APS REGULATORY ALERT

USDA APHIS proposing to amend the citrus canker regulations; USDA APHIS is soliciting comments on an information collection requirement concerning a seed analysis program with Canada
Date: July 26, 2007

The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is seeking public comments by September 11, 2007 on a draft environmental impact statement (EIS) that evaluates potential revisions to existing regulations regarding the importation, interstate movement and environmental release of genetically engineered (GE) organisms. Additional information can be found online at http://www.aphis.usda.gov/newsroom/content/2007/07/drafteis.shtml.

The EPA has issued a Final Rule which establishes a temporary exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of the tobacco mild green mosaic tobamovirus (TMGMV) on grass and grass hay when applied/used as a bioherbicide against the weed tropical soda apple. The temporary tolerance exemption took effect on June 27, 2007, expires on June 30, 2009. Objections and hearing requests are due to EPA by August 27, 2007. View additional information at http://a257.g.akamaitech.net/7/257/2422/01jan20071800/edocket.access.gpo.gov/2007/E7-12338.htm.

Graduate Fellowship Applications are Sought by October 23, 2007 by EPA in its "Science To Achieve Results (STAR) Fellowship Program." EPA expects to make 65 Fellowship Grants by July 31, 2008 with a Grant Ceiling of $37,000 per year for masters and doctoral level students in environmental fields of study. Details are posted online at http://es.epa.gov/ncer/rfa/2008/2008_star_fellow.html.