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Sec. Frank Statement on U.S. Coast Guard Proposed Ballast Water Rules
News Release Published: August 28, 2009 by the Central Office
Contact(s): Adam Collins, DNR, (608) 266-2243 or adam.collins@wisconsin.gov
MADISON – Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Secretary Matt Frank today made the following statement regarding the U.S. Coast Guard’s announcement of a proposed national ballast water rule.
Secretary Frank said:
“I am very encouraged that the U.S. Coast Guard is taking steps to advance a new proposal for national ballast water discharge standards. While there is much work to be done, I hope the final rules are strong enough to protect the Great Lakes from new introductions and the further spread of aquatic invasive species.
“I have always said the best way to address the problem of aquatic invasive species in ballast water discharge is through a strong national standard. Wisconsin is happy to work with the federal government to develop a strong national ballast water standard that protects the Great Lakes, maintains a robust shipping industry and is technologically feasible.”
In February 2009, U.S. EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson announced the agency would reconsider the current federal ballast water permit. The current EPA standards for ballast water treatment, set by the previous administration, do not adequately prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.
Wisconsin is reviewing comments on its own proposed state ballast water permit. The state permit would require commercial oceangoing ships and those transporting cargo between Great Lakes ports to take steps to reduce aquatic invasive species in the ballast water they discharge.
