ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY VOLUME 12, ISSUE 1 JUNE 2014 TRIBAL AIR NEWS OFFICE JO F AIR AND RADIATION TRIBAL AIR PROGRAM-2013 THE CHAMELEON AND THE PHOENIX NSIDE THIS ISSUE: AIEO'S NEW FACEBOOK PAGE AIR DATA 3 WEBSITE THHNW WINS 4 AWARD HONORING 4 BILLY FRANKS, JR OAR 5 IANDBOOK PROPOSED 6 SUBPART "W" TWO NEW 6 GUIDES SPOKANE 7 TRIBE TESTIFIES POWER PLANT 8 EMISSION TRENDS OIL & 8 NATURAL GAS WHITE PAPERS REGULATORY 9 J IP DATES AVERT 10 UPDATES TO 11 NSR GHG 12 INVENTORY TOOL THHNW MEETS 13 W ORIA NTF 13 1 By Pat Childers, EPA Office of Air and Radiation 2013 was a year of change and new beginning for the Office of Air and Radiation's (OAR) Tribal Air Program. Working with our Tribal partners, we adapted to new realities that included a new tribal program coordinator in OAR, furloughs, and reduced funds and resources. Strong partnering with the National Tribal Air Association (NTAA) Executive Committee and the Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals (ITEP) ensured that the National Tribal Forum on Air Quality (NTF) and the NTAA would continue to play a major role in the future of the Tribal Air Program. Changing Faces and Places in EPA - While EPA lost a true champion when EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson left her position in late 2012, she left the Agency and the Tribal Air Program in great hands. EPA's new administrator Gina McCarthy has a history of dedication to the environment and Tribal Air Programs having been the Assistant Administrator for OAR since 2009. Acting Assistant Administrator Janet McCabe has continued the important air quality work started with the Administrator. Other changes in OAR staff also directly affected the Tribal Air Program. After interviewing many qualified candidates, in February 2013 OAR selected Pat Childers as the new Office Tribal Program Coordinator. While this position was vacant, the OAR Tribal Team continued to work with Tribal partners and has been instrumental in assisting Mr. Childers into becoming an effective part of the team. Funds and Furloughs - OAR administers over 12 million dollars in State and Tribal Assistance Grants to provide to Tribal Governments and Institutions to administer Tribal air and related training programs. In 2013, this funding to tribes was decreased by 5 percent (fundingfor 2014 however was increased). Tribes have reported out to OAR on the effect this reduction had on them, including reduced hours and reduced training opportunities. OAR was not immune to reductions. OAR staff, including all members of the OAR Tribal Team, were required to take furlough days in 2013, making them unavailable to our Tribal partners during this time. 2014 also began with additional furlough days affecting OAR's ability to progress on our important tribal. NTAA, ITEP and NTF- OAR's primary partners in implementing the Tribal Air Program are the Tribes themselves, the NTAA, iTEP and EPA Regional Offices. The NTAA and iTEP are a conduit to the Tribes and jointly sponsor the annual NTF. After an issue with a grantee in 2012 could not be resolved, funding for both the NTAA and the NTF were Continued on Page 12 ------- I TRIBAL AIR NEWS ] Page 2 ANNOUNCING AlEO'S NEW FACEBOOK PAGE EPA American Indian Environmental Office 77 likes 20 talking about this v Following Message # Government Organization AIEO leads EPA's efforts to protect human health and the environment of federally recognized tribes. About - Suggest an Edit Read th« blogs *9 1 Photos Greenversations w EPA Videos £ ! Wf ¦ -V GoGreen! By Pat Childers, EPA Office of Air and Radiation Did you know that the EPA's tribal program has a new Facebook page? This is just one more way to share the success stories of the EPA's Tribal Program. And because so many tribal groups are using Facebook as a primary way to connect with their members online, it has the potential to really connect our work with those we are serving. The idea for the page falls in line with the EPA's new online strategy, which will feature one central page for all of EPA's tribal programs. Please 'like" our page and share with your EPA and tribal contacts. We will be posting updates on events, opportunities for grants and training, and tribal news. "American Indian Environmental Office leads EPA's efforts to protect human health and the environment of federally recognized tribes." ------- I VOLUME 12, ISSUE 1 ] Page 3 AIR DATA WEBSITE The AirData website gives you access to air quality data collected at outdoor monitors across the United States. The data comes primarily from the AQS (Air Quality System) database. You can choose from several ways of looking at the data; Download data into a file (or view on the screen) Output the data into one of AirData's standard reports Create graphical displays using one of the visualization tools Investigate monitor locations using an interactive map. AirData assists a wide range of people, from the concerned citizen who wants to know about unhealthy air quality days to air quality analysts in the regulatory, academic, and health research communities who need raw data. Contact Information: David Mintz Mintz.david@epa.gov Nick Mangus Mangus.nick@epa.gov United States Environmental Protection Agency Advanced Search A-Z Index LEARN THE ISSUES SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY LAWS & REGULATIONS ABOUT EPA ^ SEARCH jH yy Acces: AirData Access to monitored air quality data from EPA's Air Quality System (AQS) Data Mart Basic Information AirData gives you access to air quality data collected at outdoor monitors across the United States. Read more ~ ~ ~ ~ Visualize Data Air Quality Index Display an annual summary of AQI values. Air Quality Statistics Display standards-related summary data by city or county. Monitor Values Display criteria pollutant summary data. Monitor Values - HAPs Display Hazardous Air Pollutant (HAP) summary data. E m SD Download Data AQI Plot Compare AQI values for a location & time. Tile Plot Plot daily AQI values for a location & time. Concentration Plot Generate a time series plot for a location. Concentration Map Generate concentration maps for a specific time. More Tools See other visualization tools. Download daily or raw data to a spreadsheet or file. Interactive Map See where air quality monitors are located, get information about the monitors, and download monitor data. Select which monitoring networks to display. E3Contact Us S3 Share Latest News April 2, 2014 - A Monitor Values Report for Hazardous Air Pollutants is now available. March 4, 2014 - Pre-generated files of data for the entire nation are now available at Download Data Files. These are files of our most commonly requested parameters at the annual, daily, and hourly summary levels. Subscribe to our Content (RSS) Other Sources of Air Data AirNow - forecasts and real-time data AirCompare - help with planning a move or vacation Air Emission Sources - national, state, and county summaries More Sources http://www.epa.gov/airdata ------- I TRIBAL AIR NEWS ] Page 4 TRIBAL HEALTHY HOMES NORTHWEST WINS CLEAN AIR EXCELLENCE AWARD By Jed Harrison, EPA Office of Radiation & Indoor Air Congratulations to Tribal Healthy Homes Northwest (THHNW) and their Executive Director Gillian Mittelstaedt for being chosen as a recipient of a U.S. EPA Clean Air Excellence Award. The Clean Air Excellence Awards recognize and honor outstanding, innovative efforts to help make progress in achieving cleaner air. Tribal Healthy Homes Northwest is a coalition of American Indian and Alaska Natives from Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Alaska. The coalition was formed in 2009, after tribes called attention to indoor air H" ^0 Uen Gillian Mittelstaedt with Janet McCabe, Acting Assistant Administrator, Office of Air and Radiation (Photo Courtesy Eric Vance, EPA) hazards in tribal housing - a largely unfunded, unaddressed but profound health risk. With the support of EPA Region 10 and the Tulalip Tribes, the coalition has served more than 200 tribes and villages, providing peer-to-peer learning and connecting tribes across the region and country. Through its core programs of outreach, training and field research, the coalition develops and disseminates best practices that are evidence based and culturally informed. Its goal is to help families live, play and work in environments that are free from disease-producing toxins and free from housing conditions that cause stress and financial strain. To this end, the coalition works by building partnerships with government, non-profits, academia and tribal consortia. In tribal communities, they help to craft solutions through cross-program partnerships, including tribal housing, air quality and health care staff. Highlights of this successful program include the Circuit- Rider training program in Weatherization + Health, EPA HONORS BILLY FRANK, JR EPA Public Affairs Billy Frank, Jr. was an historic and heroic leader of his generation. With his passing, America has lost one its greatest voices for justice. Billy has been a close friend and partner to the EPA over the past four decades, as a member of the Nisqually people, founder of the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission, and one of the most forward thinking environmental leaders of our time. His ability to bring together leaders from all sectors to further the protection of critical natural resources resulted in a resurgence of momentum on natural resource conversation, cultural preservation, the protection offish, treaty rights, and climate change. Through his bringing training directly to reservations and tribal homes. The Wood Heat and Community Health Research Initiative promotes affordable, practical methods to reduce woodsmoke exposure. Finally, the Outreach program consists of webinars, workshops and resource guides to connect tribes to innovative tribal programs, funding and technical assistance. A central priority of all these efforts is to reduce the burden of asthma in native communities - the prevalence of which speaks to disparities in both housing quality and air quality. This is the second year in a row that a Tribal project has been selected for a Clean Air Excellence Award, Last year the Spokane Tribal Air Quality program won for their education and outreach program "InnerTribal Beat." tireless efforts, as a passionate voice for the protection of our air, water, and land, EPA's own tribal efforts were strongly influenced in the early 1990's as we created an office to more directly address Tribal issues across the country. We will, in that spirit, continue working to strengthen our government-to-government relationship and partnership with tribal citizens. ------- VOLUME 12, ISSUE 1 Page 5 EPA OAR HANDBOOK FOR INTERACTING WITH TRIBAL GOVERNMENTS By Pat Childers, EPA Office of Air and Radiation EPA's Office of Air and Radiation (OAR) is working hard to ensure all of our employees are aware of advantages and requirements of working with Tribal governments. Acting Assistant Administrator Janet McCabe recently released the final version of the "OAR Handbook for Interacting with Tribal Governments" to OAR staff. The handbook provides a comprehensive guide for OAR staff on the requirements for working with tribal governments. It includes information on the federal government's trust responsibility to ensure that tribal concerns and interests are considered when EPA's actions may affect Indian country or other tribal interests. The Handbook ^ = February 2014 outlines the steps needed to ensure that tribal outreach and consultation are as productive as possible. As described in the handbook, it is important to recognize that each tribe is unique and has a distinct relationship with the natural environment in which it is located, and that working with them requires understanding and respect for their rich political, economic and cultural heritage. To drive home the importance of the tribal relationship, approximately 60 members of OAR staff met with Clean Air Excellence Award recipient Gillian Mittelstaedt, from Tribal Healthy Homes Northwest, and Clean Air Act Advisory Committee member, Joy Wiecks representing the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa. EPA staff learned about Tribal people and governments and about the importance of our partnering and inclusion of Tribes in our air quality control efforts. This brown bag luncheon was so successful we are looking to emulate it several times in the next year to ensure OAR staff are personally invested in Tribal Air Programs. For more information on the OAR Handbook, please visit http://www.eDa.gov/ air/tribal/ consultation.html. ------- TRIBAL AIR NEWS Page 6 PROPOS E 15 "SUSP A R T W " R U L E R E V I S O N S By Jed Harrison, EPA Office of Radiation and Indoor Air EPA's proposed revisions to the Radon Emission Standards for Operating Uranium Mill Tailings rule, also known as "Subpart W," has been published in the Federal Register and will be open for public comment through July 31, 2014. EPA will be announcing a public meeting and informational webinar shortly. The EPA is proposing several revisions that include clearly stating that the standards apply to all units that contain uranium by- product material; proposing that all uranium recovery facilities comply with Generally Available Control Technology (GACT) or management practices; removing the requirement for monitoring radon, but limiting the amount of byprod- uct material that can be exposed; adding definitions for when a uranium recovery facility is in operation or standby; and requiring the owner/operator of a uranium recovery facility to maintain records that confirm that impoundments have been constructed according to the requirements. For more information on this proposed rulemaking, piease visit http://www.epa.gov/radiation/neshaps/ subpartw/rulemaking-activity.html. TWO NEW CLIMATE AND ENERGY STRATEGY GUIDES EPA has released two climate and energy strategy guides for local governments. On-Site Renewable Energy Generation. A growing number of local governments are turning to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, biomass, hydropower, and landfill gas, to reduce State and Local Climate and Energy Program greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, improve air quality and energy security, boost the local economy, and pave the way to a sustainable energy future. Local governments can work with utilities, local businesses, nonprofit groups, residents, state agencies, and green power marketers and brokers to plan and implement on-site renewable energy generation projects at local government facilities and throughout their communities. Combined Heat and Power, Combined heat and power, also known as cogeneration, refers to the simultaneous production of electricity and thermal energy from a single fuel source. Simultaneous production is more efficient than producing electricity and thermal energy through two separate power systems and requires less fuel. Reductions in fuel use can produce a number of benefits, including energy cost savings, reduced GHG emissions, and reductions in other air emissions. These guides provide comprehensive information for local government staff and policy Continued on Page 7 ------- [ VOLUME 12, ISSUE 1 ] Page 7 TWO NEW CLIMATE AND ENERGY STRATEGY GUIDES CONT. Continued from Page 6 makers on how to implement these GHG reduction strategies, including: Products/technologies and their applications Environmental, energy, and economic benefits Steps for designing procurement plans/installations Key stakeholders to engage Policy mechanisms for initiating programs Implementation strategies for success Costs and funding opportunities Key features of the guides include: Case studies and examples from communities across the United States Links to technical resources, analytical tools, and sources of funding These guides are part of EPA's Local Government Climate and Energy Strategy Series, which is designed to help policy makers and program staff plan, implement, and evaluate cost-effective climate and energy projects that generate environmental, economic, social, and human health benefits. To access these guides and others in this series, please visit the Local Climate and Energy Strategy Series page. MS. ABRAHAMSON-SWAN TESTIFIES ON BEHALF OF TRIBAL RADON PROGRAMS By Jed Harrison, EPA Office of Radiation & Indoor Air On April 8, Twa-le Abrahamson- Swan, Air Program Manager for the Spokane Tribe of Indians, testified before the U.S. House of representatives Appropriations Committee on Radon program funding. Twa-le explained the difficulty and obstacles that tribes face in taking on the radon issue in their communities, "Some tribes are just now learning the risks of radon, learning which homes and schools, and which areas of their Reservations have the highest risks." She added, "Each tribe has a different way of sharing information and reaching their citizens and members. The Navajo Nation Radon Program successfully developed culturally appropriate education and outreach materials in their traditional language." Twa-le cited recent radon measurement activities of tribes, "In February and March of 2014, 24 Tribes submitted 461 radon canisters to EPA's radon lab for analysis," emphasizing "there is not only an interest, but a need in Indian country to address radon." Twa-le testified in support of restoring full funding and EPA staff support for the State Indoor Radon Grant (SIRG) program that provides funding for tribes, states and territories to implement radon programs. Twa-le noted that over the past 10 years, over 30 tribes/tribal consortia have participated in the SIRG program with tribal grant awards totaling approximately $3,100,000 since 2004. SIRG funds are used to support meetings and conferences that bring together radon stakeholderscommunity members, tribes and states, federal agencies, non-profit organizations, educational programs and industry to share the latest technology and health impacts. "These gatherings are important, as we learn different perspectives and support each other's work." Twa-le discussed her personal experience testing homes and schools on the Spokane reservation, and identified another tribal concern with the SIRG program; the inability to identify matching funds required under the SIRG program requirements. Twa-le also supported the continued funding for EPA's radon program in the environmental program management and science & technology budget categories. ------- I NEWSLETTER TITLE ] Page 8 POWER PLANT EMISSION TRENDS By EPA, Office of Air & Radiation The EPA collects detailed sulfur dioxide (S02), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and carbon dioxide (C02) emission data and other information from coal-fired power plants across the country. Collected as part of the Acid Rain Program (ARP) and the Clean Air Interstate Rule (CAIR), these data are available online, making it easy for the public to understand emissions from these sources and to see when and where emission changes have occurred, See http://www.epa.gov/ airmarkets/quarterlytracking.html for more detailed information on the power sector including quarterly emissions, unit characteristics, and emission controls. For more detailed information on the results of these programs, including emissions compliance, market analysis, and health and environmental results, see our progress reports. S02 NOx C02 SO, Emissions 8k Electricity Generation # J? NO_ Emissions Across the Country Requires the Google Earth Plugin CO, Emissions Across Facilities w Play Chart S Download Data OIL AND NATURAL GAS AIR POLLUTION STANDARDS WHITE PAPERS ON METHANE AND VOC EMISSIONS On April 15, 2014, the EPA released for external peer review five technical white papers on potentially significant sources of emissions in the oil and gas sector. The white papers focus on technical issues covering emissions and mitigation techniques that target methane and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). As noted in the Obama Administration's Strategy to Reduce Methane Emissions, the EPA will use the papers, along with the input we receive from the peer reviewers and the public, to determine how to best pursue additional reductions from these sources. The five white papers cover: - Compressors: Compressors are mechanical devices that increase the pressure of natural gas and allow the natural gas to be transported along a pipeline. Vented emissions of methane and VOCs from compressors occur from seal degassing for wet seal centrifugal compressors or packing surrounding the mechanical compression components of reciprocating compressors. These emissions typically increase over time as the compressor components begin to degrade. This paper presents data and mitigation techniques for emissions from these compressors, some of which are not covered under EPA's 2012 New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) for VOCs. - Emissions from completions and ongoing production of hydraulically fractured oil wells: Completion is the process of preparing a well for production. Completions of hydraulically fractured or refractured oil wells can be a source of methane and VOC emissions. Hydraulically fractured oil wells also may produce natural gas along with the Continued on Page 9 ------- [ VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1 ] Page 9 OIL AND NATURAL GAS AIR POLLUTION STANDARDS WHITE PAPERS ON METHANE AND VOC EMISSIONS CONT, Continued from Page 8 oil; this gas is often vented during production. This paper presents data and mitigation techniques for emissions from completions and associated gas from ongoing production at hydraulically fractured oil wells, which are not covered under the 2012 NSPS. - Leaks: As oil and gas production from unconventional formations such as shale deposits continues to grow, so does the amount of related equipment that has the potential to leak. This paper presents data and mitigation techniques for onshore natural gas leak emissions that occur from natural gas production, processing, transmission and storage. - Liquids unloading: Liquids unloading refers to a number of processes used to remove accumulated liquids that can impede the flow of gas from a well to the surface. This paper presents data and mitigation techniques for the methane and VOC emissions that can occur during these processes. Liquids unloading is not covered under EPA's 2012 NSPS for VOCs. - Pneumatic devices: Controllers and pumps powered by high-pressure natural gas are widespread in the oil and natural gas industry. These pneumatic devices may release gas - including methane and VOCs - with every valve movement, or continuously in many cases. This paper presents data and mitigation techniques for emissions from pneumatic controllers and pumps, some of which are not covered under EPA's 2012 NSPS for VOCs. REGULATORY UPDATES Standards of Performance for Petroleum Refineries for which Construction, Reconstruction, or Modification Commenced after May 14, 2007 (40 CFR part 60, subpart Ja) direct final rule was published in the Federal Register on 12/19/13, at 78 FR 76753. National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) from Secondary Lead Smelting (40 CFR part 63, subpart X) direct final rule was published in the Federal Register on 1/3/14, at 79 FR 367. Standards of Performance for Greenhouse Gas Emissions from new Stationary Sources: Electric Utility Generating Units (EGU) (40 CFR part 60, subpart Da, KKKK & 1111; 40 CFR part 70; 40 CFT part 71; and 40 CFR part 98) proposed rule was published in the Federal Register on 1/8/14, at 79 FR 1430. NESHAP: Generic Maximum Achievable Control Technology Standards and Manufacture of Amino/Phenolic Resins (40 CFR part 63, subpart YY and 40 CFR part 63, subpart OOO) proposed rule was published in the Federal Register on 1/9/14, at 79 FR 1676. Technical Amendments to Inadvertent Errors in Air Quality Designations for Fine Particles, Ozone, Lead, Nitrogen Dioxide and Sulfur Dioxide direct final rule with parallel proposal was signed 4/15/14. Identification of Nonattainment Classification and Deadlines for Submission of State Implementation Plan (SIP) Provisions for the 1997 Fine Particle (PM2.5) National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) and 2006 PM2 5 NAAQS final rule was signed 4/25/14. Data Requirements for 1-Hour Sulfur Dioxide (S02) Primary NAAQS proposed rule was signed 4/17/14. Performance Specification 18- Specifications and Test Procedures for Gaseous HCI Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems at Stationary Sources proposed rule was signed 4/30/14. Review of New Sources and Modifications in Indian Country-Amendments to the Federal Indian Country Minor Source Review final rule was published in the Federal Register 5/30/14, at 79 FR 31035. Quality Assurance Requirements for Continuous Opacity Monitoring Systems at Stationary Sources final rule was signed 5/9/14. Petroleum Refinery Sector RTR and New Source Performance Standards proposed rule was signed 5/15/14. Managing Emissions from Oil and Natural Gas Production in Indian Country advance notice of proposed rulemaking was published in the Federal Register on 6/5/14, at 79 FR 32502. Review of New Sources and Modifications in Indian Country Amendments to Registration and Permitting Deadlines for True Minor Sources final rule was published in the Federal Register 6/16/14, at 79 FR 34231. Withdrawal of Prior Determination or Presumption that Compliance with CAIR or NOx SIP Call Constitutes RACT or RACM for 1997 8-Hour Ozone and 1997 Fine Particle NAAQS proposed rule was signed 5/29/14. NESHAP: Off-Site Waste and Recovery Operations proposed rule was signed 5/30/14. Carbon Pollution Emission Guidelines for Existing Stationary Sources: EGUs proposed rule was signed 6/2/14. Carbon Pollution Standards for Modified and Reconstructed Stationary Sources: EGUs proposed rule was signed 6/2/14. ------- [ NEWSLETTER TITLE ] Page 10 Avoided Emissions and geneRation Tool (AVERT) AVERT is a tool that estimates the emissions benefits of energy efficiency and renewable energy policies and programs. It is a cost- effective way to reduce air pollution and include emission benefits in Clean Air Act (CAA) Plans. Many states are adopting, implementing and expanding cost- effective energy efficiency (EE) and renewable energy (RE) policies and programs. While the number of states with EE/RE policies continues to grow, quantifying the emissions impacts of these policies and programs can be challenging. The EPA is committed to helping state and tribal air quality planners calculate the emissions benefits of EE/RE policies and programs so that these emission reductions can be incorporated in CAA Plans to meet National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and other clean air goals. The EPA State and Local Branch designed the AVoided Emissions and geneRation Tool (AVERT) to meet the needs of state and tribal air quality planners and other interested stakeholders. AVERT is a free tool with a simple user interface designed to use public data, which is accessible and auditable. State and tribal air quality planners, energy offices, public utility commission staff, and other organizations interested in knowing the emission benefits of EE/RE policies and programs can use AVERT to: Quantify the nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur dioxide (S02), and carbon dioxide (C02) emissions benefits of state and multi-state EE/ RE policies and programs. Examine the regional, state, and county level emission impacts of different EE/RE programs based on temporal energy savings and hourly generation profiles. Include AVERT-calculated emission impacts of EE/RE policies and programs in air quality modeling and CAA plans used to meet the NAAQS with the concurrence of the appropriate EPA regional office. Compare the emission impacts of different types of EE/RE programs, such as the emission impacts of wind installations versus solar installations. Understand the emission impacts of different EE/RE policies and programs during high electricity demand days. Analyze the emission benefits of EE/RE programs implemented in multiple states within an AVERT region. Present information about location-specific emissions benefits in easy-to-interpret tables and maps. AVERT represents the dynamics of electricity dispatch based on the historical patterns of actual generation in one selected year. Currently, AVERT has data for 20072013. AVERT's Statistical Module uses AVoided Emissions and geneRation www.epa.gov/avert hourly "prepackaged" data from the EPA's Air Markets Program Data (AMPD) to perform statistical analysis on actual behavior of past generation, heat input. S02, NOx, and C02 emissions data given various regional demand levels. (AVERT's Statistical Module can also analyze user-modified data created in the AVERT's Excel-Based Future- Year Scenario Template). AVERT's Statistical Module produces regional data files that are input files used in the AVERT's Excel- Based Main Module. AVERT's Main Module prompts users to select one of 10 AVERT Regional DATA Files and enter EE/ RE impacts (MWhs or MW) from a selection of options. The AVERT Main Module performs the emissions displacement calculations based on the hourly electric generating unit information in the regional data files and the EE/RE impacts entered into the tool. For additional information, there are several different documents to assist you; Fact Sheet for Decision Makers; Quick Start Guide; User Manual; and the Overview and Step-by-Step Instructions. http://www.epa.gov/avert ------- VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1 Page 11 UPDATES TO THE INDIAN COUNTRY MINOR NSR RULE By Mary Tom Kissell, EPA Office of Air & Radiation In the last couple of months, the EPA published three notices in the Federal Register that address the Indian Country Minor New Source Review (NSR) rule. The Indian Country Minor NSR rule protects public health and the environment by ensuring that new sources of air emissions do not slow progress toward cleaner air where the air does not meet air quality standards (i.e., nonattainment areas), and does not significantly degrade where the air is currently clean (i.e., attainment areas). One of the ways the rule ensures better air quality is by laying out requirements for issuing air permits to new and modified minor facilities in Indian country. Permits under this rule limit air pollutants such as particle pollution, volatile organic compounds (ozone precursors), nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxides that are associated with numerous health effects. First, on May 30, 2014, the EPA amended the Indian Country Minor NSR rule to exempt five additional source categories (and modify a sixth category) from permitting requirements, and to add definitions for construction. The six affected sources categories are; certain emergency generators; internal combustion engines with a horsepower rating below 50; certain small furnaces or boilers used for space heating; single family residences and residential buildings with four or fewer dwelling units; air conditioning units not associated with industrial processes; and cooking of food other than whole- sale businesses that both cook and sell cooked food. Second, on June 5, the EPA published an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that solicits broad feedback on the most effective and efficient means of implementing the Indian Country Minor NSR rule for new and modified true minor sources and minor modifications at major sources in the oil and natural gas sector located in Indian country. Third, on June 16, the EPA extended the permitting and registration deadlines for new or modified true minor sources in the oil and natural gas sector. The rule extends the minor NSR permitting deadline for true minor sources in the oil and natural gas sector from the current deadline of September 2, 2014, to a new deadline of March 2, 2016. The rule adjusts the registration deadline to conform to the extended permitting deadline. The rule also eliminates the requirement for true minor sources in all sectors to obtain a minor NSR permit by 6 months after the EPA publishes a general permit. Stay tuned for further updates on NSR minor source permitting programs in Indian country. Later this year, the EPA will propose general permits, or permits-by- rule, for six source categories: concrete batch plants; boilers; stationary spark ignition engines; stationary compression ignition engines; graphic arts and printing operations; and sawmills. Early in 2015, the EPA will finalize the general permits, or permits-by- rule, for new or modified minor sources in five sources categories: hot mix asphalt plants; stone quarrying, crushing, and screening facilities; gasoline dispensing facilities; petroleum dry cleaners; and auto body repair and miscellaneous surface coating operations. Also in 2015, the EPA will propose federally enforceable standards for true minor sources in the oil and natural gas sector. http://www.epa.gov/air/tribal/tribalnsr.html ------- VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1 1 Page 12 A TOOL FOR TRIBES TRACK YOUR TRIBE'S GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS WITH ERA'S TRIBAL GREENHOUSE GAS INVENTORY TOOL By Erica Bollerud, EPA Office of Atmospheric Programs EPA's State and Local Climate and Energy Program (http:// eDa.gov/statelocaiclimate/) has developed a free, easy-to-use tool designed to help tribes compile a greenhouse gas inventory for their entire community, from tribal government operations alone, or both. Currently in beta, this interactive Excel-based tool can help tribes calculate greenhouse gas emission from their residential, commercial, industrial, transportation, waste and wastewater management sectors. Users can combine tribe-specific information with default data included in the tool. The tool is also scalable to Continued from Page 1 questionable in 2013. The OAR Tribal Team and the NTAA Executive Committee worked diligently until a new grant could be put in place. OAR partnered with ITER on an amendment to their grant that allowed the continued success of the NTF. Now the NTAA, ITEP and NTF, can focus more clearly on the important work of the Tribal Air Program. In 2013, OAR continued to support develop- ment of tribal capacity to improve outdoor and indoor air quality and implement the Clean Air Act (CAA) in Indian country. accommodate different levels of data availability to meet the needs and constraints of different tribes. EPA first shared the Tribal GHG Inventory Tool with attendees at the May 2014 National Tribal Forum on Air Quality. If you are interested in receiving a copy of the tool and the User's Guide, please email GHGinventorvtools@eDa.sov. EPA welcomes comments and suggestions about how the Tool and the User's Guide can be tailored to meet the needs of tribal staff. Ongoing Success - As of the end of 2013, EPA regions reported to OAR that seven additional tribes had been found eligible to implement one or more of the CAA programs in Indian country. Five tribes have submitted implementation plans for CAA programs for their reservations. Three tribes are implementing CAA §110, two tribes are implementing Title V permitting programs, and one is developing a minor new source permitting program. Many other tribes are conducting INVENTORY TOOLS PROGRAM2013 assessments, monitoring their air quality, both indoors and out, and undertaking activities typical of any air quality management program, including conducting outreach and education efforts for their commu- nities, participating in local, region- al and national planning efforts and organizations including the NTAA, and working with neighboring jurisdictions and EPA to develop effective programs and policies. Here's looking to further growth and success as we move forward in 2014. OFFICE OF AIR AND RADIATION TRIBAL AIR THE CHAMELEON AND THE PHOENIX CONT. ------- VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1 Page 13 TRIBAL HEALTHY HOMES NW MEETS WITH O RIA By Jed Harrison, EPA Office of Radiation & Indoor Air While in Washington, DC to accept the Clean Air Excellence Awards for THHNW, Gillian Mittelstaedt met with Mike Flynn, Director of OAR's Office of Radiation & Indoor Air (ORIA), David Rowson, Director of ORIA's Indoor Environments Division (IED), and other IED managers and staff. Gillian described some of her work with THHNW and the group discussed programmatic and research needs related to tribal indoor environments. Gillian's extensive experience working to improve indoor air quality and health in tribal communities also benefitted a discussion of future directions for ORIA tribal work, including a federal agency collaboration on healthier tribal indoor environments that is currently under development. Gillian also met with Katrin Krai and Brenda Doroski from lED's Asthma team to share information about THHNW's work and discuss a potential EPA Region 10 "pacing event" for increasing Medicaid reimbursement for tribal home assessments. THE NATIONAL TRIBAL FORUM By Toni Colon, EPA Office of Air & Radiation The 2014 National Tribal Forum (NTF) on Air Quality was held in mid-May in Anacortes, Washington. The Swinomish Indian Tribal Community was this year's host tribe and did an outstanding job of accommodating over 200 attendees, making this the 2"" largest NTF ever. Discussion topics included a wide range of issues such as: climate change, treatment as state (TAS), indoor air quality, ambient air pollution, oil and gas development, tribal new source review, regional haze implementation plans, ozone concerns, mining and exploration, enforcement issues, and tribal consultation and early involvement. Also, here's a "shout out" to Delbert Altaha, Jr, White Mountain Apache Tribe, the 2014 Virgil Masayesva Award Recipient. Congratulations Delbert! For more information on this year's conference and to view speaker presentations, visit: http://www4.nau.edu/itep/ conferences/confr ntf.asp. Swinomish receiving DERA Grant NTF participants with Swinomish Tribal Chair ------- t VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1 VOLUME 12 ISSUE 1 June 2014 Office of Air Quality Planning & Standards 109 TW Alexander Drive 0304-3 Research Triangle Park, NO 27711 Phone: 919-541-3650 Fax: 919-541-0942 Email: chappell.regina@epa.gov Page 14 The Tribal Air News is produced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, Outreach and information Division, Community and Tribal Programs Group. The newsletter is produced and distributed electronically. For more information about the newsletter or to contribute stories and pictures, please contact: Regina Chappell at chappell.regina@eDa.gov. We're on the Web! pvw.epa.gov/oar/triba Tribal Training http://www4.nau.edu/iteD/air/ training aa.aso Date 2014 Sept 9-12 Sept 30Oct 3 Nov 4-7 Nov 18-20 2015 Jan 13-15 Jan 13-16 Feb 3-6 Mar 2-6 Training Course Where Introduction to Tribal Air Quality Flagstaff, AZ Air Pollution and Ecosystems Flagstaff, AZ Tribal Participation in the State Dallas, TX Implementation Plan (SIP) Process Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Diagnostic Tools Las Vegas, NV Air Quality System (AQS) Las Vegas, NV Air Quality Computations Flagstaff, AZ Clean Air Act and Permitting Las Vegas, NV Air Pollution Technology Flagstaff, AZ § 8 ------- |