October XX, 2015

Chuck White

Waste Management

915 L St, Ste 1430

Sacramento, CA 95814

Dear Sir or Madam,

Thank you for agreeing to participate on the Ballast Water Management Rulemaking Advisory Committee. The commitment of your time and expertise to evaluate the issues affecting our state ballast water program and aquatic invasive species prevention is greatly appreciated.

Based on recommendations from the Task Force on Shipping Transport of Aquatic Invasive Species, the 2015 Oregon Legislature and Governor Brown passed HB 2207 which clarifies EQC rulemaking authority for purposes aimed at reducing the risk of introducing non-indigenous species to Oregon waterways. Oregon ballast water administrative rules (OAR 34-143) were last revised in 2010. DEQ is committed to developing or amending rules in a manner that is compatible with new regulations being implemented at the Federal level, while also addressing local risk vulnerabilities, where necessary.

DEQ’s purpose for the advisory committee is to gather expert input on policy and technical issues related to several program design options, as well as the fiscal and economic impact of the proposed rules.

Meetings are scheduled for the following dates/times at DEQ Headquarters in Portland:

Day, November X, 2015; 2-4pm

Day, January X, 2015; tbd (tentative)

Day, February X, 2015; tbd (tentative)

To help ensure that we have consistency of representation at each of the meetings, we ask that you appoint an alternate to represent your interests if you are unable to attend.

The advisory committee charter, a full roster of the committee, meeting agendas and background materials will all be located on a webpage that can be found at: http://www.oregon.gov/deq/RulesandRegulations/Pages/Advisory/A2CFPPh2.aspx.

If you have questions or comments, please contact Rian Hooff, Ballast Water Program Coordinator, at hooff.rian@deq.state.or.us or (503) 229-6865.

Sincerely,

Dick Pederson
Director