How did EPA and the Department of Defense (DOD) evaluate the discharges?
Phase I: EPA and DOD published Phase I of the Uniform National Discharge Standards rule, on May 10, 1999. The Phase I rule identified all discharges incidental to the normal operation of armed forces vessels, and characterized each discharge to determine if it required control, based on its potential to have an environmental impact. The Phase I rule also established procedures for no-discharge zones. Phase II: In Phase II, EPA and DOD, in consultation with the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), are developing standards for each discharge that was determined to require control in Phase I. Phase III: In Phase III, DOD, in consultation with EPA and USCG, will establish regulations governing the design, construction, installation, and use of MPCDs onboard vessels of the armed forces. These regulations will be required to meet the performance standards promulgated in Phase II. The Phase II performance standards do not become effective until Phase III requirements are in place.
