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U.S. EPA approves California’s 1-hour ozone plan in San Joaquin Valley

Release Date: 12/11/2009
Contact Information: Nahal Mogharabi, 415/947-4307, Mogharabi.Nahal@epa.gov

Action part of an ongoing effort to improve air quality

(12/11/09--SAN FRANCISCO) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today approved California’s plan and numerous rules to meet the federal 1-hour ozone health standard in the San Joaquin Valley beginning in 2010.

“The rules and commitments in the plan are now enforceable by EPA and the public,” said Deborah Jordan, director of the Air Division for the EPA’s Pacific Southwest region. “Today’s action lays the groundwork for attainment of the more protective 8-hour ozone standard.”

Today’s action comes after review of the plan and public comments. The EPA has taken final action on over 20 rules including smog check, consumer products, and animal feeding operations to ensure that the state and air district continue to improve air quality for the residents of San Joaquin Valley.

Although the EPA has approved all of the rules, it is requiring that the state and Air District do more work to strengthen 5 of those rules which include a fee rule for major sources if the area fails to meet the 1-hour standard next year and a rule reducing emissions from animal agriculture.

If the area meets the standard in years 2010, 2011 and 2012, SJV could be considered to be in attainment of the 1-hour ozone standard.

In addition, the EPA has notified the Governor that it intends to make findings that other California areas failed to submit nonattainment fee rules for major sources and is providing guidance on developing such programs.

Areas of the country where air pollution levels persistently exceed the national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) may be designated "nonattainment." To view a list of areas designated nonattainment please visit: https://www.epa.gov/air/oaqps/greenbk/