From the American Waterways Operators (AWO):
(WASHINGTON) — On Aug. 19, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized its rule to delay the implementation of Tier 4 engine emissions requirements for high-speed commercial vessels such as lobster boats and pilot boats.
AWO had submitted public comments in October 2019 urging EPA to amend its proposed rule to expand the definition of a vessel that may qualify for temporary relief from the Tier 4 standards to include inland and coastal towing vessels, limited to propulsion engines with maximum power output up to 1,877 horsepower and total nameplate propulsion power at or below 3,754 horsepower, through model year 2021.
EPA responded to AWO, stating that they “did not propose to make any changes to the Tier 4 standards or implementation schedule for river pushboats and are therefore not in a position to adopt relief provisions for those vessels in this rule.” However, EPA committed to further consideration of the issues raised in AWO's comments. AWO will continue to seek guidance from the Engine Emissions Working Group on ways our industry can assist EPA on this matter.
Click here to read the EPA's final rule.
