SIP Approval: Indiana (metal and plastic parts surface coating rules).

SIP Proposal: Indiana (metal and plastic parts surface coating rule).

FWS announced a 12-month finding on a petition to list a distinct population segment of the red tree vole as endangered or threatened and to designate critical habitat under the ESA; the agency found that listing is warranted but precluded by higher priority actions. 

United States v. City of Welch, No. 1:11-cv-00647 (S.D. W. Va. Sept. 21, 2011). Settling CWA defendants that violated NPDES permit requirements must pay a $5,000 civil penalty to the United States and West Virginia, must pay stipulated penalties for periods of noncompliance, and must perform a series of injunctive relief measures.

United States v. Smith, No. 3:10-cv-05364-BHS (W.D. Wash. Oct. 6, 2011). Settling CWA defendants that discharged pollutants into waters of the United States without a permit must pay a civil penalty contingent upon certain circumstances.