7 State and local agencies have costs associated with many activities within each monitoring program area. Not all types of
operating expenses may be accounted for. Some of these costs are fairly well understood such as capital infrastructure, salaries of
staff and management working on the program, and costs of expendable items used in the program. Less obvious, but important
to include in planning operation of a network, are costs of participating in conferences and workshops that support training and
building further expertise in agencies operating the network.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 Appendix C - 9 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
needs to be operational during FY 2012 for NAAQS. These areas are traditionally funded using
section 105 authority and include: ozone, lead (Pb), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide
(862), nitrogen dioxide (NC>2), PMio, and PMio-2.5-8 Of these pollutants, ozone has the most
robust network with over 1200 stations across the country. Networks for CO, SO2, NO2, and
PMio are still maintained in most agencies with minor divestments over the last several years
(see figure C-2). However, for lead there has been a substantially larger divestment due to
almost all monitoring stations being substantially below the previous lead (Pb) NAAQS.
Beginning in 2010, the number of required lead monitors started to increase as the source-
oriented monitors required by the 2008 Lead NAAQS and monitoring rule became operational.
Additional information on each network is summarized below.
In March 2008, EPA strengthened the ozone NAAQS by revising the 8-hour standard to a
level of 0.075 ppm. However, EPA is now reconsidering the ozone NAAQS and on January 6,
2010 issued a notice of proposed rulemaking on this matter. Although a large and robust ozone
monitoring network already operating in most urban areas across the country, EPA has also
issued a proposal - separate from the ozone NAAQS - to address changes to the ozone
monitoring requirements. Changes to the ozone monitoring requirements are necessary to
implement the revised ozone NAAQS including changes to the required ozone season,
requirements for minimum monitors in smaller urban areas - where monitoring is not currently
required, and requirements for non-urban areas such as sensitive ecosystems. The proposed rule
was published in the Federal Register on July 16, 2009 and is expected to be finalized in 2011 in
conjunction with the reconsideration of the ozone NAAQS. Changes to the ozone monitoring
season are currently proposed to begin on the first day of the new ozone monitoring season in
calendar year 2012. Funding needs associated with changes to the ozone monitoring
requirements are expected to be dedicated over a two-year period in FY 2012 and FY 2013.
Table C-2
Number of Monitoring Stations by Pollutant 1999 - 2009
1.000
C
o
I so°
_ Carbon
Monoxide
Lead (tsp) Stp
Nitrogen Dioxide
(no2)
Ozone
_Pm10 Total
~0-10urn Stp
Pm2.5-Local
Conditions
noo
2000
2001
2002
2002
2004
Year
2005
2000
2007
vnnr:
2000
8 On October 17,2006 EPA revoked the annual PM10 NAAQS everywhere. 71 FR 61144. The 24-hour PM10 NAAQS was
retained everywhere. No NAAQS was established for PM10_2 s- On me same day, EPA also promulgated a Federal Reference
Method for PM10.2.5 and certain monitoring requirements forPM10.2.5 as part of the new NCore network with an implementation
date of January 1,2011. 71 FR 61236.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011
Appendix C- 10 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
In October of 2008, EPA significantly strengthened the lead NAAQS from 1.5 |ig/m3 to 0.15
|ig/m3 as measured by total suspended particulate. For lead, the existing lead monitoring
network was considered inadequate to implement the revised lead NAAQS and therefore,
changes to the lead monitoring requirements were included along with the revised lead NAAQS.
EPA required that near-source monitors associated with emissions of more than one ton per year
begin operating by January 1, 2010 and near-source monitoring associated with emissions of
more than one-half ton per year begin operating by December 27, 2011. The final rule also
requires non-source monitoring atNCore sites in CBSAs with a population of 500,000 people or
more. The final rule also requires a 1-year study of Pb monitoring at 15 specific airports where
concentrations may approach or exceed the Pb NAAQS. Monitoring at the airports must begin
no later than December 27, 2011 and is being funded using FY 2010 STAG resources already
identified by OAR and the states.
On January 22, 2010, EPA strengthened the nitrogen dioxide (NO2) NAAQS with the
addition of a one-hour standard to capture peaks associated with short-term exposures to this
pollutant. This final rule provides for the implementation of a near-roadway monitoring network
for NO2 at 165 new locations. EPA will work closely with States on planning this new addition
to the ambient air monitoring program. During CY 2011, a pilot study will be ongoing at two
near-road locations to gather information to be used in the development of a technical assistance
document to be provided to all State agencies to assist them in the implementation of this
network.
On June 2, 2010 EPA strengthened the sulfur dioxide (802) NAAQS by establishing a new 1-
hour standard at a level of 75 parts per billion. Ambient air monitoring is required in CBSAs
based on a population-weighted emissions index for the area. Monitoring is required to begin on
January 1,2013.
In addition to revising networks for lead, ozone, NO2, and SO2, FY 2012 STAG grant funds
should be utilized for on-going ambient monitoring programs to support:
National and local spatial characterization of ozone (O3) relative to the NAAQS;
National and local public reporting of O3 in the AQI;
Local public reporting of CO, SO2, NO2, and PM10 in the AQI for areas where these
pollutants are of concern;
Operation and maintenance of NCore stations beyond the leveraged funds provided under
the PM2.5 monitoring program;
Local characterization of the CO, SO2, NO2, and PM10 NAAQS in the few areas with
NAAQS non-attainment and maintenance issues;
In addition to the monitoring provided for above, limited characterization of O3, CO,
SO2, NO2, Pb, and PM10 data in all other areas for long term trends, support for long-
term health and scientific assessments, and development and accountability of emission
control programs as part of a multi-pollutant approach to air quality management;
Assessment of O3, CO, SO2, NO2, Pb, and PM10 data quality;
Analysis and interpretation of the O3, PAMS, CO, SO2, NO2, Pb, and PM10 monitoring
data and development of data assessment tools;
Procurement and testing of PM10 filters, including 46.2 mm Teflon filters used in low-
volume PM10 samplers;
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 Appendix C - 11 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
Independent and adequate assessment of these pollutants' data quality, which is required
in 40 CFR Part 58. This assessment is based on audit data generated under the National
Performance Audit Program (NPAP). State and local agencies will choose either to
obtain audit services through EPA-managed contracts funded with STAG funds, or may
operate equivalent state-managed programs using independent staff, equipment, and
standards. In some regions, EPA staff may perform or assist in audits with no charge to
STAG funds, depending on staff and travel funds availability.
Reporting and certification of ambient air monitoring data required9 to be submitted to
the Air Quality System (AQS) database. In 2010 the date of certification moved up from
July 1 to May 1.
Ambient Air Performance Evaluation Programs
A performance evaluation is a type of audit where quantitative data is collected independently
in order to evaluate the proficiency of an analyst, laboratory, or some or all of the component
parts of a data collection activity. EPA implements a number of performance evaluation
programs on behalf of the monitoring agencies. Two major federally implemented performance
evaluation efforts include the National Performance Audit Program (NPAP) for the gaseous
pollutants and the Pb-Performance Evaluation Program
National Performance Audit Program (NPAP)
The NPAP is a cooperative effort among OAQPS, the EPA Regional Offices, the monitoring
organizations that operate EPA-funded air pollution monitors, and the other organizations that
operate air monitors for example at PSD sites. The implementation goals of the NPAP are to
audit approximately 20 percent of the monitoring sites in the Ambient Air Quality Monitoring
Network each year.
Although it is a goal to visit every monitoring site generating data that has significance to the
air quality program within a 5-year period, among these sites there is an emphasis on auditing
higher priority monitors (e.g., sites prioritized for health risk reasons) more frequently. In 2012,
the requirement for adequate independent audits applies to sites with monitoring types not
designated as "non-regulatory". The NPAP program uses a through-the-probe (TTP) audit
system, where appropriate for the monitoring situation given a site's physical layout. This
system has the advantage of testing the performance of the entire monitoring sampling train
including inlets and manifolds, and provides station operators immediate feedback on the audit
results.
Each year, monitoring organizations are asked whether they plan on implementing the NPAP
or would prefer continued Federal implementation of this program using STAG funds. Any non-
EPA audits arranged by monitoring organizations must meet the minimum requirements of being
adequate and independent. Additional guidance on demonstrating that a state-implemented
program meets these minimums will be provided in a memorandum early in the calendar year.
Under this approach EPA reserves a portion of appropriated STAG funds to cover potential
Federal implementation of the NPAP, based on the number of geographically separate
monitoring sites (not the number of distinct monitors) within each EPA Region.
9 §58.15 - Annual air monitoring data certification, and §58.16 - Data submittal and archiving requirements.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 Appendix C - 12 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
The initial reserve of FY 2012 funds is estimated to be approximately $510,000. This is
based on EPA's current understanding of monitoring organizations' intentions for howNPAP
audits will be implemented in 2011. If the number of sites in a Region to be audited by EPA
staffer EPA-managed contractors is reduced because more monitoring organizations plan on
implementing a program of adequate and independent NPAP audits without reliance on EPA
contractors, and those organizations are assessed by the EPA regions as capable to perform the
NPAP by September 2011, a corresponding amount of STAG funds will be made available to the
regional office for allocation as direct awards. The amount of funds held by EPA to perform the
NPAP includes both a fixed cost associated with programs tools and equipment such as standard
operating procedures and hardware and variable costs such as the operator time and travel costs
associated with the number of audits conducted. The September 2011 cutoff date gives EPA
time to make necessary contracting and other arrangements for the audits it will manage in 2012.
Since the start of the NPAP through the probe (TTP) in 2002, capital equipment has not been
replaced or upgraded. With the NCore sites now on line, the NPAP mobile laboratories will
need to replace analyzers and calibration equipment that will be able to challenge the higher
sensitivity equipment that is being implemented not only at NCore sites, but at routine
monitoring sites where monitoring organizations are replacing older equipment with the trace
level analyzers. Therefore, in FY 2011 $135,000 was proposed to be allocated to outfit half of
the NPAP audit trailers, with the other half planned for upgrade in FY 2012.
Lead Performance Evaluation Program (Pb-PEP)
The implementation of a Pb-PEP began in calendar year 2010 and it provides an assessment
of overall bias at the primary quality assurance organization (PQAO) level. PQAO is defined in
40 CFR Part 58 Appendix A. The program is a mix of one or two PM2.5 PEP like audits with
additional collocated sampling. The program requires the same number of audit samples as
required for PM2.5 meaning:
o PQAOs with < 5 sites require 5 audits (1 PEP, 4 collocated)
o PQAOs with > 5 sites require 8 audits (2 PEP, 6 collocated)
The Pb-PEP audits consist of the implementation of a separate portable TSP Pb audit sampler
that is placed within 2-4 meters of the routine Pb sampler, is operated by an independent auditor
and the sample is shipped to an independent Pb-PEP laboratory for analysis. For the collocated
samples, each quarter the monitoring organization field operator will take one additional
collocated sample and send this sample to the independent Pb-PEP laboratory for analysis.
Similar to the PM2.5 PEP and the NPAP, implementation decisions for Pb-PEP are made by
the monitoring organizations on an annual basis. EPA will draft a memo to the monitoring
organizations to determine whether they plan to self implement the Pb-PEP or utilize the
federally implemented program using STAG funds. Any non-EPA audits arranged by
monitoring organizations must meet the minimum requirements of being adequate and
independent. The definition for adequate and independent for Pb-PEP is very similar to PIVb.s
PEP and the requirements were developed in the August 6, 2009 memo which can be found at:
http://www.epa.gov/ttn/amtic/npepqa.html. The EPA regions will collect this information from
the monitoring organizations and provide the information to OAQPS in time to redirect the
appropriate STAG funds for the federally implemented program.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 Appendix C - 13 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
Under this approach EPA reserves a portion of appropriated STAG funds to cover potential
Federal implementation of the Pb-PEP, based on the number of monitoring sites (not the number
of distinct monitors) within each PQAO within a Region.
The amount of funds that would be reserved by EPA to perform the Pb-PEP includes both a
fixed cost associated with programs tools and equipment such as standard operating procedures
and hardware and consumables and variable costs such as the operator time and travel costs
associated with the number of audits conducted. For FY 2012, EPA proposes to allocate
$250,000 to perform the Pb-PEP program.
Ambient Air Protocol Gas Verification Program (AA-PGVP)
In 2009, the Office of Inspector General published a report concluding that EPA "does not have
reasonable assurance that the gases that are used to calibrate emissions monitors for the Acid
Rain Program and continuous ambient monitors for the nation's network are accurate". To
address the OIG findings for the Ambient Air Program, OAQPS, in cooperation with EPA
Regions 2 and 7 have developed the AA-PGVP. The program establishes gas metrology
laboratories in Regions 2 and 7 to verify the certified concentrations of EPA Protocol Gases used
to calibrate ambient air quality monitors. An Implementation Plan, QA Project Plan and SOPs
can be found at the AMTIC Website: http://www.epa.gov/ttn/amtic/aapgvp.html. The program
was successfully implemented in 2010. Funding for both 2010 and 2011 were provided by
internal EPA funds. Annual costs for program are approximately 50K. In 2012, EPA proposes
to reallocate $5,000 from each Region's STAG allocation to implement the program.
Photochemical Assessment Monitoring System (PAMS)
Required by section 182(c)(l) of the Clean Air Act, the PAMS program collects ambient air
measurements in areas classified as serious, severe, or extreme ozone nonattainment. Each
PAMS area collects data for a target list of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), NOX, NOy, and
ozone, as well as surface and upper air meteorological measurements.
Monitoring rule amendments published on October 17, 2006 greatly reduced the
minimum PAMS requirements. The revisions were intended to require the retention of
the minimum common PAMS network elements necessary to meet the objectives of
every PAMS program, while freeing up resources for states to tailor other features of
their own PAMS networks to suit their specific data needs. Overall, the changes
significantly reduced the costs of the minimum PAMS monitoring requirements, but it
was not EPA's intention to require or encourage a reduction in the overall level of PAMS
monitoring.
Consistent with recent years, FY 2012 STAG funds will support four types of PAMS
activities: monitoring system implementation and operation including replacement of aging
equipment, data reporting to AQS, data analysis, and quality assurance. For FY 2012, about $14
million within the allotments to Regions would be targeted for operation of the PAMS network.
Of this, $10.5 million would nominally be allocated for program implementation and operation,
data reporting, and QA. Three and one-half million dollars has been nominally alloted for data
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 Appendix C - 14 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
analysis by state and local agencies. However, Regional Offices have had the flexibility to allow
states to adjust this split and even to use a portion of their designated PAMS funds for other
purposes. Table C-3 shows the FY 2012 allocation of PAMS funds within the regional
allotments. These PAMS funds are included in the ozone category of the national region-by-
region allocation.
EPA once again proposes to allocate $150,000 for data analysis. EPA will further consult
with state and local agencies on the use of $150,000 that would be prorated from each PAMS
Region during FY 2012 for follow-up data assessment and new data analysis work.
The PAMS program has been operational since the mid 1990's and as such for a number of
agencies the monitoring equipment is becoming significantly aged. The PAMS Re-engineering
workgroup plans to conduct a thorough review of the program and its equipment needs. For FY
2012, EPA is also proposing to reserve 5% of the PAMS funds ($700K) for the expressed
purpose of purchasing new capital equipment (e.g., gas chromatographs and upper air
meteorology equipment) for participating PAMS agencies. These funds, along with the $700k
reserved in FY 2011 will be used to set up an equipment replacement plan over a multi-year
period.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 Appendix C - 15 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
Table C-3. Proposed Distribution of FY 2012 Funds for PAMS Support
Region
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
National Data
Analysis
Equipment
Replacement
Totals
Number
of
PAMS
Areas
24
Local
Data
Analysis
Implementation
and Operation
5
I1
3
1
22
5
0
0
73
0
$726,297
$232,415
$348,623
$145,259
$290,519
$617,603
$0
$0
$1,162,075
$0
$2,125,815
$571,060
$1,087,907
$366,848
$959,749
$2,061,029
$0
$0
$3,307,303
$0
$3,522,791 $10,479,711
Total with proposed
$150K set aside for
national data analysis
and $700K set aside
for equipment
replacement
$2,678,979
$754,701
$1,349,328
$481,020
$1,174,372
$2,516,030
$0
$4,198,071
$150,000
$700,000
$14,002,502
1 Shares one PAMS area with Region 3.
2 Chicago and Milwaukee have a combined network.
3 So. Coast & Mojave Desert AQMDs have a combined network
Notwithstanding a re-allocation, and in light of the recent changes in PAMS requirements,
Regional Offices should still re-examine the current split between data analysis and
implementation and operations with their recipients rather than strictly adhere to the splits shown
in Table C-3. Regional Offices may also consider other departures from historical funding
practices, for example providing more funds to a particular state in FY 2012 to support a needed
one-time intensive study, with temporarily reduced funding for routine PAMS monitoring in
other states.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011
Appendix C- 16 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
EPA recognizes that the PAMS sites are a major source of data on air toxics including some
of the toxics that contribute significantly to the total risk from air toxics in some of the largest
cities. The regions, state and local monitoring agencies should keep this dual purpose in mind as
the plan network changes in FY 2012 and beyond. For example, as speciated VOC sampling is
reduced at type 4 sites, consideration should be given to moving to auto-GC sampling at the
remaining PAMS sites.
FY 2012 PAMS Activities for State and Local Agencies
The allocated PAMS funds should be used to meet the following objectives:
(1) Continue System Implementation
Reduce number of monitoring sites and monitoring at remaining sites, while remaining in
compliance with revised PAMS regulations or approved alternative plans developed as
part of reconfiguration efforts.
Operate remaining existing sites, including replacement of aging equipment.
Continue to improve NOX monitoring, replacing NOX instruments with NOy/NO
instrumentation and/or more sensitive NO2/NOX monitors at select PAMS sites.
Install and operate trace level CO monitors at Type II sites.
Develop and conduct area specific ozone precursor studies based on area specific needs.
Continue making surface measurements of wind direction, wind speed, temperature, and
humidity at all PAMS sites and additional measurements of solar radiation, ultraviolet
radiation, pressure, and precipitation at one site in each PAMS area.
Continue making upper-air measurements of wind direction, wind speed, and temperature
at a representative location in each PAMS area. The upper-air monitoring program will
depend upon region-specific factors such that the optimum design for a given PAMS
region is expected to be some combination of remote sensing and conventional
atmospheric soundings.
For PAMS sites collocated with NCore multi-pollutant precursor gas sites, the
meteorological monitoring data for ambient temperature, wind speed, wind direction,
relative humidity, barometric pressure, and solar radiation are to be submitted to the
AirNow program.
(2) Data Analysis
Continue to develop and implement PAMS data analysis plans at the state and local
levels that demonstrate use of data, provide analyses demonstrating data analysis
products and results commensurate with allocated resources targeted for data analysis in
grant work plans and the minimum set of PAMS data analyses specified in EPA
guidance.
Use PAMS data to develop and optimize control strategies in State Implementation Plan
for ozone.
Develop trends in ozone precursors, based on PAMS data that may serve to corroborate
"rate-of-progress" and accountability demonstrations.
Use PAMS data to corroborate ozone precursor emissions inventories and to address
transport concerns.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 Appendix C - 17 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
(3) Data Reporting
All PAMS data, including meteorological data, shall be submitted into AQS consistent
with 40 CFR Part 58.
All PAMS data shall be identified in EPA's Air Quality System (AQS) as monitor type
'PAMS' or 'Unofficial PAMS'.
Adequate procedures must be developed and followed to ensure proper validation of data
prior to submission to AQS.
(4) Quality Assurance
All sites must have and operate according to a Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP)
approved by an EPA regional office.
Ensure that adequate and independent audits are conducted for FRM and FEM SLAMS
monitors at PAMS sites. These audits are discussed above under 'National Performance
Audit Program (NPAP).'
Air Toxics Monitoring
For FY 2012, the President's request includes resources for the support of national air toxics
monitoring and characterization activities. Funds are awarded under §105 authority to continue
support for ongoing air toxics monitoring activities initiated and conducted by state and local air
quality agencies. In addition, CAA §103 funds are proposed to be allocated for the support of:
(1) continued operation and maintenance of the National Air Toxics Trends Stations (NATTS)
Network, and (2) community-scale air toxics monitoring projects (see Table C-4). Funding for
NATTS and community-scale projects is again being requested using §103 authority which
enables 100% federal funding.
Included in the NATTS program total are four supplemental program components: quality
assurance, methods and instrumentation, sample and equipment shipping and handling, and data
analyses using all available ambient air quality data for toxics with special emphasis on
observations from the NATTS and community-scale monitoring programs. These three
components are associated program support for all grants that support air toxics monitoring or
management activities. The desired program objectives are:
Establish trends and evaluate the effectiveness of air toxics emissions reduction
strategies.
Characterize local-scale ambient concentrations that result when air toxics originating
from local sources concentrate in relatively small geographical areas, producing the
greatest risks to human health.
Provide data to support, evaluate, and improve emission inventories and air quality
models used to develop emission control strategies, perform exposure assessments, and
assess program effectiveness.
Provide data to support scientific studies to better understand the relationship between
ambient air toxics concentrations, human exposure, and health effects from these
exposures.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 Appendix C - 18 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
In FY 2012, EPA proposes that approximately $4.1 million in §103 STAG funds be used to
fund operation of the National Air Toxics Trends Station (NATTS) Network during the period
July 1, 2011 - June 30, 2012. About $0.9 million is proposed to be used for quality assurance,
data analysis, sample and equipment shipping and handling, and methods and instrumentation
associated with the NATTS program.
The NATTS program component will continue to build on the established quality assurance
and methods protocols. Laboratory and field staff continue to work with EPA to ascertain the
optimum methods for capturing and analyzing core pollutants associated with risk, develop
performance based quality indicators to prove valid data results that will contribute to our
understanding of risks, and stabilize the measurements for all NATTS sites so that comparisons
across the nation can be made. Efforts to further improve methods for hexavalent chromium and
acrolein are anticipated to continue through at least 2012, and additional methods development
work may include how to best measure coarse particles (PMio-2.s) for HAP metals and other
speciation components to complement the existing measurement of metals in PMio at NATTS.
The analytical community will continue to assess trends in air toxics concentration levels, relate
those data to associated risk levels, and explore relationships between these ambient and risk
levels to emission sources and changes in these levels to emission reduction efforts.
The community-scale projects are intended to better characterize air toxics problems at the
local level, particularly for disproportionately affected areas, and to address those problems
through local actions which complement national regulatory requirements. Such monitoring has
the potential to define the scope of local air toxic problems, measure what reductions have been
achieved through actions taken, and provide information needed for local policy development on
reducing emissions from particular sources.
While aimed at meeting local data needs, EPA expects that data, results, and findings from all
community-scale projects will also be valuable to other areas and to the national air toxics
programs. Hence, a portion of the air toxics STAG funds are used to organize, summarize, and
analyze the air toxics data from the community-scale studies and the NATTS sites (and data
from other monitoring efforts) and to communicate the findings to all states involved in air toxics
management.
While EPA anticipates continued support for the characterization of air toxics hotspots at the
community level in FY 2012, EPA intends to further consult with stakeholders on the nature and
approach for such support. For further information regarding prior year community-scale air
toxics monitoring projects, including previous solicitations, successful project proposals and
final reports, may be found at: http://www.epa.gov/ttn/amtic/local.html. For more information
contact Michael Jones in OAQPS' Ambient Air Monitoring Group at 1-919-541-0528, or
jones.mike@epa.gov.
The proposed FY 2012 allocation categories and amounts are provided in Table C-4. The
funding allocation for operation of NATTS sites will be sub-allocated to the regions with state
and local agencies hosting those sites. The split of funding among the other listed line items may
be adjusted prior to the start of FY 2012 based on consultations with state and local air agency
representatives. Funds for other line items listed are anticipated to be used in nationally
administered support contracts or competitively awarded to eligible recipients for specific
activities.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 Appendix C - 19 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
Table C-4
Proposed FY 2012 Funding for Lead, National Air Toxics Trends,
and Community-Scale Monitoring
$4,095,000
$320,000
$300,000
$180,000
$100,000
$3,153,000
$8,148,000
Operation and maintenance of existing and new NATTS sites.
NATTS Quality Assurance: includes periodic Proficiency Testing, targeted Technical
Systems Audits, and annual data quality assessment via centrally (OAQPS) managed
contracts.
Data Analysis: delineate and assess trends, data and network assessment to include
exploration / demonstration of monitoring data utility in providing local scale findings that
are useful in S/L/T air quality program management, and Annual Data Analysis Workshop
for EPA and S/L/T 's to share results; synthesize into annual report.
Methods and Instrumentation: support for improved air toxics monitoring methodology,
especially for priority HAPs for which methods either do not exist, or existing methods have
been deemed insufficient to meet end user needs; acquire new, upgrade, or replacement
sampling or analytical equipment on a limited, case-by-case, as needed basis in direct
support of NATTS.
Sample and equipment shipping and handling.
Community -scale monitoring projects: EPA is seeking comment on continued support for
monitoring projects involving "hot-spot" locations (i.e. significant potential for substantially
elevated ambient HAP concentrations arising from local emission sources).
Total Funding
IMPROVE Visibility Monitoring Network
The IMPROVE monitoring program supports the national goal of reducing haze to near
natural levels in National Parks and wilderness areas. IMPROVE monitoring sites collect data
on visibility, including optical, photographic, and speciated particulate data, though EPA
resources are only used for the particle speciation monitoring. Data from IMPROVE sites are
needed to meet the regional haze rule requirements of states for monitoring Class I area long-
term trends through and beyond the 10-year SIP period (2008 to 2018), as well as being useful in
the required periodic assessments of progress towards the national visibility goal. States also use
data from the IMPROVE network to characterize upwind and background PMio and PM2.5
conditions and to assess source attribution for the PM2.5 and PMioNAAQS in nonattainment
areas.
The IMPROVE network was started in 1987 as part of a federally-promulgated visibility plan
and operated by the Department of the Interior (DOI) under the direction of a multi-agency
federal/state steering committee. EPA expanded the original network in FY 1999 and FY 2000
from approximately 30 sites to 110 sites. The expanded network covers all of the Clean Air Act
Class I areas where visibility is important (except the Bering Sea area which is impractical to
monitor). EPA provides state/local air quality management STAG funds to the DOI to help
maintain the IMPROVE network because of the importance of IMPROVE data to development
of SIPs for both regional visibility and PM NAAQS attainment. The DOI and the other
participant organizations contribute in excess of $3 million of their own funds or in-kind
resources per year to support field operations and other monitoring at IMPROVE sites.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011
AppendixC-20 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
For reasons of convenience and/or consistency of data, a number of state, local, and tribal
monitoring organizations have historically chosen to ask the IMPROVE program to provide field
technical support and laboratory services for additional sampling stations at locations under their
control, using the IMPROVE protocols for sampler design, sampler operation, and laboratory
analysis. Data from these additional "state/local IMPROVE protocol sites" (currently about 60)
are managed and made public along with the data from the 110 sites in protected class I areas.
These additional sites are provided as associated program support. This arrangement will
continue in FY 2012. In addition, some federal agencies provide full funding for additional
IMPROVE protocol sites to meet various program or research objectives.
Tribal, state, local, and federal monitoring organizations may continue, discontinue, or add
sites for the monitoring period which runs from April 1, 2012 through March 30, 2013. Once a
monitoring organization has identified its source of funds for such sites, it may contact OAQPS
(see below) to request monitoring support services and to begin arranging for the necessary funds
transfer. Requests should be made as early in calendar year 2011 as possible, but no later than
December 31, 2011. OAQPS is assuming that that monitoring organizations will retain all
current state/local IMPROVE protocol sites in 2012.
The Visibility Information Exchange Web System (VIEWS) is no longer supported and will
be shut down in summer 2011. A new database is being developed as a replacement call the
FED (Federal Land Managers Environmental Database). Once fully operational it can be
accessed at http://www.colostate.edu/FED. The FED will include news, data and geolocations,
as well as IMPROVE data, USFS weather data, ozone data, deposition, and CASTNET data.
For FY 2012, about $2.6 million of PM2.5 monitoring funds appropriated under §103 authority
and about $1.2 million of state/local STAG funds appropriated under §105 authority are being
proposed to support visibility monitoring at 110 IMPROVE sites and 2 sites collocated with
CASTNET. For more information on the IMPROVE program, contact Tim Hanley (919-541-
4417) or Laurie Trinca (919-541-0520) in OAQPS.
Planning Information for Ambient Monitoring in Indian Country
EPA respects each tribe's sovereign ability to identify its air quality goals and to make
monitoring decisions it deems appropriate for its needs. This section addresses issues for
consideration when conducting ambient air quality monitoring in the particular context of an
EPA grant work plan. There are no Clean Air Act requirements for ambient monitoring in
Indian Country, so tribes have flexibility in customizing ambient monitoring to address the many
different situations they face in terms of air quality and other environmental concerns. Whatever
the local situation, the purpose of any ambient monitoring should be to inform the public living
in Indian country about the quality of the air where that quality is in doubt, to assist the tribe in
managing its air quality, to help the tribe make the case that other governments or private parties
need to control emissions due to their effect on air quality in Indian Country, and/or to help track
the effects of control actions to verify that they have addressed a problem.
For some tribes ambient monitoring may or may not be a priority for funding compared to
other air quality program or environmental program activities. If monitoring is conducted, a
tribe's interests can be best served when the type of monitoring is appropriate for the specific
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 Appendix C-21 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
situation. For a given tribe, some types of monitoring may be useful, while others may not be
relevant. With limited resources available, strategic planning based on thoughtful priorities is
needed. The EPA Regional Offices will be the principal EPA partners with tribes in this case-
by-case planning.
Over the last few years, EPA has emphasized that data from EPA-funded monitors in Indian
Country should be available to both EPA and the general public through the AQS or other
relevant national data system, once start-up issues are worked out and the data are reliable. EPA
will continue to work with tribes on workable alternatives for data preparation and submission.
In awarding grants to tribes with FY 2012 funds, Regional Offices are expected to make sure that
tribes will have a way to get data submitted, including QA-related data.
EPA has developed an Ambient Air Monitoring Strategy for State, Tribal and local Air
Agencies that re-examines how the national ambient monitoring programs can be more
thoughtfully directed towards their multiple purposes
(http://www.epa.gov/ttn/amtic/monstratdoc.html)10. For the most part, this strategy addresses
situations and considerations relevant to states, rather than considerations relevant to tribes. In
FY 2008, EPA developed a document titled: Technical Guidance for the Development of Tribal
Air Monitoring Programs
(http://www.epa.gov/ttn/oarpg/tl/memoranda/techguidancetribalattch.pdf) with the intent of
providing tribes a better understanding of the ambient air monitoring process and to provide
information on resources and tools to help build and sustain and air quality monitoring program.
For 2012 and beyond, EPA may provide additional guidance specifically related to tribal air
monitoring. Any new guidance will continue to provide flexibility for tribes and Regional
Offices to address the many different air quality situations in Indian country on a case-by-case
prioritized basis. See: http://www.epa.gov/oar/tribal/tam.html for information on the progress in
developing new guidance for tribal monitoring.
Technical assistance in conducting ambient monitoring is provided to tribes through the
Tribal Air Monitoring Support (TAMS) Center (http://www4.nau.edu/tams/). TAMS staff can
provide more specific information on any of the types of monitoring described here.
The remainder of this section provides general information that may assist tribes in clarifying
their objectives for ambient monitoring and getting started on planning monitoring to meet those
objectives.
Air Toxics Monitoring: This may be the type of ambient monitoring of most interest to many
tribes, because local sources potentially subject to tribal management can dominate exposures
and because public perceptions of air toxic risks can be strong. As with all monitoring, the
purpose of monitoring air toxics is to identify problems that merit action, plan what action will
be effective, and track the effects of the action to verify it has addressed the problem.
Interpreting air toxics monitoring data is not a simple task, since there are no bright legal lines
between "acceptable" and "unacceptable" air quality, as there are for NAAQS pollutants.
Interpretation can be more difficult or impossible if the monitoring location or the monitoring
10 The Ambient Air Monitoring Strategy was last updated in December of 2008.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 AppendixC-22 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
schedule is not appropriate for estimating risk to residents. Each regional office has specialists in
risk assessment that can assist tribes in planning air toxics monitoring so that it is useful.
See http://www.epa.gov/air/tribal/airtoxics.htm for more information on air toxics from a
tribal perspective. See http://www.epa.gov/ttn/amtic/airtoxpg.html for information on
monitoring of air toxics. See http://www.epa.gov/ttn/atw/nata for the 2005 National Scale
National Air Toxics Assessment website11; the information and links on this website may be
useful background when considering whether and what air toxics to monitor in Indian Country,
even if no 2005 assessment was possible for that area due to lack of an emissions inventory.
Monitoring for NAAQS Pollutants using Federal Reference Methods (FRM) or Federal
Equivalent Methods (FEM): This type of monitoring is primarily useful for determining on a
formal basis whether air quality in a given location meets or does not meet a national ambient air
quality standard (NAAQS), for example ozone, PM2.5, PMio, CO, 862, NO2 or lead. It takes
three years of data collection to make this determination for most NAAQS. Establishing
attainment status via FRM/FEM monitoring data can be important as it can affect the legal
requirements that apply to sources at and around that location. It can also affect whether a tribe
can pursue action to seek emission reductions from upwind sources beyond the tribal boundary.
Monitoring for certain NAAQS pollutants may indicate a need to reduce emissions within the
tribal boundary in order to protect public health of the residents, but in many cases it will be
obvious from an understanding of emission-generating activities that local sources do not cause
or contribute to concentrations near or above the NAAQS.
On October 17, 2006, EPA promulgated a rule which lowered the 24-hour PM2.5 NAAQS
from 65 to 35 micrograms per cubic meter. This change should be considered when planning
tribal monitoring, because the more stringent standard is more likely to be violated as a result of
local sources such as seasonal wood burning, wild fires, and prescribed burning than is the
annual PM2.5 NAAQS. EPA also revoked the annual PMio NAAQS everywhere (not the 24 hour
PMio NAAQS). This change is expected to have no impact on tribes, as the annual standard was
rarely violated anyway. PMio and PM2.5 sources in Indian country (wood burning, fires, road
and agricultural dust, etc.) could be a problem by themselves or on top of concentrations coming
from upwind areas.
In March 2008, EPA strengthened the ozone NAAQS by revising the 8-hour standard to a
level of 0.075 ppm. At the time of finalizing the ozone NAAQS, EPA stated its intention to
propose a separate rule to address changes to the ozone monitoring requirements that would be
necessary to implement the revised ozone NAAQS. These may include proposed changes to the
required ozone season, requirements for minimum monitors in smaller urban areas - where
monitoring are not currently required, and requirements for non-urban areas such as sensitive
ecosystems. As explained earlier no such requirements would exist for tribal nations. Despite
monitoring regulations not being required of tribal nations, the potential for these changes are
mentioned here so that they can be considered for implementation in tribal monitoring programs
in 2012 if available at that time. The potential for ozone nonattainment, if it exists, may often be
due to upwind sources that are not on the tribe's lands. Tribal monitoring programs may have an
11 The 2005 NATA is the latest available as of January 2011.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 AppendixC-23 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
interest in characterizing both ozone exposure of their population as well as characterizing
sensitive ecosystems on their lands.
In October 2008, EPA significantly strengthened the lead NAAQS from 1.5 |ig/m3 to 0.15
|ig/m3 as measured by total suspended particulate. With a substantially stronger NAAQS,
Regional Offices and tribal monitoring agencies should work closely together to ensure that any
sources of lead exposure on or immediately impacting tribal lands have been identified and
appropriate steps are taken (ensuring the adequacy of the emission inventory and modeling
impacts) to determine if ambient air monitoring is warranted.
Before beginning any NAAQS monitoring, the regional office and tribe should consider: (1)
whether attainment status can be determined with reasonable confidence in other ways (including
passive monitors and other methods that do not qualify as Federal Reference methods but can be
sufficient for unofficially showing that concentrations are well below the NAAQS), (2) how
information on the attainment/nonattainment status once available could affect management of
the tribal air program, and (3) how long the monitoring should continue if it does or does not
show a NAAQS violation. Monitoring and use of data for NAAQS compliance purposes
requires adherence to all applicable monitoring, quality assurance and reporting regulations.
The EPA Regional Offices should work with the tribes to review the status and continued
utility of any FRM monitors which have been operating long enough to have to have reasonably
complete data. If attainment with a comfortable margin has been found and if there is no
development in Indian Country or nearby development that is likely to change the situation
substantially, it may be good to discontinue this type of monitoring in favor of other
environmental management efforts.
Continuous PMi.5 Monitoring - There are several types and brands of monitors that provide
estimates of PM2.5 concentrations on a continuous basis, without need for filters to be sent to a
laboratory for weighing. These are both less expensive to operate than a filter-based monitor and
can give information on air quality that tribal officials and the public can use in real time to
manage emission sources and personal activities. For a complete list of approved methods, see:
http://www.epa.gov/ttn/amtic/criteria.html. Continuous PM2.5 monitors with official status as a
FEM can be used for purposes of comparing to the NAAQS.
Passive Monitoring and Other Types of Screening Monitoring: A passive monitor is one
which "soaks up" pollution rather than actively collecting it on a filter or pumping it through an
on-site measurement device. This means they can be used where there is no electricity supply.
Also, the monitoring unit is usually inexpensive, so it is possible to place them more closely
together or over a much larger area than conventional powered monitors could possibly be
placed. Passive monitors are not suitable for formal designation of an area as attainment or
nonattainment but they can help a tribe understand the air quality situation in Indian Country, for
example, what part of tribal lands have the worst air quality and whether any part has
concentrations that approach health benchmarks. There are passive monitors available for a
number of pollutants including several volatile organic air toxics including benzene, ozone, CO,
and SO2. Time periods for exposing the monitor to the ambient (or indoor) air vary. The
monitors must be collected each sampling period and sent to a laboratory for chemical analysis,
so costs are not insignificant. Passive monitoring programs are usually of short duration because
of the field labor and laboratory costs, compared to automated continuous analyzers. They have
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 AppendixC-24 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
the advantage of requiring little up-front investment, however. EPA Region 6 has been in the
forefront of applying passive monitoring to a variety of situations on and off tribal lands. See
http://www.epa.gov/ttn/amtic/passive.html for more information.
Photochemical Assessment Monitoring: This is a very specialized type of monitoring related
to the ozone NAAQS, in which air samples collected in the morning are taken to a laboratory for
measurement of the concentrations of many individual hydrocarbon species including some toxic
gases. This monitoring is only done during the ozone season. The purpose is to help identify the
chemicals and sources contributing to ozone and the most efficient controls for reducing ozone
concentrations. It is unlikely that this type of monitoring meets any distinct tribal need. See
http://www.epa.gov/ttn/amtic/pamsmain.html for more information.
Speciation Monitoring: This is a very specialized and expensive type of monitoring
related to the PM2.5 NAAQS, in which filters collected over a 24-hour period are shipped by
overnight express to a laboratory for measurement of various components of PIVb.s such as
sulfate, nitrate, elemental carbon, organic carbon, and individual metals. This type of monitoring
is done every third or every sixth day, year round. The purpose is to help identify the direct and
precursor pollutants and sources contributing to PM2.5 and the most efficient controls for
reducing PIVb.s concentrations. Most STN sites are in urban areas. This type of monitoring may
meet a tribal need, if a PM2.5 nonattainment (or near nonattainment) situation is confirmed
through simpler monitoring and its causes are not apparent, if high numbers of diesel engines
operate in or upwind of tribal land, or if sources of toxics metals in PM2.5 form are known or
suspected to be a health risk. However, if metals are a concern, it may be more appropriate to
sample for metals in PMio form in order to capture all the PM that enters the human thorax and
may affect health. Most air toxics monitoring programs sampling for toxic metals do so in PMio
form. See http ://www. epa. gov/ttn/amtic/speciepg.html for more information.
IMPROVE Protocol Monitoring: IMPROVE stands for Interagency Monitoring of Protected
Visual Environments. The IMPROVE program is described elsewhere in this Appendix or go to:
http ://vista. cira. colostate.edu/improve/ for more information.
Over the last several years, about 10 tribes have applied for and received grant assistance
from their EPA regional office to allow them to request the IMPROVE program to establish and
provide technical services for an IMPROVE protocol sampling station in Indian Country. Some
tribal sites have operated for a period and then been discontinued. The grant funds needed to pay
for this are awarded to the tribe by the EPA regional office, but transferred to the IMPROVE
program through OAQPS. Once a tribal monitoring organization has been awarded funds for
such sites, the tribe and/or the regional office may contact EPA to request monitoring support
services and to begin arranging for the necessary funds transfer. Requests should be made as
early in calendar year 2012 as possible, but no later than March 3 1 in order to start or continue
monitoring on July 1 .
IMPROVE protocol monitoring is the generally accepted approach to quantifying visibility,
and is the right approach if a tribe has a need for such quantification. EPA regional office staff
can assist a tribe in understanding how such data could be used for official and unofficial
purposes. Because the protocol quantifies carbonaceous material in PM2.s, IMPROVE protocol
sampling may also be of interest if high numbers of diesel engines operate in or upwind of the
tribal land. IMPROVE monitors are not Federal Reference/Equivalent monitors, however, and
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 AppendixC-25 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
cannot be used for designation purposes or to officially trigger a requirement for sources not in
Indian country to reduce their adverse impact on attainment within tribal land area.
CASTNET Monitoring: CASTNET is a long-term monitoring network of more than 80 sites
located primarily in rural areas. This network is designed to measure status and trends in
deposition of particles, ozone, and other pollution emitted from facilities with tall stacks
(generally power plants), mixed in the atmosphere, and transported over long distances.
Ambient monitoring at CASTNET sites is supposed to reflect the overall effect of emissions
from many sources, rather than any individual plant. While there is likely to be no direct use of
such monitoring data in a tribe's own air quality program, a tribe may wish to host a CASTNET
site in order to help advance the national air quality program. Tribes presently operate three
sites. CASTNET is seeking to expand the number of sites in the western U. S. See:
http://www.epa.gov/castnet for further information.
National Atmospheric Deposition Program: The NADP program is run by the U.S. Geological
Survey, and collects data on the chemistry of precipitation. NADP wet deposition sites are
usually located such that there are no dominant nearby sources, which means that a site may not
be of direct use of such monitoring data in a tribe's own air quality control program for sources
in Indian country. However, a tribe may wish to host a NADP site in order to understand its air
and water quality as impacted by near and distant sources, and/or to help advance the national air
quality and water quality programs. A number of tribes currently are partners in this program
and have sampling sites on their lands. See http://nadp.sws.uiuc.edu/ for more information.
Mercury Monitoring: The NADP and several federal agencies including EPA are collaborating
on a technical framework for a nationally coordinated network of speciated ambient mercury
monitoring stations including both gas and particulate forms of mercury. Data of this sort
eventually will be useful for calculating dry deposition and possibly for identifying the emission
sources of mercury. Once technical, administrative, and data handling procedures are developed,
tribes may wish to join this network. Tribes may also wish to participate in this development. It
is anticipated that a high level of on-site expertise will be needed to successfully operate a
mercury monitoring stations, even with centralized technical and QA support. More information
is available at http://nadp.sws.uiuc.edu/mtn/.
Smoke Monitoring: Tribes who use controlled or prescribed burning to manage forest or range
land, or whose populations are frequently affected by fires may be interested in monitoring
smoke concentrations either to help make decisions on when it is safe to burn, or to advise
residents of when to take action to avoid smoke exposure. There are no formal procedures or
standard techniques for such monitoring at this time, but portable monitors and satellite data
communication devices have been tested and found to be practical by EPA and several
governmental partners.
NCore Multi-pollutant Monitoring: The network consists of approximately 80 sites which
simultaneously measure a variety of gas and particle pollutants, using continuous methods to
follow changes during a single day, across the seasons, and over many years. Most of these sites
are in urban areas and are operated by state or local governments. However, about 20 sites are in
rural areas, including a tribal site which volunteered to host a rural site in order to gain a better
understanding of its air quality and to help advance the national air quality program. See
http://www.epa.gov/ttn/amtic/ncore/index.html for more information.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 AppendixC-26 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
Program Support for Monitoring (National/Regional Monitoring Procurement Contracts)
EPA makes procurement services available to state and local agencies, via national or
regional contracts or interagency agreements, for a variety of support services and materials.
These services can be conducted as either associated program support or as in-kind assistance.
In providing associated program support, EPA works with regions, tribes, and state and local
agencies in advance to identify needs on a national basis and targets funds for the support before
determining the final Region-by-Region allocation of grant funds (i.e., pre-allotment). In
contrast, in-kind assistance is agency-specific and the value of the service is included in the grant
agreement of a state, tribe, or local agency after final agency-by-agency allotments are
determined. This approach requires the recipient provide an appropriate amount of matching
funds and meet other grant administrative obligations relative to the in-kind assistance. This
occurs when contract support is requested by a grant recipient after its grant is awarded. Most
support to monitoring programs is provided as associated program support, with the in-kind
support being used to increase the level of support above planned levels if unexpected needs
arise.
Traditionally, OAQPS works with regions to determine the level of funds that each state or
tribe wants to allocate for the national procurement contracts. The services offered include
assistance in monitoring site set-up and laboratory sample analysis for nonmethane organic
compounds, urban air toxics, carbonyls, PAMS, and hazardous air pollutants; performance
evaluation (PE) sample support for agencies participating in NATTS; filters for PMio and Pb in
the form of total suspended particulates; PIVb.s filters; laboratory services for PIVb.s speciation
and filter analysis for lead TSP; IMPROVE monitoring services; and independent audits under
the NPAP and PEP programs. Audits are usually provided via contracts managed by Regional
Offices. Other services and materials are provided via contracts or interagency agreements
managed by OAQPS.
A new opportunity EPA wishes to make available to monitoring organizations is to obtain
NADP technical support for speciated ambient mercury monitoring stations via EPA's
interagency agreement with the U.S. Geological Survey, as associated program support or in-
kind service. Organizations interested in this should contact Gary Lear of EPA's Clean Air
Markets Division (lear.gary@epa.gov).
Table C-5 lists categories and estimated funding amounts for associated program support not
previously identified under specific monitoring topics: site support and laboratory analysis for air
toxics and PAMS monitoring and filters for PMio. Typically final amounts to be set aside on a
pre-allotment basis for the forthcoming fiscal year are identified after EPA and states conclude
their grant negotiations in the preceding spring and summer. The amounts shown in Table A-5
are current best estimates. Final FY 2012 amounts will be based upon confirmed needs received
from the regions and their state and local agencies by early in FY 2012.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 AppendixC-27 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
Table C-5. Preliminary FY 2012National Procurement Contract Amounts
(For Certain Categories of Associated Program Support)
Preliminary FY 2012 Section 105 Contracts in Ambient Air Monitoring and Quality Assurance
Program
S/NMOC
Sampling
Sites (O3)
PAMS QA
Support (O3)
Carbonyl
Monitoring
(03)
UATMP Sites
(Air Toxics)
HAP Support
(Air Toxics)
Pb Analysis
All Filters1
Sub-total
Region
1
$0
$19,662
$0
$0
$0
$9,012
$65,836
$97,000
2
$0
$7,865
$0
$174,000
$0
$17,624
$66,048
$265,183
3
$0
$15,729
$0
$0
$0
$149,436
$164,525
4
$0
$40,658
$0
$51,810
$0
$10,217
$227,568
$329,626
5
$0
$15,554
$0
$79,138
$
$150,096
$243,363
6
$0
$7,865
$0
$0
$0
$79,939
$87,444
7
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$83,308
$95,394
8
$0
$0
$0
$131,180
$0
$73,973
$205,035
9
$0
$23,594
$0
$44,553
$0
$138,887
$206,360
10
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$31 ,970
$31 ,923
Totals
$0
$130,927
$0
$480,681
$0
$36,853
$1 ,067,061
$1,715,522
Note: Funds for PM10 and Pb filters are calculated based on Jan 2011 request for filters.
(These STAG amounts are considered to be initial placeholders for FY 2012. The final level will depend upon a
more definite indication of needs from recipients and will be adjusted accordingly. Adjustments will necessarily
cause changes in the level of direct grant awards. Residual funds are always returned to Regional Offices for use in
direct awards to recipients.)
In general, funding that would otherwise go to specific agencies in the form of a direct award
at the regional office level can be identified in advance for associated program support. In
essence this reduces the direct award level to that agency. If associated program support costs
identified for a specific agency are not used or are less than anticipated then these resources
would ostensibly be returned to that agency's allotment. However, for some associated program
support common to all recipients, there is a fixed EPA cost which does not depend on the
number of individual recipients. An example would be the PEP or NPAP programs for auditing
monitoring stations, which have fixed costs to pay contractors to maintain measurement
standards and keep standard operating procedures current. There may also be variable costs for
the contractor labor and supplies to make monitoring station visits. For audits, therefore,
changes in the number of audits within a Region will result in a refund of only the variable
portion of the cost of the station visits (i.e., the associated program support).
Another exception is that EPA considers the IMPROVE sites representing the Class I
visibility protection areas to have benefits for all state air grant recipients because of interstate
transport impacts and the responsibility of each state to protect visibility in every Class I area it
impacts. Individual states (or regions) therefore cannot "unorder" these monitoring sites and
receive back their operating costs. In contrast, the cost of supporting state/local IMPROVE
protocol sites is "refundable" to a regional office.
Centralized Site Support and Laboratory Analytical Services - The EPA will continue
coordinating centralized laboratory analytical services to support air toxics, organic compounds,
Final Guidance April 22, 2011
AppendixC-28 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
and PAMS programs in FY 2012 with those regional, state, and local agencies wishing to
participate. Examples of services available via this national contract include those listed below.
Speciated and Total Nonmethane Organic Compound Program (SNMOC/NMOC): The
SNMOC/NMOC program has been operating since 1984. The EPA continues to support a
centralized program for assistance to state and local agencies in the collection of NMOC,
SNMOC, selected toxic compounds, and carbonyl compounds. This program was initiated to
provide data for use in development of control strategies for ozone. As part of the SNMOC
/NMOC program, participating sites are provided with all necessary sampling equipment, which
they may co-locate with NOX monitors. The SNMOC/NMOC program consists of the following
base components:
Base Site support for sampling equipment preparation, installation and training, problem
solving, and final reporting; and
Canister sample analysis for 78 speciated NMOC or total NMOC.
Options include:
Analysis for 60 toxic and polar volatile organic compounds (TO-15);
Cartridge sample analysis for 14 carbonyl compounds (TO-11 A); and
Concurrent analysis for both toxic and polar compounds and speciated NMOC at a cost
significantly reduced compared to performing the two analyses separately.
States collect the samples in canisters and/or cartridges and air freight them to Research Triangle
Park, NC, for analysis. The samples are collected each week day from 6:00 to 9:00a.m. during
the summer (typically June 1-September 30). In general, 96 samples are collected at each site
over the study period. However, additional samples may be purchased.
Urban Air Toxics Monitoring: To support emerging needs for information on levels of organic
toxic species in ambient air, OAQPS initiated the Urban Air Toxics Monitoring Program
(UATMP) in 1988. This program serves as an analytical/technical support program similar to
the SNMOC/NMOC program. The major purpose of this program is to support state and local
agency efforts to assess the nature and magnitude of various air toxics problems via collection of
24-hour integrated ambient air samples at six or twelve day sampling intervals, sample analysis
in a central laboratory, data reporting to EPA's Air Quality System, and site-specific data
analyses. This program continues to be highly successful, with excellent overall data capture and
data quality that meets well-designed program goals. The UATMP consists of the following
base components:
Base site support for sampling equipment preparation, installation and training,
problem solving, and final reporting;
Canister sample analysis for 60 toxic and polar volatile organic compounds (TO-15);
and
Cartridge sample analysis for 14 carbonyl compounds (TO-11 A).
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 AppendixC-29 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
Options include:
Canister sample analysis for 78 speciated NMOC; and
Concurrent analysis for both toxic and polar compounds and speciated NMOC at a
cost that is significantly reduced compared to performing the two analyses separately.
Carbonyl Monitoring: Carbonyl sampling and analysis has been part of the monitoring support
options that the Agency has provided since 1990. While carbonyl monitoring support can still be
performed simultaneously with other program elements, the independent carbonyl option
provides more flexibility for special studies and saturation monitoring programs. The Carbonyl
Monitoring Program support consists of the following base components:
Base site support for sampling equipment preparation, installation and training,
problem solving, and final reporting; and
Cartridge sample analysis for 14 carbonyl compounds (TO-11 A).
PAMS and Toxics: PAMS support items will be available to include technical off-site and
on-site support (initial equipment set-up, on-site technical assistance, consultation, problem
solving, etc.); quality control (QC); and quality assurance (QA) program support (data
validation, standards acquisition, and data management support). VOC canister, carbonyl
compounds sample and concurrent toxics and speciated hydrocarbon analysis are also available.
The PAMS and toxics technical support program consists of the following base components:
Technical site support;
QA/QC support;
Canister analysis support for PAMS compounds;
Cartridge sample analysis for 14 carbonyl compounds (TO-11 A); and
Concurrent analysis for both toxic and polar compounds and speciated NMOC at a
cost that is significantly reduced compared to performing the two analyses separately.
The PAMS automated analysis systems and/or multiple canister collection system purchase
and installation are the responsibility of the participant. The amount of support an agency can
order for the PAMS technical site support and QA/QC components of the program have been
divided into smaller increments so that state, and local agencies can order the exact amount of
support they require.
Other Hazardous Air Pollutant Analysis: The national monitoring support programs have been
expanded to provide for the measurement of additional HAPs to support the effective
implementation of the CAA and address the needs of other special studies. Analytical services
support is provided for samples containing specific HAPs, which are a subset of the 187
compounds listed in the CAA. Participants are responsible for providing all necessary sampling
equipment. The analysis among categories is based upon the specific needs of the state or local
agency. This support also will assist the states in implementing the new national ambient
monitoring network. Some of the available options under this category include:
Canister sample analysis for 60 toxic and polar volatile organic compounds (TO-15);
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 Appendix C - 30 of 31
-------
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
Cartridge sample analysis for 14 carbonyl compounds (TO-11 A);
Metals (IO-3.5), hexavalent chromium (EPA Method), semivolatiles (EPA Method
8270C), PAHs (TO-13A), etc.
Air Toxics Performance Evaluation Sample Support: Agencies that are participating in the
NATTS can receive PE samples on an annual basis. These can include VOCs, Carbonyls,
SVOCs and metals on quartz filters. The PE samples shall be generated and analyzed by the
national contractor and sent as "blind" samples to the participating agency. If an agency uses the
national contractor for analysis, the agency will not be able to use the contractor for PE sample
support.
Lead TSP Filter Analysis: A national contract is now available for the analysis of lead TSP.
Analysis will be done by Inductively-coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) following
EPA Federal Equivalent Method EQL-0510-191 or by X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) analysis of
PM10 filters following EPA Appendix Q to 40 CFR Part 50.
For more information on Centralized Site Support and Laboratory Analytical Services,
contact Laurie Trinca at 919-541-0520 (trinca.laurie@epa.gov), Margaret Dougherty at 919-541-
2344 (dougherty.margaret@epa.gov) or Michael Jones at 919-541-0528 (jones.mike@epa.gov)
Particulate Matter Filters - OAQPS has historically purchased particulate matter filters (for
PMio monitoring, total suspended particulate sampling used for Pb and other metals monitoring
and PM2.5 monitoring) through national contracts and distributed these to state and local agencies
across the nation. The economies of scale from this type of centralized purchasing, centralized
acceptance testing, and distribution of filters has produced lower costs than if state and local
agencies each purchased these filters through their individual agencies. State and local agencies
are responsible for providing information to the regions each year on the numbers and types of
filters required prior to shipment. For PMio filters, monitoring agencies will need to specify
whether the filters requested are to be used to support high-volume samplers (i.e., 8 in X 10 in
quartz filters) or low-volume samplers (i.e., 46.2 mm Teflon filters). For information on filter
purchases, contact Laurie Trinca at 919-541-0520 (trinca.laurie@epa.gov) or David Lutz at 919-
541-5476 lutz.david@epa.gov.
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 Appendix C - 31 of 31
-------
Appendix D - Key Changes from FY 2011
Office of Air & Radiation
Appendix D
Change from FY 2011 Guidance Document
Reason for Change
Effected Pages and Sections
Priorities
Outdoor Air: Implement the revised lead, SC>2, and NC>2
NAAQS.
Outdoor Air: List of rules under Federal Support for
Stationary Sources has been updated
GHGs: The PSD and Title V GHG Tailoring Rule move
from proposal to implementation.
GHGs: New Source Performance Standards has changed
from proposed to represent legal deadlines for two
sectors.
Indoor Environments: Deleted emphasis on/discussion of
schools program.
Natural program progression.
Natural program progression.
Natural progression.
Program progression
EPA's Tools for Schools program is being eliminated in
2012.
Improving Outdoor Air Quality
chapter
Improving Outdoor Air Quality
chapter
Addressing Climate Change
chapter
Addressing Climate Change
chapter
Indoor Environments chapter
Funding
STAG increase of $78.9 million above the FY2010
enacted level ($3.6M below 2011 President's request
level) for continuing air program work. Detailed allocation
has not yet been developed in deference to consultation
with co-implementors.
PM2.5 air monitoring program begins transition from §103
to §105 authority.
DERA STAG funding has not been requested for FY
2012.
STAG request level for core air program work increases
by $37.4 million over FY 2010 enacted level (but$5.1M
below 2011 President's request level).
STAG request level for GHG permitting program
development is $25M (same as FY2011 President's
request level).
STAG request level for revised NAAQS monitoring
support is at$15M (same as FY2011 President's request
level).
EPA has retargeted an additional $1.5M to the STAG
portion of its request for GHG registry interface support
for states and locals.
Pending resolution of FY 2011 funding status, PM2.5
monitoring program will begin transition to §105
authority. EPA proposes that 25% of the total program
costs migrate to §105 (i.e., approximately $10.5M).
EPA and recipients will continue to manage
approximately $500 million in diesel emission reduction
State and Local Air Quality
Management section of the
Improving Outdoor Air Quality
chapter
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
State and Local Air Quality
Management section of the
Final Guidance April 22, 2011
Appendix D - Page 1 of 3
-------
Appendix D
Change from FY 2011 Guidance Document
Reason for Change
Effected Pages and Sections
Set-asides and reserves for various new monitoring
requirements.
State grant activity performance measure
State grant workplan standardization
EPA is considering a revision to the grant allotment
methodology for the SIRG program. EPA HQ will work
with Regional programs to ensure appropriate oversight of
the SIRG program, including a strong role for Regions in
determining state SIRG allocations.
grants and loans issued in prior years.
EPA is proposing certain amounts be targeted for
monitoring quality assurance, performance evaluation
and equipment upgrade.
OAR is working on an indicator of performance that
would better reflect the annual grant-funded
contributions of state and local co-implementors. OAR
will work with OMB and state and local partners before
finalizing any improved measure for FY 2012 or beyond.
States, locals and Tribes seeking single media air and
radon categorical grants and States and Tribes seeking
Performance Partnership grants containing air or radon
elements should submit grant work plans that enable
EPA to identify clear linkages between the recipient's
efforts and the Agency's Strategic Plan.
The methodology has been in place for a number of
years and should be revisited to ensure the appropriate
allotment of resources.
Improving Outdoor Air Quality
chapter
Appendix C - Ambient Monitoring
Appendix B - Effective Utilization
and Distribution of STAG Funds
Appendix B - Effective Utilization
and Distribution of STAG Funds
Indoor Environments chapter
Strategies
Added a healthy indoor environments/ healthy buildings
subsection.
EPA has built significant leadership and momentum
through the Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools Program
to reduce indoor environmental health risks in schools
across the nation. EPA has been successful in engaging
over half of the nation's schools to implement indoor air
quality management programs. EPA will be shifting
leadership of continued progress in this area to the
schools community at the national, state, and local level to
help reach those schools that have yet to adopt IAQ
management programs.
In 2012, EPA will emphasize a "healthy buildings" or
"settings" approach to focus more holistically to leverage
the limited or decreasing resources and to broaden the
areas where our messages can be heard.
Program being measured has been eliminated in the
President's 2010 Budget.
Indoor Environments chapter
Indoor Environments chapter
Annual
Commitment
Modified OTAQ 01 a to include projects in what may be
disproportionately impacted areas.
Begin to capture work that specifically addresses
disproportionately impacted areas/populations.
Appendix A
Final Guidance April 22, 2011
Appendix D - Page 2 of 3
-------
Appendix D
Change from FY 2011 Guidance Document
Measures
Tracking
Process
Contacts
Deleted ORIA IAQ 3.
Proposed revision to ORIA IAQ5 to address children in EJ
areas.
Added two new measures (CARE-2, CARE-3) for the
cross-agency CARE program. Regional air programs are
not responsible for these measures.
No changes.
No changes.
Reason for Change
Program being measured has been eliminated in the
President's 2010 Budget.
Begin to capture work that specifically addresses
children and /or disproportionately impacted
areas/populations.
CARE programs staff developed measures in response
to request from CARE Executive Team. OAR
volunteered to host the measures with the OAR system.
N/A
N/A
Effected Pages and Sections
Appendix A
Appendix A
Appendix A
N/A
N/A
Final Guidance April 22, 2011
Appendix D - Page 3 of 3
-------
Appendix E
Program Contacts
Criteria Pollutants, Air Toxics, Multi-pollutant Planning, and Regional Haze: Jeff
Whitlow, phone 919-541-5523, email whitlow.j eff@epa.gov
Trading Programs: Doris Price, phone 202-343-9067, email price.doris@epa.gov or Larry
Kertcher, phone 202-343-9121, email kertcher.larrv@epa.gov
Mobile Sources: Courtney McCubbin, phone 202-564-2436, email mccubin.courtney@epa.gov
State and Local Air Grants: Bill Houck, phone 202-564-1349, email houck.william@epa.gov
unless a specific contact is listed in the guidance document.
Tribal: Barrel Harmon, phone 202-564-7416, email harmon.darrel@epa.gov
Indoor Environments: David Rowson, phone 202-343-9449, email rowson.david@epa.gov
Radiation: Jonathan Edwards, phone 202-343-9437, email edwards.jonathan@epa.gov
Stratospheric Ozone: Kristinn Vazquez, phone 202-343-9062, email
vazquez.kristinn@epa.gov
Climate Change: GHG reporting rule: Bill Irving, phone 202-343-9065, email
irving.bill@epa.gov, ENERGY STAR and related voluntary energy efficiency programs: Karen
Schneider, 202-343-9752, email schneider@epa.gov, mobile source programs: Courtney
McCubbin, phone 202-564-2436, email mccubin.courtney@epa.gov
General Questions: Mike Hadrick, phone 202-564-7414, email hadrick.michael@epa.gov
++ End ++
Final Guidance April 22, 2011 Appendix E - 1 of 1
------- |