DEC is looking for input on its existing C-plan requirements

Kay Cashman

Petroleum News

The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation is seeking public input on its oil discharge prevention and contingency plan requirements, DEC said in an Oct. 15 public scoping notice.

C-plans are required for facilities and vessels that store and transport oil.

The department would like to receive opinions and suggestions on topics such as whether the current regulations can be made clearer and more understandable without compromising environmental protection, as well as if any portions are outdated or duplicative.

DEC is also interested in new ideas that may make C-plans more effective.

Based on the feedback from this scoping process, the department may consider amending C-plan regulations (18 AAC 75, Article 4).

DEC is also accepting comments on the related statutes that authorize the Article 4 regulations.

The department said that no specific regulation revisions are proposed at this time, and there are no draft regulations to review. Depending on the input received on the existing regs and statutes, a formal regulation draft and review process may be initiated and would be subject to public review and comment.

All public comments will be considered and posted on DEC’s website, but the department said it would not be preparing a responsiveness summary.

Written comments must be received no later than 11:59 pm on Jan. 15, 2020.

To submit your comments electronically, visit: http://alaskadec.commentinput.com

- KAY CASHMAN