[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 103 (Thursday, May 28, 2020)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 31969-31978]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-10100]


=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

Coast Guard

33 CFR Part 110

[Docket Number USCG-2015-1118]
RIN 1625-AA01


Anchorage Grounds; Lower Chesapeake Bay, Cape Charles, VA

AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS.

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This final rule establishes new, deep-water anchorage grounds 
for the Hampton Roads area near Cape Charles, VA, and increases the 
size and relocates the existing quarantine anchorage from near Cape 
Charles to further south in the lower Chesapeake Bay. The intended 
effect is to protect the environment, facilitate safe navigation of 
maritime commerce and national defense assets, and more safely and 
effectively support commercial vessel anchoring needs in the lower 
Chesapeake Bay.

DATES: This rule is effective June 29, 2020.

ADDRESSES: To view documents mentioned in this preamble as being 
available in the docket, go to https://www.regulations.gov, type USCG-
2015-1118 in the ``SEARCH'' box and click ``SEARCH.'' Click on Open 
Docket Folder on the line associated with this rule.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If you have questions on this rule, 
call or

[[Page 31970]]

email Lieutenant Commander Peter Francisco, Waterways Management 
Division Chief, Sector Virginia, U.S. Coast Guard; telephone 757-668-
5581, email Peter.F.Francisco@uscg.mil; or Mr. Jerry Barnes, Waterways 
Management Branch, Fifth Coast Guard District, U.S. Coast Guard; 
telephone 757-398-6230, email Jerry.R.Barnes@uscg.mil.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Table of Contents for Preamble

I. Table of Abbreviations
II. Background Information and Regulatory History
III. Discussion of Comments on Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) 
and Changes
    A. Anchorage Location
    B. National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Compliance
    C. Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) Compliance
    D. General Environmental Concerns
    E. Solid Waste, Coal Residue, Oil, and Air Pollution Concerns
    F. Sewage Pollution and Requests for No-Discharge Zone
    G. Risk of Vessels Dragging Anchor
    H. Concerns About Views From Shore
    I. Concerns About Vessel Congestion and Anchorage Duration
    J. Concerns About Negative Impact on Fisheries
    K. Concerns About Light Pollution
    L. Concerns About Noise Pollution Risks
    M. Risks of Ballast Water Discharge and Invasive Species 
Concerns
    N. Security Concerns
    O. Requests That Vessels Delay Arrival or Remain at Sea Instead 
of Anchoring
    P. Requests That the Coast Guard Develop an Anchoring Management 
Plan
    Q. Requests To Extend the Comment Period
    R. Anchorage Proponents
IV. Discussion of the Final Rule
V. Regulatory Analyses
    A. Regulatory Planning and Review
    B. Impact on Small Entities
    C. Collection of Information
    D. Federalism and Indian Tribal Governments
    E. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
    F. Environment

I. Table of Abbreviations

AIS Automatic Identification System
ANPRM Advance notice of proposed rulemaking
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
COTP Captain of the Port
DHS Department of Homeland Security
EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
FR Federal Register
NM Nautical miles
NPRM Notice of proposed rulemaking
Sec.  Section
U.S.C. United States Code
VADEQ Virginia Department of Environmental Quality

II. Background Information and Regulatory History

    After considering public responses to a notice of proposed 
rulemaking (NPRM), including feedback from several public meetings, the 
Coast Guard is establishing a new commercial anchorage ground, 
Anchorage R,\1\ approximately 3 nautical miles (NM) west of Cape 
Charles, VA, and is increasing the size and relocating the existing 
quarantine anchorage from there to a more secluded location in the 
lower Chesapeake Bay, approximately 6 NM southwest of Fishermans 
Island, VA. The Coast Guard initiated this rulemaking to address growth 
in both size and volume of vessels entering the Hampton Roads area, the 
subsequent need for additional deep draft anchorage space, and the 
growing trend of deep draft vessels anchoring in the waters of the 
Chesapeake Bay between York Spit Channel and the town of Cape Charles, 
VA.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ See ``Anchorage Boundary Development'' in the docket.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    On April 19, 2016, we published an advance notice of proposed 
rulemaking (ANPRM) \2\ to solicit public comments on amending certain 
anchorage regulations in Hampton Roads for the possible creation of a 
new anchorage in the lower Chesapeake Bay near Cape Charles, VA. We 
received 35 written responses to the ANPRM. On June 27, 2016, we 
published a 45-day extension to the comment period and announced two 
public meetings.\3\ On August 16, 2016, we announced one additional 
meeting and reopened the comment period.\4\ We scheduled the meetings 
to receive comments on the ANRPM to allow for greater public 
involvement. The meetings were held in Norfolk, VA, on July 19, 2016; 
Melfa, VA, on July 20, 2016; and Cape Charles, VA, on August 17, 2016. 
We heard from 20 speakers at these meetings. On December 16, 2016, we 
issued a news release \5\ to inform the public that a review of 
comments and an environmental study would be conducted. In November 
2017, we completed an environmental review.\6\ In January 2018, the 
Center for Disease Control, the U.S. Navy Fleet Forces Command, and the 
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, North Atlantic provided comments \7\ 
identifying and addressing adverse impacts from the proposed anchorage.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \2\ 81 FR 22939, April 19, 2016.
    \3\ 81 FR 41487, June 27, 2016.
    \4\ 81 FR 54531, August 16, 2016.
    \5\ See ``Fifth District News Press Release'' in the docket.
    \6\ See ``Preliminary Record of Environmental Consideration'' in 
the docket.
    \7\ See ``Comments from U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Navy 
Fleet Forces Command, and Center for Disease Control'' in the 
docket.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    On June 22, 2018, after reviewing the oral and written comments in 
response to the ANPRM, the Coast Guard developed a proposed rule and 
published a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).\8\ The proposed 
anchorage in the NPRM modified the initially considered anchorage size, 
shape, and location to place the eastern border of the proposed 
anchorage further from the coast of Cape Charles and also proposed 
relocating the existing quarantine anchorage. As part of the NPRM, we 
announced three public meetings. One meeting was held in Norfolk, VA, 
on June 25, 2018 and two in Cape Charles, VA on July 10, 2018, one at 1 
p.m. and the other at 6 p.m. At the three public meetings, 124 members 
of the community signed in and 72 members asked questions or stated 
their opinion of the proposal. The Captain of the Port (COTP), Coast 
Guard Sector Virginia (formerly named Coast Guard Sector Hampton Roads 
prior to February 6, 2020 \9\), as well as staff from the Fifth Coast 
Guard District were present to answer questions and solicit public 
comment for the rulemaking docket. A total of 84 individuals and 
organizations submitted comments to the docket.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \8\ 83 FR 29081, June 22, 2018.
    \9\ 85 FR 6804, February 6, 2020.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The legal basis and authorities for this rulemaking are found in 33 
U.S.C. 471; 33 CFR 1.05-1; and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) 
Delegation No. 0170.1, which collectively authorize the Coast Guard to 
propose, establish, and define regulatory anchorage grounds.

III. Discussion of Comments on NPRM and Changes

    This section provides a detailed discussion of public comments 
received during the NPRM's comment period and public meetings. We 
received 84 written submissions to the docket in response to the NPRM. 
In addition, we hosted three public meetings to provide forums for 
obtaining public feedback on the NPRM.\10\ We received no comments 
specifically addressing the relocation and increase in size of 
Anchorage Q, the quarantine anchorage. Therefore, we made no changes in 
the regulatory text to Anchorage Q. While some comments were supportive 
of new Anchorage R, the majority expressed concern with the Coast 
Guard's proposed action to establish it. The comments we received 
spanned a range of topics, including

[[Page 31971]]

consideration of alternative anchorage locations; compliance with the 
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA); compliance with the Coastal 
Zone Management Act (CZMA); risks of solid waste, coal residue, oil, 
and air pollution; requests for a no-discharge zone; risk of vessels 
dragging anchor; view from the shore; vessel congestion; negative 
impact on fisheries; risks of light pollution; risks of sewage 
discharge, risks of noise pollution; risks from ballast water 
discharges; security concerns; requests that vessels delay arrival or 
remain at sea; and requests for the Coast Guard to develop an anchoring 
management plan.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \10\ See ``2018 Public Meetings Summary'' in the docket.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

A. Anchorage Location

    Vessels may anchor at any location absent specific restrictions. 
Many commenters opposed Anchorage R's proximity to Cape Charles, VA, 
and suggested the Coast Guard review other locations in the Hampton 
Roads area as alternatives, whether elsewhere in the Chesapeake Bay or 
offshore in the Atlantic Ocean.
    A review of historical automatic identification system (AIS) data 
shows that vessels have been anchoring in the location of Anchorage R 
for years. The quarantine anchorage for the Hampton Roads area prior to 
this final rule, previous Anchorage Q, was located in waters that make 
up a portion of new Anchorage R. The quarantine anchorage, described in 
the current 33 CFR 110.168(a)(6) and visible on the 2019 version of 
U.S. Nautical Chart 12224,\11\ was sited immediately east of the 
northern entrance to York Spit Channel and approximately 3.5 NM west of 
Cape Charles. We established it in 2005 because the previous quarantine 
anchorage did not provide adequate depth for visiting ships.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \11\ See ``NC12224_2019'' in the docket, which is a copy of U.S. 
Nautical Chart 12224, 28th Edition, corrected through February 26, 
2019.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The ``Background and Purpose'' section of that final rule \12\ 
identified anchorage berth K-3 in the Middle Ground waters off Newport 
News as the previous Hampton Roads quarantine anchorage, explaining 
that it was discontinued because the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers no 
longer maintained it. Historical versions of U.S. Nautical Chart 12245 
from 2004 \13\ and earlier show charted depths in anchorage K-3 of less 
than 25 feet, which is too shallow for use by visiting deep draft 
vessels. The 2005 final rule further explained that we established the 
new quarantine anchorage in ``naturally deep water with charted depths 
in excess of 60 feet.'' This decision to locate the quarantine 
anchorage so far from its previous location (an approximately 43 NM 
channel transit) demonstrates that this area was the next best 
location, given the lack of maintained deep draft anchorages closer to 
the port, for meeting the port's concerns regarding navigational 
safety.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \12\ 70 FR 29953, May 25, 2005.
    \13\ See ``Anchorage K-3'' in the docket, which is an excerpt of 
U.S. Nautical Chart 12245, 63rd Edition, May 2004.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Additionally, we reviewed AIS data from 2011 through 2017 \14\ to 
identify historical anchoring practices of cargo ships visiting the 
Hampton Roads area. The data show that deep draft vessels were 
anchoring outside the maintained federal channel in the vicinity of 
Anchorage R throughout those years, which contributed to the Coast 
Guard proposing the anchorage. The AIS data show that deep draft 
vessels also anchored in designated anchorages closer to port 
facilities, including Anchorages A and B (in Lynnhaven Roads) which are 
controlled by the U.S. Navy.\15\ The only other area not designated for 
anchorage where deep draft vessels were shown to anchor was the area of 
Lynnhaven Roads between Cape Henry Channel and Thimble Shoals Channel, 
immediately east of Tail of the Horseshoe Lighted Buoy 2T (Light List 
Number 7065) and approximately 2 NM north of Cape Henry, in the Naval 
Restricted Area described in 33 CFR 334.320. Beginning in 2015, 
increased Department of Defense and U.S. Navy use of Anchorages A and B 
and the finding of unexploded ordnance in the Naval Restricted Area, 
posing hazards to vessels should unexploded ordnance become fouled in 
anchors, displaced the vessels anchoring in those locations. This, in 
addition to growth in both size and volume of vessel traffic entering 
the Hampton Roads area, resulted in a growing number of vessels needing 
deep water anchorage grounds. As previously discussed, the best 
available deep water anchoring location in the Hampton Roads area were 
the waters east of York Spit Channel. AIS data show the growth of 
vessels anchoring there from 2011 through 2017.\16\ The data also show 
the reduction of commercial cargo vessels anchoring in the Lynnhaven 
Roads area beginning in 2015 \17\ and declining so that no commercial 
cargo vessels are shown to anchor there in 2017.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \14\ See ``Historical Anchorage Use'' in the docket.
    \15\ 33 CFR 110.168(e)(1).
    \16\ Slides 1-6 of ``Historical Anchorage Use'' in the docket.
    \17\ Slides 7-12 of ``Historical Anchorage Use'' in the docket.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    It is apparent that deep draft vessels bound for Hampton Roads 
ports have chosen this area as the best available safe anchorage and 
will continue anchoring in the waters adjacent to York Spit Channel. 
Given the additional safety, security, and environmental protections 
provided by officially designating the waters as anchorage grounds, we 
are establishing Anchorage R with this rule.
    Some commenters recommended we identify offshore anchoring options. 
We considered establishing an additional offshore quarantine anchorage 
prior to publishing the NPRM.\18\ This notional anchorage was sited 
approximately 11 NM east of Virginia Beach, VA, immediately northeast 
of the entrance to the southern traffic separation scheme approaching 
Chesapeake Bay. We considered this location because it provided 
suitably deep water, was outside restricted zones, and was still within 
our geographic authority to establish anchorage grounds. However, the 
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers noted \19\ that the National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration warned of unexploded ordnance in the area 
per note B of U.S. Nautical Chart 12221.\20\ This could pose dangers to 
vessels anchoring there. Additionally, U.S. Fleet Forces Command 
recommended against establishing the offshore anchorage \21\ because it 
would interfere with critical U.S. Navy training activities. Therefore, 
we determined no viable offshore location is available to meet the 
anchorage needs of visiting deep draft vessels.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \18\ See graphic on page 2, red outline of Outer Quarantine 
Anchorage of the ``Record of Environmental Consideration'' in the 
docket.
    \19\ See page 1 of ``Comments from U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, 
U.S. Navy Fleet Forces Command, and Center for Disease Control'' in 
the docket.
    \20\ See ``NC12221_2019'' in the docket, which is a copy of U.S. 
Nautical Chart 12221, 84th Edition, corrected through June 28, 2019. 
Note B is printed on the tan graphic of land south of Cape Charles 
in approximate position N 36[deg]12', W 075[deg]58'.
    \21\ See page 3 of ``Comments from U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, 
U.S. Navy Fleet Forces Command, and Center for Disease Control'' in 
the docket.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Other commenters requested we clarify why we chose this particular 
location to establish an anchorage. As explained above, we considered 
the loss of traditional anchorage areas in the Hampton Roads area, 
historical anchorage data and practices, the possibility of offshore 
anchorages, and the concerns for the safety and security of commercial 
and naval vessels when establishing this anchorage ground. We believe 
this rule provides additional controls over vessels anchoring there,

[[Page 31972]]

and provides an additional level of safety and environmental oversight.
    One commenter suggested that due to AIS carriage requirements, only 
large commercial vessels were considered when determining the location 
of the anchorage grounds. Among other categories, 33 CFR 164.46(b)(1) 
specifies that AIS is required for all commercial vessels 65 feet or 
more in length, and towing vessels of 26 feet or longer and that have 
more than 600 horsepower. The Coast Guard examined the tracks of 
pleasure craft, sailing vessels, passenger and other vessels transiting 
the waters in and near Anchorage R including shallow draft vessels that 
call on Cape Charles. While AIS carriage is voluntary for many vessels, 
we believe sufficient data exists, and the location and size of 
Anchorage R accommodates the needs of large commercial vessels and 
safeguards routes used by smaller vessels. The southernmost boundary of 
Anchorage R established by this rule is intended to keep large 
commercial ships from anchoring within routes used predominately by 
smaller vessels to navigate to and from Cape Charles Harbor, such as 
Cherry Stone Channel Inlet. The Coast Guard maintains that applying 
Hampton Roads anchorage regulations to these waters improves navigation 
safety.
    One comment stated ``[t]here have been six closures of the Cape 
Charles Beach since the Coast Guard established this vessel anchorage 
just off the shore of the town of Cape Charles.'' This comment 
incorrectly characterizes both the Coast Guard regulation and the 
timeline for establishing the anchorage. As mentioned above, data show 
vessels have been anchoring in the waters between York Spit Channel and 
the town of Cape Charles for years without Coast Guard direction or 
influence. Although this anchorage was suggested in our 2016 ANPRM and 
proposed in our 2018 NPRM, it will be ``Coast Guard established'' when 
it becomes effective 30 days after this final rule is published in the 
Federal Register.

B. National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Compliance

    A number of comments suggested the Coast Guard is not meeting NEPA 
requirements by addressing the action using a categorical exclusion and 
not providing an environmental impact statement. The Coast Guard 
disagrees. In the above paragraphs, we document the practice of vessels 
anchoring in and around Anchorage R. This practice is not due to Coast 
Guard implemented plans or actions; rather, it is the result of larger 
and deeper draft vessels calling on the Port of Virginia and the loss 
of available deep draft anchorage areas due to naval operations and the 
potential for unexploded ordinance. Regulations establishing or 
increasing the size of anchorage grounds generally do not individually 
or cumulatively have a significant effect on the human environment, and 
as such, are normally categorically excluded from further review. This 
is further discussed in Section V.F below. We continue to view the 
categorical exclusion as appropriate and are making no changes to the 
rule from the NPRM based on these comments.

C. Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) Compliance

    Two Commonwealth of Virginia agencies, the Virginia Department of 
Environmental Quality (VADEQ) \22\ and the Marine Resources 
Commission,\23\ responded separately with the presumption that the 
Coast Guard would conduct a CZMA consistency review with the 
Commonwealth of Virginia for establishing the anchorage grounds. The 
VADEQ cited the federal regulations \24\ that implement CZMA, 15 CFR 
930.31, stating that they viewed this rulemaking as reasonably and 
foreseeably altering the uses of the coastal zone and should therefore 
be subject to a federal consistency determination.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \22\ See ``Comment Submitted by Bettina Rayfield, Commonwealth 
of Virginia'' in the docket.
    \23\ See ``Comment Submitted by Randy Owen, Commonwealth of 
Virginia, Marine Resources Commission'' in the docket.
    \24\ 15 CFR 930 subpart C.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Establishing the anchorage grounds does not create the practice of 
anchoring at Anchorage R, as vessels have been anchoring in the waters 
between York Spit Channel and the town of Cape Charles, VA for years. 
This practice will continue regardless of the Coast Guard's action. Any 
effects associated with this activity are already occurring and will 
continue to occur. The Coast Guard's ability to limit or preclude this 
activity is derived from its navigational safety authority. By imposing 
this rule, we are attempting to increase navigational safety of the 
existing users by extending existing regulations that govern anchoring 
practices in the Hampton Roads area to waters currently being used for 
anchoring by deep draft commercial vessels. Thus, the Coast Guard 
provided a no effects determination under 15 CFR 930.35, and we sent a 
letter \25\ notifying the VADEQ of our negative determination on 
November 7, 2019.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \25\ See ``USCG letter to VADEQ, Nov 7, 2019'' in the docket.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Our letter prompted discussions with VADEQ, which included VADEQ 
forwarding to the Coast Guard via email a letter from the Marine 
Resources Commission dated December 5, 2019,\26\ and a conference call 
regarding the Coast Guard's negative determination on January 6, 
2020.\27\ The VADEQ formally objected to our negative determination in 
a letter \28\ dated January 16, 2020, and maintained that insufficient 
information was supplied to determine if the Coast Guard's action is 
consistent with the Commonwealth's Fisheries Management and Subaqueous 
Land Management enforceable policies. We reviewed these policies and 
did not find any applicable to the Coast Guard's action. Subsequent 
conversations with the VADEQ yielded no specific examples of 
inconsistent enforceable policies. It is our assessment that the VADEQ 
is focused on potential effects rather than on whether or not the Coast 
Guard's action could be the cause of those effects.\29\ We maintain 
that this administrative safety regulation does not cause any effects 
on the coastal zone, and that our rule is consistent to the maximum 
extent practicable with the CZMA enforceable policies promulgated by 
the Commonwealth of Virginia.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \26\ See ``VAMRC letter, Dec 5, 2019'' in the docket.
    \27\ See ``USCG letter to VADEQ, Jan 9, 2020'' and ``VADEQ 
letter to USCG, Jan 10, 2020'' in the docket.
    \28\ See ``VADEQ letter to USCG, Jan 16, 2020'' in the docket.
    \29\ See ``USCG letter to VADEQ, Feb 5, 2020'' in the docket.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

D. General Environmental Concerns

    Currently, vessels anchor in the areas surrounding existing 
Anchorage Q between York Spit Channel and Cape Charles, VA, with no 
limitation to how many vessels may anchor in the area or how close to 
shore they may anchor. Numerous concerns submitted in the comments 
regarding the environment appear to address this current condition. We 
share these concerns, and by establishing Anchorage R, we are 
addressing environmental concerns in three ways.
    First, creating this anchorage as part of 33 CFR 110.168 means that 
we are applying to these waters the anchorage regulations applicable to 
all other anchorage grounds in the Hampton Roads area, found in 33 CFR 
110.168(c), ``General regulations.'' These regulations address port 
coordination and congestion, time limits, and vessel seaworthiness and 
readiness while also providing the COTP discretion in prescribing 
conditions and anchoring locations for vessels. The suite of 
regulations improves the overall safety

[[Page 31973]]

of the port and vessels anchoring in it. This reduces risks of 
collisions, groundings, and other incidents, which, in turn, reduces 
the overall environmental risk in those locations. Second, we are 
creating two additional requirements for vessels using Anchorage R, 
which we discuss in further detail in Section III.E below and have 
published in the regulatory text at the end of this document in Sec.  
110.168(e)(10). Third, by establishing the anchorage, we are 
establishing boundaries for the vessels using those waters, limiting 
the number of vessels anchoring in the vicinity of Cape Charles to 
around 30 depending on vessel size, and locating vessels so that they 
anchor approximately no closer than 3 nautical miles from shore. Thus, 
we conclude this administrative action positively impacts the 
environment.

E. Solid Waste, Coal Residue, Oil, and Air Pollution Concerns

    A number of comments mentioned concerns regarding pollution from 
anchoring ships and requested the Coast Guard implement programs to 
monitor and reduce pollution potential. In the preamble to the 
NPRM,\30\ we described the suite of international and federal treaties, 
laws, and regulations that protect navigable waters of the United 
States from pollution discharge from vessels. While those protections 
remain in place, we are further addressing pollution risks by adding 
requirements specifically for Anchorage R that were not proposed in the 
NPRM. New Sec.  110.168(e)(10), ``Anchorage R,'' adds two requirements 
in addition to the general regulations for vessels using the anchorage. 
First, no vessel may transfer oil or chemicals in bulk to any other 
vessel without permission of the COTP. This provides the COTP the 
ability to control the conditions of lightering or transfer operations. 
Second, a non-self-propelled vessel (like a barge) must be tended by a 
towing vessel unless otherwise given permission by the COTP. This 
reduces the risk of vessels without the means of propulsion of breaking 
away or dragging anchor and then causing harm to themselves or other 
vessels by grounding or collision.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \30\ See section III.1, second paragraph of ``Anchorage Grounds; 
Lower Chesapeake Bay, Cape Charles, VA'' on the docket.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    One commenter noted that, with winds out of the west, an oil spill 
from one of the vessels would arrive at the shore (approximately 7 
hours) long before the vessel's contracted oil spill response 
organization is required to show up (24 hours), and suggested the Coast 
Guard pre-stage additional spill response resources on Virginia's 
Eastern Shore. Section 311(j) of the Federal Water Pollution Control 
Act (FWPCA), amended by Section 4202, requires the preparation and 
submission of response plans by the owners or operators of certain 
vessels.\31\ Plan holders, through their response plans, must address 
the extremely complex system for assembling, mobilizing, and 
controlling response resources to maintain statutory compliance as well 
as being prepared to oil spills within their area of operation. Plan 
holders are required to submit a response plan to the Coast Guard that 
identifies and ensures, by contract or other approved means, the 
availability of response resources (personnel and equipment) necessary 
to remove, to the maximum extent practicable, a worst case discharge, 
including a discharge resulting from fire or explosion, and to mitigate 
or prevent a substantial threat of such a discharge. We believe the 
additional restrictions placed on anchored vessels by this rule 
intended to significantly decrease the likelihood of an oil spill, 
combined with existing laws and regulations in place to prevent, 
mitigate, and respond to oil spills from vessels, are enough. Thus, we 
made no changes from the proposed rule to address local oil spill 
response capability.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \31\ Implementing regulations are found in 33 CFR part 155.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

F. Sewage Pollution and Requests for No-Discharge Zone

    Twenty-three written comments and additional oral comments from 
public meetings expressed concern about the discharge of sewage into 
Chesapeake Bay in the area of the proposed anchorage. Regulations allow 
vessels to discharge treated effluent from Type I or II Marine 
Sanitation Devices in most parts of Chesapeake Bay. Untreated sewage 
may not be discharged. Sewage requirements are outlined in Section 312 
of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1322), with 
further regulations issued by the Coast Guard and the EPA found in 33 
CFR 159.7 and 40 CFR part 140, respectively.\32\ Given the suite of 
laws and regulations already in place to address sewage from ships, we 
are making no changes to address sewage concerns.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \32\ See the EPA website providing an overview of vessel sewage 
discharge laws and regulations: https://www.epa.gov/vessels-marinas-and-ports/vessel-sewage-discharges-statutes-regulations-and-related-laws-and.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Fifteen comments expressed concern regarding either incomplete or 
ineffective treatment of sewage, or of the nutrient levels contained in 
properly treated effluent, and stated that no sewage discharges should 
take place at all within the proposed anchorage area. Many of these 
called for the creation of a no-discharge zone concurrently with the 
anchorage. The creation of a no-discharge zone is beyond the scope of 
this rulemaking. The EPA may establish a no-discharge zone for certain 
geographic areas when requested by a state.\33\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \33\ See the EPA website discussing no discharge zones: https://www.epa.gov/vessels-marinas-and-ports/vessel-sewage-discharges-no-discharge-zones-ndzs.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    One comment recommended the Coast Guard ensure Regional Response 
Team III \34\ was aware of the recommendations to create a no-discharge 
zone and to ask the Team to consider creating a no-discharge zone 
throughout the Chesapeake Bay. The Coast Guard sees that notification 
to the state, and not the Regional Response Team, is the more 
appropriate notification to ensure appropriate authorities are aware of 
the requests. Because Anchorage R is entirely within Commonwealth of 
Virginia waters, we sent a letter \35\ dated November 7, 2019 to the 
Virginia Department of Environmental Quality,\36\ notifying them of 
this rulemaking and the comments received requesting consideration of a 
no-discharge zone. Due to the concerns regarding navigation safety and 
vessel proximity to shore, we are not delaying publication of this rule 
while other authorities consider the requests for a no-discharge zone.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \34\ Regional Response Team III is the regional component of the 
National Response System within which the Chesapeake Bay fully 
resides. For more information on the Team, visit: https://www.nrt.org/site/site_profile.aspx?site_id=35.
    \35\ See document titled ``USCG letter to VADEQ, Nov 7, 2019'' 
in the docket.
    \36\ The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality is the 
state agency with authority of Virginia's No Discharge Zone Program: 
https://www.deq.virginia.gov/Programs/Water/WaterQualityInformationTMDLs/TMDL/NoDischargeZoneDesignations.aspx.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

G. Risk of Vessels Dragging Anchor

    Some comments expressed concerns with risks of ships dragging 
anchor. In the preamble to the NPRM,\37\ we described existing 
regulations intended to minimize the chances of vessels dragging 
anchor. Some of these regulations apply to all deep draft vessels 
operating in U.S. waters, but some are specific to the regulations for 
vessels using Hampton Roads, VA, anchorages, including Sec.  
110.168(c)(8), (9), (10), and (15). Additionally, we

[[Page 31974]]

created a new requirement specific to Anchorage R, Sec.  
110.168(e)(10)(ii) found in the regulatory text at the end of this 
document which requires that a non-self-propelled vessel (like a barge) 
must be tended by a towing vessel unless otherwise given permission by 
the COTP. This reduces the risk of vessels without the means of 
propulsion of breaking away or dragging anchor and causing harm to 
themselves or other vessels by grounding or collision.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \37\ See section III.1, third paragraph of ``Anchorage Grounds; 
Lower Chesapeake Bay, Cape Charles, VA'' on the docket.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    One comment expressed concern regarding a cargo vessel grounding of 
April 15, 2014, where a vessel dragged anchor under gale force winds 
and grounded off the shore of Virginia Beach, VA. By creating Anchorage 
R, we are requiring that vessels otherwise anchoring near the town of 
Cape Charles have a higher state of readiness to prepare for and 
respond to environmental conditions that could cause them to drag 
anchor, like the sudden onset of gale force winds, and thus reduce the 
chances of groundings, collisions, and pollution spills.

H. Concerns About Views From the Shore

    We received numerous comments opposing anchorage R due to the 
negative impacts of view from the shore, including potential decreased 
property values and diminished tourism appeal. As we note above, 
vessels have been anchoring in the deep waters between York Spit 
Channel and Cape Charles of their own volition and without anchorage 
boundaries to guide them. In the NPRM,\38\ we explained how we changed 
the boundaries of the anchorage described in the ANPRM in an effort to 
propose an anchorage with boundaries that would keep vessels from 
anchoring as close to shore as they had been (as close as 1.5 NM, or, 
3,000 yards). The eastern boundary of the anchorage is designed to 
anchor vessels no closer than approximately 2.8 NM from shore. 
Considering the maximum number of vessels that visited those waters at 
any one time in 2017 and 2018, we view the design of the anchorage as a 
balanced fit between view concerns, available water for anchoring, and 
peak usage. Therefore, we are not changing the boundary of the 
anchorage from that proposed in the NPRM.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \38\ See section III.4 of ``Anchorage Grounds; Lower Chesapeake 
Bay, Cape Charles, VA'' on the docket.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

I. Concerns About Vessel Congestion and Anchorage Duration

    Many comments noted concern about vessel congestion, suggesting 
that the port complex should not be extending northward into the 
Chesapeake Bay. The number of vessels calling on the Hampton Roads area 
is beyond the Coast Guard's control, and denying vessels calling on the 
port access to safe anchoring grounds is counter to safety and 
environmental stewardship. We are establishing Anchorage R to provide 
controls over those vessels choosing to anchor in the naturally deep 
water near Cape Charles.
    Other comments noted concerns that vessel stays within the 
anchorage should be limited and specified various lengths. The general 
regulations for Hampton Roads anchorages (33 CFR 110.168(c)(2)) state 
that except as otherwise provided, a vessel may not occupy an anchorage 
for more than 30 days, unless the vessel obtains permission from the 
COTP. Since no such time limit previously existed for vessels anchoring 
in the area of Anchorage R (except those within the limits of old 
Anchorage Q), vessels were able to remain anchored indefinitely. We 
find that the 30-day limit is sufficient to address anchoring duration.

J. Concerns About Negative Impact on Fisheries

    Many comments raised general concerns about impacts to fisheries. 
We contend that these comments are not applicable to the Coast Guard's 
action of establishing the anchorage grounds for the same reasons 
described in the discussions above regarding compliance with the NEPA 
and the CZMA. The comments pertain to the presence and number of 
vessels already anchoring in the area, not about the Coast Guard's 
administrative controls this anchorage will provide. We find that the 
action of establishing Anchorage R has no adverse effect; the risks to 
fisheries from anchored vessels in the waters of Anchorage R pre-exist 
the Coast Guard's designation of the anchorage. We are making no 
changes based on these comments.

K. Concerns About Light Pollution

    A number of comments discussed concerns with potential interference 
to migrating birds, light trespass, and non-conformance with 
Northampton County requirements for dark sky-type lighting. Like other 
pollution or water use concerns, we find the action of establishing 
Anchorage R has no adverse effect; the existence of the lights from 
anchored vessels in the waters of Anchorage R pre-exists the Coast 
Guard's designation of the anchorage. We are making no changes based on 
light pollution-related comments.
    One commenter cited a study concluding that artificial light at 
night may have a negative effect on nocturnally migrating birds and 
suggested the Coast Guard incorporate light pollution measures during 
bird migration periods. We are not able to incorporate such measures 
with this rulemaking. Vessels operating on U.S. waters are required to 
follow the Inland Navigation Rules which govern the behavior of vessels 
underway, at anchor, and in other conditions, including prescribing the 
lights which vessels must exhibit. These rules \39\ require vessels 
greater than 100 meters (328 feet) in length at anchor to illuminate 
their decks and exhibit the fore and aft all-around lights required for 
smaller vessels. Because the Inland Rules are both designed to be in 
harmony with International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea 
and put specific responsibility on masters and crew to comply with 
them,\40\ this rulemaking may not counter or interfere with the Inland 
Rules. The Coast Guard may establish special anchorage areas, which 
allow anchored vessels to be unlighted,\41\ but this type of anchorage 
is not applicable for use at Anchorage R for two reasons. First, 
unlighted vessels in these anchorage areas must be 65 feet or less in 
length; the majority of vessels anchoring in the waters of Anchorage R 
exceed this length. Second, such areas should be located where general 
navigation will not be endangered by unlit vessels. The waters of 
Anchorage R are located adjacent to York Spit Channel, the primary 
north-south thoroughfare for deep draft vessels transiting the lower 
Chesapeake Bay. Also, the anchorage ground itself is intended to be 
navigated by vessels arriving and departing at night, where unlighted 
vessels would increase navigation risk.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \39\ Rules for lighting anchored vessels are found in 33 CFR 83 
subpart C, ``Lights and Shapes,'' Rules 20, 21, 22, and 30.
    \40\ Rule 1, ``Application,'' (33 CFR 83.01) describes the how 
the Inland Navigation Rules interact with the international 
community and preempt state and local rules ``within the same 
field.'' Rule 2, ``Responsibility,'' (33 CFR 83.02) describes master 
and crew responsibilities.
    \41\ See 33 CFR 109.10.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regarding light trespass and Northampton County lighting 
requirements, Anchorage R requires vessels to anchor further from the 
Northampton shoreline and is an improvement over the Coast Guard taking 
no action. One comment requested the Coast Guard consider adding 
lighting rules specific to Anchorage R that would be compatible with 
the Northampton County Zoning Ordinance \42\ requirements. As

[[Page 31975]]

discussed above, this rulemaking may not counter lighting requirements 
of the Inland Navigation Rules.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \42\ At the time of this rulemaking, general lighting standards 
for Northampton County are found in section 154.2.112 of Northampton 
Zoning Ordinance, on page 105.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

L. Concerns About Noise Pollution Risks

    Many comments noted concerns of hearing noises made by ships, 
adding to the nuisance of the vessels anchoring offshore Cape Charles. 
We find that the action of establishing Anchorage R has no adverse 
effect; the existence of the noise produced by anchored vessels in the 
waters of Anchorage R pre-exists the Coast Guard's designation of 
Anchorage R as an anchorage ground.

M. Risks of Ballast Water Discharge and Invasive Species Concerns

    A number of comments expressed concerns regarding the negative 
impact on the environment caused by discharge of ballast water in 
Anchorage R. One specifically warned that the proximity of the 
anchorage to aquaculture sites increased those sites' exposure to 
potential nonindigenous shellfish pathogens which could be introduced 
by ships at anchor discharging ballast water. We find that the action 
of establishing Anchorage R has no adverse effect; the risks posed by 
vessels anchoring in the area existed before our designation of the 
anchorage.
    Vessels carry ballast water to add weight in specific locations, 
allowing the ship to control or maintain trim, draught, stability, or 
hull stresses it encounters due to adverse sea conditions or changes in 
cargo weight, fuel and water. We are committed to protecting U.S. 
waters from invasive species and work closely with the international 
community to find solutions that minimize ballast water risks while 
maintaining maritime trade.\43\ Commercial vessels such as those that 
anchor near Cape Charles, VA, as well as those that transit, anchor, 
moor, or otherwise use waters in the Hampton Roads area must meet 
federal requirements \44\ for ballast water management. These stipulate 
that ballast water obtained in overseas coastal areas that might 
contain invasive species be exchanged with ocean water 200 miles from 
shore or treated with onboard systems to prevent the discharge of 
viable living organisms.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \43\ See the USCG website for ballast water management 
frequently asked questions: https://www.dco.uscg.mil/Portals/9/MSC/BWMS/Ballast_Water_FAQs.pdf?ver=2018-06-06-123015-850.
    \44\ Regulations for ballast water management in waters of the 
United States are in 33 CFR part 151 subpart D. Further guidance for 
ballast water management systems at the time of this rulemaking are 
in Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular 01-18, ``Ballast Water 
Management for Control of Non-indigenous Species in Waters of the 
United States.''
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

N. Security Concerns

    Some comments asked whether having unattended foreign ships 
anchored in the Chesapeake Bay is a security concern. Vessel security 
is of vital importance, which is why the United States enacted the 
Maritime Transportation Security Act and the Coast Guard issued 
supporting regulations,\45\ and continues to work closely with the 
international community in the implementation and enforcement of the 
International Ship and Port Facility Security Code.\46\ Together, these 
requirements ensure seagoing vessels and their operating companies have 
rigorous security requirements for training, security planning, 
physical and operational security measures, and record keeping. 
Furthermore, federal requirements mandate that U.S. vessels in 
commercial service and foreign vessels entering port must provide an 
advance notice of arrival \47\ to the Coast Guard. The vessel's notice 
of arrival is vetted by numerous federal agencies to ensure compliance 
with applicable safety and security laws prior to the vessel and its 
crews entering U.S. waters. Regarding foreign crewmembers, U.S. Customs 
and Border Protection (CBP) screen and provide escort protocol for 
those individuals who are seeking to go ashore. All crewmembers must 
remain onboard the vessel unless clearance from CBP has been obtained. 
As noted previously, we view the action of creating Anchorage R as 
having no adverse effects; security requirements for anchored vessels 
remain unchanged whether the anchorage exists or not.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \45\ 33 CFR part 104.
    \46\ See the International Maritime Organization site discussing 
international maritime security requirements for vessels: http://www.imo.org/en/OurWork/Security/Guide_to_Maritime_Security/Pages/SOLAS-XI-2%20ISPS%20Code.aspx.
    \47\ 33 CFR part 160, subpart C.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

O. Requests That Vessels Delay Arrival or Remain at Sea Instead of 
Anchoring

    Five comments recommended the Coast Guard consider requiring ships 
to remain offshore or otherwise delay their arrival. In Section III.A 
above, we explained that vessels have been anchoring in the vicinity of 
Anchorage R with no restrictions and will continue to do so; the 
logistical, safety, and economic factors that vessels consider when 
determining whether to delay arrival are outside the scope of this 
rulemaking. We have protocols for barring or delaying vessels from port 
entry based on safety, security, and environmental compliance factors. 
Every arriving vessel, whether destined for a pier or an anchorage, is 
individually vetted against these factors. However, we do not bar a 
vessel from port entry based on its intended destination alone.
    We received supporting comments describing the importance of having 
safe, protected anchorage space for conducting maintenance and other 
activities that would otherwise be too unsafe to conduct in offshore 
conditions, noting the area of Anchorage R as the best location for 
such activities in the Hampton Roads area. We made no changes based on 
these comments.

P. Requests That the Coast Guard Develop an Anchoring Management Plan

    Five comments recommended the Coast Guard develop an anchor 
management plan, some of which proposed specific provisions for the 
Coast Guard to consider. We agree with the following two proposed 
provisions and have amended the language of the regulation in this 
final rule to meet the intent of the proposals:
    First, ``[n]o lightering, bunkering, or lube oil transfers shall 
take place at Cape Charles Anchorage without the permission of the USCG 
COTP.'' We agree and have included provisions about the transfer of oil 
in new paragraph (e)(10)(i) of the regulatory text at the end of this 
document.
    Second, ``[t]ugs with barges shall be in attendance of their tows 
or barges. Any towing vessel that is departing the anchorage but 
leaving its tow at anchor within the anchorage shall inform the USCG 
COTP of the estimated time of returning to the barge, continuously 
monitor VHF Channels 13 and 16, and by any means appropriate monitor 
the position and status of the tow.'' We agree with the intent of the 
proposal, and generally believe that no unattended barges should be 
left at Anchorage R. We have added paragraph (e)(10)(ii) of the 
regulatory text at the end of this document to address potential 
dangers presented by unattended barges.
    We agree with the intent of the following proposed provisions we 
have quoted below but, as indicated, we believe that they are already 
fully addressed by existing, applicable regulations:
    ``Restrict vessel operation, in a hazardous area or under hazardous 
conditions, to vessels which have particular operating characteristics 
or capabilities which are considered necessary for safe operation under 
the circumstances'' and ``restrict entering or

[[Page 31976]]

departing the anchorage in severe weather conditions.'' Existing 
regulations require vessels bound for or departing from ports or places 
within the navigable waters of the United States to notify the Coast 
Guard of hazardous conditions either on board the vessel or caused by 
the vessel or its operation. These regulations further provide the COTP 
the authority to issue special orders to vessels when justified in the 
interest of safety by reason of weather, visibility, sea conditions, 
temporary port congestion, other temporary hazardous circumstances, or 
the condition of the vessel.\48\ These regulations are sufficient to 
insure the safety of the vessels during hazardous conditions, and fully 
address the intent on the proposed provisions.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \48\ 33 CFR 160 subparts B and C.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    ``Vessels shall display the appropriate anchoring lights at nights 
and during periods of low visibility while at anchor.'' This is already 
required by Rule 30 of the Inland Navigation Rules.\49\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \49\ 33 CFR 83.30.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    ``Vessels required to carry and use Automatic Identification System 
\50\ should operate their AIS while at anchor.'' This is already 
required by 33 CFR 164.46(d)(2)(v), which mandates ``the continual 
operation of AIS and its associated devices (e.g., positioning system, 
gyro, converters, displays) at all times while the vessel is underway 
or at anchor. . .''
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \50\ 33 CFR 164.46.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    ``A vessel must maintain an anchor watch and must have procedures 
to detect a dragging anchor'' and ``No vessel may anchor in a `dead 
ship' state (propulsion or control unavailable for normal operations) 
without the prior approval of the USCG COTP and must have propulsion 
available within 30 minutes in case of anchor dragging or other 
situation.'' This is generally already addressed in navigation safety 
regulations.\51\ Coast Guard Sector Virginia receives requests from 
vessel operators that desire to go into a ``dead ship'' state and 
depending on current and expected environmental conditions, the request 
may be denied or an assist tug may be required to be on site during the 
dead ship period in order to ensure compliance with that regulation.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \51\ 33 CFR 164.19.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    ``Whenever it is detected that a vessel's anchor is dragging, the 
person in charge of the vessel shall immediately notify the COTP.'' Any 
situation where a vessel drags anchor and is unable to make immediate 
effective corrective action would be considered a hazardous condition, 
which is required to be reported immediately to the Coast Guard.\52\ 
Also, see the discussion in Section III.G above.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \52\ 33 CFR 160.216.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    ``Prohibiting anchorage of any vessel that has machinery or hull 
damage that poses a threat to the safety of the port.'' A vessel 
operator is already required to notify the Coast Guard immediately of 
any marine casualty or hazardous condition. Existing COTP authority 
gives the Coast Guard the authority to direct the movement of a vessel 
in such circumstances, and existing anchorage regulations in Sec.  
110.168(c)(3) cover this case.
    ``Be prepared to get underway as directed by the USCG COTP.'' This 
is already generally addressed in Sec.  110.168(c)(9) of the Hampton 
Roads Anchorage regulations.
    We do not agree with proposed provisions that would make any 
requirement that a vessel must notify COTP for routine operations 
because Coast Guard Sector Virginia does not currently have a Vessel 
Traffic Service capability as found in some other parts of the country 
where such routine tracking of vessels would take place through 
mandatory vessel check-ins.
    We do not agree with a proposed provision to implement additional 
ballast water discharge restrictions. The Coast Guard has established a 
standard for allowable concentration of living organisms in ships' 
ballast water discharged into waters of the United States, and we 
believe this standard is sufficient.\53\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \53\ 33 CFR 151, subpart D.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Q. Requests To Extend the Comment Period

    Some comments requested an extended comment period. Given the 
attention focused on this issue by our publication of the ANPRM and 
public meetings on the ANRPM, the Coast Guard believes that the 
opportunities provided by the NPRM comment period and accompanying 
public meetings were sufficient for public comment.

R. Anchorage Proponents

    Seven comments supported a new, deep-water anchorage due to the 
growing maritime infrastructure in the Hampton Roads area. With limited 
availability of a deep draft anchorage in the existing naval 
anchorages, we believe this rule enhances navigation safety and more 
safely and effectively supports commercial vessel anchoring needs in 
the lower Chesapeake Bay. Five comments were generally supportive of 
the anchorage. One written comment suggested the anchorage would have a 
positive impact on fisheries.

IV. Discussion of the Final Rule

    The Coast Guard is establishing a new Anchorage R and relocating 
and increasing the size of the existing Quarantine Anchorage Q. This 
reflects our consideration of all comments received on the NPRM and our 
preliminary Record of Environmental Consideration, which we developed 
after issuing an ANPRM. This rule will more effectively establish a new 
deep-water anchorage ground for commercial vessels to support the new 
and projected growth in vessel traffic throughout the Hampton Roads 
area. Anchorage R will be located in naturally deep water with charted 
depths between 25 and 101 feet. Depths in the northern portions of the 
anchorage range from 45 to 101 feet. Depths in the southern portion 
range from 25 to 45 feet.
    The 7.9 NM long eastern boundary of Anchorage R is located 
generally 3 NM west of Cape Charles, VA. The southernmost boundary is 
3.9 NM long and runs parallel with and 500 yards north of the existing 
Regulated Navigation Area.\54\ The western boundary of the anchorage 
grounds runs parallel along, and no less than 500 yards east of York 
Spit Channel for 13.9 NM, including an 11.2 NM length between Lighted 
Buoys 24 and 38 and then continuing northeast for 2.7 NM beyond Lighted 
Buoy 38. The anchorage is 0.6 NM long at its northern boundary.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \54\ 33 CFR 165.501.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The Coast Guard is moving the existing Quarantine Anchorage 
(Anchorage Q), from the current location 3.5 NM to the west of Cape 
Charles, VA, and east of York Spit Channel between Lighted Buoys 36 to 
38, relocating it 6 NM southwest of Fishermans Point, VA. The new 
location runs 625 yards west of York Spit Channel between buoys 16 and 
18. The eastern boundary of Anchorage Q runs parallel to York Spit 
Channel for 2.2 NM. The southernmost boundary is 1.3 NM from the 
emergency restricted area outside the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. The 
westernmost boundary is 2.2 NM. The northernmost boundary is 450 yards 
southwest of York River Entrance Channel and runs for 1.3 NM. Its size 
is increasing from approximately 1.1 to 1.7 square miles
    We made five changes to the regulatory text from that published in 
the NPRM. The first two are rules specific to Anchorage R. We added 
paragraphs (e)(10)(i) and (ii) in response to comments submitted to the 
docket

[[Page 31977]]

and reiterated in public meetings addressing environmental 
vulnerabilities unique to the characteristics of the Cape Charles area, 
explained in the ``Discussion of Comments'' section above. They 
restrict bulk transfers of oil and hazardous material and require non-
self-propelled vessels to be attended by towing vessels. The other 
three changes to the regulatory text address that the coordinates for 
anchorages (Q) and (R) are based on the World Geodetic System (WGS84). 
In our introductory text of Sec.  110.168(a) ``Anchorages Grounds'' we 
added ``Unless otherwise stated, . . .'' to the beginning of the 
sentence. The sentence now reads ``Unless otherwise stated, all 
coordinates in this section for anchorage grounds are based on North 
American Datum of 1983 (NAD 83).'' We added the following clarification 
to both sentences of paragraphs (a)(6) and (7) ``. . ., which are based 
on the World Geodetic System (WGS84) . . .'' Both sentences now read 
``The waters bound by a line connecting the following points, which are 
based on the World Geodetic System (WGS84):''
    The regulatory text, including the coordinates mention above, 
appears at the end of this document. You may find an illustration of 
the anchorage grounds in the ``Anchorage Boundary Development'' 
document in the docket.

V. Regulatory Analyses

    We developed this rule after considering numerous statutes and 
Executive orders related to rulemaking. Below we summarize our analyses 
based on a number of these statutes and Executive orders.

A. Regulatory Planning and Review

    Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 direct agencies to assess the 
costs and benefits of available regulatory alternatives and, if 
regulation is necessary, to select regulatory approaches that maximize 
net benefits. Executive Order 13771 directs agencies to control 
regulatory costs through a budgeting process. This rule has not been 
designated a ``significant regulatory action,'' under Executive Order 
12866. Accordingly, this rule has not been reviewed by the Office of 
Management and Budget (OMB), and pursuant to OMB guidance it is exempt 
from the requirements of Executive Order 13771.
    This regulatory action determination is based on the size, 
location, and historical vessel traffic data pertaining to the 
anchorage locations. The regulation would ensure approximately 18 
square miles of new anchorage grounds are designated, applying existing 
regulations for anchorages in the Hampton Roads area to vessels 
anchoring between York Spit Channel and the town of Cape Charles, VA, 
and would ensure approximately 1.7 square miles of anchorage grounds 
are available for vessels that requires an examination by public 
health, customs, or immigration authorities. This regulatory action 
provides for needed commercial deep draft anchorage while enhancing the 
navigational safety and environmental stewardship of large naval and 
commercial vessels transiting the lower Chesapeake Bay.

B. Impact on Small Entities

    The Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980, 5 U.S.C. 601-612, as 
amended, requires Federal agencies to consider the potential impact of 
regulations on small entities during rulemaking. 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. The Coast Guard received no comments from the Small Business 
Administration on this rulemaking. The Coast Guard certifies under 5 
U.S.C. 605(b) that this rule will not have a significant economic 
impact on a substantial number of small entities.
    While some owners or operators of vessels intending to use the 
anchorage may be small entities, for the reasons stated in section IV.A 
above, this rule would not have a significant economic impact on any 
vessel owner or operator. The towns and communities along the west 
coast of Eastern Shore of Virginia have an economy based on tourism and 
numerous small entities and businesses. The addition of Anchorage R 
will regulate and move vessels that are currently anchoring in the 
general vicinity away from the shore and beaches, lessening impacts 
these small entities may currently experience. Two comments were 
received claiming significant impact to small entities, citing the 
small business and municipalities in the Cape Charles area. The Coast 
Guard disagrees that this regulation would have a negative effect 
compared to the alternative that the no action would have to small 
entities; vessels are already anchoring in this area.
    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 this rule. If the rule would affect your 
small business, organization, or governmental jurisdiction and you have 
questions concerning its provisions or options for compliance, please 
contact the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT 
section.
    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). The Coast Guard will not retaliate against small 
entities that question or complain about this rule or any policy or 
action of the Coast Guard.

C. Collection of Information

    This rule will not call for a new collection of information under 
the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-3520).

D. Federalism and Indian Tribal Governments

    A rule has implications for federalism under Executive Order 13132, 
Federalism, if it has a substantial direct effect on the States, on the 
relationship between the national government and the States, or on the 
distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of 
government. We have analyzed this rule under that Order and have 
determined that it is consistent with the fundamental federalism 
principles and preemption requirements described in Executive Order 
13132.
    Also, this rule does not have tribal implications under Executive 
Order 13175, Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal 
Governments, because it does 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.

E. 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 (adjusted for 
inflation) or more in any one year. Though this rule will not result in 
such an expenditure,

[[Page 31978]]

we do discuss the effects of this rule elsewhere in this preamble.

F. Environment

    We have analyzed this rule under Department of Homeland Security 
Directive 023-01, Rev. 1, associated implementing instructions, and 
Environmental Planning COMDTINST 5090.1 (series), which guide the Coast 
Guard in complying with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 
(42 U.S.C. 4321-4370f), and have determined that this action is one of 
a category of actions that do not individually or cumulatively have a 
significant effect on the human environment. This rule involves 
amending the regulations for Hampton Roads and adjacent water 
anchorages by establishing an anchorage, Anchorage R, approximately 3 
NM west of Cape Charles, VA and increasing the size of and relocating 
the existing Quarantine Anchorage, Anchorage Q, to a more secluded 
position that is 6 NM southwest of Fishermans Point, VA. It is 
categorically excluded from further review under paragraph L59(a) of 
Appendix A, Table 1 of DHS Instruction Manual 023-01-001-01, Rev. 01. A 
Record of Environmental Consideration supporting this determination is 
available in the docket where indicated under ADDRESSES.

List of Subjects in 33 CFR Part 110

    Anchorage grounds.

    For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Coast Guard amends 
33 CFR part 110 as follows:

PART 110--ANCHORAGE REGULATIONS

0
1. The authority citation for part 110 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 33 U.S.C. 471, 2071; 46 U.S.C. 70034; 33 CFR 1.05-1; 
Department of Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1.


0
2. In Sec.  110.168:
0
a. Revise the section heading;
0
b. Add paragraph (a) introductory text;\
0
c. Revise paragraph (a)(6); and
0
d. Add paragraphs (a)(7) and (e)(10).
    The additions and revisions to read as follows.


Sec.  [thinsp]110.168  Hampton Roads, Virginia and adjacent waters.

    (a) Anchorage grounds. Unless otherwise stated, all coordinates in 
this section for anchorage grounds are based on North American Datum of 
1983 (NAD 83).
* * * * *
    (6) Anchorage Q. Quarantine Anchorage. The waters bound by a line 
connecting the following points, which are based on the World Geodetic 
System (WGS84):

------------------------------------------------------------------------
              Latitude                            Longitude
------------------------------------------------------------------------
37[deg]05'40'' N                     076[deg]08'12'' W
37[deg]05'40'' N                     076[deg]07'19'' W
37[deg]03'46'' N                     076[deg]05'58'' W
37[deg]03'46'' N                     076[deg]06'51'' W
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (7) Anchorage R. The waters bound by a line connecting the 
following points, which are based on the World Geodetic System (WGS84):

------------------------------------------------------------------------
              Latitude                            Longitude
------------------------------------------------------------------------
37[deg]19'10'' N                     076[deg]05'00'' W
37[deg]12'00'' N                     076[deg]05'00'' W
37[deg]09'08'' N                     076[deg]08'19'' W
37[deg]11'23'' N                     076[deg]08'49'' W
37[deg]19'10'' N                     076[deg]05'46'' W
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *
    (e) * * *
    (10) Anchorage R. (i) No vessel using Anchorage R may conduct oil 
or hazardous material transfer operations subject to 33 CFR part 156 
except with permission of the COTP.
    (ii) Any non-self-propelled vessel using Anchorage R must have a 
towing vessel in attendance except with permission of the COTP not to 
have a towing vessel in attendance.

    Dated: May 6, 2020.
Keith M. Smith,
Rear Admiral, U.S. Coast Guard, Commander, Fifth Coast Guard District.
[FR Doc. 2020-10100 Filed 5-27-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 9110-04-P


