DEQ and OHA Address Elevated Air Toxics Risk from Southeast Portland Aluminum Coating Facility
The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality and Oregon Health Authority found that Electro-Chem Metal Finishing in Southeast Portland exceeded Cleaner Air Oregon health risk levels for trichloroethylene emissions from its vapor degreasing process. Upon being notified by DEQ, the company voluntarily agreed to immediately cease using TCE and will transport its remaining TCE waste to a hazardous waste facility within 30 days. OHA determined the long-term public health risk from past emissions is low but noted concerns for pregnant women exposed during first trimester.
Reopens Comment on Hatchery Plan for Seven Salmon Programs in Skokomish River Basin
NMFS has reopened the public comment period for a Proposed Evaluation and Pending Determination (PEPD) on a Hatchery and Genetics Management Plan (HGMP) covering seven salmon hatchery programs in the Skokomish River basin, Washington. The programs, operated by Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife with the Skokomish Indian Tribe and Tacoma Power Utility, would rear and release fall Chinook salmon, spring Chinook salmon, fall chum salmon, sockeye salmon, coho salmon, and steelhead. Comments must be submitted by 5 p.m. Pacific time on May 13, 2026.
Public Comment NOAA Endangered Anadromous Fish Rule
NOAA Fisheries opened a public comment period via regulations.gov for a proposed rule concerning endangered anadromous fish species. The comment form allows individuals, organizations, or anonymous submitters to submit feedback for the administrative record. The comment period provides an opportunity for stakeholders to voice support, concerns, or alternative recommendations regarding the proposed measure.
Kansas Lake Blue-Green Algae Advisories Issued
KDHE and KDWP have issued public health advisories for blue-green algae (harmful algal blooms) at multiple Kansas lakes. A Warning status is active for King Lake (Lyon County) and Lake Afton (Sedgwick County). A Watch status applies to Frontenac City Lake (Crawford County), Council Grove City Lake (Morris County), and the Southeast Pond at Frontenac City Lake. The water recreation season runs April 1 through October 31. The advisories recommend avoiding water contact, rinsing with clean water after exposure, and reporting suspected HAB-related illnesses.
Burn of Carron Pollution, Dead Fish, Investigation Ongoing
SEPA is investigating a pollution incident on the Burn of Carron near Aberlour, Scotland, reported on 14 April 2026. White discoloration and a turpentine-like odour were detected, with dead fish reported by the Spey Fishery Board. The source was traced to a layby on the A95, and officers confirmed the water is now running clear. Investigation and ecological impact assessment remain ongoing with support from NatureScot and the Spey Fishery Board.
Jamaican Kite Swallowtail Endangered Species Listing Proposal
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposes listing the Jamaican Kite Swallowtail (Papilio homerus) as an endangered species under the Endangered Species Act. The butterfly, endemic to Jamaica, faces threats from habitat loss, climate change, and a restricted range. The proposal opens a public comment period and may trigger critical habitat designation if finalized.
Blue Kite Swallowtail Conservation Plan, Portland Bight
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service published the Blue Kite Swallowtail Conservation Plan for the Portland Bight region. The plan outlines conservation strategies and recovery measures for the endangered butterfly species. The document is available for download from regulations.gov.
Jamaican Blue Kite Swallowtail Species Status Assessment v1.3
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service published Species Status Assessment v1.3 for the Jamaican Blue Kite Swallowtail (Graiusiagoz), evaluating the butterfly's population, habitat, and conservation needs. The document provides biological and ecological information used to inform potential Endangered Species Act listing determinations. This is an internal assessment document available for public reference on Regulations.gov.
Supporting Literature for Jamaican Kite Swallowtail Endangered Species Action
The Fish and Wildlife Service posted supporting literature on regulations.gov as part of an endangered species action concerning the Jamaican Kite Swallowtail (Papilio homerus), a butterfly species. The document provides background materials related to the species status review or listing consideration. No compliance obligations, deadlines, or penalties are stated.
Google EUP for Wolbachia pipientis in Aedes Albopictus
EPA received application 92643-EUP-E from Google LLC for an experimental use permit to release Wolbachia pipientis wPip strain contained in live adult Aedes albopictus male mosquitoes for population suppression. The Agency determined the application may be of regional and national significance and is seeking public comments. Comments must be received on or before May 20, 2026.
Virginia Air Quality Permit Amendment for GP Big Island Pulp Mill
The EPA is approving a Virginia state implementation plan revision for the GP Big Island pulp and paper mill facility in Bedford County, VA. The revision lowers permitted emission limits for PM10, SO2, and NOx at the Number 5 Power Boiler and removes coal-related permit conditions. Simultaneously, the EPA is removing the October 5, 2012 amended BART permit from the Virginia SIP.