
[Federal Register: August 28, 2009 (Volume 74, Number 166)]
[Proposed Rules]               
[Page 44631-44672]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr28au09-27]                         


[[Page 44631]]

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Part IV





Department of Homeland Security





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Coast Guard



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33 CFR Part 151

46 CFR Part 162



Standards for Living Organisms in Ships' Ballast Water Discharged in 
U.S. Waters; Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement; 
Proposed Rule and Notice


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DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

Coast Guard

33 CFR Part 151

46 CFR Part 162

[USCG-2001-10486]
RIN 1625-AA32

 
Standards for Living Organisms in Ships' Ballast Water Discharged 
in U.S. Waters

AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking.

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SUMMARY: The Coast Guard proposes to amend its regulations on ballast 
water management by establishing standards for the allowable 
concentration of living organisms in ships' ballast water discharged in 
U.S. waters. The Coast Guard also proposes to amend its regulations for 
approving engineering equipment by establishing an approval process for 
ballast water management systems. These new regulations would aid in 
controlling the introduction and spread of nonindigenous species from 
ships discharging ballast water in U.S. waters.

DATES: Comments and related material must either be submitted to our 
online docket via http://www.regulations.gov on or before November 27, 
2009 or reach the Docket Management Facility by that date.

ADDRESSES: You may submit comments identified by Coast Guard docket 
number USCG-2001-10486 to the Docket Management Facility at the U.S. 
Department of Transportation. To avoid duplication, please use only one 
of the following methods:
    (1) Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov.
    (2) Mail: Docket Management Facility (M-30), U.S. Department of 
Transportation, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590-0001.
    (3) Hand delivery: Docket Management Facility (M-30), U.S. 
Department of Transportation, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 
1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 
p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The telephone 
number is 202-366-9329.
    (4) Fax: 202-493-2251.
    To avoid duplication, please use only one of these four methods. 
See the ``Public Participation and Request for Comments'' portion of 
the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below for instructions on 
submitting comments.
    You may inspect the material proposed for incorporation by 
reference at Room 1601, Environmental Standards Division, U.S. Coast 
Guard Headquarters, 2100 Second Street, SW., Washington, DC 20593 
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays. The telephone number is 202-372-1433. Copies of the material 
are available as indicated in the ``Incorporation by Reference'' 
section of this preamble.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If you have questions on this proposed 
rulemaking, call or e-mail Mr. John Morris, Project Manager, 
Environmental Standards Division, U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters, 
telephone 202-372-1433, e-mail John.C.Morris@uscg.mil. If you have 
questions on viewing or submitting material to the docket, call Ms. 
Renee Wright, Chief, Dockets, Department of Transportation, telephone 
202-366-9826.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Table of Contents

I. Public Participation and Request for Comments
    A. Submitting Comments
    B. Viewing Comments and Documents
    C. Privacy Act
    D. Public Meeting
II. Table of Abbreviations
III. Legislative and Regulatory History
IV. Background and Purpose
V. Discussion of Proposed Rule
VI. Incorporation by Reference
VII. Regulatory Analysis
    A. Executive Order 12866
    B. Small Entities
    C. Assistance for Small Entities
    D. Collection of Information
    E. Federalism
    F. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
    G. Taking of Private Property
    H. Civil Justice Reform
    I. Protection of Children
    J. Indian Tribal Governments
    K. Energy Effects
    L. Technical Standards
    M. Environment

I. Public Participation and Request for Comments

    We encourage you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting 
comments and related materials. All comments received will be posted, 
without change, to http://www.regulations.gov and will include any 
personal information you have provided.

A. Submitting Comments

    If you submit a comment, please include the docket number for this 
rulemaking (USCG-2001-10486), indicate the specific section of this 
document to which each comment applies, and provide a reason for each 
suggestion or recommendation. You may submit your comments and material 
online or by fax, mail, or hand delivery, but please use only one of 
these means. We recommend that you include your name and a mailing 
address, an e-mail address, or a phone number in the body of your 
document so that we can contact you if we have questions regarding your 
submission.
    To submit your comment online, go to http://www.regulations.gov and 
click on the ``submit a comment'' box, which will then become 
highlighted in blue. Insert ``USCG-2001-10486'' in the Keyword box, 
click ``Search'', and then click on the balloon shape in the Actions 
column. If you submit your comments by mail or hand delivery, submit 
them in an unbound format, no larger than 8[frac12] by 11 inches, 
suitable for copying and electronic filing. If you submit comments by 
mail and would like to know that they reached the Facility, please 
enclose a stamped, self-addressed postcard or envelope.
    We will consider all comments and material received during the 
comment period and may change this proposed rule based on your 
comments.

B. Viewing Comments and Documents

    To view comments, as well as documents mentioned in this preamble 
as being available in the docket, go to http://www.regulations.gov at 
any time. Enter the docket number for this rulemaking (USCG-2001-10486) 
in the Keyword box, and click ``Search''. You may also visit the Docket 
Management Facility in Room W12-140 on the ground floor of the DOT West 
Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. We 
have an agreement with the Department of Transportation to use the 
Docket Management Facility.

C. Privacy Act

    Anyone can search the electronic form of all comments received into 
any of our dockets by the name of the individual submitting the comment 
(or signing the comment, if submitted on behalf of an association, 
business, labor union, etc.). You may review a Privacy Act notice 
regarding our public dockets in the January 17, 2008, issue of the 
Federal Register (73 FR 3316).

D. Public Meeting

    We have determined that public meetings would aid this rulemaking. 
Consequently, we plan to hold public

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meetings at times and places to be announced by separate notices in the 
Federal Register.

II. Table of Abbreviations

BWDS ballast water discharge standard(s)
BWE ballast water exchange
BWM ballast water management
BWMS ballast water management system(s)
cfu colony forming unit
CZMA Coastal Zone Management Act
DPEIS Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement
EEZ U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone
EFH essential fish habitat
EPA Environmental Protection Agency
ESA Endangered Species Act
ETV Environmental Technology Verification
HAB Harmful algal blooms
IL Independent Laboratory
IMO International Maritime Organization
MARAD U.S. Maritime Administration
MEPC Marine Environment Protection Committee (of the IMO)
NANPCA Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 
1990
NARA National Archives and Records Administration
NBIC National Ballast Information Clearinghouse
NIS nonindigenous species
NISA National Invasive Species Act of 1996
NMFS National Marine Fisheries Service
OMSM Operation, Maintenance, and Safety Manual
ppt parts per thousand
SERC Smithsonian Environmental Research Center
STEP Shipboard Technology Evaluation Program

III. Legislative and Regulatory History

    Congress enacted the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and 
Control Act of 1990 (NANPCA), 16 U.S.C. 4711 et seq., on November 29, 
1990, and established the Coast Guard's regulatory jurisdiction over 
ballast water management (BWM). To fulfill the directives of NANPCA, 
the Coast Guard published a final rule in the Federal Register on April 
8, 1993, titled ``Ballast Water Management for Vessels Entering the 
Great Lakes''. 58 FR 18330. On December 30, 1994, we published another 
final rule in the Federal Register titled ``Ballast Water Management 
for Vessels Entering the Hudson River''. 59 FR 67632. These rules added 
a new subpart C to 33 CFR part 151, ``Ballast Water Management for 
Control of Nonindigenous Species in the Great Lakes and Hudson River'', 
which established mandatory BWM procedures for vessels entering the 
Great Lakes and Hudson River.
    Congress enacted the National Invasive Species Act (NISA) on 
October 26, 1996, reauthorizing and amending NANPCA. 16 U.S.C. 4711 et 
seq. Through NISA, Congress reemphasized the significant role the 
discharge of ships' ballast water plays in the spread of nonindigenous 
species (NIS), defined as any species or other viable biological 
material that enters an ecosystem beyond its historic range, including 
any such organism transferred from one country into another, in U.S. 
waters and directed the Coast Guard to develop a voluntary national BWM 
program. On May 17, 1999, the Coast Guard published an interim rule in 
the Federal Register on this voluntary program titled ``Implementation 
of the National Invasive Species Act of 1996 (NISA)''. 64 FR 26672. The 
interim rule added a new Subpart D to 33 CFR part 151 titled ``Ballast 
Water Management for Control of Nonindigenous Species in Waters of the 
United States''. We published the final rule in the Federal Register on 
November 21, 2001. 66 FR 58381.
    Through NISA, Congress also directed the Secretary of the 
Department in which the Coast Guard is operating to submit a report to 
Congress evaluating the effectiveness of the voluntary BWM program. In 
the June 3, 2002, report to Congress, the Secretary of the Department 
of Transportation \1\ concluded that low participation in the voluntary 
program resulted in insufficient data for an accurate assessment of its 
effectiveness. This finding triggered the requirement in NISA that the 
voluntary BWM program become mandatory. A copy of the report to 
Congress can be found in docket (USCG-2002-13147) at http://
www.regulations.gov.
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    \1\ The Coast Guard moved from the Department of Transportation 
to the Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003. Homeland 
Security Act of 2002, Pub. L. 107-296 (November 25, 2002), Title 
VIII, Subtitle H, Section 888.
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    On July 28, 2004, we published a final rule in the Federal Register 
titled, ``Mandatory Ballast Water Management Program for U.S. Waters''. 
69 FR 44952. This final rule changed the national voluntary BWM program 
to a mandatory one, requiring all vessels equipped with ballast water 
tanks and bound for ports or places of the United States to conduct a 
mid-ocean ballast water exchange (BWE), retain their ballast water 
onboard, or use an alternative environmentally sound BWM method 
approved by the Coast Guard.
    Also, on June 14, 2004, the Coast Guard published a final rule in 
the Federal Register titled ``Penalties for Non-submission of Ballast 
Water Management Reports''. 69 FR 32864. In this final rule, we 
established penalties for failure to comply with the reporting 
requirements located in 33 CFR part 151 and broadened the applicability 
of the reporting and recordkeeping requirements to a majority of 
vessels bound for ports or places of the United States.
    On August 31, 2005, we published a notice of policy in the Federal 
Register titled ``Ballast Water Management for Vessels Entering the 
Great Lakes that Declare No Ballast Onboard''. 70 FR 51831. Through 
this policy, we established the best management practices for vessels 
entering the Great Lakes that have residual ballast water and ballast 
tank sediment.

IV. Background and Purpose

    Under the legislative mandate in NISA, the Coast Guard must approve 
any alternative methods of ballast water management (BWM) that are used 
in lieu of mid-ocean ballast water exchange (BWE) required under NISA. 
16 U.S.C. 4711(c)(2)(D)(iii). NISA further stipulates that such 
alternative methods must be at least as effective as BWE in preventing 
or reducing the introduction of nonindigenous species into U.S. waters. 
16 U.S.C. 4711(c)(2)(D)(iii). Finally, NISA requires the Coast Guard to 
review and revise its BWM regulations not less than every three years 
based on the best scientific information available to the Coast Guard 
at the time of that review, and potentially to the exclusion of the BWM 
methods listed at 16 U.S.C. 4711(c)(2)(D). 16 U.S.C. 4711(e).
    Determining whether an alternative method is as effective as BWE is 
not an easy task. The effectiveness of BWE is highly variable, largely 
depending on the specific vessel and voyage. These variables make 
comparing the effectiveness of an alternative BWM method to BWE 
extremely difficult. In addition, a majority of vessels are constrained 
by design or route from practicing BWE effectively. This is supported 
by BWE results which show a proportional reduction in abundance of 
organisms, so every vessel then has a different allowable concentration 
of organisms in its discharge. Thus, vessels with very large starting 
concentrations of organisms in their ballast tanks might still have 
large concentrations of organisms after BWE. Results from several 
studies have shown the effectiveness of BWE varies considerably and are 
dependent upon

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vessel type (design), exchange method, ballasting system configuration, 
exchange location, and method of study. One group of studies suggests 
that the efficacy of ballast water exchange is 80-99 percent per event 
(Dickman and Zhang 1999; Hines and Ruiz 2000; Rigby and Hallegraeff 
1993; Smith et al. 1996; Taylor and Bruce 2000; Zhang and Dickman 
1999). Other studies demonstrate that the volumetric efficiency of BWE 
ranges from 50-90 percent (Battelle 2003; USCG 2001; Zhang and Dickman 
1999).
    For these reasons, BWE is not well suited as the basis for a 
protective programmatic regimen, even though it has been a useful 
``interim'' management practice. We have concluded that, as an 
alternative to using BWE as the benchmark, establishing a standard for 
the concentration of living organisms that can be discharged in ballast 
water would advance the protective intent of NISA and simplify the 
process for Coast Guard approval of ballast water management systems 
(BWMS). Additionally, setting a discharge standard would promote the 
development of innovative BWM technologies, be used for enforcement of 
the BWM regulations, and assist in evaluating the effectiveness of the 
BWM program.
    Therefore, in this rulemaking, we would amend 33 CFR part 151 by 
establishing two ballast water discharge standards (BWDS), which are 
discussed below. We also propose amending 46 CFR part 162 by adding an 
approval process for BWMS intended for use on board vessels to meet the 
proposed discharge standard.
    Vessels that would be subject to today's proposed rulemaking would 
also be subject to the December 2008 Environmental Protection Agency 
(EPA) Vessel General Permit (VGP) issued under section 402 of the Clean 
Water Act. That VGP contains discharge limits for a number of 
discharges incidental to the normal operation of vessels, including 
ballast water, and applies to vessels being used as a means of 
transportation with incidental discharges into inland navigable waters 
and the three mile U.S. territorial sea. For more information on the 
VGP, visit EPA's Web site at: http://www.epa.gov/npdes/vessels. Nothing 
in today's proposal is intended to affect in any way action EPA may 
take in the future with respect to regulation of ballast water 
discharges in the vessel general permit under its Clean Water Act 
authorities. See, e.g., 16 U.S.C. 4711(b)(2)(C) and 4711(c)(2)(J).

V. Discussion of Proposed Rule

A. Phase-One Ballast Water Discharge Standard (BWDS)

    This NPRM would require that all vessels that operate in U.S. 
waters, are bound for ports or places in the U.S., and are equipped 
with ballast tanks, install and operate a Coast Guard approved ballast 
water management system (BWMS) before discharging ballast water into 
U.S. waters. This would include vessels bound for offshore ports or 
places. It would not include vessels that operate exclusively in one 
Captain of the Port (COTP) Zone, as it is unlikely that vessels 
operating only within one COTP Zone would introduce invasive species 
(from outside of that COTP Zone) into the waters of their COTP Zone. 
Whether the vessel traveled 200 nautical miles offshore would no longer 
be a factor in determining applicability. This means that some vessels 
that operated exclusively in the coastwise trade, which were previously 
exempt from having to perform ballast water exchange (BWE), would now 
be required to meet the BWDS. This requirement is intended to meet the 
directives under NISA that requires the Coast Guard to ensure to the 
maximum extent practicable that nonindigenous species (NIS) are not 
introduced and spread into U.S. waters and that they apply to all 
vessels equipped with ballast tanks that operate in U.S. waters. 16 
U.S.C. 4711(c)(1), (c)(2)A, (e) and (f).
    The proposed rule includes a phase-in schedule for complying with 
both the phase-one and phase-two proposed BWDS based on each vessel's 
ballast capacity and build date. During the phase-in period for the 
phase-one standard, ballast water exchange (BWE) would remain as a 
ballast water management (BWM) option for vessels not yet required to 
meet the BWDS. At the end of the phase-one phase-in schedule, the 
option of using BWE would be eliminated. From that date forward, all 
vessels would be required to manage their ballast water through a Coast 
Guard approved BWMS and meet either the proposed phase-one or phase-two 
discharge standard, as applicable, or retain their ballast water 
onboard.
    The phase-one BWDS proposed in this notice is the same standard 
adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in 2004, 
``International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships' 
Ballast Water and Sediments'' (BWM Convention). The USCG leads the U.S. 
government delegation to the IMO, the organization responsible for 
improving maritime safety and preventing pollution from vessels. In 
September 1995, the IMO identified NIS as a major issue confronting the 
international maritime community. To address the issue, in 1997, the 
IMO adopted voluntary guidelines, ``International Guidelines for 
Preventing the Introduction of Unwanted Aquatic Organisms and Pathogens 
from Ships' Ballast Water and Sediment Discharges.'' In February 2004, 
the IMO adopted the BWM Convention, which establishes BWM procedures 
and includes an international standard for BWD. The USCG coordinated 
U.S. participation in this effort with the Environmental Protection 
Agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the U.S. 
Department of Defense, the U.S. Maritime Administration, the U.S. 
Department of Justice, and the U.S. Department of State. The BWM 
Convention opened for ratification in February 2004, and under its 
terms does not enter into force until one year after ratification by 30 
countries representing not less than 35 percent of the gross tonnage of 
the world's merchant shipping. To date, the BWM Convention is not in 
force.
    The Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (DPEIS) 
(available in the docket for this rule where indicated under ADDRESSES) 
states that the phase-one proposed BWDS should markedly decrease the 
risks of vessel-mediated introductions of NIS into U.S. waters, 
relative to the status quo. We also consider that this BWDS, which has 
become the de facto international efficacy target for developers of 
BWMS, will be practicable to implement in the near term. Currently, 
numerous technology developers are submitting BWMS designed to meet 
this standard to several foreign governments for testing in accordance 
with the IMO guidelines for approval of BWMS. All indications are that 
there will soon be technologies available on the market to allow 
vessels to meet this standard. As of July 2009, there have been 15 BWMS 
given IMO basic approval and of those 15, eight have been given IMO 
final approval. Further, six BWMS have received type approval 
certifications under the requirements of the convention from foreign 
administrations (Liberia, Germany, Norway, and United Kingdom). Some of 
the manufacturers of BWMS that have been given type approval have 
received orders from vessel owners to purchase those BWMSs.

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B. Phase-Two Ballast Water Discharge Standard (BWDS)

    While the proposed phase-one BWDS is practicable to achieve in the 
near term and will considerably advance environmental protection over 
the current exchange-based regime, we also recognize that it should not 
be the ultimate endpoint for protection of U.S. waters. We note that a 
number of states have already adopted BWDS using more stringent 
standards. We have considered information concerning whether technology 
to achieve this standard can practicably be implemented now or by the 
compliance dates under consideration. Although some technologies may be 
capable of achieving the phase-two standard, we believe there is not 
now a testing protocol capable of establishing that a technology 
achieves the phase-two standard and testing results under existing 
protocols do not provide sufficient statistical confidence to establish 
that technologies consistently meet the phase-two standard.
    The purpose of NISA, as already noted, is to ensure to the maximum 
extent practicable that NIS are not introduced and spread into U.S. 
waters. Our phase-two standard represents a standard that is 
potentially 1,000 times more stringent than the phase-one standard. We 
believe that setting this more stringent standard and establishing 
implementation dates for the phase-two BWDS will encourage technology 
vendors to develop technologies capable of meeting the phase-two 
standard. In addition, we expect to continue cooperative work to 
establish testing protocols that can establish that technologies meet 
the standard with adequate statistical confidence.
    We propose incorporating a practicability review into the phase-in 
schedule for the phase-two BWDS. The purpose of the review is to 
determine whether technology to achieve the performance standard can 
practicably be implemented, in whole or in part, by the applicable 
compliance dates. This includes more than just looking at whether there 
is technology available to achieve the phase-two standard, as we 
discuss later in this preamble. The initial review would be completed 
in early 2013 and, in the event that some or all of the phase-two 
standard is found to be not practicable, the compliance date for those 
elements found not to be practicable would be extended in accordance 
with the findings of the practicability review. At the same time, a 
date for the next practicability review would be established, no later 
than two years after the completion of the first practicability review 
(i.e., no later than 2015). In establishing this time frame we are 
attempting to balance our intent to implement the phase-two standards 
as expeditiously as practicable with a consideration of how quickly 
progress in developing and testing technology may be likely to occur. 
We seek comment on whether one year or three years would be a more 
appropriate time limit for further practicability review, should one or 
more be needed.
    The Coast Guard will seek public input in preparing the 
practicability review, and any decision to extend the compliance date 
of elements of the phase-two standards found not to be practicable 
would be subject to the requirements of the Administrative Procedure 
Act.
    We've also left open the possibility that the practicability review 
might reveal that a more stringent standard between the proposed phase-
one and the phase-two BWDS is achievable. We also allow for the 
possibility that technology might be capable of achieving a standard 
that is even more stringent than what we have proposed as the phase-two 
BWDS. In these cases, we would propose amending either the 
implementation timeline or the phase-two standard, or both, at the time 
that we publicize the results of our practicability review. Once the 
phase two standards are fully implemented, the Coast Guard would 
continue to review the standards every three years, as required by 
NISA, to ensure that they continue to ensure, to the maximum extent 
practicable, that aquatic nuisance species are not introduced and 
spread into U.S. waters.
    In addition to the comments we receive from the public, we also 
will use the technical information gained from the rigorous testing of 
BWMS here and in other countries to determine whether it is practicable 
to meet the phase-two BWDS on the timeline we have proposed in this 
NPRM. The testing conducted for purposes of type approval in the U.S. 
and abroad, as well as testing for other purposes (such as the Coast 
Guard's Shipboard Technology Evaluation Program and the U.S. 
Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Environmental Technology 
Verification Program, discussed later in this preamble), will provide 
credible and standardized data on the performance characteristics of 
BWMS. We will use technical information from these testing activities 
and any other information to complete the practicability review 
proposed in this NPRM. This practicability review could entail more 
than determining whether there exists one system that is capable of 
meeting the phase-two standard. It could also include additional 
parameters, such as the capability of the vendor(s) to make the 
system(s) available, and the ship building and repair industry to 
install, systems in a timely and practicable manner given the large 
number of vessels that would require such system(s), and the cost 
impact of the system(s) on the regulated industry. We request comment 
on the appropriate scope of the practicability review and, in 
particular, how and to what extent costs should be considered in the 
review.
    Practicability could also include consideration of scientific 
factors beyond technology. For example, it could include the likely 
effect of a particular decrease in the threshold concentration on the 
probability of introduced organisms successfully establishing 
populations in U.S. waters. Currently, the scientific understanding of 
the quantitative relationships between the frequency and magnitude of 
introductions and the probability of successful establishment is not 
well understood for aquatic species. Given that such information will 
help to improve our ability to evaluate appropriate prevention 
measures, we will work to elevate the priority of this topic for 
research by the Coast Guard, resource agencies and others funding 
environmental science. We request comment on whether and how such 
factors should be considered in the practicability review.

C. Applicability

    The Coast Guard proposes that the ballast water discharge standard 
apply to all vessels discharging ballast water into U.S. waters. In 
accordance with NISA, certain vessels would be exempt from the 
requirements to install and operate a Coast Guard approved BWMS, 
including:
     Crude oil tankers engaged in coastwise trade (16 U.S.C. 
4711(c)(2)(L));
     Any vessel of the U.S. Armed Forces as defined in the 
Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1322(a)) that is subject 
to the Uniformed National Discharge Standards for Vessels of the Armed 
Forces (33 U.S.C. 1322(n)) (16 U.S.C. 4711(c)(2)(J)); and
     Any warship, naval auxiliary, or other vessel owned or 
operated by a foreign state and used, for the time being, only on 
government non-commercial service (consistent with IMO BWM Convention, 
Article 3; 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, 
Article 236).

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    Under today's proposal, foreign vessels equipped with and operating 
a BWMS that has been approved by a Foreign Administration would be 
allowed to use the BWMS for discharging ballast water into U.S. waters 
if the Coast Guard determines that the Foreign Administration's 
approval process is equivalent to the Coast Guard's approval program, 
the BWMS otherwise meets the requirements of this proposed rule, and 
the resulting discharge into waters of the U.S. meets the applicable 
(i.e., phase-one or phase-two) proposed discharge standard.
    The Coast Guard initiated a BWMS research program on January 7, 
2004, called the Shipboard Technology Evaluation Program (STEP). 69 FR 
1082. STEP is intended to facilitate research, development, and 
shipboard testing of effective BWMS. Vessels participating in STEP 
would be granted equivalencies to the BWMS approval requirements of the 
proposed rule. In the event that information learned during STEP on any 
experimental BWMS leads the Coast Guard to conclude that there is a 
risk to the environment, vessel, and/or human health, testing of the 
BWMS would be stopped and acceptance to STEP would be withdrawn. This 
would mean that the equivalency determination would also be withdrawn, 
and that the vessel would be required to use a different Coast Guard 
approved BWMS to meet the requirements of the proposed rulemaking. More 
information on STEP can be found at: http://www.uscg.mil/
environmental_standards/.
    The Coast Guard would consider, on a case-by-case basis, making 
equivalency determinations for vessels participating in similar 
research programs conducted by Foreign Administrations or State 
governments. In such cases, the vessel owner or operator would request 
an equivalency determination from the Coast Guard. If a vessel granted 
an equivalency determination is later removed from one of these 
programs, the vessel would be required to install a different Coast 
Guard approved BWMS to meet the requirements of the proposed rule.

D. Proposed Discharge Standards

    The current BWM regulations in 33 CFR part 151 are split into two 
regulatory regimens--the Great Lakes Ballast Water Management Program 
and the U.S. Ballast Water Management Program. These regulations are 
found in 33 CFR part 151 subparts C and D, respectively. In this 
proposed rule, we would establish a phase-one and phase-two discharge 
standard for all vessels that discharge ballast water into U.S. waters. 
However, we would keep subparts C and D separate to retain some pre-
existing regulations that are specific to the Great Lakes. We are 
retaining these pre-existing regulations, specific to the Great Lakes, 
because we want to be consistent with the Department of 
Transportation's Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation's BWM 
regulations and Canadian (Transport Canada) BWM regulations. Also, the 
uniqueness of vessel traffic patterns into the Great Lakes warrants 
special treatment, as reflected in the pre-existing regulations.
    Invasive species have proven to be a significant and costly problem 
in the Great Lakes. NISA explicitly recognized that some areas might 
require special protections by providing that ballast water management 
regulations may be regional in scope. The Coast Guard thus requests 
comment on the appropriateness of the proposed rule for control of 
invasive species from ballast waters discharged into the Great Lakes or 
other areas. More specifically, are there characteristics of the Great 
Lakes ecosystem or other ecosystems that would justify more stringent 
standards or earlier compliance dates for ships operating in the Lakes 
or other areas than for ships in other U.S. waters, keeping in mind 
that NISA also requires that such regulations should be practicable? 
Should the regulations include provisions that apply only to the Great 
Lakes or other areas? What provisions of the proposed rule might be 
changed in light of the identified special circumstances in the Great 
Lakes or other locations (e.g.: Compliance schedules, treatment 
levels)? In addition, are there practices or technologies not addressed 
in the proposed rule that might be practicably applied specifically to 
protection of the Great Lakes or other ecosystems (e.g.: On-shore 
treatment or prior to entering freshwater or limitations on access to 
the Lakes or other areas for vessels that pose a special risk of 
discharge of new invasive species, and if so, how would those special 
risks be assessed in a practicable manner)? Please provide explicit 
information on the practicability of any such proposed approaches, 
including costs and resources required to implement and maintain such 
requirements.
    The proposed phase-one standard for allowable concentrations of 
living organisms in ships' ballast water is:
    (1) For organisms larger than 50 microns in minimum dimension: 
Discharge less than 10 organisms per cubic meter of ballast water.
    (2) For organisms equal to or smaller than 50 microns and larger 
than 10 microns: Discharge less than 10 organisms per milliliter (ml) 
of ballast water.
    (3) Indicator microorganisms must not exceed:
    (a) For toxicogenic Vibrio cholerae (serotypes O1 and O139): A 
concentration of <1 colony forming unit (cfu) per 100 ml;
    (b) For Escherichia coli: A concentration of <250 cfu per 100 ml; 
and
    (c) For intestinal enterococci: a concentration of <100 cfu per 100 
ml.
    The Coast Guard has determined that the proposed phase-one standard 
for ballast water discharge would provide a greater degree of 
protection than BWE and will help reduce the risk of NIS introductions. 
In our study of five alternative ballast water discharge standards, 
detailed in the Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement 
(DPEIS), we estimated that ballast water treatment to achieve the 
phase-one standard proposed in this rulemaking would be up to 60% more 
effective than BWE and 80% more effective than unmanaged ballast water 
discharge in preventing the probability of biological invasions.
    As described and discussed in Section 4 (Environmental 
Consequences) of the DPEIS, the alternative ballast water discharge 
standards compared in the NEPA assessment can be expressed in terms of 
the proportion of organisms in different size classes that will be 
prevented from being introduced. Table 1 describes the alternative 
BWDS.

                                 Table 1--Allowable Concentration of Organisms in BWD, by Size, for Alternatives 2-4 \2\
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                                Bacteria
                                                          Small organisms >10 --------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                    Large organisms >50   and <=50 microns in    Toxigenic Vibrio
                                      microns in size            size            cholerae (O1 and           E. coli            Intestinal enterococci
                                                                                       O139)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Alternative 2....................  <10 per m\3\........  <10 per ml..........  <1 cfu per 100 ml...  <250 cfu per 100 ml.  <100 cfu per 100 ml.

[[Page 44637]]


Alternative 3....................  <1 per m\3\.........  <1 per ml...........  <1 cfu per 100 ml...  <126 cfu per 100 ml.  <33 cfu per 100 ml.
Alternative 4....................  <0.1 per m\3\.......  <0.1 per ml.........  <1 cfu per 100 ml...  <126 cfu per 100 ml.  <33 cfu per 100 ml.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In addition to the alternatives shown in the table above, 
Alternative 5 (which is essentially sterilization) would require the 
removal or inactivation of all living membrane-bound organisms 
(including bacteria and some viruses) larger than 0.1 micron. The 
mathematical modeling approach that we used in the DPEIS provides an 
assessment of the relative effectiveness in increasing extinction 
probability, by taxonomic group, of a particular alternative ballast 
water discharge standard. Relative effectiveness is measured by the 
proportional increase in theoretical extinction probability over the 
`no management' option (No Action Alternative).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \2\ Note, for ease of comparison within the Table, the 
alternatives have all been standardized to numbers of organisms per 
standard unit of volume. For organisms larger than 50 microns, the 
unit volume is one cubic meter. For organisms less than or equal to 
50 microns, but greater than 10 microns, the unit volume is 1 
milliliter. Note also that if expressed in terms of whole numbers of 
organisms in a volume, alternative 4 would be equal to less than 1 
organism per 10 cubic meters or 10 milliliters of water (depending 
on size class) and the phase two standard would be less than 1 
organism per 100 cubic meters or 100 milliliters of water (depending 
on size class).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    This mathematical or analytical approach can be used to compare the 
alternatives in relative terms, but not in absolute terms. For example, 
Alternative 5 in the DPEIS results in no introduction of nonindigenous 
species via ballast water, whereas Alternatives 2, 3, and 4 increase 
extinction probability, and thus decrease the probability of successful 
invasions by different factors when compared to the No Action 
Alternative. The comparison is relative, rather than absolute, because 
the analysis was done using a specific and highly limited, but 
reasonable, set of estimates for the controlling variables. These 
variables include initial population size, threshold population size 
for extinction, population growth rate, and population variability 
around the mean growth rate. It is important to understand that these 
predictions relate to relative, not absolute, differences in risk 
reduction. Table 2 illustrates the potential impacts to the various 
environments in relation to vessels treating their ballast water to the 
alternative BWDS.

                                                           Table 2--Comparison of Alternatives
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
             Resource                  Alternative 1         Alternative 2         Alternative 3        Alternative 4              Alternative 5
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Marine Ecosystems................  Current impacts       Minor to moderate     Moderate reduction    Moderate to major    Unquantified. Impacts would
                                    would continue--      reduction in NIS      in NIS                reduction in NIS     likely be greatly reduced
                                    trophic               introductions,        introductions,        introductions,       compared to the other
                                    interactions,\1\      resulting in fewer    resulting in fewer    resulting in fewer   alternatives.
                                    changing community    negative changes to   negative changes to   negative changes
                                    structures,\2\        natural community     natural community     to natural
                                    harmful algal         structures, fewer     structures, fewer     community
                                    blooms (HAB),         HAB.                  HAB.                  structures, fewer
                                    effects on                                                        HAB.
                                    ecosystem
                                    services.\3\
Estuarine Ecosystems.............  Current impacts       Minor to moderate     Moderate reduction    Moderate to major    Unquantified. Impacts would
                                    would continue --     reduction in NIS      in NIS                reduction in NIS     likely be greatly reduced
                                    erosion, turbidity,   introductions,        introductions,        introductions,       compared to the other
                                    trophic               resulting in less     resulting in less     resulting in less    alternatives.
                                    interactions,         erosion, fewer        erosion, fewer        erosion, fewer
                                    changing community    negative changes to   negative changes to   negative changes
                                    structures, HAB,      natural community     natural community     to natural
                                    effects on            structure, fewer      structure, fewer      community
                                    ecosystem services.   HAB, lessened         HAB, lessened         structure, fewer
                                                          negative impacts on   negative impacts on   HAB, lessened
                                                          ecosystem services.   ecosystem services.   negative impacts
                                                                                                      on ecosystem
                                                                                                      services.
Freshwater Ecosystems............  Current impacts       Minor to moderate     Moderate reduction    Moderate to major    Unquantified. Impacts would
                                    would continue--      reduction in NIS      in NIS                reduction in NIS     likely be greatly reduced
                                    erosion, trophic      introductions,        introductions,        introductions,       compared to the other
                                    interactions,         resulting in less     resulting in less     resulting in less    alternatives.
                                    changing community    erosion, fewer        erosion, fewer        erosion, fewer
                                    structures, effects   negative changes to   negative changes to   negative changes
                                    on ecosystem          natural community     natural community     to natural
                                    services.             structure, fewer      structure, fewer      community
                                                          HAB, lessened         HAB, lessened         structure, fewer
                                                          negative impacts on   negative impacts on   HAB, lessened
                                                          ecosystem services.   ecosystem services.   negative impacts
                                                                                                      on ecosystem
                                                                                                      services.

[[Page 44638]]


Threatened and Endangered Species  Current impacts       Minor to moderate     Moderate reduction    Moderate to major    Unquantified. Impacts would
                                    would continue,       reduction in NIS      in NIS                reduction in NIS     likely be greatly reduced
                                    trophic               introductions,        introductions,        introductions,       compared to the other
                                    interactions,         resulting in fewer    resulting in fewer    resulting in fewer   alternatives.
                                    changing community    negative changes to   negative changes to   negative changes
                                    structures, HAB,      natural community     natural community     to natural
                                    disruption of food    structure, fewer      structure, fewer      community
                                    sources, effects on   HAB, less             HAB, less             structure, fewer
                                    ecosystem services.   disruption of food    disruption of food    HAB, less
                                                          sources, lessened     sources, lessened     disruption of food
                                                          negative impacts on   negative impacts on   sources, lessened
                                                          ecosystem services.   ecosystem services.   negative impacts
                                                                                                      on ecosystem
                                                                                                      services.
Essential Fish Habitat...........  Current impacts       Minor to moderate     Moderate reduction    Moderate to major    Unquantified. Impacts would
                                    would continue,       reduction in NIS      in NIS                reduction in NIS     likely be greatly reduced
                                    trophic               introductions,        introductions,        introductions,       compared to the other
                                    interactions,         resulting in fewer    resulting in fewer    resulting in fewer   alternatives.
                                    changing community    negative changes to   negative changes to   negative changes
                                    structures, HAB,      natural community     natural community     to natural
                                    degradation of        structure, fewer      structure, fewer      community
                                    habitat.              HAB, less             HAB, less             structure, fewer
                                                          degradation of        degradation of        HAB, less
                                                          habitat.              habitat.              degradation of
                                                                                                      habitat.
Socioeconomics...................  Disruptions of        Minor to moderate     Moderate reduction    Moderate to major    Unquantified. Impacts would
                                    fisheries, fouling    reduction in NIS      in NIS                reduction in NIS     likely be greatly reduced
                                    of environment,       introductions,        introductions,        introductions,       compared to the other
                                    reduction in          resulting in less     resulting in less     resulting in less    alternatives.
                                    tourism due to        fouling of the        fouling of the        fouling of the
                                    fouling, higher       environment, fewer    environment, fewer    environment, fewer
                                    costs from NIS        fishery               fishery               fishery
                                    impacts & responses   disruptions, and      disruptions, and      disruptions, and
                                    to them.              less revenue lost     less revenue lost     less revenue lost
                                                          from a decrease in    from a decrease in    from a decrease in
                                                          tourism due to NIS    tourism due to NIS    tourism due to NIS
                                                          impacts on the        impacts on the        impacts on the
                                                          environment.          environment.          environment.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Resources listed are from Chapter 3, Affected Environment. Reduction amounts, and therefore environmental impacts, are based on the modeling results
  described in Chapter 4, Environmental Consequences. Further descriptions of the environmental impacts are found in Chapter 4, Environmental
  Consequences. Alternatives 2-5 are compared to the No Action Alternative (both BWE and no BWM) as a baseline.
Notes: 1. Trophic interactions pertain to the feeding relationships between organisms in a food web.
2. Community structure refers to the physical structure and composition, as well as energy flows, of a community of organisms.
3. Ecosystem services are those resources and processes that are performed by natural systems for which there is human demand and benefit.


                        Table 3--Comparison of the Relative Effectiveness of Alternatives
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                          Ne = 1                 Ne = 100
                                                                 -----------------------------------------------
                           Alternative                              No BWM        BWE       No BWM        BWE
                                                                   (percent)   (percent)   (percent)   (percent)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2...............................................................          52          37          78          63
3...............................................................          73          64          94          90
4...............................................................          88          85         100         100
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ne is the extinction threshold of the population in the model.

    Alternative 3 could be 64% more effective than BWE and 94% more 
effective than unmanaged ballast water discharge and Alternative 4 
could be 85% more effective than BWE and 100% more effective than 
unmanaged ballast water discharge in preventing the probability of 
biological invasions as shown in Table 3.
    As noted above, this proposed rule would remove the option of 
conducting BWE as a ballast water management method per the compliance 
dates of the implementation schedule, which detail the timeframe that 
vessels would be required to install and operate a Coast Guard approved 
BWMS.
    The proposed phase-two standard for allowable concentrations of 
living organisms in ships' ballast water is:
    (1) For organisms larger than 50 microns in minimum dimension: 
Discharge less than 1 per 100 cubic meter of ballast water;
    (2) For organisms equal to or smaller than 50 microns and larger 
than 10 microns: Discharge less than 1 organism per 100 milliliter (ml) 
of ballast water;
    (3) For organisms less than 10 microns in minimum dimension:
    (i) Discharge less than 10\3\ living bacterial cells per 100 ml of 
ballast water; and
    (ii) Discharge less than 10\4\ viruses or viral-like particles per 
100 ml of ballast water; and
    (4) Indicator microorganisms must not exceed:
    (i) For Toxicogenic Vibrio cholerae (serotypes O1 and O139): A 
concentration of <1 colony forming unit (cfu) per 100 ml;
    (ii) For Escherichia coli: A concentration of <126 cfu per 100 ml; 
and

[[Page 44639]]

    (iii) For intestinal enterococci: A concentration of <33 cfu per 
100 ml.
    This phase-two standard largely mirrors the standard proposed by 
the U.S. during negotiations for the IMO BWM convention and the more 
stringent standard established by several states, either under the 
states' authority or as state conditions to the Environmental 
Protection Agency (EPA) Vessel General Permit (VGP).
3. Proposed Implementation Schedule
    The proposed implementation schedule for meeting the proposed 
phase-one ballast water discharge standard is shown in Table 4. The 
proposed implementation schedule for meeting the proposed phase-two 
ballast water discharge standard is shown in Table 5. Our proposed 
implementation schedule would provide vessel owners and operators 
sufficient time to install the necessary equipment needed to comply 
with the phase-one discharge standard, without causing significant 
disruptions to vessels operations and maritime commerce. Our phase-one 
implementation schedule is similar to the implementation schedule for 
the IMO Convention as they are both based on build date and ballast 
water capacity. An implementation schedule using build dates and 
ballast water capacities was determined by the Coast Guard and IMO to 
be an appropriate mechanism for giving both vessel owners and BWMS 
manufacturers enough time to have BWMS approved and installed while 
avoiding long delays at shipyards where these installations would take 
place. As there are limited numbers of shipyards around the world, 
vessel owners must schedule BWMS installations well in advance. An 
implementation schedule calling for faster installation would likely 
make it difficult for vessel owners to comply with the requirements in 
time. However, we are requesting comment specifically on whether it 
would be possible for vessel owners to comply with a phase-one BWDS 
implementation schedule that called for all existing vessels to install 
an approved BWMS on their vessel by 2014.
    We also request comment on whether there are any facilities ready 
to meet the requirements of becoming an Independent Lab (IL), and any 
technology vendors ready to submit their system(s) to the proposed 
protocols as soon as a facility is recognized as an IL, such that the 
initial practicability review, now scheduled for January 2013, could be 
moved to January 2012. If the IL and vendors were ready, would moving 
the practicability review allow time for vessels with a 2014 compliance 
date to implement technology meeting phase two standards in place of 
technology meeting only phase one standards?

   Table 4--Proposed Implementation Schedule for the Phase-One Ballast
                        Water Management Program
------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Vessel's ballast water
  capacity  (cubic meters,          Vessel's         Vessel's compliance
            m\3\)               construction date           date
------------------------------------------------------------------------
New vessels: All............  On or after January   On Delivery.
                               1, 2012.
Existing vessels:
    Less than 1500..........  Before January 1,     First drydocking
                               2012.                 after January 1,
                                                     2016.
    1500-5000...............  Before January 1,     First drydocking
                               2012.                 after January 1,
                                                     2014.
    Greater than 5000.......  Before January 1,     First drydocking
                               2012.                 after January 1,
                                                     2016.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


   Table 5--Proposed Implementation Schedule for the Phase-Two Ballast
                        Water Management Program
------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Vessel's ballast water
  capacity  (cubic meters,          Vessel's         Vessel's compliance
            m\3\)               construction date           date
------------------------------------------------------------------------
New vessels: All............  On or after January   On Delivery.
                               1, 2016.
Existing vessels: All.......  Before January 1,     First drydocking
                               2016.                 after January 1,
                                                     2016, UNLESS the
                                                     vessel installed a
                                                     BWMS meeting the
                                                     phase-one standard
                                                     before January 1,
                                                     2016, then 5 years
                                                     after installation
                                                     of the BWMS meeting
                                                     the phase-one
                                                     standard.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Note that the phase-two standard implementation date for all 
existing vessels that have not installed a BWMS meeting the phase-one 
standard by January 1, 2016 is the same compliance date regardless of 
the vessel's ballast water capacity. The only exception for this would 
be for those vessels that have already installed a BWMS type approved 
as meeting the phase-one standard. (These vessels would be allowed 
additional time to comply with the phase-two standards, as discussed 
below.) This is because we would be publishing the results of a 
practicability review in early 2013 to determine whether it will be 
practicable to meet the phase-two standard in the proposed timeline. 
If, at that time, we determine that it is practicable, these vessels 
would have enough time to plan for installation of a system capable of 
meeting the phase-two standard and should be required to do so. If, 
however, our practicability review indicates that it will not be 
possible to implement the phase-two standard on our proposed timeline, 
those vessels would still be required to install a system capable of 
meeting the phase-one standard in accordance with the schedule in Table 
4.
    The phase-two standard also includes a grandfather clause for those 
vessels that install technology that has been type approved as meeting 
the phase-one BWDS prior to January 1, 2016. We seek comment on whether 
such a grandfather clause is necessary, and if so, whether the proposed 
five-year period is enough time, more than enough time, or not long 
enough. We specifically request information pertaining to the impacts, 
cost and otherwise, of the grandfather clause as it is proposed, as 
well as not having a grandfather clause (i.e., requiring all vessels to 
install a phase-two technology at their first dry dock after January 1, 
2016). Assuming a grandfather period is necessary, what is the 
appropriate period, and why?
4. Practicability Review
    We are proposing to require a practicability review, to be 
published three years prior to the first implementation date for the 
phase-two BWDS, in order to determine whether the technology to achieve 
and verify compliance with the phase-two

[[Page 44640]]

performance standard can practicably be implemented, in whole or in 
part, by the applicable compliance date.
    This review would seek to determine first whether there was any 
technology with the verified ability to achieve the phase-two standard. 
It would examine whether that technology could be practicably made 
available in time to meet the implementation schedule. This review 
would then be used to determine whether to allow the phase-two 
implementation schedule to come into effect, to delay the schedule by 
some period of time, or to amend the standard and/or schedule to 
reflect the practicability review conclusions on what performance 
standards existing or emerging technologies could meet. Any proposed 
amendments to the standard or the schedule would be done through rule 
making and could also include consideration of grandfather periods for 
owners of vessels that have already complied with an earlier standard.
    The practicability review would also consider, among other factors, 
whether testing protocols are available to verify that treatment 
technologies can be expected to comply with the phase-two performance 
standard. Development of protocols capable of determining compliance 
with the phase-two is a high priority for the Coast Guard. Other 
factors to be considered could include cost of compliant treatment 
technologies, and whether any amendments have been made to the IMO 
Ballast Water Management Convention.
    We've also left open the possibility that the practicability review 
might reveal that a more stringent standard between the proposed phase-
one and the phase-two BWDS is achievable. We also allow for the 
possibility that technology might be capable of achieving a standard 
that is more stringent than what we have proposed as the phase-two 
BWDS. In the event the IMO BWM Convention standard is subsequently 
raised, we would expect at least a matching increase in the domestic 
standard. In these cases, we would propose to revise this regulation to 
amend either the implementation timeline or the phase-two standard, or 
both, at the time that we publicize the results of our practicability 
review.
5. Other Proposed Amendments to 33 CFR Part 151
    In subpart C, we would add relevant definitions. In subpart D, we 
would add definitions, revise the provision allowing for discharge of 
ballast water in extraordinary circumstance (previously known as the 
``safety'' exemption), and add a requirement for the vessel owner or 
operator to maintain the BWMS certificate of approval onboard the 
vessel. Additionally, we would reorganize subpart D and revise all 
section headings to remove the current question-and-answer format.

B. Approval Program

    The Coast Guard proposes to add requirements for the approval of 
BWMS. These requirements would be added to 46 CFR Subchapter Q, by 
creating a new subpart 162.060, ``Ballast Water Management Systems''. 
In this new subpart, we would establish an approval program, including 
requirements for designing, installing, operating, and testing BWMS to 
ensure these systems meet required safety and performance standards. 
These proposed approval requirements use information from the IMO G8 
Guidelines for type approval of BWMS under the BWM Convention, the 
Protocols for Verification of Ballast Water Treatment Systems developed 
under EPA's Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) Program, and 
existing Coast Guard approval requirements for equipment installed 
onboard vessels.
1. Section-by-Section Summary of Changes to 46 CFR Subchapter Q Part 
162
    In proposed Sec.  162.060-1, we describe the purpose and scope of 
the approval requirements.
    In proposed Sec.  162.060-3, we define the terms used in the 
subpart.
    In proposed Sec.  162.060-5, we list those standards which we 
propose to incorporate by reference into the regulations.
    In proposed Sec.  162.060-10, we describe the content requirements 
for a manufacturer submitting a Letter of Intent to the Coast Guard 
stating that the manufacturer intends to begin testing of its BWMS in 
order to obtain Coast Guard approval. We also describe the specific 
procedures for obtaining approval of a BWMS.
    In proposed Sec.  162.060-12, we provide equivalent approval 
procedures. First, a manufacturer whose BWMS has been approved by a 
Foreign Administration may request a written determination from the 
Coast Guard's Marine Safety Center that such approval by a Foreign 
Administration is equivalent to a Coast Guard approval.
    Second, we recognize the importance of experimental shipboard 
testing of prototype BWMS, and further recognize that shipboard testing 
programs of prototype systems may be more intensive than the 
requirements proposed in this subpart. We do not want to create 
redundant requirements for BWMS already entered into recognized 
national or international shipboard testing programs, as this would 
constitute a disincentive for participation in these programs. 
Therefore, this section allows for a manufacturer whose BWMS is 
undergoing such shipboard testing under a recognized national program 
to request an equivalency for the shipboard testing requirements. In 
this case, the manufacturer would request an equivalency determination 
from the Coast Guard's Marine Safety Center by submitting a description 
of the BWMS, the specific information on the vessel where the shipboard 
testing would occur, the testing protocols, and information about the 
goals and expected results of the testing project, as well as a full 
description of the recognized program under which the testing is taking 
place. If a manufacturer is removed from one of these programs, the 
manufacturer would need to make the appropriate arrangements in order 
to comply with the requirements of proposed Sec.  162.060-28.
    Finally, if a manufacturer has already conducted a substantial 
amount of land-based and/or shipboard testing independent of the 
requirements of this subpart, the Coast Guard's Marine Safety Center 
may make an equivalency determination. The manufacturer would submit a 
written request for such a determination to the Coast Guard's Marine 
Safety Center.
    In proposed Sec.  162.060-14, we describe the content requirements 
of an application for Coast Guard approval of a BWMS. This section 
states that each item requiring approval would be the subject of a 
separate application.
    In proposed Sec.  162.060-16, we describe the procedures that would 
be followed if the design or conditions of the original approval 
changes, if a manufacturer wishes to change the design or conditions of 
an approved system, or if the Coast Guard determines that an approval 
or conditions of approval are no longer valid under the provisions of 
proposed Sec.  162.060-14.
    In proposed Sec.  162.060-18, we state that the Coast Guard may 
suspend, withdraw, or terminate approval of a BWMS if it is:
     Not in compliance with the requirements of approval;
     Unsuitable for its intended purpose;
     Not in compliance with the requirements of other 
applicable laws, rules, and/or regulations;
     No longer being manufactured or supported; or
     Under an approval that expires.
    In proposed Sec.  162.060-20, we describe design and construction 
requirements for BWMS. The IMO's

[[Page 44641]]

Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) Technical Specifications 
in section 4 of MEPC 125(53), ``Guidelines for Approval of Ballast 
Water Management Systems'' provide a basis for the proposed 
requirements. The proposed requirements also refer to the applicable 
design and material requirements in the Coast Guard marine and 
electrical engineering regulations found in 46 CFR subchapters F and J, 
respectively.
    In proposed Sec.  162.060-22, we outline the marking requirements 
for an approved BWMS.
    In proposed Sec.  162.060-24, we describe the requirements and 
format of the test plans that would be required to be prepared prior to 
conducting each test required by this subpart.
    In proposed Sec.  162.060-26, we describe the land-based testing 
and evaluation requirements for BWMS approval. MEPC 125(53), 
``Guidelines for Approval of Ballast Water Management Systems'' 
provides a basis for the proposed requirements. The proposed 
requirements also incorporate findings from the draft Environmental 
Technology Verification (ETV) protocols of the EPA's ETV Program. These 
tests are designed to assess the ability of a BWMS to meet the BWDS 
proposed in 33 CFR part 151 subparts C and D, evaluate the suitability 
of the system for shipboard installation, and validate the operating 
and maintenance parameters presented by the manufacturer.
    In proposed Sec.  162.060-28, we describe the shipboard testing 
requirements that would have to be completed in addition to the land-
based testing requirements for Coast Guard approval of a BWMS.
    In proposed Sec.  162.060-30, we describe tests that would be 
conducted on all electrical components submitted for approval as part 
of the complete BWMS. These tests assess whether BWMS components would 
operate properly for an extended period of time under harsh shipboard 
operating and environmental conditions. The Independent Laboratory (IL) 
would conduct all approval tests and evaluations under this subpart for 
the applicant. The results of these tests must be included in the final 
Test Report.
    In proposed Sec.  162.060-32, we describe the requirements for any 
BWMS that utilizes or generates an active substance or preparation.
    In proposed Sec.  162.060-34, we describe the required contents of 
the Test Report, format of the Test Report, and the IL's 
responsibilities for completing the Test Report and submitting all 
required information to the Coast Guard.
    In proposed Sec.  162.060-36, we describe the requirements of the 
Quality Assurance Project Plans that the IL would develop and be 
required to follow.
    In proposed Sec.  162.060-38, we describe the requirements for an 
Operation, Maintenance, and Safety Manual (OMSM) that the manufacturer 
would prepare and submit along with the application for approval 
specified in this subpart. This OMSM would need to be kept onboard each 
vessel with an approved BWMS.
    In proposed Sec.  162.060-40, we describe how ILs would obtain 
recognition by the Coast Guard.
2. Discussion of Previous Comments on the Approval Program
    On August 5, 2004, the Coast Guard published a notice in the 
Federal Register with a request for comments regarding, among other 
things, whether proposing an approval program alongside a BWDS would be 
necessary. 69 FR 47453. The Coast Guard further asked commenters to 
identify, if they supported an approval program, what type of testing 
procedures should be developed and what issues should be addressed; 
such as water resources, water quality conditions, and any other 
environmental conditions. We received 8 comments related to the 
establishment of an approval program and discuss them below.
    Two commenters stated the Coast Guard should not require shipboard 
testing. Both commenters stated that the Coast Guard has a long history 
of providing onshore testing of equipment for Coast Guard approval, and 
they saw no reason to depart from the practice. One commenter also 
disagreed with shipboard testing due to logistical difficulty, time 
delay, and expense.
    The Coast Guard disagrees. Land-based testing alone does not always 
simulate long-term shipboard conditions. Moreover, the BWM Convention 
G8 type-approval guidelines employ both land-based and ship-based 
testing of BWMS. Therefore, the Coast Guard has proposed shipboard 
testing requirements in this rulemaking.
    One commenter stated that on-shore testing will need to be 
adaptable because various technologies may require their own 
individualized regimen of tests.
    The Coast Guard agrees that test facilities must be adaptable for 
different types of technologies, but we disagree that each technology 
will require its own individualized regimen of tests during land-based 
testing. To the greatest degree possible, test facilities must employ 
standard test protocols to ensure that different technologies, tested 
at different facilities and times, undergo the same level of testing. 
Through the EPA's ETV program, stakeholder reviews, and partnerships 
with the Naval Research Laboratory, we developed the standard protocols 
for land-based tests found in this regulation. The basic parameters we 
would incorporate for shipboard testing, however, allow the IL to 
design tests that address specific needs of varying BWMS employing 
different technologies.
    Two commenters recommended the Coast Guard use ILs to perform 
approval tests. The Coast Guard agrees with these commenters and has 
incorporated ILs into the proposed approval process.
    One commenter stated the Coast Guard should use its own expertise 
with the additional resources available from classification societies 
and EPA to make appropriate decisions, which consider the safety of the 
vessel and crew as well as the harsh seafaring environment.
    The Coast Guard agrees and notes that we developed the BWDS and 
approval requirements proposed in this notice utilizing existing Coast 
Guard design and safety requirements, an extensive stakeholder review 
process within the EPA's ETV program, and guidelines developed by the 
IMO with input from classification societies.
    One commenter stated that whatever testing procedures are 
ultimately adopted, it is essential that a sufficient number of 
laboratories be established so that a given manufacturer's equipment 
may be evaluated and approved no more than six to eight weeks after its 
submission to the Coast Guard.
    The Coast Guard agrees that a sufficient number of laboratories 
should be established; however, we disagree with the six to eight week 
time period for approval after submission. Land based tests conducted 
by the IL and the statutorily required environmental assessments 
conducted by the Coast Guard during the approval process would 
necessitate more than six to eight weeks for complete approval. It is 
important to note that Coast Guard type approval of a BWMS does not 
require each individual BWMS to be tested and evaluated. Under the 
proposed process, a representative system would undergo the rigorous 
tests for Coast Guard approval, and subsequent BWMS built to the same 
design and within the rated capacity parameters would only require 
installation surveys.

[[Page 44642]]

C. Enforcement and Compliance

    The Coast Guard would conduct enforcement and compliance activities 
for the BWM program as part of the overall BWM enforcement and 
compliance program. This program would continue to be conducted as part 
of regularly scheduled Port State and Flag State exams and inspections, 
as well as other continued compliance verification and outreach 
efforts. All Coast Guard offices involved with BWM compliance would 
maintain a local training and qualification program for its inspections 
consistent with guidance provided by Office of Vessel Activities (CG-
543), Environmental Standards Division (CG-5224), Areas, Sectors, and 
Districts.

VI. Incorporation by Reference

    Material proposed for incorporation by reference appears in 46 CFR 
162.060-5. You may inspect this material at U.S. Coast Guard 
Headquarters where indicated under ADDRESSES. Copies of the material 
are available from the sources listed in Sec.  162.060-5.
    Before publishing a binding rule, we will submit this material to 
the Director of the Federal Register for approval of the incorporation 
by reference.

VII. Regulatory Analysis

    We developed this proposed rule after considering numerous statutes 
and executive orders related to rulemaking. Below we summarize our 
analysis based on 13 of these statutes or executive orders.

A. Executive Order 12866

    This proposed rule is a ``significant regulatory action'' under 
section 3(f) of Executive Order 12866, Regulatory Planning and Review. 
The Office of Management and Budget has reviewed it under that Order. 
It requires an assessment of potential costs and benefits under section 
6(a)(3) of that Order. A preliminary assessment (``Regulatory 
Analysis'') is available in the docket where indicated under the 
``Public Participation and Request for Comments'' section of this 
preamble. A summary of the Regulatory Analysis (RA) follows:
    The RA provides an evaluation of the economic impacts associated 
with the implementation of standards limiting the quantities of living 
organisms in ships' ballast water discharged in U.S. waters. The focus 
of this assessment is to analyze the costs and benefits of implementing 
the phase one BWDS, which is the same standard adopted by the IMO in 
2004.\3\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \3\ International Convention for the Control and Management of 
Ship's Ballast Water and Sediments (BWM Convention).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    While the proposed phase one BWDS is practicable to achieve in the 
near term and will considerably advance environmental protection over 
the current exchange-based regime, we also recognize that it is not the 
ultimate endpoint for protection of U.S. waters. We note that a number 
of states have already adopted BWDS using more stringent standards. The 
purpose of NISA, as already noted, is to ensure, to the maximum extent 
practicable, that NIS are not introduced and spread into U.S. waters. 
Hence, the Coast Guard is proposing today the adoption of a more 
stringent standard (phase-two standard) to take effect in 2016. The 
phase-two standard represents a standard that is potentially 1,000 
times more stringent than the phase-one standard. We wish to solicit 
comments with respect to the following questions (when providing 
comments, please explain the reasoning underlying your comment and 
provide citations to and copies of any relevant studies, reports and 
other sources of information on which you rely):
    1. What are the acquisition, installation, operation/maintenance 
and replacement costs of technological systems that are able to meet 
more stringent standards? Please provide quantitative cost data 
specifying complete data sources, type of technology and testing 
status, and the stringency (at 10x, 100x, and 1000x the IMO standard 
and for sterilization).
    2. Are there technology systems that can be scalable or modified to 
meet multiple stringency standards after being installed? Please 
provide quantitative data specifying the technology, necessary 
modifications (to go to a more stringent standard), costs, and sources 
of the information.
    3. What are the additional costs for vessels compliant with the 
phase-one standard to go to the phase- two standard? Please provide 
quantitative cost data specifying complete data sources, type of 
technology, and possible phase-two stringencies (at 10x, 100x, and 
1000x the IMO standard and for sterilization).
    4. What are the technology alternatives and costs for smaller 
coastwise vessel types? Please provide quantitative data specifying the 
technology and stringency, costs, and sources of the information.
    5. What are the additional avoided environmental and social damages 
and economic benefits of ballast water discharge standards at more 
stringent standards? Please provide quantitative data and sources for 
all information.
    6. In light of the potentially severe nature of such damages, does 
the proposed rule ensure to the maximum extent practicable that aquatic 
nuisance species are not discharged into waters of the United States 
from vessels, as required by NISA? Would an approach that bypassed 
phase-one and went directly to the phase-two standards be practicable 
and provide greater protection of the aquatic environment? Please 
provide quantitative data and sources to support your response.
    For more details on phase one and two BWDS, see the ``Discussion of 
Proposed Rule'' section.
    For additional details on other alternatives considered for this 
rulemaking, see the Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement 
(DPEIS) available on the docket.
    Population Affected:
    This proposed rule would affect vessels operating in U.S. waters 
that are equipped with ballast tanks. These vessels would be required 
to install and operate a Coast Guard approved ballast water management 
system (BWMS) before discharging ballast water into U.S. waters. This 
would include vessels bound for offshore ports or places. Additionally, 
whether the vessel traveled 200 nautical miles offshore would not be a 
factor in determining applicability. This means that some vessels that 
operated exclusively in the coastwise trade, within the U.S. Exclusive 
Economic Zone (EEZ), which were previously exempt from having to 
perform ballast water exchange (BWE), would now be required to meet the 
ballast water discharge standard (BWDS). See the ``Discussion of 
Proposed Rule'' section of the NPRM for applicability of the rule 
regarding vessel operation.
    The primary source of data used in this analysis is the Marine 
Information for Safety and Law Enforcement (MISLE) system and Ballast 
Water Reporting Forms for 2007 submitted to the National Ballast 
Information Clearinghouse (NBIC), which maintains the reporting and 
database. MISLE is the Coast Guard database system for information on 
vessel characteristics, arrivals, casualties, and inspections. The NBIC 
database provides information on the amount of ballast water discharged 
in U.S. ports for the range of vessel types calling on U.S. waters. 
Since October 2004, all vessels, U.S. and foreign, operating in U.S. 
waters and bound for U.S. ports or places, have been required to submit 
reports of their

[[Page 44643]]

BWM practices to the NBIC database. 33 CFR 151.2041.
    Approximately 7,575 vessels from the current vessel population, of 
which 2,616 are U.S. vessels, would be required to meet the BWDS. We 
propose that full implementation for the phase one BWDS would be 
required by 2016. The installation requirements would be phased-in for 
new and existing vessels over the 2012 through 2016 period.
    As previously mentioned, the BWDS analyzed in the RA is the same 
standard as in the 2004 IMO BWM Convention (see the ``Discussion of 
Proposed Rule'' section for more information on the ratification of the 
Convention). For the purposes of the RA, we consider the costs of this 
rulemaking to involve U.S. vessels.\4\ Nevertheless, we anticipate that 
the development of treatment technology would involve the world fleet, 
not the U.S. fleet alone. In order to estimate the cost associated with 
BWMS on the U.S. fleet, we needed to develop the range of technologies 
that may be available and the unit costs of these technologies. We 
assume that there will be a broad market for the new BWMS that includes 
both U.S. and foreign vessels, thus improving the range of technologies 
available and the cost efficiencies of production.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \4\ The RA presents cost estimates for foreign flag vessels 
projected to call in U.S. waters.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Costs:
    The IMO Convention has spurred development of BWMS designed to meet 
the IMO discharge standard (phase-one BWDS). Various technologies are 
being evaluated. Shipboard trials are being conducted for some of these 
technologies, others are undergoing land-based laboratory testing, 
while yet others have received type-approval from foreign 
administrations.
    Not all systems are appropriate for all vessel types. Variation in 
the operational costs relate, in part, to the use of chemicals or other 
agents in the BWMS and are also due to the treatment of certain 
discharges not required under current regulations. The BWMS on ships is 
a new process for which there is minimal operating practical 
experience, any discussion of the treatment technologies, 
effectiveness, costs, and operating issues is provisional.
    Approximately 4,758 BWMS installations for the U.S. vessels would 
be required by 2021 because of projected fleet growth. We expect 
highest annual costs in the period between 2012 and 2016, as the bulk 
of the existing fleet of vessels must meet the standards according to 
the phase-in schedule proposed by this rulemaking (see Table 6). The 
primary cost driver of this rulemaking is the installation costs for 
all existing vessels. After installation, we estimate operating costs 
to be substantially less.

                          Table 6--Costs to U.S. Vessels To Comply With Phase-One BWDS*
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   Installation   Operating cost    Total cost
                              Year                                  cost ($Mil)       ($Mil)          ($Mil)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2012............................................................         $238.42           $0.18         $238.61
2013............................................................          223.91            0.34          224.25
2014............................................................          219.63            0.48          220.11
2015............................................................          171.40            0.59          171.99
2016............................................................          161.15            0.68          161.84
2017............................................................           33.82            0.66           34.47
2018............................................................           32.51            0.63           33.14
2019............................................................           31.24            0.61           31.85
2020............................................................           30.03            0.58           30.62
2021............................................................           28.87            0.56           29.44
                                                                 -----------------------------------------------
    Total.......................................................        1,171.00            5.32        1,176.31
    Annualized..................................................          166.72            0.76          167.48
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Present value costs discounted at 7 percent. See RA for additional discount factors. The period of analysis is
  10 years (2012-2021). Discounting begins in 2012.

    We estimate the first-year cost of this rulemaking to be $239 
million based on a 7 percent discount rate. The total costs over the 
phase-in period (2012-2016) range between $162 million to about $239 
million depending on the year. Over the 10-year period of analysis 
(2012-2021), the total cost of the phase-one BWDS for the U.S. vessels 
is approximately $1.18 billion using the 7 percent discount rate. Our 
cost assessment includes existing and new vessels.
    Because development and testing of technology to meet the phase-two 
standards has not progressed as far as for technology to meet the 
phase-one standards, we are not including cost data for the phase-two 
standards at this time. In addition to requesting data from the public 
through this notice (see above), the Coast Guard will seek data from 
vendors and other sources on the costs of achieving the phase-two 
standard prior to promulgation of the final rule.
    Economic Costs of Invasions of Nonindigenous Species (NIS):
    NIS introductions contribute to the loss of marine biodiversity and 
have associated significant social, economic, and biological impacts. 
NIS introductions in U.S. waters are occurring at increasingly rapid 
rates. Avoided costs associated with future NIS invasions represent one 
of the benefits of ballast water management (BWM). Economic costs from 
invasions of NIS range in the billions of dollars annually. Evaluation 
of these impacts was difficult because of limited knowledge of the 
patterns and basic processes that influence marine biodiversity. The 
most extensive review to date on the economic costs of introduced 
species in the U.S. includes estimates for many types of NIS, and is 
reflected in Table 7.

   Table 7--Estimated Annual Costs Associated to Aquatic Nonindigenous
                Species Introduction in the U.S. ($2007)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                  Species                               Costs
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fish......................................  $5.7 billion.
Zebra and Quagga Mussels..................  $1.06 billion.

[[Page 44644]]


Asiatic Clam..............................  $1.06 billion.
Aquatic Weeds.............................  $117 million.
Green Crab................................  $47 million.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: Pimentel, D. et al., 2005. ``Update on the environmental and
  economic costs associated with alien-invasive species in the United
  States,'' Ecological Economics. 52:273-288.

    Though a particular invasion may have small direct economic 
impacts, the accumulation of these events may cost in the billions of 
dollars every year. Only a few invasions to date have led to costs in 
the billions of dollars per year.
    Benefits of Ballast Water Discharge Standards (BWDS):
    The benefits of BWDS are difficult to quantify because of the 
complexity of the ecosystem and a lack of understanding about the 
probabilities of invasions based on prescribed levels of organisms in 
ballast water. However, evaluation of costs associated with previous 
invasions (described above) allows a comparison of the cost of 
discharge standards versus the costs avoided. Because the amount of 
shipping traffic and the number of incidents of invasions per year are 
both increasing, historical data provide a lower bound for the basis of 
benefit evaluation.
    We assessed the functional benefits prior to comparing monetary 
benefit measures. The primary functional benefits of this rulemaking 
are:
     A reduction in the concentration of all organisms leading 
to lower numbers of these organisms being introduced per discharge; and
     The elimination of the exemptions in the BWM regulations 
leading to the discharge of unmanaged ballast water (e.g., safety 
concerns during exchange, deviation/delay of voyage required to travel 
to acceptable mid-ocean exchange location).
    This overall strategy should reduce the number of new invasions 
because the likelihood of establishment decreases with reduced numbers 
of organisms introduced per discharge or inoculation.
    We calculate potential benefits of the BWDS by estimating the 
number of invasions reduced and the range of economic damage avoided. 
We use information on the invasion rate of invertebrates from shipping 
reported by Ruiz et al. (2000) to project the number of future shipping 
invasions per year. We then estimate the number of fish and aquatic 
plant invasions based on historical relationships of fish and plant 
invasions to invertebrate invasions. We then adjust the projected 
invasions to account for the fraction of invasions that are 
attributable to ballast water and the fraction of invasions that cause 
severe economic damage. The resulting projection of the number of 
ballast water invasions that will cause harm is displayed in Table 8.

                      Table 8--Estimated Number of Ballast Water Invasions That Cause Harm
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                              Year                                 Invertebrate        Fish        Aquatic plant
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2012............................................................           0.372           0.074           0.149
2013............................................................           0.381           0.076           0.152
2014............................................................           0.390           0.078           0.156
2015............................................................           0.399           0.080           0.160
2016............................................................           0.409           0.082           0.164
2017............................................................           0.419           0.084           0.168
2018............................................................           0.429           0.086           0.172
2019............................................................           0.439           0.088           0.176
2020............................................................           0.450           0.090           0.180
2021............................................................           0.461           0.092           0.184
                                                                 -----------------------------------------------
Total...........................................................           4.149           0.830           1.659
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    To estimate the potential economic harm that may be caused by these 
invasions, we assign a cost per invasion based on the available data on 
the range of costs and damages incurred by past invasions. As no 
comprehensive estimate is available on the costs from past invasions, 
we do not try to develop a composite cost estimate for all invasions, 
but instead select a low and high estimate for fish, aquatic plants and 
invertebrates based on representative species. We then calculate a mid-
point for the range and calculate costs for future invasions using all 
three values. The resulting ranges of costs per invasions are 
summarized in Table 9.

                    Table 9--Range of Annual Costs Associated With Selected NIS Introductions
                                                [$Million; $2007]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                     Low range       Mid-range      High range
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fish............................................................           $15.8          $160.6          $305.3
Invertebrates...................................................            19.5           539.8           1,060
Aquatic Plants..................................................             4.5           214.6           424.7
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note: The RA contains additional details and source information.

    We assume that once an invasion is established, it will continue to 
generate costs and/or damages for each year subsequent to the invasion. 
Thus, an invasion that occurs in the first year of our analysis (2012) 
will incur costs/damages in each of the next 10 years (through 2021). 
Based on the cumulative impacts of invasions, we have calculated a mid-
range estimate of annual costs for all harmful ballast water-introduced 
invasions over the 10 year period of 2012 to 2021 at $2.016 billion at 
7 percent discount rate. These estimates assume no BWM.

[[Page 44645]]

    The Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (DPEIS) has 
estimated the reduction in the mean rate of successful introductions of 
various alternative standards. In comparison with the existing practice 
of ballast water exchange, the proposed phase-one BWDS (Alternative 2 
in the DPEIS) is between 37 percent and 63 percent more effective in 
preventing invasions when fully implemented (see the DPEIS for further 
details on effectiveness). We use these estimates of the reduction in 
the rate of invasions to estimate the economic cost/damage avoided as a 
result of a BWDS.
    As discussed earlier, the implementation of the phase-one BWDS 
would be phased-in over several years. During the phase-in period of 
2012-2016, there is considerable uncertainty as to how effective the 
measures will be in preventing invasions if only a subset of ships have 
implemented ballast water management. There is also uncertainty as to 
the availability and effectiveness of ballast water management 
technologies. Proper operation of these new technologies may require 
training and experience on the part of vessel operators. For these 
reasons we assume that no invasions will be avoided during the period 
of 2012-2015, which may lead to an underestimate of potential benefits.
    The resulting damages avoided for the phase-one BWDS range from a 
minimum of $6 million and the maximum is $553 million with a mid-range 
estimate of $165-$282 million per year at a 7 percent discount rate 
(Table 10).

                              Table 10--Benefits (Costs Avoided) for Phase-One BWDS
                                                   [$Millions]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            Low effectiveness--37%                High effectiveness--63%
               Year                -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                        Low          Mid          High         Low          Mid          High
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2012..............................           $0           $0           $0           $0           $0           $0
2013..............................            0            0            0            0            0            0
2014..............................            0            0            0            0            0            0
2015..............................            0            0            0            0            0            0
2016..............................            2           66          130            4          113          222
2017..............................            5          125          246            8          214          419
2018..............................            7          178          349           11          303          595
2019..............................            8          225          441           14          382          750
2020..............................           10          266          521           17          452          887
2021..............................           11          301          592           19          513        1,008
                                   -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Total.........................           43        1,161        2,279           74        1,977        3,881
                                   -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Annualized....................            6          165          325           10          282          553
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note: Present value costs discounted at 7 percent.

    The annualized cost for domestic vessels over the 10-year period of 
2012-2021 for the phase one BWDS is estimated at $167 million at a 7 
percent discount rate. Thus, quantified benefits are roughly equal to 
estimated costs for the mid-point cost estimate of the phase one BWDS 
``Low Effectiveness''.

B. Small Entities

    Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601-612), we have 
considered whether this proposed rule would have a significant economic 
impact on a substantial number of small entities. The term ``small 
entities'' comprises small businesses, not-for-profit organizations 
that are independently owned and operated and are not dominant in their 
fields, and governmental jurisdictions with populations of less than 
50,000.
    An Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis (IRFA) discussing the 
impact of this proposed rule on small entities is available in the 
docket where indicated under the ``Public Participation and Request for 
Comments'' section of this preamble.
    Based on available data, we determined that about 57 percent of the 
businesses affected are small by the Small Business Administration 
(SBA) size standards. We discovered that these businesses operate 
almost entirely in coastwise trade and are not involved with larger 
scale trans-ocean shipping.
    Based on our assessment of the impacts from the phase-one BWDS, we 
determined that some coastwise businesses would incur a significant 
economic impact (more than 1 percent impact on revenue) during the 
installation and phase-in period based. After installation, however, 
most small businesses would not incur a significant impact from the 
estimated annual recurring operating costs. We have determined that 
this proposed rule would have a significant economic impact on a 
substantial number of small entities under section 605(b) of the 
Regulatory Flexibility Act.

C. Assistance for Small Entities

    Under section 213(a) of the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement 
Fairness Act of 1996 (Pub. L. 104-121), we want to assist small 
entities in understanding the rule so that they can better evaluate its 
effects on them and participate in the rulemaking. If the rule would 
affect your small business, organization, or governmental jurisdiction 
and you have questions concerning its provisions or options for 
compliance, please consult Mr. John Morris, Project Manager, telephone 
202-372-1433. The Coast Guard will not retaliate against small entities 
that question or complain about this proposed rule or any policy or 
action of the Coast Guard.
    Small businesses may send comments on the actions of Federal 
employees who enforce, or otherwise determine compliance with, Federal 
regulations to the Small Business and Agriculture Regulatory 
Enforcement Ombudsman and the Regional Small Business Regulatory 
Fairness Boards. The Ombudsman evaluates these actions annually and 
rates each agency's responsiveness to small business. If you wish to 
comment on actions by employees of the Coast Guard, call 1-888-REG-FAIR 
(1-888-734-3247).

[[Page 44646]]

D. Collection of Information

    This proposed rule would call for no new collection of information 
under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-3520).
    Our research indicates that there are 25-30 manufacturers 
developing BWMS for installation onboard vessels.\5\ We expect to 
receive less than 10 system approval requests per year. This figure is 
less than the threshold of 10 per twelve-month period for collection of 
information reporting purposes under the PRA of 1995.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \5\ Sources: Lloyds Register Report, Ballast Water Treatment 
Technology-Current Status, September 2008; and California State 
Lands Commission Report, Assessment of the Efficacy, Availability, 
and Environmental Impacts of Ballast Water Treatment Systems in 
California Waters, January 2009.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

E. Federalism

    A rule has implications for federalism under Executive Order 13132, 
Federalism, if it has a substantial direct effect on State or local 
governments and would either preempt State law or impose a substantial 
direct cost of compliance on them.
    We have analyzed this proposed rule under that Order and have 
determined that it does not have implications for federalism. NANPCA, 
as reauthorized and amended by NISA, contains a ``savings provision'' 
that saves to the states their authority to ``adopt or enforce control 
measures for aquatic nuisance species, [and nothing in the Act would] 
diminish or affect the jurisdiction of any States over species of fish 
and wildlife.'' 16 U.S.C. 4725. It also requires that ``all actions 
taken by Federal agencies in implementing the provisions of [the Act] 
be consistent with all applicable Federal, State and local 
environmental laws.'' Thus, the congressional mandate is clearly for a 
Federal-State cooperative regime in combating the introduction of 
aquatic nuisance species into U.S. waters from ships' ballast tanks. 
This makes it unlikely that preemption, which would necessitate 
consultation with the States under Executive Order 13132, would occur. 
If, at some later point in the rulemaking process, we determine that 
preemption may become an issue, we would develop a plan for 
consultation with affected States/localities.

F. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act

    The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 1531-1538) 
requires Federal agencies to assess the effects of their discretionary 
regulatory actions. In particular, the Act addresses actions that may 
result in the expenditure by a State, local, or tribal government, in 
the aggregate, or by the private sector of $100,000,000 or more in any 
one year. This proposed rule would result in such an expenditure, and 
we have included an ``Unfunded Reform Act Statement'' in the Regulatory 
Assessment (Section 7), located in the docket where indicated under the 
``Public Participation and Request for Comments'' section of this 
preamble.

G. Taking of Private Property

    This proposed rule would not effect a taking of private property or 
otherwise have taking implications under Executive Order 12630, 
Governmental Actions and Interference with Constitutionally Protected 
Property Rights.

H. Civil Justice Reform

    This proposed rule meets applicable standards in sections 3(a) and 
3(b)(2) of Executive Order 12988, Civil Justice Reform, to minimize 
litigation, eliminate ambiguity, and reduce burden.

I. Protection of Children

    We have analyzed this proposed rule under Executive Order 13045, 
Protection of Children from Environmental Health Risks and Safety 
Risks. Though this proposed rule is economically significant, it would 
not create an environmental risk to health or risk to safety that might 
disproportionately affect children.

J. Indian Tribal Governments

    This proposed rule does not have tribal implications under 
Executive Order 13175, Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal 
Governments, because it would not have a substantial direct effect on 
one or more Indian tribes, on the relationship between the Federal 
Government and Indian tribes, or on the distribution of power and 
responsibilities between the Federal Government and Indian tribes.

K. Energy Effects

    We have analyzed this proposed rule under Executive Order 13211, 
Actions Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect Energy Supply, 
Distribution, or Use. We have determined that it is not a ``significant 
energy action'' under that order. Though it is a ``significant 
regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866, it is not likely to 
have a significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use 
of energy. The Administrator of the Office of Information and 
Regulatory Affairs has not designated it as a significant energy 
action. Therefore, it does not require a Statement of Energy Effects 
under Executive Order 13211.

L. Technical Standards

    The National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act (NTTAA) (15 
U.S.C. 272) directs agencies to use voluntary consensus standards in 
their regulatory activities unless the agency provides Congress, 
through the Office of Management and Budget, with an explanation of why 
using these standards would be inconsistent with applicable law or 
otherwise impractical. Voluntary consensus standards are technical 
standards (e.g., specifications of materials, performance, design, or 
operation; test methods; sampling procedures; and related management 
systems practices) that are developed or adopted by voluntary consensus 
standards bodies.
    This proposed rule would incorporate a number of technical 
standards, all of which are voluntary consensus standards. These may be 
found in the proposed approval program amendments to 46 CFR part 162. 
Additionally, the proposed phase-one ballast water discharge standard 
is also, at least for the time being, a voluntary consensus standard. 
While the IMO BWM Convention has been adopted, it has not been ratified 
by enough countries to bring it into force as an international 
requirement. The phase-two standard is not a voluntary consensus 
standard, but it is a standard that has been adopted by a number of 
states.

M. Environment

    We have analyzed this proposed rule under Department of Homeland 
Security Management Directive 023-01 and Commandant Instruction 
M16475.lD, which guide the Coast Guard in complying with the National 
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) (42 U.S.C. 4321-4370f), and 
have made a determination that this action may have a significant 
effect on the human environment. A Draft Programmatic Environmental 
Impact Statement (DPEIS) is available in the docket where indicated 
under the Public Participation and Request for Comments section of this 
preamble. We encourage the public to submit comments on the DPEIS.
    On October 27, 2006, we initiated informal consultation with the 
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries 
Service (NMFS) regarding this proposed rule in accordance with Section 
7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA) (Pub. L. 93-205, 81 Stat. 
884, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) to

[[Page 44647]]

ensure that our actions are not likely to jeopardize the continued 
existence of listed and proposed endangered and threatened species or 
result in the destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat. 
The consultation and determinations will be reflected in the Final 
Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (FPEIS).
    We initiated informal consultation with NMFS regarding this 
proposed rule in accordance with the Magnuson-Stevens Act (Pub. L. 94-
265, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.) to demonstrate that our 
actions are not likely to affect essential fish habitat (EFH). The 
DPEIS addresses the potential effects the proposed rule would have on 
EFH and the FPEIS will contain a written assessment describing the 
effects of our actions on EFH (50 CFR 600.920(e)(1)).
    We will seek Federal Consistency Determinations for 29 States and 5 
U.S. Territories regarding this proposed rule as required by the 
Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) of 1972 (16 U.S.C.A. Sec.  1451-
1465). Each Federal consistency determination letter will explain to 
each State and U.S. Territories that the USCG's action is consistent, 
to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable polices of each 
State's and U.S. Territories approved CZM plan.
    As previously discussed in Section V.A.2. of this preamble, the 
DPEIS includes a number of alternative discharge standards, with 
Alternatives 3 and 4 establishing more stringent limits on 
concentrations of living organisms in ships' ballast water than today's 
proposed phase-one BWDS, and Alternative 5 requiring the removal or 
inactivation of all living membrane-bound organisms (including bacteria 
and some viruses) larger than 0.1 micron (this is essentially 
sterilization). We recognize, however, that there is uncertainty 
regarding the data used to complete the analysis for these more 
stringent standards. We specifically request public comment on these 
and other alternatives (e.g., standards proposed or adopted by various 
states in their legislation or via the states' certification under 
EPA's VGP, our proposed phase-two standard). While we welcome comment 
on all aspects of alternative BWDS, we particularly wish to solicit 
comment with respect to the following matters. When providing comments, 
please explain the reasoning underlying your comment and provide 
citations to and copies of any relevant studies, reports, or scientific 
literature on which you rely.
    1. What BWDS is sufficient to adequately safeguard against the 
introduction of species into U.S. waters via ships' ballast water? 
Should the standard provide for zero risk of spreading invasive species 
via ballast water (e.g. zero living organisms), or should the standard 
be one that substantially mitigates any risk, but may not eliminate the 
possibility of species being introduced?
    2. For any BWDS identified in response to (1), what is the evidence 
that the systems can meet either of the BWDS proposed in this NPRM, and 
what are the timeframes by which such BWDS can be achieved and what 
technologies are, or will be, available to meet such BWDS?
    3. For any BWDS identified in response to (1), what are the costs 
of such systems for various classes of ships and under differing 
operating conditions? Additionally, what are power requirements on 
board those vessels and what additional chemical storage requirements 
and other space requirements are needed on board those vessels?
    4. Any studies that exist on the effects of propagule pressure on 
successful establishment of a NIS in aquatic ecosystems.
    5. What are the advantages and disadvantages of a ballast water 
discharge standard that is more stringent than the IMO standard? Please 
provide quantitative data and sources of the information.

List of Subjects

33 CFR Part 151

    Administrative practice and procedure, Ballast water management, 
Oil pollution, Penalties, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, 
Water pollution control, Ballast water management.

46 CFR Part 162

    Ballast water management, Fire prevention, Incorporation by 
reference, Marine safety, Oil pollution, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

    For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Coast Guard proposes 
to amend 33 CFR part 151 and 46 CFR part 162 as follows:

Title 33--Navigation and Navigable Waters

CHAPTER I--COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

Subchapter O--Pollution

PART 151--VESSELS CARRYING OIL, NOXIOUS LIQUID SUBSTANCES, GARBAGE, 
MUNICIPAL OR COMMERCIAL WASTE, AND BALLAST WATER

Subpart C--Ballast Water Management for Control of Nonindigenous 
Species in the Great Lakes and Hudson River

    1. The authority citation for subpart C continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 16 U.S.C. 4711; Department of Homeland Security 
Delegation No. 0170.1.

    2. In Sec.  151.1504, add, in alphabetical order, definitions for 
the terms ``Ballast Water Management System (BWMS)'' and ``Build date'' 
to read as follows:


Sec.  151.1504  Definitions.

* * * * *
    Ballast Water Management System (BWMS) means any system which 
processes ballast water to kill or remove organisms. The BWMS includes 
all ballast water treatment equipment and all associated control and 
monitoring equipment.
* * * * *
    Build date means the date when construction identifiable with the 
specific vessel begins; or assembly of the vessel has commenced 
comprising at least 50 tons or 1 percent of the estimated mass of all 
structural material, whichever is less; or the ship undergoes a major 
conversion.
* * * * *
    3. Add Sec.  151.1505 to read as follows:


Sec.  151.1505  Severability.

    If a court finds any portion of this subpart to have been 
promulgated without proper authority, the remainder of this subpart 
will remain in full effect.
    4. Revise Sec.  151.1510(a)(1) and (3) to read as follows:


Sec.  151.1510  Ballast water management.

    (a) * * *
    (1) Carry out an exchange of ballast water on the waters beyond the 
EEZ, from an area more than 200 nautical miles from any shore, and in 
waters more than 2,000 meters (6,560 feet, 1,093 fathoms) deep, prior 
to entry into the Snell Lock, at Massena, New York, or prior to 
navigating on the Hudson River, north of the George Washington Bridge, 
such that, at the conclusion of the exchange, any tank from which 
ballast water will be discharged

[[Page 44648]]

contains water with a minimum salinity level of 30 parts per thousand, 
unless the vessel is required to implement an approved BWMS per the 
schedule found in Sec.  151.1512 of this subpart.
* * * * *
    (3) Use a ballast water management system (BWMS) that has been 
approved by the Coast Guard. Requests for approval of BWMS must be 
submitted to the Commanding Officer, U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety 
Center, Jemal Building, JR 10-0525, 2100 Second Street, SW., 
Washington, DC 20593.
    (i) Requirements for approval of BWMS are found in 46 CFR 162.060-
10.
    (ii) Unless otherwise expressly provided for in this subpart, the 
master, owner, operator, agent, or person-in-charge of vessels 
employing a Coast Guard approved BWMS must, at all times of discharge 
into the waters of the United States, meet the applicable ballast water 
discharge standard (BWDS) found in Sec.  151.1511 of this subpart.
* * * * *
    5. Add Sec.  151.1511 to read as follows:


Sec.  151.1511  Ballast water discharge standard (BWDS).

    (a) Vessels employing a Coast Guard approved BWMS must meet the 
following phase-one BWDS by the date listed in Table 151.1512(b) in 
section 151.1512 of this subpart:
    (1) For organisms larger than 50 microns in minimum dimension: 
Discharge less than 10 per cubic meter of ballast water;
    (2) For organisms equal to or smaller than 50 microns and larger 
than 10 microns: Discharge less than 10 per milliliter (ml) of ballast 
water; and
    (3) Indicator microorganisms must not exceed:
    (i) For Toxicogenic Vibrio cholerae (serotypes O1 and O139): A 
concentration of <1 colony forming unit (cfu) per 100 ml;
    (ii) For Escherichia coli: A concentration of <250 cfu per 100 ml; 
and
    (iii) For intestinal enterococci: A concentration of <100 cfu per 
100 ml.
    (b) Vessels employing a Coast Guard approved BWDS must meet the 
following phase-two BWDS by the date listed in Table 151.1512(c) in 
section 151.1512 of this subpart:
    (1) For organisms larger than 50 microns in minimum dimension: 
discharge less than 1 per 100 cubic meter of ballast water;
    (2) For organisms equal to or smaller than 50 microns and larger 
than 10 microns: Discharge less than 1 organism per 100 milliliter (ml) 
of ballast water;
    (3) For organisms less than 10 microns in minimum dimension:
    (i) Discharge less than 103 living bacterial cells per 100 ml of 
ballast water; and
    (ii) Discharge less than 104 viruses or viral-like particles per 
100 ml of ballast water; and
    (4) Indicator microorganisms must not exceed:
    (i) For Toxicogenic Vibrio cholerae (serotypes O1 and O139): A 
concentration of <1 colony forming unit (cfu) per 100 ml;
    (ii) For Escherichia coli: A concentration of <126 cfu per 100 ml; 
and
    (iii) For intestinal enterococci: A concentration of <33 cfu per 
100 ml.
    (c)(1) The Coast Guard shall, at least three years prior to the 
first compliance date set forth in Table 151.1512(c) in section 
151.1512 of this subpart, publish the results of a practicability 
review to determine whether--
    (i) Technology to comply with the performance standard required 
under paragraph (b) of this section can practicably be implemented, in 
whole or in part, by the applicable compliance dates; and
    (ii) Testing protocols that can assure accurate measurement of 
compliance with the performance standard required under paragraph (b) 
of this section can practicably be implemented.
    (2) If the Coast Guard cannot make a determination under paragraph 
(c)(1) of this section for some or all elements of the performance 
standard listed in paragraph (b) of this section, the Coast Guard 
shall, at the same time that it publishes the results of the 
practicability review, extend the initial compliance date, in 
accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act, in Table 151.1512(c) 
for the applicable elements of the performance standard, taking into 
consideration the findings of the practicability review.
    (3) If the Coast Guard cannot make a determination under paragraph 
(c)(1) of this section for some or all elements of the performance 
standard under paragraph (b) of this section, the Coast Guard shall 
update the practicability review, consistent with the requirements of 
paragraph (c)(1) of this section, as appropriate, but at least every 
two years, until the performance standard under paragraph (b) of this 
section is fully implemented.
    (4) If the Coast Guard finds, as a result of a practicability 
review under either paragraphs (c)(1) or (c)(3) of this section, that 
technology to achieve a significant improvement in treatment efficacy, 
either greater or less than the efficacy of the performance standards 
in paragraph (b) of this section can practicably be implemented, as 
outlined in paragraph (c)(1) of this section, the Coast Guard shall 
report this finding in the practicability review and propose an 
appropriate revision to the applicable requirements of this subpart.
    6. Redesignate Sec.  151.1512 as Sec.  151.1513, and add a new 
Sec.  151.1512 to read as follows:


Sec.  151.1512  Implementation schedule.

    (a) The master, owner, operator, agent, or person-in-charge of the 
vessel subject to this subpart and wishing to discharge ballast within 
U.S. waters must install and operate a Ballast Water Management System 
(BWMS) approved by the Coast Guard under 46 CFR part 162 in accordance 
with Table 151.1512(b) ``Implementation Schedule for the Phase-One 
Ballast Water Management Program'' of this section and Table 
151.1512(c) ``Implementation Schedule for the Phase-Two Ballast Water 
Management Program'' of this section, as applicable. Following 
installation, the master, owner, operator, agent, or person-in-charge 
of the vessel subject to this subpart must properly maintain the BWMS 
in accordance with all manufacturer specifications.
    (b) Table 151.1512(b) Implementation Schedule for the Phase-One 
Ballast Water Management Program

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Vessel's  ballast water  capacity     Vessel's  construction    Vessel's compliance
         (cubic meters, m\3\)                    date                     date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
New vessels..........................  All....................  On or after January 1,   On delivery.
                                                                 2012.
Existing vessels.....................  Less than 1500.........  Before January 1, 2012.  First drydocking after
                                                                                          January 1, 2016.
                                       1500-5000..............  Before January 1, 2012.  First drydocking after
                                                                                          January 1, 2014.
                                       Greater than 5000......  Before January 1, 2012.  First drydocking after
                                                                                          January 1, 2016.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 44649]]

    (c) Table 151.1512(c) Implementation Schedule for the Phase-Two 
Ballast Water Management Program

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Vessel's  ballast water  capacity     Vessel's  construction    Vessel's compliance
         (cubic meters, m\3\)                    date                     date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
New vessels..........................  All....................  On or after January 1,   On delivery.
                                                                 2016.
Existing vessels.....................  All....................  Before January 1, 2016.  First drydocking after
                                                                                          January 1, 2016,
                                                                                          UNLESS the vessel
                                                                                          installed a BWMS
                                                                                          meeting the phase-one
                                                                                          standard before
                                                                                          January 1, 2016, then
                                                                                          5 years after
                                                                                          installation of the
                                                                                          BWMS meeting the phase-
                                                                                          one standard.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    7. Revise Sec.  151.1516(a) to read as follows:


Sec.  151.1516  Compliance monitoring.

    (a) The master of each vessel equipped with ballast tanks must 
provide, as detailed in Sec.  151.2070, the following information, in 
written form, to the COTP.
* * * * *
    8. Revise Subpart D to read as follows:
Subpart D--Ballast Water Management for Control of Nonindigenous 
Species in Waters of the United States
Sec.
151.2000 Purpose and scope.
151.2005 Definitions.
151.2010 Applicability.
151.2013 Severability.
151.2015 Exemptions.
151.2020 Vessels in innocent passage.
151.2025 Ballast water management requirements.
151.2030 Ballast water discharge standard (BWDS).
151.2035 Implementation schedule for approved ballast water 
management system (BWMS).
151.2040 Discharge of ballast water in extraordinary circumstances.
151.2045 Safety exception.
151.2050 Additional requirements--nonindigenous species reduction 
practices.
151.2055 Deviation from planned voyage.
151.2060 Reporting requirements.
151.2065 Equivalent reporting methods for vessels other than those 
entering the Great Lakes or Hudson River after operating outside the 
exclusive economic zone or Canadian equivalent.
151.2070 Recordkeeping requirements.
151.2075 Enforcement and compliance.
151.2080 Penalties.

Appendix to Subpart D of Part 151--Ballast Water Reporting Form and 
Instructions for Ballast Water Reporting Form

    Authority: 16 U.S.C. 4711; Department of Homeland Security 
Delegation No. 0170.1.

Subpart D--Ballast Water Management for Control of Nonindigenous 
Species in Waters of the United States


Sec.  151.2000  Purpose and scope.

    This subpart implements the provisions of the Nonindigenous Aquatic 
Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990 (NANPCA) (16 U.S.C. 4701-
4751), as amended by the National Invasive Species Act of 1996 (NISA).


Sec.  151.2005  Definitions.

    (a) Unless otherwise stated in this section, the definitions in 33 
CFR 151.1504, 33 CFR 160.203, and the United Nations Convention on the 
Law of the Sea apply to this part.
    (b) As used in this part--
    ANSTF means the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force mandated under 
the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990 
(NANPCA).
    Ballast tank means any tank or hold on a vessel used for carrying 
ballast water, whether or not the tank or hold was designed for that 
purpose.
    Ballast Water Management System (BWMS) means any system which 
processes ballast water to kill or remove organisms. The BWMS includes 
all ballast water treatment equipment and all associated control and 
monitoring equipment.
    Build date means the date when construction identifiable with the 
specific vessels begins; or assembly of the vessel has commenced 
comprising at least 50 tons or 1 percent of the estimated mass of all 
structural material, whichever is less; or the ship undergoes a major 
conversion.
    Captain of the Port (COTP) means the Coast Guard officer designated 
by the Commandant to command a Captain of the Port Zone as described in 
part 3 of this chapter.
    Exchange means to replace the water in a ballast tank using one of 
the following methods:
    (1) Flow through exchange means to flush out ballast water by 
pumping in mid-ocean water at the bottom of the tank and continuously 
overflowing the tank from the top until three full volumes of water has 
been changed--to minimize the number of original organisms remaining in 
the tank.
    (2) Empty/refill exchange means to pump out the ballast water taken 
on in ports, estuarine, or territorial waters until the tank is empty, 
then refilling it with mid-ocean water. Masters or operators should 
pump out as close to 100 percent of the ballast water as is safe to do 
so.
    Exclusive economic zone (EEZ) means the area established by 
Presidential Proclamation Number 5030, dated March 10, 1983 (48 FR 
10605, 3 CFR, 1983 Comp., p. 22), which extends from the base line of 
the territorial sea of the United States seaward 200 nautical miles, 
and the equivalent zone of Canada.
    IMO guidelines mean the Guidelines for the Control and Management 
of Ships' Ballast Water to Minimize the Transfer of Harmful Aquatic 
Organisms and Pathogens (IMO Resolution A.868 (20), adopted November 
1997).
    NANPCA means the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and 
Control Act of 1990.
    NBIC means the National Ballast Information Clearinghouse operated 
by the Coast Guard and the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center as 
mandated under NISA.
    NISA means the National Invasive Species Act of 1996, which 
reauthorized and amended NANPCA.
    NIS reduction practices means non-ballast water management 
practices that vessels employ to reduce NIS introductions into U.S. 
waters.
    Port or place of departure means any port or place in which a 
vessel is anchored or moored.
    Port or place of destination means any port or place to which a 
vessel is bound to anchor or moor.
    Shipboard Technology Evaluation Program (STEP) means a Coast Guard 
research program intended to facilitate

[[Page 44650]]

research, development, and shipboard testing of effective BWMS. STEP 
requirements are located at: http://www.uscg.mil/environmental_
standards/.
    United States means the States, the District of Columbia, Guam, 
American Samoa, the Virgin Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, 
and the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands.
    Voyage means any transit by a vessel destined for any United States 
port or place.
    Waters of the United States means waters subject to the 
jurisdiction of the United States as defined in 33 CFR 2.38, including 
the navigable waters of the United States. For 33 Code of Federal 
Regulations part 151, subparts C and D, the navigable waters include 
the territorial sea as extended to 12 nautical miles from the baseline, 
pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 5928 of December 27, 1988.


Sec.  151.2010  Applicability.

    This subpart applies to all vessels, U.S. and foreign, equipped 
with ballast tanks, that operate in the waters of the United States 
except as expressly provided in 151.2020.


Sec.  151.2013  Severability.

    If a court finds any portion of this subpart to have been 
promulgated without proper authority, the remainder of this subpart 
will remain in full effect.


Sec.  151.2015  Exemptions.

    (a) The following vessels are exempt from the requirements of this 
subpart:
    (1) Department of Defense or Coast Guard vessels subject to the 
requirements of section 1103 of the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance 
Prevention and Control Act as amended by the National Invasive Species 
Act, or any vessel of the Armed Forces, as defined in the Federal Water 
Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1322(a)) that is subject to the 
``Uniform National Discharge Standards for Vessels of the Armed 
Forces'' (33 U.S.C. 1322(n)); and
    (2) Any warship, naval auxiliary, or other vessel owned or operated 
by a foreign state, and used, for the time being, only on government 
non-commercial service. However, each such foreign state shall ensure 
that such vessels act in a manner consistent, so far as is reasonable 
and practicable, with this subpart.
    (b) Crude oil tankers engaged in coastwise trade are exempt from 
the requirements of Sec. Sec.  151.2025, 151.2060, and 151.2070 of this 
subpart.
    (c) A vessel that operates exclusively within one Captain of the 
Port (COTP) Zone is exempt from the requirements in Sec. Sec.  151.2060 
and 151.2070 of this subpart.


Sec.  151.2020  Vessels in innocent passage.

    A foreign vessel merely traversing the territorial sea of the U.S. 
(i.e., not bound for, entering or departing a U.S. port, or not 
navigating the internal waters of the U.S.) does not fall within the 
applicability of this subpart.


Sec.  151.2025  Ballast water management requirements.

    (a) The master, owner, operator, agent, or person-in-charge of a 
vessel must:
    (1) Use a ballast water management system (BWMS) that has been 
approved by the Coast Guard under 46 CFR part 162;
    (2) Retain ballast water onboard the vessel; or
    (3) Perform complete ballast water exchange in an area 200 nautical 
miles from any shore prior to discharging ballast water in U.S. waters, 
unless the vessel is required to implement an approved BWMS per the 
schedule found in Sec.  151.2035 of this subpart.
    (b) Requests for approval of BWMS must be submitted to the 
Commanding Officer, U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Center, Jemal 
Building, JR 10-0525, 2100 Second Street, SW., Washington, DC 20593, in 
accordance with 46 CFR part 162.
    (c) A vessel engaged in the foreign export of Alaskan North Slope 
Crude Oil must comply with Sec. Sec.  151.2060 and 151.2070 of this 
subpart, as well as with the provisions of 15 CFR 754.2(j)(1)(iii). 
Section 15 CFR 754.2(j)(1)(iii) requires a mandatory program of deep 
water ballast exchange unless doing so would endanger the safety of the 
vessel or crew.
    (d) This subpart does not authorize the discharge of oil or noxious 
liquid substances (NLS) in a manner prohibited by United States or 
international laws or regulations. Ballast water carried in any tank 
containing a residue of oil, NLS, or any other pollutant must be 
discharged in accordance with applicable regulations.
    (e) This subpart does not affect or supersede any requirement or 
prohibition pertaining to the discharge of ballast water into the 
waters of the United States under the Federal Water Pollution Control 
Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 to 1376).
    (f) This subpart does not affect or supersede any requirement or 
prohibition pertaining to the discharge of ballast water into the 
waters of the United States under the National Marine Sanctuaries Act 
(16 U.S.C. 1431 et seq.).
    (g) Vessels with installed BWMS for testing and evaluation by an 
accepted Independent Laboratory in accordance with the requirements of 
46 CFR 162.060-10 will be deemed to be in compliance with paragraph 
(a)(1) of this section.


Sec.  151.2030  Ballast water discharge standard (BWDS).

    (a) Unless otherwise expressly provided for in this subpart, the 
master, owner, operator, agent, or person-in-charge of a vessel must 
ensure that vessels employing a Coast Guard approved Ballast Water 
Management System (BWMS) must, at all times of discharge into waters of 
the United States, meet the following phase-one BWDS by the date listed 
in Table 151.2035(b) in section 151.2035 of this subpart:
    (1) For organisms larger than 50 microns in minimum dimension: 
Discharge less than 10 per cubic meter of ballast water.
    (2) For organisms equal to or smaller than 50 microns and larger 
than 10 microns: Discharge less than 10 per milliliter (ml) of ballast 
water.
    (3) Indicator microorganisms must not exceed:
    (i) For Toxicogenic Vibrio cholerae (serotypes O1 and O139): A 
concentration of <1 colony forming unit (cfu) per 100 ml;
    (ii) For Escherichia coli: A concentration of <250 cfu per 100 ml; 
and
    (iii) For intestinal enterococci: A concentration of <100 cfu per 
100 ml.
    (b) Unless otherwise expressly provided for in this subpart, the 
master, owner, operator, agent, or person-in-charge of a vessel must 
ensure that vessels employing a Coast Guard approved BWMS must, at all 
times of discharge into waters of the United States, meet the following 
phase-two BWDS by the date listed in Table 151.2035(c) in section 
151.2035 of this subpart:
    (1) For organisms larger than 50 microns in minimum dimension: 
Discharge less than 1 per 100 cubic meter of ballast water;
    (2) For organisms equal to or smaller than 50 microns and larger 
than 10 microns: Discharge less than 1 organism per 100 milliliter (ml) 
of ballast water;
    (3) For organisms less than 10 microns in minimum dimension:
    (i) Discharge less than 10 \3\ living bacterial cells per 100 ml of 
ballast water; and
    (ii) Discharge less than 10 \4\ viruses or viral-like particles per 
100 ml of ballast water; and
    (4) Indicator microorganisms must not exceed:
    (i) For Toxicogenic Vibrio cholerae (serotypes O1 and O139): A

[[Page 44651]]

concentration of <1 colony forming unit (cfu) per 100 ml;
    (ii) For Escherichia coli: A concentration of <126 cfu per 100 ml; 
and
    (iii) For intestinal enterococci: A concentration of <33 cfu per 
100 ml.
    (c)(1) The Coast Guard shall, at least three years prior to the 
first compliance date set forth in Table 151.2035(c) in section 
151.1512 of this subpart, publish the results of a practicability 
review to determine whether--
    (i) Technology to comply with the performance standard required 
under paragraph (b) of this section can practicably be implemented, in 
whole or in part, by the applicable compliance dates; and
    (ii) Testing protocols that can assure accurate measurement of 
compliance with the performance standard required under paragraph (b) 
of this section can practicably be implemented.
    (2) If the Coast Guard cannot make a determination under paragraph 
(c)(1) of this section for some or all elements of the performance 
standard listed in paragraph (b) of this section, the Coast Guard 
shall, at the same time that it publishes the results of the 
practicability review, extend the initial compliance date, in 
accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act, in Table 151.2035(c) 
for the applicable elements of the performance standard, taking into 
consideration the findings of the practicability review.
    (3) If the Coast Guard cannot make a determination under paragraph 
(c)(1) of this section for some or all elements of the performance 
standard under paragraph (b) of this section, the Coast Guard shall 
update the practicability review, consistent with the requirements of 
paragraph (c)(1) of this section, as appropriate, but at least every 
three years, until the performance standard under paragraph (b) of this 
section is fully implemented.
    (4) If the Coast Guard finds, as a result of a practicability 
review under either paragraphs (c)(1) or (c)(3) of this section, that 
technology to achieve a significant improvement in treatment efficacy, 
either greater or less than the efficacy of the performance standards 
in paragraph (b) of this section can practicably be implemented, as 
outlined in paragraph (c)(1) of this section, the Coast Guard shall 
report this finding in the practicability review and propose an 
appropriate revision to the applicable requirements of this subpart.


Sec.  151.2035  Implementation schedule for approved ballast water 
management systems (BWMS).

    (a) The master, owner, operator, agent, or person-in-charge of a 
vessel subject to this subpart and wishing to discharge ballast within 
U.S. waters must install and operate a Ballast Water Management System 
(BWMS) approved by the Coast Guard under 46 CFR part 162 in accordance 
with Table 151.2035(b) ``Implementation Schedule for the Phase-One 
Ballast Water Management Program'' of this section and Table 
151.2035(c) ``Implementation Schedule for the Phase-Two Ballast Water 
Management Program'' of this section, as applicable. Following 
installation, the master, owner, operator, agent, or person-in-charge 
of the vessel subject to this subpart must properly maintain the BWMS 
in accordance with all manufacturer specifications.
    (b) Table 151.2035 (b) Implementation Schedule for the Phase-One 
Ballast Water Management Program


----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                        Vessel's ballast water
                                           capacity  (cubic      Vessel's construction     Vessel's compliance
                                            meters, m\3\)                 date                     date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
New vessels..........................  All....................  On or after January 1,   On delivery.
                                                                 2012.
Existing vessels.....................  Less than 1500.........  Before January 1, 2012.  First drydocking after
                                                                                          January 1, 2016.
                                       1500-5000..............  Before January 1, 2012.  First drydocking after
                                                                                          January 1, 2014.
                                       Greater than 5000......  Before January 1, 2012.  First drydocking after
                                                                                          January 1, 2016.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

     (c) Table 151.2035(c) Implementation Schedule for the Phase-Two 
Ballast Water Management Program


----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                        Vessel's ballast water
                                           capacity  (cubic      Vessel's construction     Vessel's compliance
                                            meters, m\3\)                 date                     date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
New vessels..........................  All....................  On or after January 1,   On delivery.
                                                                 2016.
Existing vessels.....................  All....................  Before January 1, 2016.  First drydocking after
                                                                                          January 1, 2016,
                                                                                          UNLESS the vessel
                                                                                          installed a BWMS
                                                                                          meeting the phase-one
                                                                                          standard before
                                                                                          January 1, 2016, then
                                                                                          5 years after
                                                                                          installation of the
                                                                                          BWMS meeting the phase-
                                                                                          one standard.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sec.  151.2040  Discharge of ballast water in extraordinary 
circumstances.

    (a) The master, owner, operator, agent, or person-in-charge of a 
vessel that cannot practicably meet the requirements of Sec.  
151.2025(a)(3) of this subpart--either because its voyage does not take 
it into waters 200 nautical miles or greater from any shore for a 
sufficient length of time and the vessel retains ballast water on 
board, or because the master of the vessel has identified the safety or 
stability concerns contained in Sec.  151.2045 of this subpart--will be 
allowed to discharge ballast water in areas other than the Great Lakes 
and the Hudson River. This exception would be allowed until the vessel 
would be required to have a Coast Guard approved BWMS per the 
implementation schedule found in Table 151.2035(b) of this subpart. The 
master, owner, operator, agent, or person-in-charge of the vessel must

[[Page 44652]]

discharge only that amount of ballast water operationally necessary to 
ensure the safety of the vessel for cargo operations. Ballast water 
records must be made available to the local Captain of the Port upon 
request.
    (b) A vessel that cannot practicably meet the requirements of Sec.  
151.2025(a)(1) of this subpart because its approved BWMS is inoperable 
must employ one of the other ballast water management practices listed 
in Sec.  151.2025(a) of this subpart. If the master of the vessel 
determines that the vessel cannot employ other ballast water management 
practices due to voyage or safety concerns, the vessel will be allowed 
to discharge ballast water in areas other than the Great Lakes and the 
Hudson River. The vessel must discharge only that amount of ballast 
water operationally necessary to ensure the safety and stability of the 
vessel for cargo operations. Ballast water records must be made 
available to the local Captain of the Port upon request. Per the 
implementation schedule found in Table 151.2035(b) of this subpart, a 
vessel will be prohibited from discharging non-managed ballast water 
until its approved BWMS is repaired in accordance to the manufacturer's 
specifications.


Sec.  151.2045  Safety exception.

    (a) The master, owner, operator, agent, or person-in-charge of a 
vessel is responsible for the safety of the vessel, its crew, and its 
passengers.
    (b) The master, owner, operator, agent, or person-in-charge of a 
vessel is not required to conduct a ballast water management practice, 
including exchange, if the master determines that the practice would 
threaten the safety or stability of the vessel, its crew, or its 
passengers because of adverse weather, vessel design limitations, 
equipment failure, or any other extraordinary conditions. If the master 
uses this safety exception and the vessel--
    (1) Is on a voyage to the Great Lakes or Hudson River, the vessel 
must comply with the requirements of Sec.  151.1514 of subpart C of 
this part.
    (2) Is on a voyage to any port other than the Great Lakes or Hudson 
River, the vessel will not be required to perform a ballast water 
management practice, including exchange, that the master has found to 
threaten the safety of the vessel, its crew, or its passengers because 
of adverse weather, vessel design limitations, equipment failure, or 
any other extraordinary conditions.
    (c) Nothing in this subpart relieves the master, owner, operator, 
agent, or person-in-charge of a vessel of any responsibility, including 
ensuring the safety and stability of the vessel and the safety of the 
crew and passengers.


Sec.  151.2050  Additional requirements--nonindigenous species 
reduction practices.

    The master, owner, operator, agent, or person-in-charge of any 
vessel equipped with ballast water tanks that operates in the waters of 
the U.S. must:
    (a) Avoid the discharge or uptake of ballast water in areas within, 
or that may directly affect marine sanctuaries, marine preserves, 
marine parks, or coral reefs.
    (b) Minimize or avoid uptake of ballast water in the following 
areas and situations:
    (1) Areas known to have infestations or populations of harmful 
organisms and pathogens (e.g., toxic algal blooms);
    (2) Areas near sewage outfalls;
    (3) Areas near dredging operations;
    (4) Areas where tidal flushing is known to be poor or times when a 
tidal stream is known to be turbid;
    (5) In darkness when bottom-dwelling organisms may rise up in the 
water column;
    (6) Where propellers may stir up the sediment; and
    (7) Areas with pods of whales, convergence zones, and boundaries of 
major currents.
    (c) Clean the ballast tanks regularly to remove sediments. Tanks 
should be cleaned 200 nautical miles from any shore or under controlled 
arrangements in port or at dry dock. Sediments should be disposed of in 
accordance with local, State, and Federal regulations.
    (d) Discharge only the minimal amount of ballast water essential 
for vessel operations while in the waters of the United States.
    (e) Rinse anchors and anchor chains when the anchor is retrieved to 
remove organisms and sediments at their place of origin.
    (f) Remove fouling organisms from hull, piping, and tanks on a 
regular basis and dispose of any removed substances in accordance with 
local, State and Federal regulations.
    (g) Maintain a ballast water management plan that has been 
developed specifically for the vessel that will allow those responsible 
for the plan's implementation to understand and follow the vessel's 
ballast water management strategy and comply with the requirements of 
this subpart. The plan must include the following:
    (1) Detailed safety procedures;
    (2) Actions for implementing the mandatory BWM requirements and 
practices;
    (3) Detailed fouling maintenance and sediment removal procedures;
    (4) Procedures for coordinating the shipboard BWM strategy with 
Coast Guard authorities;
    (5) Identification of the designated officer[s] in charge of 
ensuring that the plan is properly implemented;
    (6) Detailed reporting requirements and procedures for ports and 
places in the U.S. where the vessel may visit; and
    (7) A translation of the plan into English, French or Spanish if 
the Ship's working language is another language.
    (h) Train the master, operator, agent, person-in-charge, and crew 
on the application of ballast water and sediment management and 
treatment procedures.


Sec.  151.2055  Deviation from planned voyage.

    As long as ballast water exchange (BWE) is an allowable ballast 
water management option under Sec. Sec.  151.2025 and 151.2035 of this 
subpart, a vessel will not be required to deviate from its voyage or 
delay the voyage in order to conduct BWE.


Sec.  151.2060  Reporting requirements.

    (a) Ballast water reporting requirements exist for each vessel 
subject to this subpart bound for ports or places of the United States 
regardless of whether a vessel operated outside of the exclusive 
economic zone (which includes the equivalent zone of Canada), unless 
exempted in Sec.  151.2015 of this subpart.
    (b) The owner, operator, agent, or person-in-charge of a vessel 
subject to this subpart and to whom this section applies must provide 
the information required by Sec.  151.2070 of this subpart in 
electronic or written form (OMB form Control No. 1625-0069) to the 
Commandant, U.S. Coast Guard or the appropriate Captain of the Port 
(COTP) as follows:
    (1) For any vessel bound for the Great Lakes from outside the EEZ.
    (i) Fax the required information at least 24 hours before the 
vessel arrives in Montreal, Quebec to the USCG COTP Buffalo, Massena 
Detachment (315-769-5032); or
    (ii) As an alternative for non-U.S. and non-Canadian flag vessels, 
complete the ballast water information section of the form required by 
the St. Lawrence Seaway, ``Pre-entry Information from Foreign Flagged 
Vessels Form'', and submit it in accordance with the applicable Seaway 
Notice in lieu of this requirement.
    (2) For any vessel bound for the Hudson River north of the George 
Washington Bridge entering from outside the EEZ. Fax the information to 
the COTP New York (718-354-4249) at least 24 hours before the vessel 
enters New York, New York.

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    (3) For any vessel that is equipped with ballast water tanks and 
bound for ports or places in the United States and not addressed in 
paragraphs (b)(1) and (b)(2) of this section. If a vessel's voyage is 
less than 24 hours, report before departing the port or place of 
departure. If a voyage exceeds 24 hours, report at least 24 hours 
before arrival at the port or place of destination. All required 
information is to be sent to the National Ballast Information 
Clearinghouse (NBIC) using only one of the following means:
    (i) Via the Internet at: http://invasions.si.edu/nbic/index.html;
    (ii) E-mail to NBIC@BallastReport.org;
    (iii) Fax to 301-261-4319; or
    (iv) Mail to U.S. Coast Guard, c/o Smithsonian Environmental 
Research Center, P.O. Box 28, Edgewater, MD 21037-0028.
    (c) If the information submitted in accordance with this section 
changes, submit an amended form before the vessel departs the waters of 
the United States.


Sec.  151.2065  Equivalent reporting methods for vessels other than 
those entering the Great Lakes or Hudson River after operating outside 
the EEZ or Canadian equivalent.

    For ships required to report under Sec.  151.2060(b)(3) of this 
subpart, the Chief, Environmental Standards Division (CG-5224), acting 
for the Assistant Commandant for Safety, Security, and Stewardship (CG-
5), may, upon receipt of a written request, consider and approve 
alternative methods of reporting if:
    (a) Such methods are at least as effective as that required by 
Sec.  151.2060 of this subpart; and
    (b) Compliance with Sec.  151.2060 of this subpart is economically 
or physically impractical. The Chief, Environmental Standards Division 
(CG-5224), will take approval or disapproval action on the request 
submitted in accordance with this section within 30 days of receipt of 
the request.


Sec.  151.2070  Recordkeeping requirements.

    (a) The master, owner, operator, agent, or person-in-charge of a 
vessel bound for a port or place in the United States, unless 
specifically exempted by Sec.  151.2015 of this subpart, must maintain 
written records that include the following information:
    (1) Vessel information. This includes the name, International 
Maritime Organization (IMO) Number (official number if IMO number not 
issued), vessel type, owner or operator, gross tonnage, call sign, and 
port of registry (flag).
    (2) Voyage information. This includes the date and port of arrival, 
vessel agent, last port and country of call, and next port and country 
of call.
    (3) Total ballast water information. This includes the total 
ballast water capacity, total volume of ballast water on board, total 
number of ballast water tanks, and total number of ballast water tanks 
in ballast. Use units of measurements such as metric tons (MT), cubic 
meters (m\3\), long tons (LT), and short tons (ST).
    (4) Ballast water management. This includes the total number of 
ballast tanks/holds that are to be discharged into the waters of the 
United States or to a reception facility. If an alternative ballast 
water management method is used, note the number of tanks that are 
managed using an alternative method, as well as the type of method 
used. Indicate whether the vessel has a ballast water management plan 
and IMO guidelines on board, and whether the ballast water management 
plan is used.
    (5) Information on ballast water tanks that are to be discharged 
into the waters of the United States or to a reception facility. 
Include the following:
    (i) The origin of ballast water. This includes date(s), 
location(s), volume(s) and temperature(s). If a tank has been 
exchanged, list the loading port of the ballast water that was 
discharged during the exchange.
    (ii) The date(s), location(s), volume(s), method, thoroughness 
(percentage exchanged if exchange conducted), and sea height at time of 
exchange if exchange conducted of any ballast water exchanged or 
otherwise managed.
    (iii) The expected date, location, volume, and salinity of any 
ballast water to be discharged into the waters of the United States or 
a reception facility.
    (6) Discharge of sediment. If sediment is to be discharged within 
the jurisdiction of the United States, include the location of the 
facility where the disposal will take place.
    (7) Certification of accurate information. Include the master, 
owner, operator, agent, person-in-charge, or responsible officer's 
printed name, title, and signature attesting to the accuracy of the 
information provided and certifying compliance with the requirements of 
this subpart.
    (8) Change to previously submitted information. Indicate whether 
the information is a change to information previously submitted for 
this voyage.
    (9) The master, owner, operator, agent, or person-in-charge of a 
vessel subject to this section must retain a signed copy of this 
information on board the vessel for 2 years.
    (10) The information required of this subpart may be used to 
satisfy the ballast water recordkeeping requirements for vessels 
subject to 33 CFR Part 151 subpart C and Sec.  151.2025(c).
    (11) A sample form and the instructions for completing the form are 
in the appendix to this subpart. Completing the ``Ballast Water 
Reporting Form'' contained in the IMO Guidelines or completing the 
ballast water information section of the form required by the St. 
Lawrence Seaway ``Pre-entry Information Flagged Vessels Form'' meets 
the requirements of this section.


Sec.  151.2075  Enforcement and compliance.

    (a) The Captain of the Port (COTP) shall be provided access in 
order to take samples of ballast water and sediment, examine documents, 
and make other appropriate inquiries to assess the compliance of any 
vessel subject to this subpart.
    (b) The master, owner, operator, agent, or person in charge of a 
vessel subject to this section must provide to the COTP the records 
required by Sec.  151.2070 of this subpart upon request.
    (c) The NBIC will compile the data obtained from submitted reports. 
This data will be used, in conjunction with existing databases on the 
number of vessel arrivals, to assess vessel reporting rates.
    (d) Vessels with installed BWMS are subject to Coast Guard 
inspection in accordance with 46 CFR 2.75-1.
    (e) In this subpart, wherever multiple entities are responsible for 
compliance with any requirement of the rule, each entity is jointly 
liable for a violation of such requirement.


Sec.  151.2080  Penalties.

    (a) A person who violates this subpart is liable for a civil 
penalty not to exceed $ 27,500. Each day of a continuing violation 
constitutes a separate violation. A vessel operated in violation of the 
regulations is liable in rem for any civil penalty assessed under this 
subpart for that violation.
    (b) A person who knowingly violates the regulations of this subpart 
is guilty of a class C felony.

Appendix to Subpart D of Part 151--Ballast Water Reporting Form and 
Instructions for Ballast Water Reporting Form

BILLING CODE 4910-15-P

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BILLING CODE 4910-15-C

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Title 46--Shipping

CHAPTER I--COAST GUARD

Subchapter Q--Equipment, Construction, and Materials: Specifications 
and Approval

PART 162--ENGINEERING EQUIPMENT

    9. Revise the authority citation for part 162 to read as follows:

    Authority:  16 U.S.C. 4711; 33 U.S.C. 1321(j), 1903; 46 U.S.C. 
3306, 3703, 4104, 4302; E.O. 12234, 45 FR 58801, 3 CFR, 1980 Comp., 
p. 277; E.O. 12777, 56 FR 54757, 3 CFR, 1991 Comp., p. 351; 
Department of Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1.

    10. Add subpart 162.060 to subchapter Q of Chapter I of title 46 of 
the CFR to read as follows:

Subpart 162.060--Ballast Water Management Systems

Sec.
162.060-1 Purpose and scope.
162.060-3 Definitions.
162.060-5 Incorporation by reference.

Application Submission Procedures

162.060-10 Approval procedures.
162.060-12 Equivalency determinations for ballast water management 
systems.
162.060-14 Information requirements for the ballast water management 
system application.
162.060-16 Changes to an approved ballast water management system.
162.060-18 Suspension, withdrawal or termination of approval.

Ballast Water Management System Testing Procedures

162.060-20 Design and construction requirements.
162.060-22 Marking requirements.
162.060-24 Test Plan requirements.
162.060-26 Land-based testing requirements.
162.060-28 Shipboard testing requirements.
162.060-30 Testing requirements for ballast water management system 
(BWMS) components.
162.060-32 Testing and evaluation requirements for Active 
Substances, Preparations, and Relevant Chemicals.
162.060-34 Test Report requirements.
162.060-36 Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) requirements.
162.060-38 Operation, Maintenance, and Safety Manual (OMSM).
162.060-40 Requirements of Independent Laboratories (IL).

    Authority: 16 U.S.C. 4711; Department of Homeland Security 
Delegation No. 0170.1.

Subpart 162.060--Ballast Water Management Systems


Sec.  162.060-1  Purpose and scope.

    This subpart contains procedures and requirements for approval of 
complete ballast water management systems (BWMS) to be installed 
onboard vessels for the purpose of complying with the ballast water 
discharge standard of 33 CFR part 151, subparts C and D.


Sec.  162.060-3  Definitions.

    As used in this subpart--
    Active substance means a chemical or an organism, including a virus 
or a fungus, that has a general or specific action on or against 
nonindigenous species.
    Ballast water management system (BWMS) means any system which 
processes ballast water to kill or remove organisms. The BWMS includes 
all ballast water treatment equipment and all associated control and 
monitoring equipment.
    Ballast water system means the tanks, piping, valves, pumps, sea 
chests, and any other associated equipment the vessel uses for the 
purposes of ballasting.
    Ballast water treatment equipment means equipment that 
mechanically, physically, chemically, or biologically processes ballast 
water, either singularly or in combination, to remove, render harmless, 
or avoid the uptake or discharge of living organisms within ballast 
water and sediments.
    Control and monitoring equipment means installed equipment required 
to operate, control, and assess the effective operation of the ballast 
water treatment equipment.
    Foreign Administration means the Government of the State under 
whose authority the ship is operating.
    Hazardous location means areas where fire or explosion hazards may 
exist due to the presence of flammable gases/vapors, flammable liquids, 
combustible dust, or ignitable fibers. Refer to NEC and IEC 79-0.
    Hazardous materials means hazardous materials as defined in 49 CFR 
171.8; hazardous substances designated under 40 CFR part 116.4; 
reportable quantities as defined under 40 CFR 117.1; materials that 
meet the criteria for hazard classes and divisions in 49 CFR part 173; 
materials under 46 CFR 153.40 determined by the Coast Guard to be 
hazardous when transported in bulk; flammable liquids defined in 46 CFR 
30.10-22; combustible liquids as defined in 46 CFR 30.10-15; materials 
listed in Table 46 CFR 151.05, Table 1 of 46 CFR 153, or Table 4 of 46 
CFR part 154; or any liquid, liquefied gas, or compressed gas listed in 
49 CFR 172.101.
    Independent Laboratory (IL) means an organization that meets the 
requirements in 46 CFR 159.010-3 and is accepted by the Coast Guard for 
performing approval tests and evaluations of BWMS required by this 
subpart. In addition to commercial testing laboratories, the Commandant 
may also accept classification societies and agencies of governments 
(including State and Federal agencies of the United States) that are 
involved in the evaluation and testing of BWMS, if they meet the 
requirements of Sec.  159.010-3 of this subchapter.
    In-line treatment means a treatment system or technology used to 
treat ballast water during normal flow of ballast uptake or discharge.
    In-tank treatment means a treatment system or technology used to 
treat ballast water during the time that it resides in the ballast 
tanks.
    Pesticide means any substance or mixture of substances intended for 
preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating any pest as defined 
under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA)(7 
U.S.C. 136 et seq.) and 40 CFR 152.3.
    Preparation means any commercial formulation containing one or more 
active substances, including any additives. This definition also 
includes any active substances generated onboard a vessel for the 
purpose of ballast water management and any relevant chemical formed in 
or by the BWMS that makes use of active substances to comply with the 
ballast water discharge standard codified in 33 CFR part 151 subpart C 
or D.
    Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) means a project-specific 
technical document reflecting the implementation of quality assurance 
and quality control activities, including specifics of the BWMS to be 
tested, the Independent Laboratory, and other conditions affecting the 
actual design and implementation of the required tests and evaluations.
    Relevant chemicals mean transformation or reaction products that 
are produced during the treatment process or in the receiving 
environment and may be of concern to the aquatic environment and human 
health when discharged.
    Representativeness means a sample that can be expected to 
adequately reflect the properties of interest from where the sample was 
drawn.
    Sampling port refers to the equipment installed in the ballast 
water piping prior to the point of overboard discharge through which 
representative samples of the ballast water being discharged are 
extracted. This is equivalent to the term ``sampling facility'' under 
the guidelines for the International Convention for the Control and 
Management of Ships' Ballast Water and Sediments, ``Convention 
Guidelines for Ballast Water Sampling (G2)''.

[[Page 44663]]

    Test facilities means locations where ILs conduct land-based, 
component, active substance and relevant chemical testing and 
evaluations, as required by this subpart.


Sec.  162.060-5  Incorporation by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part 
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5 
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. To enforce any edition other than that 
specified in this section, the Coast Guard must publish notice of 
change in the Federal Register and the material must be available to 
the public. All approved material is available for inspection at the 
National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on 
the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030 or go to 
http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_
regulations/ibr_locations.html. Also, it is available for inspection 
at the Environmental Standards Division (CG-5224), U.S. Coast Guard, 
2100 Second Street, SW., Washington, DC 20593, and is available from 
the sources indicated in this section.
    (b) International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), 3 rue Varembe, 
Geneva, Switzerland.
    (1) IEC 79-0, Electrical Apparatus for Explosive Gas Atmospheres, 
Part 0, General Requirements, 1983 (Including Amendment 2, 1991), Sec.  
162.060-38.
    (2) IEC 529, Classification of Degrees of Protection by Enclosures, 
Sec.  162.060-30.
    (c) International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the 
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), 1, ch. de la Voie-
Creuse, Case postale 56 CH-1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland. ISO/IEC 17025, 
General Requirements for the Competence of Calibration and Testing 
Laboratories, Sec.  162.060-36.
    (d) National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Batterymarch Park, 
Quincy, MA 02269. NEC, see NFPA 70, Sec.  162.060-38.


Sec.  162.060-10  Approval procedures.

    (a) Before any testing is initiated on the ballast water management 
system (BWMS), the manufacturer must submit a Letter of Intent 
providing as much as possible of the below information to the 
Commanding Officer, U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Center, Jemal 
Building, JR 10-0525, 2100 Second Street, SW., Washington, DC 20593 and 
the Commanding Officer, U.S. Coast Guard, Office of Operating and 
Environmental Standards (CG-522), RM 1210, 2100 Second Street, SW., 
Washington, DC 20593:
    (1) Manufacturer's name.
    (2) Name and location of Independent Laboratory (IL).
    (3) Name and type of BWMS.
    (4) Expected date of submission of full application package to the 
Coast Guard.
    (5) Name and type of vessel for shipboard testing.
    (b) The manufacturer must ensure testing of the BWMS is conducted 
by an Independent Laboratory in accordance with Sec. Sec.  162.060-20 
through 162.060-40 of this subpart.
    (c) The manufacturer must submit application in accordance with 
Sec.  162.060-14 of this subpart.
    (d) Upon receipt of an application completed in compliance with 
Sec.  162.060-14 of this subpart, the Coast Guard Marine Safety Center 
will evaluate the application and either approve, disapprove, or return 
it to the manufacturer for further revision.
    (e) The Coast Guard will independently conduct environmental 
analyses of each system in accordance with the National Environmental 
Policy Act, the Endangered Species Act, and/or other environmental 
statues, in addition to tests and evaluations conducted by an IL 
required by this subpart. Applicants are advised that applications 
including novel processes or active substances may encounter 
significantly longer reviews during this evaluation.
    (f) After evaluation of the Test Report and all design, 
construction, and environmental considerations, the Commanding Officer, 
U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Center, will advise the applicant in 
accordance with 46 CFR Sec. Sec.  159.005-13 or 159.005-15 whether the 
BWMS is approved.
    (g) A BWMS is eligible for approval if:
    (1) It meets the design and construction requirements in Sec.  
162.060-20 of this subpart;
    (2) It is tested under land-based and shipboard conditions in 
accordance with Sec.  162.060-26 and Sec.  162.060-28 of this subpart, 
respectively, and thereby demonstrated to consistently meet the ballast 
water discharge standard in 33 CFR part 151, subparts C and D;
    (3) All applicable components of the BWMS meet the component 
testing requirements of Sec.  162.060-30 of this subpart;
    (4) Of the BWMS that use an active substance or preparation, the 
BWMS meets the requirement of Sec.  162.060-32 of this subpart; and
    (5) Of the BWMS that use or generate an active substance, 
preparation, or relevant chemical, the ballast water discharge, 
preparation, active substance, or relevant chemical are not found to be 
persistent, bioaccumulative, or toxic.
    (h) If tests or evaluations required by this section are not 
practicable or applicable, a manufacturer may submit a written request 
to the Commanding Officer, U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Center, Jemal 
Building, JR 10-0525, 2100 Second Street, SW., Washington, DC 20593 for 
approval of alternatives. The request must include the manufacturer's 
justification for any proposed changes and contain full descriptions of 
any proposed alternative tests. The Coast Guard's Marine Safety Center 
will return a copy of the Test Report with a cover letter advising the 
manufacturer whether the BWMS is approved. Any limitations imposed by 
the BWMS on testing procedures and all approved deviations from any 
test or evaluation required by this subpart must be duly noted in the 
Experimental Design section of the Test Plan.
    (i) The Commanding Officer, USCG Marine Safety Center will send a 
copy of the Test Report to the applicant and advise the applicant 
whether the BWMS is approved. If the BWMS is approved, an approval 
certificate is sent to the applicant. The approval certificate lists 
conditions of approval applicable to the item. The approval certificate 
will be issued in accordance with 46 CFR 2.75-5.


Sec.  162.060-12  Equivalency determinations for ballast water 
management systems (BWMS).

    (a) A manufacturer whose BWMS has been approved by a Foreign 
Administration may request in writing for the Coast Guard to make an 
equivalency determination if it can be demonstrated that the BWMS 
successfully met or exceeded the requirements of this subpart.
    (b) A manufacturer whose BWMS that has successfully been used in a 
prototype experimental treatment system program that included tests 
onboard a vessel under normal shipping operations may apply for an 
equivalency for the shipboard or component testing requirements 
outlined in Sec. Sec.  162.060-28 and 162.060-30 of this subpart 
respectively, if it can be demonstrated that the BWMS successfully met 
or exceeded comparable conditions during the shipboard testing period.
    (c) If a manufacturer has already conducted a substantial amount of 
land-based and/or shipboard testing independent of the requirements of 
this subpart, the Coast Guard may make an equivalency determination.
    (d) The request for an equivalency must include the following:

[[Page 44664]]

    (1) Name, point of contact, address, and phone number of the 
authority overseeing the program;
    (2) Entry and exit dates to that program;
    (3) Final test results and findings; and
    (4) A description of any modifications made to the system between 
the prototype and final development of the system.
    (e) All requests for equivalencies under this section should be 
submitted in writing to the Commanding Officer, U.S. Coast Guard Marine 
Safety Center, Jemal Building, JR 10-0525, 2100 Second Street, SW., 
Washington, DC 20593.


Sec.  162.060-14  Information requirements for the ballast water 
management system (BWMS) application.

    (a) A complete BWMS application must contain the following 
information:
    (1) The name and location of the Independent Laboratory (IL) 
conducting approval tests and evaluations;
    (2) Two sets of plans describing the BWMS, as specified in 46 CFR 
159.005-12;
    (3) An Operation, Maintenance and Safety Manual for the BWMS that 
meets the requirements in Sec.  162.060-38;
    (4) A bill of materials showing all components and specifications 
of the BWMS, as required by 46 CFR Sec.  56.60;
    (5) A list of any system or component of the BWMS that may require 
certification under 46 CFR part 64 as a marine portable tank;
    (6) A list of any pressure vessels used as a part of the BWMS along 
with a description of either how each pressure vessel meets the 
requirements of 46 CFR part 54 or why it should be considered exempt 
from these requirements. Manufacturers must also submit detailed plans 
in accordance with 46 CFR 50.20 if they intend to fabricate pressure 
vessels, heat exchangers, evaporators and similar appurtenances covered 
by the requirements in 46 CFR part 54;
    (7) Documentation of all necessary approval, registrations, and 
other documents or certification required for any active substances, 
preparations, or relevant chemicals used by the BWMS. The documentation 
must include the following:
    (i) A list of any active substances, preparations, or relevant 
chemicals that are used, produced, generated as a byproduct, and/or 
discharged in association with the operation of the BWMS; and
    (ii) A list of all limitations or restrictions that must be 
complied with during the approval testing and evaluations;
    (8) A detailed description of the manufacturer's quality control 
procedures for:
    (i) In-process and final inspections;
    (ii) Tests followed in manufacturing the item; and
    (iii) Construction and sales recordkeeping maintenance systems; and
    (9) The completed Test Report prepared and submitted by the IL.
    (b) The completed application must be sent to the Commanding 
Officer, U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Center, Jemal Building, JR 10-
0525, 2100 Second Street, SW., Washington, DC 20593.
    (c) If examination of the application reveals that it is 
incomplete, it will be returned to the applicant with an explanation.


Sec.  162.060-16  Changes to an approved ballast water management 
system (BWMS).

    (a) The manufacturer of a BWMS that is approved by the Coast Guard 
must notify the Commanding Officer, USCG Marine Safety Center, in 
writing of any change in design or intended operational conditions of 
an approved BWMS.
    (b) The notification in (a) must include:
    (1) A description of the change, and its advantages;
    (2) A determination by the original IL, or an alternate IL deemed 
acceptable by the Coast Guard, as to whether or not the change affects 
how the BWMS operates;
    (3) A determination of whether or not the modified BWMS remains in 
all material respects, the same as the original; and
    (4) An indication of whether or not the original BWMS will continue 
to be made or discontinued altogether.
    (c) After receipt of the notice and information, the Coast Guard 
will notify the manufacturer and the IL in writing of any tests or 
evaluations that must be conducted, and then determine if 
recertification and/or modification is required.


Sec.  162.060-18  Suspension, withdrawal, or termination of approval.

    The Coast Guard may suspend an approval issued for a BWMS in 
accordance with 46 CFR 2.75-40, withdraw an approval in accordance with 
46 CFR 2.75-50(a), or terminate an approval in accordance with 46 CFR 
2.75-50(b) if the BWMS as manufactured:
    (a) Is not found to be in compliance with the conditions of 
approval;
    (b) Is unsuitable for the purpose intended by the manufacturer;
    (c) Does not meet the requirements of applicable laws, rules, and 
regulations when installed and operated as intended by the 
manufacturer;
    (d) Is no longer being manufactured or supported; or
    (e) When the approval expires.


Sec.  162.060-20  Design and construction requirements.

    (a) Unless otherwise authorized by the Commandant, each BWMS must 
be designed and constructed in a manner that:
    (1) Ensures simple and effective means for its operation;
    (2) Allows operation to be initiated, controlled, and monitored by 
a single individual, and with minimal interaction or attention once 
normal operation is initiated;
    (3) Is robust and suitable for working in the shipboard environment 
and adequate for its intended service;
    (4) Meets all applicable requirements in 46 CFR Subchapter F, 
Marine Engineering, and Subchapter J, Electrical Engineering; and
    (5) Operates when the vessel is upright, inclined under static 
conditions at any angle of list up to and including 15[deg], and when 
the vessel is inclined under dynamic, rolling conditions at any angle 
of list up to and including 22.5[deg] and, simultaneously, at any angle 
of trim (pitching) up to and including 7.5[deg] by bow or stern. 
Deviations from these angles of inclination may be permitted by the 
Coast Guard's Marine Safety Center, in accordance with Sec.  162.060-
10(h), considering the type, size, and service of intended vessels and 
considering how the BWMS is to be operated.
    (b) Each BWMS must have control and monitoring equipment that:
    (1) Automatically monitors and adjusts necessary treatment dosages, 
intensities, or other aspects required for proper operation;
    (2) Incorporates a continuous self-monitoring function during the 
period in which the BWMS is in operation;
    (3) Records proper functioning and failures of the BWMS;
    (4) Records all events in which an alarm is activated for the 
purposes of cleaning, calibration, or repair;
    (5) Records any bypass of the BWMS;
    (6) Is able to store data for at least 24 months and to display or 
print a record for official inspections as required; and
    (7) In the event the control and monitoring equipment is replaced, 
actions must be taken to ensure the data recorded prior to replacement 
remains available onboard for a minimum of 24 months.
    (c) Each BWMS must be designed and constructed with the following 
operating and emergency controls:

[[Page 44665]]

    (1) Visual means of indicating when the BWMS is operating, 
including a visual alarm activated whenever the BWMS is in operation 
for the purpose of cleaning, calibration, or repair;
    (2) Audible and visual alarm signals must be provided in all 
stations from which ballast water operations are controlled in case of 
any failure(s) compromising the proper operation of the BWMS;
    (3) As applicable, have means to activate stop valves when failure 
of the BWMS occurs;
    (4) Suitable manual by-passes or overrides to protect the safety of 
the ship and personnel in the event of an emergency;
    (5) Means that compensate for a momentary loss of power during 
operation of the BWMS so that unintentional discharges do not occur;
    (6) BWMS installed in unoccupied machinery spaces must be capable 
of operating automatically from the time it is placed on-line until it 
is secured; and
    (7) Adequate alarms for the applicable chemicals used in the BWMS 
and spaces where they are introduced or stored.
    (d) BWMS must comply with the relevant requirements of 46 CFR 
subpart 111.105 if it is intended to be fitted in hazardous locations. 
Any electrical equipment that is a component of the BWMS must be 
installed in a non-hazardous location unless certified as safe for use 
in a hazardous location. Any moving parts which are fitted in hazardous 
locations must be arranged in a manner that avoids the formation of 
static electricity.
    (e) To ensure continued operational performance of the BWMS without 
interference, the following conditions must be incorporated into the 
design:
    (1) Each part of the BWMS that is required to be serviced routinely 
per the manufacturer's instructions or is liable to wear or damage must 
be readily accessible in the installed position(s) recommended by the 
manufacturer;
    (2) To avoid interference with the BWMS, every access of the BWMS 
beyond the essential requirements, as determined by the manufacturer, 
must require the breaking of a seal, and any bypass or avoidance of the 
BWMS for the purpose of maintenance must activate an alarm;
    (3) Simple means must be provided aboard the ship to identify drift 
and repeatability fluctuations and re-zero measuring devices that are 
part of the control and monitoring equipment.
    (f) Each BWMS must be designed so that it does not rely in whole or 
in part on dilution of ballast water as a means of achieving the 
ballast water discharge standard as required in 33 CFR part 151, 
subparts C or D.
    (g) Adequate arrangements for storage, application, mitigation, 
monitoring, and safe handling must be made for all BWMS that 
incorporate the use of, produce, generate, or discharge a hazardous 
material, active substance, and/or pesticide in accordance with Coast 
Guard regulations on handling/storage of hazardous materials (33 CFR 
126) and any other applicable Federal, State, and local requirements.
    (h) For any BWMS that incorporates the use of or generates active 
substances, preparations, or chemicals, the BWMS must be equipped with 
each of the following as applicable:
    (1) A means of indicating the amount and concentration of any 
chemical in the BWMS that is necessary for its effective operation;
    (2) A means of indicating when chemicals must be added for the 
proper continued operation of the BWMS;
    (3) Sensors and alarms in all spaces that may be impacted by a 
malfunction of the BWMS;
    (4) A means of monitoring all active substances and preparations in 
the treated discharge;
    (5) A means to ensure that any maximum dosage or maximum allowable 
discharge concentrations of active substances and preparations are not 
exceeded at any time; and
    (6) Each chemical that is specified or provided by the manufacturer 
for use in the operation of a BWMS and is defined as a hazardous 
material in 49 CFR 171.8 must be certified by the procedures in 46 CFR 
Part 147.


Sec.  162.060-22  Marking requirements.

    (a) Each BWMS manufactured for Coast Guard approval must have a 
nameplate which is securely fastened to the BWMS and plainly marked by 
the manufacturer with the information listed in paragraph (b) of this 
section.
    (b) Each nameplate must include the following information:
    (1) Coast Guard Approval Number assigned to the system in the 
certificate of approval;
    (2) Name of the manufacturer;
    (3) Name and model number of the item;
    (4) The manufacturer's serial number for the item;
    (5) The month and year of manufacture completion; and
    (6) The maximum allowable working pressure for the BWMS.
    (c) The information required by paragraph (b) of this section must 
appear on a nameplate attached to, or in lettering on, the BWMS. The 
nameplate or lettering must be capable of withstanding, without loss of 
readability, the combined effects of normal wear and tear and exposure 
to water, salt spray, direct sunlight, heat, cold, and any substance 
used in the normal operation and maintenance of the BWMS. The nameplate 
must not be obscured by paint, corrosion, or other materials that would 
hinder readability.


Sec.  162.060-24  Test Plan requirements.

    (a) Test Plans must include an examination of all the 
manufacturer's stated requirements and procedures for installation, 
calibration, maintenance, and operations that will be used by the BWMS 
during each test.
    (b) Test Plans must also address potential environmental, health, 
and safety issues; unusual operating requirements such as labor or 
materials; and any issues related to the disposal of treated ballast 
water, by-products, or waste streams.
    (c) Each Test Plan must be in the following format:
    (1) Title page, including all project participants;
    (2) Table of contents;
    (3) Project description and treatment performance objectives;
    (4) Project organization and personnel responsibilities;
    (5) Description of the Independent Laboratory (IL);
    (6) Treatment technology description;
    (7) Test setup, including a diagram of the test configuration and 
all connections of the BWMS to be tested;
    (8) Experimental design, including specific test procedures, 
installation and start-up plan, sample and data collection, and sample 
handling and preservation;
    (9) Challenge water conditions and preparation, including IL's 
procedures for preparation, and a description of how the water quality 
and biological challenge conditions meet the applicable requirements of 
this subpart;
    (10) Pre- and post-test evaluation methods;
    (11) Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP);
    (12) Data management, analysis, and reporting, including measures 
of precision, accuracy, comparability, and representativeness;
    (13) Environmental, health, and safety plan; and
    (14) Applicable references.


Sec.  162.060-26  Land-based testing requirements.

    (a) Each BWMS must undergo land-based tests and evaluations that 
meet the requirements of this section, in addition to the shipboard 
tests required in Sec.  162.060-28. The land-based testing

[[Page 44666]]

will determine whether the biological efficacy of the BWMS under 
consideration for approval is sufficient to meet the applicable BWDS, 
evaluate the suitability of the BWMS for shipboard installation, and 
validate those aspects of the operating and maintenance parameters 
presented by the manufacturer that are appropriate for assessment under 
the relatively short-term, but well-controlled circumstances of a land-
based test.
    (b) The test set-up must operate as described in the Test Plan 
requirements per Sec.  161.060-24 during at least five consecutive 
valid replicate test cycles.
    (c) Each valid test cycle must include the following:
    (1) Uptake of test water by pumping;
    (2) Treatment of a minimum of 200 m\3\ of test water with the BWMS,
    (3) Process of a minimum of 200 m\3\ of untreated test water 
through the IL in a manner that is in all ways identical to (2) above, 
except that the BWMS is not used to treat the water;
    (4) Retention of the treated and control water in separate tanks 
for a minimum of 24 hours; and
    (5) Discharge of the test water by pumping.
    (d) BWMS not tested for each of the 3 salinity ranges and water 
conditions listed in (e) may be subject to operational restrictions 
within a certificate of type approval.
    (e) The BWMS must be tested in water conditions for which it will 
be approved. For any set of test cycles, a salinity range must be 
chosen. With respect to the salinity of water bodies where the BWMS is 
intended to be used, the test water used in the test set-up must have 
dissolved and particulate content in the following combinations:
    (1) BWMS intended for use in water bodies with salinities greater 
than or equal to 32 parts per thousand (ppt) must use test water that 
has the following:
    (i) A salinity greater than 32 ppt;
    (ii) Dissolved Organic Carbon (DOC) in the range of 5-12 mg/l;
    (iii) Particulate Organic Carbon (POC) in the range of 5-12 mg/l; 
and
    (iv) Total Suspended Solids (TSS) greater than 5 mg/l;
    (2) BWMS intended for use in water bodies with salinities greater 
than 3 and less than 32 ppt must use test water that has the following:
    (i) A salinity in the range of 3-32 ppt;
    (ii) DOC in the range of 5-12 mg/l;
    (iii) POC in the range of 5-12 mg/l; and
    (iv) TSS greater than 5 mg/l;
    (3) BWMS intended for use in water bodies with salinities less than 
or equal to 3 ppt must use test water that has the following:
    (i) A salinity less than 3 ppt;
    (ii) DOC in the range of 5-12 mg/l;
    (iii) POC in the range of 5-12 mg/l; and
    (iv) TSS greater than 10 mg/l;
    (4) At least 2 sets of test cycles should be conducted with 
different salinity ranges and associated dissolved and particulate 
content as described. BWMS not tested for each of the 3 salinity ranges 
and water conditions listed in this section may be subject to 
operational restrictions within a certificate of approval.
    (f) Test cycles under adjacent salinity ranges listed in (e) must 
be separated by at least 10 ppt.
    (g) The BWMS must be tested at its rated capacity or as specified 
in (g)(1) for each test cycle and must function to the manufacturer's 
specifications during the test.
    (1) In-line treatment equipment may be downsized for land-based 
testing, but only when the following criteria are met:
    (i) In-line treatment equipment with a Treatment Rated Capacity 
(TRC) equal to or smaller than 200 m\3\/h should not be downscaled:
    (ii) In-line treatment equipment with a TRC larger than 200 m\3\/h, 
but smaller than 1000 m\3\/h may be downscaled to a maximum of 1:5 
scale, but must not be smaller than 200 m\3\/h;
    (iii) In-line treatment equipment with a TRC equal to or larger 
than 1000 m\3\/h may be downscaled to a maximum of 1:100 scale, but 
must not be smaller than 200 m\3\/h; and
    (iv) The manufacturer of the BWMS must demonstrate by using 
mathematical modeling and/or by calculations that any downscaling will 
not affect the ultimate functioning and effectiveness onboard a vessel 
of the type and size for which the BWMS will be approved;
    (2) Larger scaling may be applied and lower flow rates used other 
than those described in (g)(1) if the manufacturer can provide evidence 
from full-scale shipboard testing, in accordance with (g)(1)(iv), that 
larger scaling and lower flow rates will not adversely affect the 
ability to predict full-scale compliance with the BWDS. The procedures 
of Sec.  162.060-10 must be followed before scaling of flow rates other 
than those provided in (g)(1), may be used.
    (3) In-tank treatment equipment must be tested on a scale that 
allows verification of full-scale effectiveness. The suitability of the 
test set-up must be evaluated by the manufacturer and approved by the 
IL.
    (h) The test set-up, TRC, and scaling of all tests must be clearly 
identified in the Experimental Design section of the Test Plan per 
Sec.  162.060-24.
    (i) The test set-up for approval tests must be representative of 
the characteristics and arrangements of the types of vessels in which 
the BWMS is intended to be installed. The test set-up must include at 
least the following:
    (1) The complete BWMS to be tested;
    (2) Piping and pumping arrangements; and
    (3) At least one storage tank that simulates a ballast tank, 
constructed so that the water in the tank is completely shielded from 
light.
    (j) Tanks used must--
    (1) Have a minimum capacity of 200 m\3\; and
    (2) Be designed and constructed in a manner that minimizes the 
tank's effects on test organisms.
    (k) The test setup piping must be rinsed with fresh water and the 
test tanks must be pressure-washed with tap water, before starting 
testing procedures and between test cycles.
    (l) The test set-up must supply influent water to meet the 
conditions specified in paragraph (c)(2) of this section and include 
adequate facilities or arrangements to meet the sampling requirements 
of paragraphs of this section while ensuring representative samples of 
treated and control water can be taken with as little adverse effects 
as possible on the test organisms.
    (m) The influent water must include:
    (1) Test organisms greater than or equal to 50 micrometers in size 
in a total density of at least 10\5\ individuals per cubic meter. The 
test organisms must comprise at least 5 species from at least 3 
different phyla/divisions;
    (2) Test organisms greater than or equal to 10 micrometers and less 
than 50 micrometers in size in a total density of at least 10\4\ 
individuals per liter. Test organisms must also consist of at least 5 
species from at least 3 different phyla/divisions; and
    (3) Heterotrophic bacteria to be present in a density of at least 
10\4\ living bacteria per milliliter.
    (n) The test organisms used for influent water may be either 
naturally occurring in the test water, cultured species that may be 
added to the influent test water, or a mixture of both. The 
classification of test organisms in the test water must be documented 
according to the size classes mentioned in paragraph (m) of this 
section, regardless if natural organisms or cultured organisms were 
used to meet the density and organism classification requirements.
    (o) If cultured test organisms are used, the IL must ensure that 
all applicable Federal, State, local, and Tribal

[[Page 44667]]

regulations are complied with during culturing and discharging of the 
cultured test organisms.
    (p) Changes in the number of test organisms due to treatment or 
storage must be measured.
    (q) The following bacteria do not need to be added to the influent 
water, but must be measured at the influent and at the time of 
discharge:
    (1) Escherichia coli;
    (2) Enterococci group;
    (3) Vibrio cholerae; and
    (4) Total heterotrophic bacteria.
    (r) Testing and evaluation must verify that the BWMS performs 
within the parameters specified by the manufacturer, such as power 
consumption and flow rate during the test cycle.
    (s) Samples must be collected during the test immediately before 
the test water enters the treatment equipment and upon discharge. 
Samples should be drawn using sample ports designed and installed as 
follows:
    (1) The test set up should have sampling ports that are arranged in 
an order that will collect representative samples of the water under 
the following conditions:
    (i) Sampling ports should be located as close as practicable to the 
BWMS prior to testing and prior to the discharge point after testing. 
Sampling should include any hold time; and
    (ii) Sampling ports should be located elsewhere as necessary to 
ascertain the proper functioning of the BWMS.
    (2) Sample ports must be designed and constructed to ensure the 
velocity profile at the opening of the sample port matches the velocity 
profile in the main stream of the pipe from which samples are taken. 
Sample ports must be designed and installed taking into consideration 
the findings and recommendations in the U.S. Coast Guard Research and 
Development Center (R&DC) Report ``Analysis of Ballast Water Sampling 
Port Designs Using Computational Fluid Dynamics''. The report is 
available for download from the R&DC Web site at http://
www.rdc.uscg.gov/.
    (i) The opening of the sample port should be 1.5-2 times the 
isokinetic sample diameter, Diso, which can be derived as 
follows:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP28AU09.085

Where:

DM is the diameter of the main pipe from which samples 
are to be extracted;
QM is the flow rate in the main pipe; and
Qiso is the desired sample flow rate.

    (ii) The sample port size must be based on the combination of 
maximum sample flow rate and minimum main-pipe flow rate that yields 
the largest isokinetic diameter.
    (iii) Samples must be drawn from a straight pipe section on the 
centerline of the main flow, looking into the flow.
    (iv) The sample taken should be drawn from the main pipe at a 
location where the flowing stream at the sample point is representative 
of the contents of the flow in the main pipe. The sample port should be 
located at a point where the flow in the main pipe is as close to fully 
mixed and fully developed as practicable.
    (v) Ball valves must be used for shutting off the flow.
    (vi) Smooth transition flow controls, like flexible venturi, must 
be used to control flow rates.
    (viii) Piping and fittings from the sample port to the sample 
collection vessel must be minimized.
    (t) Samples should be collected for:
    (1) Organisms of greater than or equal to 50 micrometers in size 
from at least 20 liters of influent water and 1,000 liters of treated 
water, in triplicate, respectively. If samples are concentrated for 
enumeration, the samples should be concentrated using a sieve no 
greater than 50 micrometer mesh in the diagonal dimension;
    (2) Organisms greater than or equal to 10 micrometers and less than 
50 micrometers in size from at least 1 liter of influent water and at 
least 10 liters of treated water, in triplicate, respectively. If 
samples are concentrated for enumeration, the samples should be 
concentrated using a sieve no greater than 10 micrometers mesh in the 
diagonal dimension; and
    (3) Escherichia coli, enterococci, Vibrio cholerae, and 
heterotrophic bacteria from at least 500 milliliters of influent and 
treated water collected in sterile bottles, in triplicate, 
respectively.
    (u) All applicable environmental parameters such as pH, 
temperature, salinity, DO, TSS, DOC, POC, and turbidity must be 
measured at the same time samples are taken.
    (v) The control and treatment test cycles may be run simultaneously 
or sequentially. Control samples are to be taken in the same manner as 
treatment samples, upon influent and discharge.
    (w) The samples must be analyzed in such a way so that post 
collection mortality is minimized and proper analyses can be performed 
to determine the number of living organisms relative to the 
specifications of the discharge standard. Validation of the methods 
used must be made in the Test Plan required under Sec.  162.060-24 of 
this subpart.
    (x) Efficacy testing and sample analysis is meant to determine the 
number of living organisms in the samples both before and after 
treatment. The methods for the collection, handling, storage, and 
analysis of samples must be clearly cited and described in the Test 
Plan, and they must include detection, enumeration, and identification 
of test organisms used for determining viability. When standard methods 
are not available for particular organisms or taxonomic groups, methods 
that are developed for use must also be described in detail in the Test 
Plan and include any experiments conducted to validate the use of the 
methods. At a minimum--
    (1) The efficacy of a proposed BWMS must be tested by means of 
standard scientific methodology in the form of controlled experiments;
    (2) The efficacy of the BWMS must be determined by comparing the 
concentration of organisms in the treated discharge with the values of 
the BWDS specified in 33 CFR part 151, subparts C and D;
    (3) Any statistical analyses of BWMS performance must include power 
analyses to evaluate the ability of the tests to detect differences;
    (4) If, in any test cycle, the average organism concentration in 
challenge water is less than 10 times the maximum permissible values of 
the BWDS required in 33 CFR part 151, subparts C and D, the test cycle 
is invalid;
    (5) If, in any test cycle, the average organism concentration in 
discharged control water is less than the maximum permissible values of 
the BWDS required in 33 CFR part 151, subparts C and D, the test cycle 
is invalid; and
    (6) Different samples may be taken for determination of the 
concentration and viability of organisms in the different groups 
specified in the BWDS required in 33 CFR part 151, subparts C and D.
    (y) Live/dead judgment must be determined by appropriate industry 
or government standards or methods approved by the Coast Guard, 
including, but not limited to morphological change, mobility, reaction 
to stimulus, or staining using vital dyes or molecular techniques.
    (z) All replicate samples collected within a valid set of test 
cycles must meet the BWDS required in 33 CFR part 151, subparts C and 
D.


Sec.  162.060-28  Shipboard testing requirements.

    (a) The BWMS manufacturer is responsible for making all 
arrangements

[[Page 44668]]

for a vessel on which to conduct shipboard tests.
    (b) In addition to the land-based tests required in Sec.  162.060-
26 of this subpart, each BWMS approved under this subpart must undergo 
shipboard tests and evaluations that meet the requirements of this 
section. The shipboard testing will verify:
    (1) That the BWMS under consideration for approval consistently 
results in the routine discharge of ballast water that meets the BWDS 
requirements of part 151, subparts C and D; and
    (2) That the operating and maintenance parameters identified by the 
manufacturer in the Operation, Maintenance, and Safety Manual are 
consistently achieved.
    (c) The vessel used as a platform for shipboard testing under this 
section must be selected so that:
    (1) The volumes and rates of ballast water used and treated are 
representative of the upper end of the treatment rated capacity for 
which the BWMS is intended to be used;
    (2) The circumstances of the vessel's operation during the period 
of shipboard testing provide an acceptable range of geographic and 
seasonal variability conditions.
    (i) During testing, the ballast water used by the vessel and 
treated by the BWMS for the purposes of the shipboard tests must come 
from at least 3 different geographic locations that lie in non-
neighboring marine biogeographical provinces (e.g., the IUCN Marine 
Ecoregions of the World, as published in the journal BioScience, 2007, 
Vol. 57 No. 7; or the Briggs and Eckman bioprovinces, as published in 
Briggs, J.C., 1995, Global biogeography. Developments in paleontology 
and stratigraphy, Elsevier Science, Amsterdam.)
    (ii) Shipboard tests must be conducted throughout a 12 month 
period.
    (3) The ports visited by the vessel provide adequate availability 
of transportation and scientific support needed to accomplish the 
necessary sampling and analytical procedures during the shipboard 
tests.
    (d) The vessel's ballast water system must be provided with 
sampling ports arranged in order to collect representative samples of 
the ship's ballast water.
    (1) In addition to the sampling ports requirements found in 
162.060-26, sampling ports must be located:
    (i) As close as practicable to the BWMS prior to testing and prior 
to the discharge point after testing to determine concentrations of 
living organisms upon uptake and prior to discharge; and
    (ii) Elsewhere as necessary to ascertain the proper functioning of 
the BWMS;
    (2) As close to the overboard outlet as possible.
    (e) The efficacy of the BWMS must be tested during at least ten 
valid test cycles.
    (1) A test cycle entails:
    (i) The uptake of ballast water of the ship; the storage of ballast 
water on the ship;
    (ii) Treatment of the ballast water by the BWMS, except in control 
tanks; and
    (iii) The discharge of ballast water from the ship.
    (2) All test cycles will include quantification of the water 
quality parameters on uptake;
    (3) Three test cycles will entail full experimental tests and 
consist of quantification of the concentration of living organisms in 
the ballast water on uptake and at discharge from the treatment and 
control tanks;
    (4) Seven test cycles will consist of discharge tests and of 
quantification of the concentration of living organisms in the treated 
ballast water on discharge. No control tanks are required;
    (5) Valid test cycles are as follows:
    (i) For full experimental test cycles, uptake water for both the 
control tank and ballast water to be treated must have living organism 
concentrations exceeding ten times the threshold values of BWDS 
required in 33 CFR part 151, subparts C and D, and control tank living 
organism concentrations must exceed the values of the BWDS on 
discharge;
    (ii) For full experimental test cycles and discharge test cycles, 
the BWMS must operate successfully as designed, maintaining control of 
all set points and treatment processes, including any pre-discharge 
conditioning to remove or neutralize residual treatment chemicals or 
by-products; and
    (iii) For full experimental test cycles and discharge test cycles, 
all design or required water quality parameters must be met for the 
discharged water;
    (6) The source water for all test cycles must be characterized by 
measurement of water quality parameters as follows:
    (i) For all BWMS tests, salinity, temperature, and turbidity must 
be measured at the beginning, middle, and end of the period of ballast 
water uptake; and
    (ii) BWMS that make use of active substances or other processes 
that are affected by specific water quality parameters (e.g., dissolved 
and particulate organic material, pH, etc.), or water quality 
parameters identified by the manufacturer and/or the IL as being 
critical must be measured at the beginning, middle, and end of the 
period of ballast water uptake.
    (f) Samples of ballast water must be collected from in-line 
sampling ports in either of two ways:
    (1) Three replicate samples of water, collected at three discrete 
periods of time over the entire period of uptake or discharge (e.g. 
beginning, middle, end) as appropriate; or
    (2) One flow averaged sample of at least 1 cubic meter collected 
over the entire period of uptake or discharge.
    (g) The following information must be documented during all BWMS 
testing operations conducted on the vessel:
    (1) All ballast water operations, including volumes and locations 
of uptake and discharge;
    (2) All weather conditions and resultant effects on vessel 
orientation and vibration;
    (3) Temperature of the BWMS;
    (4) Scheduled maintenance performed on the system;
    (5) Unscheduled maintenance and repair performed on the system;
    (6) Data for all engineering parameters monitored as appropriate to 
the specific system;
    (7) Consumption of all solutions, preparations, or other 
consumables necessary for the effective operation of the BWMS; and
    (8) All parameters necessary for tracking the functioning of the 
control and monitoring equipment.
    (h) All measurements for numbers and viability of organisms, water 
quality parameters, engineering performance parameters, and 
environmental conditions must be conducted:
    (1) As described in Sec.  162.060-26 (w) and (x) of this subpart, 
using standard methods from recognized bodies such as EPA (in 40 CFR 
part 136), the International Standards Organization, or others accepted 
by the scientific community, or
    (2) Using validated methods approved in advance by the Coast Guard. 
The possible reasons for the occurrence of an unsuccessful test cycle 
due to obvious mechanical or process failure or a test cycle discharge 
failing the discharge standard should be investigated and reported.


Sec.  162.060-30  Testing requirements for ballast water management 
system (BWMS) components.

    (a) The electrical and electronic components, including each alarm 
and control and monitoring device of the BWMS, must be subjected to the 
following environmental tests when in the standard production 
configuration:

[[Page 44669]]

    (1) A resonance search vertically up and down, horizontally from 
side to side, and horizontally from end to end, at a rate sufficiently 
low to permit resonance detection made over the following ranges of 
oscillation frequency and amplitude:
    (i) 2 to 13.3 Hz with a vibration amplitude of  1 mm;
    (ii) 13.2 to 80 Hz with an acceleration amplitude of  
0.7 g;
    (2) The components must be vibrated in the above mentioned planes 
at each major resonant frequency for a period of 4 hours.
    (3) In the absence of any resonant frequency, the components must 
be vibrated in each of the planes at 30 Hz with an acceleration of 
 0.7 g for a period of 4 hours.
    (4) Components that may be installed in exposed areas on the open 
deck or in enclosed spaces not environmentally controlled must be 
subjected to a low temperature test of -25 [deg]C and a high 
temperature test of 55 [deg]C for a period of two hours.
    (5) Components that may be installed in enclosed spaces that are 
environmentally controlled, including an engine-room, must be subjected 
to a low temperature test at 0 [deg]C and a high temperature test at 55 
[deg]C, for a period of two hours. At the end of each test, the 
components are to be switched on and must function normally under the 
test conditions.
    (6) Components should be switched off for a period of two hours at 
a temperature of 55 [deg]C in an atmosphere with a relative humidity of 
90%. At the end of this period, the components should be switched on 
and should operate satisfactorily for one hour under the test 
conditions.
    (7) Components that may be installed in exposed areas on the open 
deck must be subjected to tests for protection against heavy seas in 
accordance with IP 56 of publication IEC 529 (incorporated by 
reference; see Sec.  162.060-5) or its equivalent.
    (8) Components must operate satisfactorily with a voltage variation 
of  10% together with a simultaneous frequency variation of 
 5%, and a transient voltage of  20% together 
with a simultaneous transient frequency of  10% and 
transient recovery time of 3 seconds.
    (9) The components of a BWMS must be designed to operate when the 
ship is upright and inclined at any angle of list up to and including 
15[deg] either way under static conditions and 22.5[deg] under dynamic, 
rolling conditions either way and simultaneously inclined dynamically 
(pitching) 7.5[deg] by bow or stern. Deviation from these angles may be 
permitted only upon approval of a written waiver submitted to the Coast 
Guard in accordance with 162.060-10(h), taking into consideration the 
type, size and service conditions and locations of the ships and 
operational functioning of the equipment for where the system will be 
used. Any deviation permitted must be documented in the Type Approval 
Certificate.
    (10) The same component(s) must be used for each test required by 
this section, and testing must be conducted in the order in which the 
tests are described, unless otherwise authorized by the Coast Guard.
    (b) There shall be no cracking, softening, deterioration, 
displacement, breakage, leakage, or damage of components or materials 
that affects the operation or safety of the BWMS after each test. The 
components must remain operable after all tests.


Sec.  162.060-32  Testing and evaluation requirements for Active 
Substances, Preparations, and Relevant chemicals.

    (a) A BWMS may not use an active substance or preparation that is a 
pesticide unless the sale and distribution of such pesticide is 
authorized under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide 
Act (FIFRA) for use in ballast water treatment, prior to submission to 
the Coast Guard for approval of the BWMS. This requirement does not 
apply to the use of active substances or preparations generated solely 
by the use of a device (as defined under FIFRA) on board the same 
vessel as the ballast water to be treated.
    (b) A BWMS that uses an active substance or preparation that is not 
a pesticide, or that uses a pesticide that is generated solely by the 
use of a device (as defined under FIFRA) on board the same vessel as 
the ballast water to be treated, must prepare an assessment 
demonstrating the effectiveness of the BWMS for its intended use, 
appropriate dosage, hazards of the BWMS, and means for protection of 
the environment, and public health. This assessment must accompany the 
application package submitted to the Coast Guard.


Sec.  162.060-34  Test Report requirements.

    (a) The final results of all approval tests and evaluations must be 
presented in a Test Report prepared by the Independent Laboratory (IL).
    (b) The Test Report must include all data regarding test 
conditions, quality control measures, results of all approval tests and 
evaluations, and all data or information supplied by the manufacturer 
regarding the performance of the system. The Test Report must contain 
all information required by 46 CFR 159.005-11 and include applicable 
sections for all land-based, shipboard, component, active substance, 
preparations and relevant chemical tests, and evaluations.
    (c) The Test Report must include a summary statement that presents 
the IL's assessment based on the tests and evaluations conducted. The 
summary statement should state if the BWMS--
    (i) Has been shown under the procedures and conditions specified in 
this subpart to meet the Ballast Water Discharge Standard requirements 
of 33 part 151, subparts C and D;
    (ii) Is designed and constructed according to the requirements of 
Sec.  162.060-20 of this subpart;
    (iii) Is in compliance with all applicable U.S. Environmental 
Protection Agency (EPA) regulations; and
    (iv) Operates at the rated capacity, performance, and reliability 
as specified by the manufacturer.
    (d) The Test Report for a BWMS that may incorporate, use, produce, 
generate as a by-product and/or discharge hazardous materials, active 
substances, relevant chemicals and/or pesticides during its operation 
must include the following information in the appendix of the Test 
Report:
    (1) A list of each active substance or preparation used in the 
BWMS. For each active substance or preparation that is a pesticide and 
is not generated solely by the use of a device on board the same vessel 
as the ballast water to be treated, the appendix must also include 
documentation that the sale or distribution of the pesticide is 
authorized under FIFRA for use for ballast water treatment. For all 
other active substances or preparations, the appendix must include 
documentation of the assessment specified at Section 162.060-32(b);
    (2) A list of all active substances, preparations, and relevant 
chemicals, along with the results of all tests conducted; and
    (3) A list of all hazardous materials, including the applicable 
hazard classes, proper shipping names, reportable quantities as 
designated by 40 CFR 117.1, and chemical names of all components.
    (e) The Test Report must contain the following documentation:
    (1) The Operation, Maintenance, and Safety Manual meeting the 
requirements of Sec.  162.060-38 for the BWMS specific to the vessel 
where testing was conducted, with a technical description of the BWMS, 
operational and maintenance procedures, backup

[[Page 44670]]

procedures in case of equipment malfunction, installation 
specifications, installation commissioning procedures, and any initial 
calibration procedures.
    (2) Verification that--
    (i) The BWMS installation has been carried out in accordance with 
the technical installation specification;
    (ii) Any operational inlets and outlets are located in the 
positions indicated on the drawing of the pumping and piping 
arrangements;
    (iii) The workmanship of the installation is satisfactory and, in 
particular, that any bulkhead penetrations or penetrations of the 
ballast system piping are to the relevant approved standards;
    (iv) The control and monitoring equipment operates correctly;
    (v) The BWMS's capacity is within the range of the Treatment Rated 
Capacity for which it is intended; and
    (vi) The amount of ballast water treated in the test cycle is 
consistent with the normal ballast operations of the ship, and that the 
BWMS was operated at the Treatment Rated Capacity for which it is 
intended to be approved.
    (f) The Test Report must contain the following information:
    (1) Summary Statement;
    (2) Executive Summary;
    (3) Introduction and Background;
    (4) Description of the BWMS;
    (5) For each test conducted--
    (i) Description of the test conditions;
    (ii) Experimental design;
    (iii) Methods and procedures; and
    (iv) Results and discussion;
    (6) Appendices, including--
    (i) Test Plans;
    (ii) Manufacturer supplied Operation, Maintenance and Safety Manual 
meeting the requirements of Sec.  162.060-38;
    (iii) Data generated during testing & evaluations;
    (iv) Quality assurance and controls records;
    (v) Maintenance logs;
    (vi) Relevant records and tests results maintained or created 
during testing;
    (vii) Information on hazardous materials, active substances, and 
relevant chemicals and pesticides; and
    (viii) Permits, registrations, restrictions, and regulatory 
limitations on use.


Sec.  162.060-36  Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) requirements.

    The approval testing and evaluation process must contain a rigorous 
quality control and assurance program consisting of a Quality Assurance 
Project Plan (QAPP) developed in accordance with ISO/IEC 17025, General 
Requirements for the Competence of Calibration and Testing 
Laboratories. The Independent Laboratory performing approval tests and 
evaluations is responsible for ensuring the appropriate quality 
assurance and quality control procedures are implemented.


Sec.  162.060-38  Operation, Maintenance, and Safety Manual (OMSM).

    (a) Each BWMS submitted for approval must include an Operation, 
Maintenance, and Safety Manual (OMSM), which includes a complete 
description of the BWMS, information on the treatment process[es], 
design criteria, physical configuration, electrical, instrumentation, 
control systems, operating instructions, maintenance requirements, and 
all health and safety issues.
    (b) Each OMSM must include the following sections:
    (1) Table of contents.
    (2) Manufacturer's information.
    (3) Principles of system operation including--
    (i) A complete description of the BWMS, methods and type[s] of 
technologies used in each treatment stage of the BWMS;
    (ii) The theory of operation;
    (iii) Any process or technology limitations;
    (iv) Performance ranges and expectations of the system; and
    (v) A description of the locations and conditions for which the 
BWMS is intended.
    (4) Major system components and shipboard application including--
    (i) A general description of the materials used when constructing 
and installing the BWMS;
    (ii) A detailed description of the onboard physical configuration 
of the BWMS and how it will be physically integrated with shipboard 
ballast systems at all stages of ballast water treatment; general 
arrangement of installed equipment; utility connections such as power, 
water, and air; interfaces with shipboard systems; and required 
connections to a vessel's piping systems and foundations;
    (iii) A list of each major component that may be fitted differently 
in different vessels with a general description of the different 
arrangements schemes;
    (iv) The range of vessel sizes, classes, and operations for which 
it is intended;
    (v) Any vessel type[s], services or locations where the system is 
not intended to be used;
    (vi) Maximum and minimum flow and volume capacities of the system;
    (vii) The dimensions and weight of the complete system and required 
connection and flange sizes for all major components;
    (viii) A description of all actual or potential effects of the BWMS 
on the vessel's ballast water, ballast water tanks, and ballast water 
piping and pumping systems;
    (ix) A list of all active substances, relevant chemicals, and 
pesticides generated or stored onboard the vessel to be used by the 
BWMS; and
    (x) Information on whether the BWMS is designed to be used in 
hazardous locations as defined in the NEC (incorporated by reference; 
see Sec.  162.060-5) and in IEC 79-0 (incorporated by reference; see 
Sec.  162.060-5).
    (5) System and major system component drawings as applicable under 
46 CFR Sec.  56.01-10(b), including--
    (i) Process flow diagram(s) of the BWMS showing the main treatment 
processes, chemicals, and monitoring and control devices for the BWMS;
    (ii) Footprint(s), drawings, and system schematics showing all 
major components and arrangements;
    (iii) Drawings of the pumping and piping arrangements, power 
panels, and all equipment provided with the BWMS;
    (iv) All treatment application points, waste or recycling streams, 
and all sampling points integral to the specific BWMS;
    (v) All locations and the sizes of all piping and utility 
connections for power, water, compressed air or other utilities as 
required by the BWMS;
    (vi) Detailed electrical plans of each relevant component of the 
BWMS as described in 46 CFR 110.25-1 and electrical/electronic wiring 
diagrams that include the location and electrical rating of power 
supply panels and BWMS control and monitoring equipment;
    (vii) Unit(s), construction materials, standards and labels on all 
drawings of equipment, piping, instruments, and appurtenances; and
    (viii) An index of all drawings and diagrams.
    (6) A description of the BWMS's control and monitoring equipment 
and how it will be integrated with the existing shipboard ballast 
system, including--
    (i) Power demand;
    (ii) Main and local control panels;
    (iii) Power distribution system;
    (iv) Power quality equipment;
    (v) Instrumentation and control system architecture;
    (vi) Process control description;
    (vii) Operational set points, control loops, control algorithms, 
and alarm settings for routine, maintenance, and emergency operations; 
and

[[Page 44671]]

    (viii) All devices required for measuring appropriate parameters 
such as: Pressure, temperature, flow rate, water quality, power, and 
chemical residuals.
    (7) A description of all relevant standard operating procedures 
including, but not limited to:
    (i) System start-up and system shutdown procedures and times;
    (ii) Emergency shutdown and system by-pass procedures;
    (iii) Requirements to achieve treatment objectives (e.g., time 
following initial treatment, critical dosages, residual concentrations, 
etc);
    (iv) Operating, safety, and emergency procedures;
    (v) System limitations, precautions, and set points;
    (vi) Detailed instructions on operation, calibration and zeroing of 
each monitoring device used with the system;
    (vii) Personnel requirements for the BWMS including number and 
types of personnel needed, labor burden, and operator training or 
specialty certification requirements.
    (8) A description of the preventive and corrective maintenance 
requirements of the BWMS, including:
    (i) Inspection and adjustment procedures;
    (ii) Troubleshooting procedures;
    (iii) An illustrated list of parts and spare parts;
    (iv) A list of recommended spare parts to have during installation 
and operation of the BWMS;
    (v) Use of tools and test equipment in accordance with the 
maintenance procedures; and
    (vi) Point[s] of contact for technical assistance.
    (9) A description of the health and safety risks to the personnel 
associated with the installation, operation, and maintenance of the 
BWMS including, but not limited to:
    (i) The storage, handling, and disposal of any hazardous wastes;
    (ii) Any health and safety certification/training requirements for 
personnel operating the BWMS; and
    (iii) All material safety data sheets for hazardous or relevant 
chemicals used, stored or generated by or for the system.
    (c) If any information in the OMSM changes as a result of approval 
testing and evaluations, a new OMSM must be submitted.


Sec.  162.060-40  Requirements of Independent Laboratories (IL).

    (a) Each request for designation as an Independent Laboratory (IL) 
authorized to perform approval tests must either be delivered by 
visitors or through the mail to the Commandant (CG-521), Office of 
Design and Engineering Standards, 2nd Street, SW., Washington, DC 
20593, in a written or electronic format.
    (b) Each request must include the following:
    (1) Name and address of the IL;
    (2) Each type of equipment the IL proposes to test; and
    (3) A description of the IL's capability to perform approval tests 
including detailed information on the following:
    (i) Management organization, including personnel qualifications;
    (ii) Equipment available for conducting sample analysis;
    (iii) Materials available for approval testing;
    (iv) Each of the IL's test rigs; and
    (v) Disposal procedures for all treated and control water.
    (c) The Coast Guard will review each request submitted to determine 
whether the IL meets the requirements of this section.
    (d) To obtain authorization to conduct approval tests--
    (1) An IL must have the management organization, equipment for 
conducting sample analysis, and the materials necessary to perform the 
tests;
    (2) The loss or award of a specific contract to test equipment must 
not be a substantial factor in the IL's financial well being; and
    (3) The IL must be free of influence and control of the 
manufacturers and suppliers of the equipment.
    (e) Each test and evaluation must be performed by the IL and 
accepted by the Coast Guard. A list of independent laboratories 
accepted by the Coast Guard may be found at http://cgmix.uscg.mil/, or 
may be obtained by contacting the Commandant (CG-521), 2100 2nd Street, 
SW., Washington, DC 20593. ILs may not be subcontracted by an IL for 
BWMS approval testing unless previously authorized by the Coast Guard. 
If the IL identified in the application requests authorization to 
subcontract approval tests or evaluations, the Coast Guard must 
evaluate the suitability of each identified IL prior to conducting any 
tests or evaluations required under this subpart. A request for 
authorization to subcontract must be sent to the Commandant (CG-521), 
2100 2nd Street, SW., Washington, DC 20593.
    (f) Upon receipt of the approval application, the IL will conduct a 
readiness evaluation and determine the acceptability for testing.
    (g) The readiness evaluation will examine the design and 
construction of the BWMS to determine whether there are any fundamental 
problems that might constrain the ability of the BWMS to manage ballast 
water as proposed by the manufacturer or to operate it safely onboard 
vessels. This evaluation must consider the following:
    (1) The health and safety of the crew, including potential long 
term effects as determined by the EPA;
    (2) Any potential adverse environmental effects as determined by 
the EPA;
    (3) Interactions with vessel systems and cargo and the potential 
impacts to a vessel, including effects on corrosion in the ballast 
water system and other spaces;
    (h) To be approved for testing and evaluations, a BWMS must:
    (1) Be designed and constructed according to the requirements of 
Sec.  162.060-20;
    (2) Meet the definition of a complete BWMS, as defined in this 
subpart, to include both ballast water treatment equipment and control 
and monitoring equipment. Only complete systems in the configurations 
in which they are intended for sale and use will be accepted for 
approval testing. The Coast Guard will not separately approve 
treatment, control, or monitoring components; and
    (3) Meet all existing safety and environmental regulatory 
requirements for all locations and conditions where the system will be 
operated during the testing and evaluation period.
    (i) The IL has the right to reject a proposed BWMS for testing and 
evaluation if it does not satisfy the requirements in (h), is not 
deemed ready for approval testing and evaluations, or, if for technical 
or logistical reasons, that IL does not have the capabilities to 
accommodate the BWMS for testing or evaluation.
    (j) For each approval test to be completed, the IL must prepare a 
written test plan in accordance with Sec.  162.060-24.
    (k) Upon notification by the IL that the BWMS is acceptable for 
testing, the manufacturer must provide a complete BWMS for testing and 
evaluation to the IL.
    (l) For all land-based tests, the BWMS must be set up in accordance 
with the BWMS Operation, Maintenance and Safety Manual, with respect to 
mounting water supply and discharge fittings.
    (m) Prior to commencing land-based or shipboard testing required 
under this subpart, the manufacturer must sign a written statement to 
attest that the system was properly assembled and installed at the IL 
or onboard the test vessel.
    (n) All approval testing and evaluations must be conducted in

[[Page 44672]]

accordance with testing requirements of this subpart and within the 
range or rated capacity of the BWMS.
    (o) Upon completion of all approval tests and evaluations, the IL 
must follow the requirements of 46 CFR 159.005-9(a)(5) and ensure a 
complete Test Report is forwarded to the Commanding Officer, U.S. Coast 
Guard Marine Safety Center, Jemal Building, JR 10-0525, 2100 Second 
Street, SW., Washington, DC 20593.

    Dated: August 17, 2009.
Thad W. Allen,
Admiral, U.S. Coast Guard, Commandant.
[FR Doc. E9-20312 Filed 8-27-09; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 4910-15-P
