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Your Environmental Connection

News for Connecticut's Businesses & Municipalities
   July 2014
Message  from
Commissioner Klee  

The summer of 2014 finds DEEP focused on an ambitious agenda to make a real difference for the future of our state. We are committed to:

  • Implementing a new energy agenda
  • Ratcheting up our recycling rate and recapturing more materials of value from the waste stream
  • Reforming the process for the cleanup of contaminated properties
  • Meeting the challenges of Climate Change and Climate Adaptation, and
  • Continuing the transformation of our agency.

In addition, I am out touring with Mayors and First Selectmen to see how our agency can help them address local energy and environmental issues.  I hope my travels bring me to your town soon.

 

Please let me know how we are doing by writing me at   

Rob

(l-r) Stratford Mayor Harkins, Commissioner Klee, Bridgeport Mayor Finch at Pleasure Beach Pier at the Stratford/Bridgeport line. 
In This Issue
Preparing for Hurricanes
CIRCA Update
CT Tree Trimming Addressed
EV Charging Grants Available
Electric Suppliers Update
Air Quality Alert Days
PCB Cleanup Plan
Drones Banned at Parks
New Trash-Related Legislation
Product Stewardship Update
EPPs on State Contract
Mosquito Testing
Pool Wastewater Disposal
Auto Repair Self-Audit Checklist
Vehicle Washing Guidance
Drive Clean, Save Green
Boiler Compliance Tool
New Sulfur Limits for Fuels
Emerald Ash Borer Update
Better Use of Municipal Wood
Torrington's LID Parking Lot
New Fishing Publications
Farmington River Celebration
Quick Links

 





 

 

 


It's Hurricane Season - Be Prepared

 

Connecticut, as a coastal state, has a high probability of being affected by a natural disaster such as a hurricane or other type of destructive storm. Hurricane season begins in June and lasts until November, with the peak season from mid-August to late October. To assist residents, businesses and municipalities with "hurricane preparedness," the State has several on-line resources. The Dept. of Emergency Services and Public Protection's webpage has 2014 Hurricane Preparedness Tips and the CT Guide to Emergency Preparedness that can used to prepare many types of emergencies. In the event of a Category 3 hurricane, the amount of resulting storm debris could range from 18 to 20 million tons. To be prepared for this scenario, DEEP has a Disaster Debris Management webpage with information for municipalities on how to plan for and manage debris -- including links to the state-wide plan and to State contracts to use in response to a catastrophic natural disaster.

Cosey Beach section of East Haven in the days following Hurricane/Tropical Storm Irene in 2011

Connecticut Institute for Resilience and Climate Adaptation

 

Earlier this year Governor Malloy announced a joint effort between DEEP and the University of Connecticut - the creation of a multi-disciplinary, regional center of excellence, the Connecticut Institute for Resilience and Climate Adaptation (CIRCA). CIRCA brings together experts in the natural sciences, engineering, economics, political science, finance, and law to provide practical solutions to a changing climate. The Institute will help coastal and inland floodplain communities in Connecticut and throughout the Northeast better adapt to climate impacts and make their human-built infrastructure more resilient while protecting ecosystems and the services they offer (recreation, storm protection, food, clean air and water, and energy).

 

Located at UConn's Avery Point campus, the newly created institute is taking shape under the leadership of Executive Director, Jim O'Donnell. Collaborations with NOAA are already underway, and CIRCA is currently developing program opportunities to help Connecticut coastal and riverine communities seeking to increase resiliency in the face of climate change. At present, the Institute is available to assist municipal governments in the development of grant proposals under the CT Department of Housing Community Development Block Grant - Disaster Recovery - Tranche 2.  
Application deadline is August 15, 2014.  For inquiries: [email protected] 

 

State Addresses Tree Trimming

 

There was action on two fronts when it comes to the issue of balancing the beauty and environmental benefits of trees with the need to keep power lines clear so that the lights stay on. During the 2014 session of the General Assembly, Public Act 14-151 was approved and signed into law.  This new law prohibits utilities from pruning or removing any non-hazardous tree or shrubs within or overhanging a set area around poles and wires without providing advance notice to abutting property owners. Such notice must include an option for the property owner to consent or object to the pruning or removal, and an opportunity to modify the utility's proposal. The notice will give property owners ten business days to raise concerns, and ultimately to appeal to PURA if the matter cannot be resolved.

 

In addition, acting on Docket Number 12-01-10, the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) issued a final ruling modifying tree trimming and vegetation management practices proposed by Connecticut Light & Power (CL&P) and United Illuminating (UI). The decision sets new guidelines that fairly balance the environmental, aesthetic, and economic value that trees add to communities with the need for effective tree trimming practices to ensure reliable utility service.

Municipal EV Charging Incentive Program  

 

DEEP is pleased to announce that funds are now available for municipalities and state agencies to promote the use of electric vehicles (EVs) by sponsoring electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) in major traffic areas such as town halls or downtown locations not served by charging stations.  Funding is available for a minimum of thirty new EV charging stations across the state, which will be accessible to the public at no cost.  The goal of this program is to support efforts towards putting 3.3 million EVs on the road. Specific details about the incentives available can be found on the EVConnecticut incentive web page and any questions can be directed to EVConnecticut. The closing date for applications is Wednesday, August 27 at 5:00 PM.

 

For municipalities or state agencies that are looking to purchase EVSE equipment from vendors awarded state procurement contracts, please visit Contract 13PSX0316 on CT's State Contracting Portal.  

Electric Supplier Consumers' Bill of Rights

 

As a result of legislation signed into law by Governor Malloy, electricity suppliers must provide clearer and more specific information to residential customers about the prices and terms of their offerings.  This "Electric Supplier Consumers' Bill of Rights" was enacted as part of Public Act No. 14-75 and went into effect July 1.  The new law was passed in response to growing numbers of consumer complaints about spiking prices, deceptive practices and lack a of disclosure about rates and contract terms in Connecticut's electric supplier market.

 

Issues involving the marketing and business practices of electric suppliers are also getting close scrutiny from the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA).  PURA has a docket on this matter and has issued a draft decision.  The docket number is #13-07-18, Establishment of Rules and EDCS Concerning Operations and Marketing in the Electric Retail Market.   

Air Quality Alert Days

 

July and August are the hottest months of the summer season and during this time Connecticut's ground-level ozone (also known as smog) typically reaches the highest levels. On Air Quality Alert Days, consider scheduling work so that your employees aren't exerting themselves outdoors when the air quality is poor, reducing the use of vehicles and avoiding the use of gasoline-powered landscape equipment during the hottest part of the day. When the daily AQI forecast is predicted to reach the mid MODERATE range of 75 or greater, municipal open burning is prohibited to prevent unhealthy levels of air quality. Get the latest AQI forecast in real time at DEEP's Air Quality Index web page, on U.S.EPA's AIRNOW web page or by Twitter. You can also call DEEP's air quality hot lines for the daily air quality forecasts (860-424-4167 or 800-249-1234).

 

Members of the regulated community also need to check the AQI every day because certain restrictions contained in regulations or environmental permits may apply based on the ozone forecast if you operate emergency engines, peak demand power plant sources or operate under schedule modification orders.

Proposed Cleanup Plan for Housatonic PCBs

Housatonic River: "Rest of River" is divided into Reaches 5-17 (click on image to enlarge)

 

U.S. EPA is seeking public comment on their Proposed Cleanup Plan for PCBs in the section of the Housatonic River known as "Rest of River" which stretches from Pittsfield, MA to Long Island Sound. The public comment period was extended to October 1, 2014. Written comments can be submitted or testimony can be offered at a public hearing on September 23, 2014 at 6:30 p.m. at Lenox Memorial Middle and High School in Lenox, MA.

This remediation action has implications for communities and businesses along the entire length of Housatonic River in Connecticut. PCBs were released into the River from the former General Electric (GE) transformer manufacturing facility in Pittsfield, MA between 1932 and 1977. Water quality in Connecticut is impaired due to PCBs and fish consumption advisories have been issued. PCBs are considered probable human carcinogens and associated with numerous non-cancer health effects. The Proposed Cleanup Plan, Statement of Basis (which explains the Plan in less technical language), and details on submitting comments can be found on EPA's GE-Pittsfield/Housatonic River Site website.

Drones Banned from State Parks 

CT's state parks will be free of a "eyes-in-the sky" and remotely controlled aircraft.  

DEEP's State Parks Division recently enacted a policy prohibiting the use of all remote controlled aircraft, including "drones" in Connecticut State Parks. Catching up with this emerging technology, state park director Tom Tyler stated that . . . given the potential for injury and disruption to other park users, and wildlife, we prohibit the use of remote controlled aircraft (including quad copters or other drones) to be operated by members of the public in state parks or forests, unless it is specifically authorized by a license.

 

It wasn't much of a stretch to cover drones in the new policy since, like fireworks (also prohibited), flying objects that could lose power or become uncontrolled pose a threat to the safety of the visiting public. Combined with the existing regulation that "prohibits any activity that infringes on the ability of others to enjoy state park property," the new policy should help ensure a relaxing visit to all who come to enjoy these state properties.

Connecticut Values Trash

 

Changing the way Connecticut values trash means better economic and environmental results. Connecticut only diverts 25% of our trash from disposal, which results in the loss of at least $10,000,000 in economic value each year. Waste diversion also means jobs; according to a study by the Connecticut Economic Resource Center, we currently have 2,700 jobs in the recycling supply chain and another 2,100 indirect jobs that contribute to $275 million in payroll.

 

Public Act 14-94 addresses Connecticut's Recycling and Materials Management Strategy and is the next step in a progression of innovative legislative reforms -- which has included establishing electronic waste, paint and mattress recycling programs and requiring the composting of organics. The new legislation continues to unlock the value in our waste stream by:

 

  • Clearly investing in diversion education, which will help to achieve the new 60% diversion goal by 2024;
  • Repurposing the Hartford waste-to-energy plant to better reflect Connecticut materials management policy;
  • Streamlining permitting for facilities seeking to increase intake of mandated recyclables; and
  • Creating a mechanism for future state grants to municipalities to fund voluntary recycling and reuse initiatives, and to voluntarily join a power purchasing pool.      

PA 14-94 will achieve these objectives while providing stability in the waste market during the transition to innovative materials management.

Product Stewardship Expands Recycling

 

DEEP's materials management transformation includes pursuing product stewardship programs to expand recycling opportunities for a number of different categories, including carpet, batteries and tires. For residents, businesses and municipalities, this means access to free collection services that maximize the reuse and/or recycling of the materials. Product Stewardship can reduce disposal costs while providing economic development opportunities.  

 

In partnership with the Product Stewardship Institute (PSI), DEEP hosted national stewardship dialogue meetings. In May, a two-day dialogue for carpet stewardship explored the challenges and opportunities of recycling, approaching management with voluntary or mandated product stewardship and rural collection issues. In June, a two-day dialogue to discuss battery stewardship was held. David Weinberg, from the Rechargeable Battery Association and representing battery industry leaders, shared a model bill - the first-ever all-battery bill. DEEP is also in the planning stage for a tire stewardship dialogue. DEEP will continue to work with PSI and stakeholders from both the carpet and battery industries to write stewardship legislation for 2015. Contact Tom Metzner for more information.  

(l-r): David Weinberg, PRBA - The Rechargeable Battery Association; Jennifer Holliday, Chittenden County, VT and PSI President; Marc Boolish, Energizer; George Kerchner, PRBA - The Rechargeable Battery Association; Tom Metzner, Connecticut DEEP; Scott Cassel, Product Stewardship Institute; Charlie Monahan, Panasonic

Buying a Better Way

 

Purchasing healthier, environmentally preferable products (EPPs) is a better choice for everyone. DEEP recently held a workshop on

Choosing "Green" Products from State Contracts to help purchasing agents at state agencies, municipalities, and school districts find these products. The State has substantial buying power, so having these products on state contract means getting the best value at competitive prices. Many agencies including non-profit organizations can use the state contracts. EPPs on state contract include paper and plastic items made with recycled content, energy efficient equipment, lighting and vehicles, low VOC and recycled content paints, "green" cleaners and more. The main speaker at the workshop was Alicia Culver from the Responsible Purchasing Network, an organization dedicated to sustainable purchasing with many guides on their website. For workshop presentations and EPP purchasing information, go to How to Green Your CT State Agency.  

Stay Up-to-Date on Mosquito Testing

 

click on image to enlarge

Connecticut's Mosquito Management Program is a cooperative effort of DEEP, Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, and Dept. of Public Health. The Program monitors mosquito populations and humans for the prevalence of mosquito-borne diseases, like West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis, and provides technical assistance to municipalities, businesses, and residents to abate mosquitoes. The Program's official website (www.ct.gov/mosquito) provides weekly surveillance updates, information on mosquito control methods, and a current list of certified applicators.

 

Sources of stagnant water should be emptied or removed (containers, discarded tires, water in dumpsters) to eliminate mosquito breeding sites (mosquito larvae need a minimum of 5-7 days of standing water to develop). Municipalities should clean storm drain catch basins by June of each year, followed by treatment with a larvacide to kill mosquito larvae. Products (containing the bacterium Bti) can be placed in wetlands and standing water areas that cannot be eliminated. There also are certified private applicators that are licensed to perform mosquito control. When mosquitoes are actively biting, people are strongly advised to take appropriate precautions against mosquito bites, including avoiding outdoor activity at dawn and dusk, covering exposed skin by dressing in light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, and wearing a mosquito repellent.

Disposal of Swimming Pool Wastewater

 

Outdoor pools are synonymous with summer fun, but if pool wastewater is discharged to a stream, pond or other waterbody, it might make these waters unlivable for beneficial insects and amphibians. It's best for swimming pool discharges such as pool water, filter backwash, or any maintenance water associated with cleaning a pool or deck to be directed to a sewage treatment plant if a sanitary sewer connection is available. If there is no sewer connection, there are other options for the discharge of swimming pool wastewater. However, specific pH limits, setback distances and other requirements must be met. DEEP's General Permit for the Discharge of Swimming Pool Wastewater can provide further guidance on discharges from a public pools or those from businesses that clean, drain or maintain multiple public pools and/or private residential pools.

New Checklist for Auto Repair

 

CT DMV has partnered with DEEP's Office of Pollution Prevention for a number of years to provide "another set of environmental eyes" when DMV inspects licensed vehicle repair facilities and body shops. DEEP developed a self-audit checklist that is being used by both the DMV inspectors and the businesses to help evaluate environmental compliance at the facilities. 

 

This new checklist was presented at a DEEP workshop that covered topics from the recently updated Pit Stops Fact Sheets. Compliance inspection staff from Department of Consumer Protection (for gasoline dispensing facilities) and DAS (which has its own vehicle repair facilities), joined the DMV inspectors for the training.

Vehicle Washing Guidance

 

The arrival of summer brings many people out to clean and shine one of their most prized possessions-their car. But many don't realize that the soapy water that is washing dirt and oil off their car can pollute local waterways if that wash water winds up in a storm drain system discharging to a wetland, stream, or Long Island Sound. Following these pointers can help prevent this from happening:

  • Use a commercial car wash where wash water is directed to a sewage treatment plant.
  • Wash cars on a grassy surface so wash water does not enter a storm drain.
  • Use as mild a detergent or soap as possible. Even biodegradable ones pollute water.
  • Encourage residents holding charitable car wash events to visit the DEEP website for tips.

A mailed reminder to residents or a spot on the town website including the above points will count toward a town's MS4 Stormwater Permit Outreach requirement.

click on image to enlarge
Drive Clean, Save Green

 

Cars and trucks are responsible for much of Connecticut's "home grown" air pollution (40% of CT's overall greenhouse gas emissions and about 49% of Nitrogen Oxides, a primary ingredient of smog).  Drive down air pollution by driving the least polluting, most fuel efficient vehicles that that meet your corporate, institutional, or municipal fleet needs.

 

Currently, the most energy efficient vehicles currently on the market are electric vehicles or "EVs." One of CT's many EV dealers can help you determine whether an electric vehicle will suit your needs.  The next best option would be to consider either EPA SmartWay Certified or SmartWay Elite Certified vehicles. They are among the cleanest vehicles on the road and offer high fuel efficiency models, which will save fuel and can improve the bottom line for fleet operators. Many popular makes and models are SmartWay cars. Not in the market for a new vehicle? You can still drive "cleaner" by being aware of driving habits. Properly inflate tires and be aware of speed; for every 5 miles per hour you drive over 65 mph is like spending 20 cents more per gallon of gas. Not idling also reduces air pollution and saves gasoline. More information: Green Vehicle Guide and www.fueleconomy.gov.

New Training Tool for Area Source Boiler Rule Compliance

 

U.S. EPA's Area Source Boiler Rule impacts oil and biomass fired boilers located at Connecticut's industrial, institutional and commercial establishments. This rule, 40 CFR 63, Subpart JJJJJJ, includes emission limits as well as tune-up, energy assessment, notification, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements for owners/operators of affected boilers. In order to promote compliance with this rule, DEEP has developed Area Source Boiler Rule Online Training Modules. After answering a series of basic questions regarding the boiler's size, construction date, and fuel type, this online tool guides the user to the specific requirements for the unit. DEEP is also developing a similar tool for U.S. EPA's RICE Rule (National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Reciprocating Internal Combustion Engines, 40 CFR 63, Subpart ZZZZ), which is expected to be completed this fall. For questions regarding the training modules, contact Keith Hill.

New Sulfur Limits for Fuels Burned in Stationary Sources

 

New requirements, effective April 15, 2014, limit the sulfur content of distillate, residual, kerosene and aviation fuels combusted in stationary sources (e.g., boilers, turbines and engines).  These requirements (RCSA section 22a-174-19b) mainly impact fuel suppliers, who must supply compliant fuels, maintain records of the sulfur content of fuel sold and provide a certification to purchasers concerning the sulfur content of fuel purchased.

 

Home heating oil, fuel combusted in mobile sources, and fuel combusted in large electric generating units and industrial boilers subject to RCSA section 22a-174-19a are not regulated by RCSA section 22a-174-19b. Fuel that exceeds the applicable sulfur content limit may be stored in Connecticut provided that it is shipped, sold and used outside of Connecticut or is used for blending to create a fuel that complies with the applicable limit.  Fuel that met the applicable sulfur content limit at the time it was stored in Connecticut may be sold, delivered and combusted in the state. More information: Fuel Sulfur Content Limitations for Stationary Sources Fact Sheet.

Emerald Ash Borer Expanding in CT  

click on image to enlarge

The emerald ash borer (EAB) infestation has rapidly expanded from New Haven County into Fairfield, Hartford, Litchfield, and Middlesex Counties and has now been detected in 38 towns. The EAB is a destructive insect responsible for the death and decline of tens of millions of ash trees. Ash makes up about 4% to 15% of Connecticut's forests and represents about 2-3% of urban trees in many communities. When EAB is found, municipalities and homeowners can assess their ash trees and plan for the impact of this beetle. High value trees and lightly infested trees can be treated with systemic insecticides. Untreated ash trees will be lost and can die within two to three years once infested.

 

A previously established quarantine regulates the movement of ash logs, ash materials, ash nursery stock, and hardwood firewood from within Fairfield, Hartford, Litchfield and New Haven Counties to any area outside of those counties to help slow the spread of the beetle. With the detection of EAB in Middlesex County and rapid expansion of the infestation to five of the state's eight counties, the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station plans to add additional counties to the existing quarantine. Regulations also are in effect regulating movement of firewood from out-of-state or within Connecticut.

Use of Wood from Urban and Municipal Trees

Wood from municipal trees is often under-utilized

 

The Urban Forestry Program within DEEP's Division of Forestry has a new publication, The Use of Wood from Urban and Municipal Trees, available on its website. The publication provides helpful information on how wood from urban and municipal trees could be better utilized, including as fuel, wood chips, and sawlogs. It is an excellent introduction to any community in search of a better understanding of the topic and of options available for better use of this resource. A hard copy can also be obtained by contacting DEEP at 860-424-3630 or [email protected].

Torrington Cuts Ribbon on First LID Parking Lot

 

Mayor Elinor Carbone cut the ribbon at a recent ceremony celebrating the City of Torrington's first low impact development (LID) municipal parking lot. The City designed and permitted the lot, which is located at the intersection of Main Street and Route 4 along the banks of the East Branch of the Naugatuck River. DEEP was able to provide funding through a U.S. EPA Clean Water Act Section 319 Nonpoint Source grant given to the Northwest Conservation District (NCD) which, in turn, worked with the City to finalize plans and build the lot. The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut provided funds for creation of a rain garden which will receive roof runoff from a commercial building adjacent to the parking lot.  A contractor hired by NCD (4evergreen, LLC) constructed and landscaped the new LID parking area. It was previously the site of a small, vacant dirt lot that regularly shed sediment-laden stormwater to the nearby river. Reinforced, porous paving blocks over a specially prepared base will now filter and clean stormwater before it flows through the ground to the river, thus helping to improve the Naugatuck River's water quality.

 

(l-r): Mayor Carbone, Susan Peterson (DEEP), Sean Hayden (NCD) and Martin Connor (City Planner) confer in new LID parking lot after ribbon-cutting ceremony. Photo: Karen Nelson (NCD) 

New Electronic Fishing Publications
 

Anglers are fortunate to have tremendous close-to-home opportunities in Connecticut to fish for native brook trout, trophy northern pike, monster striped bass, and everything in between. As part of our efforts to provide the highest quality fishing experience, DEEP's Inland Fisheries Division is making available CT Fishin' Tips and the Weekly Fishing Report  -- two great sources for all things fishing- that can be delivered to your computer or mobile device. Don't miss out on this great opportunity to get the most up-to-date fishing news, key pointers, and the inside scoop on Connecticut's incredible fisheries.

Upper Farmington Wild & Scenic River Celebration

 

The Farmington River Coordinating Committee (FRCC) recently hosted an event at People's State Forest in Barkhamsted to celebrate the 20th anniversary of federal Wild & Scenic designation of the upper Farmington River. In 1994, by an Act of Congress, this 14-mile stretch of the West Branch and main stem of the Farmington River between Hartland and Canton became part of the National Wild & Scenic River System, and the first "free flowing" river section in Connecticut to obtain this status. It was also among the first on the East Coast to be designated by following what, at that time, was considered a new model which required local, state and federal stakeholders to work together and create a cooperative partnership to manage and protect a river's outstanding resource values - in this case, fisheries, wildlife, scenery, recreation and history. The upper Farmington Wild & Scenic River is overseen by FRCC, comprised of representatives from the:   Towns of Canton, Colebrook, Barkhamsted, Hartland and New Hartford; Farmington River Watershed Association; Farmington River Anglers Association; Metropolitan District Commission, State of Connecticut (DEEP) and National Park Service. FRCC's stewardship is guided by the Upper Farmington River Management Plan.  


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