Federal Independent Agencies
Here's a look at documents from federal independent agencies
Featured Stories
EPA Announces $30 Million to Help Small and Rural Communities Protect Their Water
WASHINGTON, April 13 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Announces $30 Million to Help Small and Rural Communities Protect Their Water
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WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the availability of $30 million in grant funding, as part of the agency's RealWaterTA Initiative. This newly available funding supports technical assistance and training to benefit small drinking water and wastewater systems and to help private well owners improve drinking water quality. RealWaterTA funding helps connect small and rural
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 13 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Announces $30 Million to Help Small and Rural Communities Protect Their Water
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WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the availability of $30 million in grant funding, as part of the agency's RealWaterTA Initiative. This newly available funding supports technical assistance and training to benefit small drinking water and wastewater systems and to help private well owners improve drinking water quality. RealWaterTA funding helps connect small and ruraldrinking water and wastewater systems with tried-and-true services, such as engineering and design expertise, operational support, workforce development, and financial management. This funding will benefit Americans nationwide, especially in rural areas where small systems face challenges operating and maintaining vital water infrastructure.
"Rural communities are the backbone of this country, and I firmly believe that we must do everything we can to ensure that they can continue to have access to clean and safe water," said EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Jess Kramer. "EPA is investing $30 million from the RealWaterTA initiative to provide resources to small and rural communities who are working to fulfill critical water infrastructure needs to protect human health and the environment and Power the Great American Comeback."
In the U.S., over 90% of drinking water systems serve fewer than 10,000 people and many of these systems are in rural communities. These small drinking water systems, as well as small wastewater systems, work hard to protect their communities' water, but they face unique challenges including high operator turnover, aging infrastructure, and lack of financial resources. Through this grant, EPA will fund organizations that will work side-by-side with small systems and private well owners across the country to address their challenges and continue to provide clean and safe water that is foundational to people's health.
Eligible applicants for this grant opportunity are nonprofit organizations, nonprofit private universities and colleges, and public institutions of higher education. EPA anticipates that up to five awards will be made, totaling up to $30.7 million in federal funds.
The purpose of the agreements is to provide training and technical assistance to:
* Small public water systems to achieve and maintain compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act.
* Small public water systems on a wide range of managerial and/or financial topics that support compliance.
* Small publicly owned wastewater systems and communities served by onsite-decentralized wastewater systems to help strengthen local water resources.
* Private well owners to help improve drinking water quality.
This grant is part of the EPA's larger commitment through Real Water Technical Assistance ( RealWaterTA ), which aims to provide a range of assistance for communities to identify water challenges, identify solutions, and give real-world results. The application period for these competitive grants is now open. The funding opportunity will remain open for 30 days on Grants.gov Exit EPA's website.
L earn more about Training and Technical Assistance for Small Systems Funding.
***
Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-announces-30-million-help-small-and-rural-communities-protect-their-water
EXIM Chairman John Jovanovic Visits Guyana, Highlights American Investment Powering Guyana's Energy Future
WASHINGTON, April 13 -- The Export-Import Bank of the U.S. issued the following news release:
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EXIM Chairman John Jovanovic Visits Guyana, Highlights American Investment Powering Guyana's Energy Future
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GEORGETOWN, GUYANA - On April 9, EXIM Chairman and President John Jovanovic traveled to Guyana for a full day of high-level engagement, underscoring the strength of the U.S.-Guyana relationship. The visit included a tour of the Wales gas-to-energy project site, meetings with senior government leaders, and engagement with Guyana's private sector.
At the project site in Wales, Chairman
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 13 -- The Export-Import Bank of the U.S. issued the following news release:
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EXIM Chairman John Jovanovic Visits Guyana, Highlights American Investment Powering Guyana's Energy Future
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GEORGETOWN, GUYANA - On April 9, EXIM Chairman and President John Jovanovic traveled to Guyana for a full day of high-level engagement, underscoring the strength of the U.S.-Guyana relationship. The visit included a tour of the Wales gas-to-energy project site, meetings with senior government leaders, and engagement with Guyana's private sector.
At the project site in Wales, ChairmanJovanovic toured the construction area alongside members of the Lindsayca team, seeing firsthand how U.S. financing is helping transform Guyana's energy future. Once completed, the project will deliver immediate benefits for the Guyanese people-including electricity bills cut roughly in half, a sharp reduction in blackouts, and a reliable power supply; all while supporting and creating hundreds of American jobs.
Following the site visit, President Dr. Irfaan Ali hosted Chairman Jovanovic and the EXIM delegation for a working lunch at State House. Discussions focused on the gas-to-energy project, other EXIM-supported investments in Guyana. The meeting built on the March 2025 Memorandum of Understanding signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and President Ali to deepen the U.S.-Guyana strategic partnership across energy, trade, investment, and territorial integrity.
President Ali was joined by senior Cabinet officials and Brigadier Omar Khan, Chief of Defense Staff of the Guyana Defense Force. U.S. Ambassador to Guyana Nicole Theriot also participated in the meeting.Chairman Jovanovic also met with leaders from Guyana's private sector, including representatives from AmCham Guyana, the Private Sector Commission, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Women's Chamber of Commerce, alongside Ambassador Theriot and Embassy officials.
The discussion focused on strengthening commercial ties between U.S. and Guyanese companies and how EXIM can support viable projects that advance energy security, infrastructure development, and economic growth. Chairman Jovanovic outlined EXIM's mission, strategic priorities, and role in helping American exporters compete while supporting Guyana's next phase of development.
The United States has a clear strategic interest in deepening this relationship and EXIM is delivering. Through projects like the Wales gas-to-energy initiative and continued engagement with government and private-sector partners, EXIM is ensuring American exporters remain competitive while helping Guyana build reliable infrastructure, strengthen energy security, and deliver lasting benefits for its people.
ABOUT EXIM:
As the United States government's official export credit agency, the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) supports American jobs by facilitating U.S. exports. As an independent agency, EXIM plays a critical role in supporting economic growth, securing critical supply chains, and ensuring American businesses are given a fighting chance. To achieve this mission, EXIM offers financing including export credit insurance, working capital guarantees, loan guarantees, and direct loans. Learn more at www.exim.gov.
***
Original text here: https://www.exim.gov/news/exim-chairman-john-jovanovic-visits-guyana-highlights-american-investment-powering-guyanas
Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute: Tropical Trees are More Neighborly
PANAMA CITY, Panama, April 11 (TNSjou) -- The Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute issued the following news:
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Friendly trees
Tropical trees are more neighborly
By Elisabeth King
Tropical trees are more social than trees further from the equator, perhaps contributing to higher biodiversity in the tropics. Will warmer temperatures lead to even friendlier interactions among trees?
Tropical trees are better neighbors than trees in temperate forests according to a new study published in the journal Nature by researchers from 29 different institutions including the Smithsonian Tropical
... Show Full Article
PANAMA CITY, Panama, April 11 (TNSjou) -- The Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute issued the following news:
* * *
Friendly trees
Tropical trees are more neighborly
By Elisabeth King
Tropical trees are more social than trees further from the equator, perhaps contributing to higher biodiversity in the tropics. Will warmer temperatures lead to even friendlier interactions among trees?
Tropical trees are better neighbors than trees in temperate forests according to a new study published in the journal Nature by researchers from 29 different institutions including the Smithsonian TropicalResearch Institute (STRI) and the ForestGEO global network of forest monitoring sites.
The study was led by Han Xu, Professor at the Chinese Academy of Forestry; Matteo Detto, Research Associate at STRI and Research Fellow at Princeton University; and Suqin Fang, Associate Professor at Sun Yat Sen University. The team's finding--trees growing closer to the equator have more positive interactions with their neighbors--may help explain why tropical forests are home to so many tree species, making them some of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet.
"Most research has focused on competition and other negative interactions among trees, but trees can also help their neighbors in many ways," Detto said. "We find that these positive interactions are more common in tropical forests, adding another piece to the puzzle of understanding their remarkable diversity."
These conclusions were based on a comparison of 17 forest study sites in North and South America, Asia, Africa and Oceania, and included almost 3 million trees representing more than 5000 species. Researchers from these forests, members of the ForestGEO network of forest research sites, all use the same methods to measure, map and mark every tree greater than a centimeter in diameter, making it possible for them to compare forests around the world.
It may look like trees just stand there, but they interact with their neighbors in both positive and negative ways. A tree species is considered to have positive (facilitative) relationships with its neighbors if it has more, and more diverse, neighbors than average for the whole forest at that site, and a negative relationship with its neighbors if it has lower species abundance and richness than average.
While the proportion of trees with positive and negative neighborhood interactions is roughly equal across all the tropical forests in this study, the proportion of tree species with more, and more diverse neighbors drops off in forests further from the equator.
The authors think there may be more positive (facilitative) interactions between trees in the tropics because:
1) Further from the equator there are fewer trees in the bean family, the legumes. Legume trees capture nitrogen from the air and convert it into a form available in the soil for their neighbors to use. A previous study by researchers working at STRI in Panama showed that legume trees may speed up the recovery after a forest is logged or cleared for agriculture because legume trees capture nitrogen and carbon faster than other trees. Their ability to capture or "fix" nitrogen from the air and release it into the soil as the forest makes a comeback has far-reaching implications for forest restoration projects.
2)Tropical trees are associated with non-arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi that spread out through the soil and help trees of different species capture scarce nutrients.
3) The "canopy nursing effect" is lower further from the equator. Giant rainforest trees act as nursemaids for smaller species, protecting these neighbors from high temperatures and dryness.
Two previous studies of people in the U.S. and in China showed that people are more agreeable, emotionally stable and open to new experiences when they grow up in warmer climates closer to our optimal temperature of 72F or 22.2C, were published in the journal Nature Human Behavior.
As the planet warms will it become a friendlier place overall?
Funding for this research was from the National Natural Science Foundation of China, U22A20449 and U23A20156, and a National Non-profit Institute Research Grant from CAF, CAFYBB2017ZE001.
Reference: Han Xu et al. 2026. The importance of competition and facilitation for global tree diversity. Nature 10.1038/s41586-026-10349-2
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About ForestGEO
The Forest Global Earth Observatory (ForestGEO) is a global network of scientists and forest research sites dedicated to advancing long-term study of the world's forests. The network recognizes the importance of collaborating with local institutions to strengthen science capacity in an era of rapidly changing landscapes and climate, to understand and predict forest dynamics.
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About the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute
Headquartered in Panama City, Panama, STRI is a unit of the Smithsonian Institution. Our mission is to understand tropical biodiversity and its importance to human welfare, to train students to conduct research in the tropics and to promote conservation by increasing public awareness of the beauty and importance of tropical ecosystems. Watch our video, and visit our website, Facebook, X and Instagram for updates.
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Original text here: https://stri.si.edu/story/friendly-trees
IDB Approves First Guarantee to Improve Access to Health Care in Brazil, for a Hospital in Mato Grosso Do Sul
WASHINGTON, April 11 -- The Inter-American Development Bank issued the following news release:
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IDB Approves First Guarantee to Improve Access to Health Care in Brazil, for a Hospital in Mato Grosso do Sul
The Board of Executive Directors of the Inter American Development Bank (IDB) approved the first guarantee aimed at expanding health services in Brazil, in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, for an $80 million project under a public-private partnership (PPP).
This innovative financial instrument will support the PPP contract signed after a successful tender for the management of non-clinical
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 11 -- The Inter-American Development Bank issued the following news release:
* * *
IDB Approves First Guarantee to Improve Access to Health Care in Brazil, for a Hospital in Mato Grosso do Sul
The Board of Executive Directors of the Inter American Development Bank (IDB) approved the first guarantee aimed at expanding health services in Brazil, in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, for an $80 million project under a public-private partnership (PPP).
This innovative financial instrument will support the PPP contract signed after a successful tender for the management of non-clinicalsupport services at the Regional Hospital, the state's main hospital. Care will remain 100% public and free of charge.
Under the tender, the winning private operator committed to modernizing the hospital infrastructure through the construction of new blocks and a 60% expansion in capacity, offering 577 beds and reaching 42,000 consultations per year. In addition, the number of hospitalizations will increase by 97%, reaching 2,760 patients per month. Approximately 1.5 million people will benefit within the hospital's area of influence.
In this context, the guarantee offered by the IDB provides security for private investment, improves the project's economic viability, and increases efficiency in the allocation of state resources.
The operation seeks to address the growing pressure on Brazil's health system generated by low fertility rates and increasing life expectancy, which have driven rapid population aging and a greater burden of non-communicable chronic diseases.
The operation will also promote the incorporation of private-sector investment and specialized knowledge for the provision of public health services aimed at low-income populations.
The $80 million guarantee has a 20-year term, a 25-year amortization period, and an interest rate based on SOFR. The operation will now be submitted to the procedures established under Brazilian law prior to its signing and implementation.
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About the IDB
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), a member of the IDB Group, is devoted to improving lives across Latin America and the Caribbean. Founded in 1959, the Bank works with the region's public sector to design and enable impactful, innovative solutions for sustainable and inclusive development. Leveraging financing, technical expertise, and knowledge, it promotes growth and well-being in 26 countries.
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Original text here: https://www.iadb.org/en/news/idb-approves-first-guarantee-improve-access-health-care-brazil-hospital-mato-grosso-do-sul
FHLB Dallas and Hancock Whitney Support Transitional Housing in Patterson, Louisiana, with $1.17M Grant
DALLAS, Texas, April 10 -- The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas, a district bank in the Federal Home Loan Bank System, issued the following news release:
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FHLB Dallas and Hancock Whitney Support Transitional Housing in Patterson, Louisiana, with $1.17M Grant
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PATTERSON, LOUISIANA, April 10, 2026 -There's a larger transitional housing apartment complex available to residents of South Louisiana, made possible in part by a $1.17 million Affordable Housing Program (AHP) grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas and Hancock Whitney. The banks today joined The Purple Lemon, a faith-based
... Show Full Article
DALLAS, Texas, April 10 -- The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas, a district bank in the Federal Home Loan Bank System, issued the following news release:
* * *
FHLB Dallas and Hancock Whitney Support Transitional Housing in Patterson, Louisiana, with $1.17M Grant
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PATTERSON, LOUISIANA, April 10, 2026 -There's a larger transitional housing apartment complex available to residents of South Louisiana, made possible in part by a $1.17 million Affordable Housing Program (AHP) grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas and Hancock Whitney. The banks today joined The Purple Lemon, a faith-basedmission, to celebrate the grand opening of an expanded transitional housing development that assists people recovering from addictions and homelessness.
The AHP grant, which was awarded by FHLB Dallas through Hancock Whitney, enabled The Purple Lemon to buy and expand an apartment building to 26 units of transitional housing. The upgraded community provides comprehensive supportive services-including counseling, job training, life-skills education, support groups to help residents experiencing homelessness to achieve long-term stability.
"The AHP grant is helping us change the trajectory for people working to rebuild their lives," said Stacey Lancaster, founder and director of The Purple Lemon. "With this support, we were able to expand our housing and will be able to provide a safe environment for more residents during their recovery journey."
AHP grants are awarded annually through FHLB Dallas member institutions to support the development and rehabilitation of affordable housing for low-income households.
"We are honored to support The Purple Lemon in expanding housing for individuals working toward long-term recovery and independence," said LaCarsha Babers, vice president and community outreach officer at Hancock Whitney. "We are proud of our relationship with FHLB Dallas that helped bring this project to life."
The organization began in 2019 by providing food and outreach to people experiencing homelessness and a year later began housing individuals in a leased apartment and providing supportive services.
"The Purple Lemon's commitment to supportive, recovery-focused housing reflects the impact the Affordable Housing Program is meant to create," said Greg Hettrick, senior vice president and director of Community Investment at FHLB Dallas.
About Hancock Whitney
Since the late 1800s, Hancock Whitney has embodied core values of Honor & Integrity, Strength & Stability, Commitment to Service, Teamwork, and Personal Responsibility. Hancock Whitney offices and financial centers in Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, and Texas offer comprehensive financial products and services, including traditional and online banking; commercial and small business banking; private banking; trust and investment services; healthcare banking; and mortgage services. The company also operates combined loan and deposit production offices in the greater metropolitan areas of Nashville, Tennessee, and Atlanta, Georgia. More information is available at www.hancockwhitney.com.
About the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas
The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas is one of 11 district banks in the FHLBank System created by Congress in 1932. FHLB Dallas, with total assets of $108.5 billion as of December 31, 2025, is a member-owned cooperative that supports housing and community development by providing competitively priced loans and other credit products to approximately 800 members and associated institutions in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico and Texas. For more information, visit fhlb.com.
Contact Information:
Corporate Communications
Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas
fhlb.com
214.441.8445
***
Original text here: https://www.fhlb.com/library/press-releases/2026/fhlb-dallas-and-hancock-whitney-support-transition
EPA Issues Class VI Well Permit to PureField Carbon Capture in Kansas
WASHINGTON, April 10 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Issues Class VI Well Permit to PureField Carbon Capture in Kansas
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Permit is first-of-its-kind in Region 7
LENEXA, KAN. (APR. 10, 2026) - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 7 issued a final Underground Injection Control (UIC) Class VI well permit to PureField Carbon Capture, LLC, near the city of Russell, Kansas. It is the first Class VI well permit in Kansas and across Region 7's four Heartland states.
Class VI wells inject carbon dioxide (CO2) into deep rock formations
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 10 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Issues Class VI Well Permit to PureField Carbon Capture in Kansas
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Permit is first-of-its-kind in Region 7
LENEXA, KAN. (APR. 10, 2026) - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 7 issued a final Underground Injection Control (UIC) Class VI well permit to PureField Carbon Capture, LLC, near the city of Russell, Kansas. It is the first Class VI well permit in Kansas and across Region 7's four Heartland states.
Class VI wells inject carbon dioxide (CO2) into deep rock formationsfor long-term storage. This injection process is also called geologic sequestration. Under the Safe Drinking Water Act, EPA has authority to protect underground sources of drinking water and make permitting decisions based on underlying geology.
"This permit exemplifies EPA's support of domestic energy production and unleashing American energy dominance," said EPA Region 7 Administrator Jim Macy. "We'll continue to advance projects that grow rural economies while fulfilling the agency's core mission of protecting human health and the environment."
Through this permit, the PureField facility near Russell is allowed to inject CO2 generated during ethanol production into the subsurface for a period of 12 years. The company is authorized to inject up to 150,000 metric tons of CO2 per year, for a total permitted injection volume of 1.8 million metric tons of CO2. The CO2 must be injected into the Arbuckle rock formation at a depth between 3,448 and 3,606 feet below ground surface.
To ensure safety, PureField is required to test and monitor the well and the area overlying the injection zone during the 12-year injection period, and for 50 years after injection has ended. A copy of the permit and associated documents are available.
Visit EPA's Class VI wells webpage for more information on Class VI projects.
Learn more about EPA Region 7
View all Region 7 news releases
Visit the Region 7 Media page
Connect with EPA Region 7 on Facebook and Instagram
Follow us on X: @EPARegion7
***
Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-issues-class-vi-well-permit-purefield-carbon-capture-kansas
FHLB Dallas and Hancock Whitney Support Transitional Housing in Patterson, Louisiana, with $1.17M Grant
DALLAS, Texas, April 10 -- The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas, a district bank in the Federal Home Loan Bank System, issued the following news release:
* * *
FHLB Dallas and Hancock Whitney Support Transitional Housing in Patterson, Louisiana, with $1.17M Grant
*
PATTERSON, LOUISIANA, April 10, 2026 -There's a larger transitional housing apartment complex available to residents of South Louisiana, made possible in part by a $1.17 million Affordable Housing Program (AHP) grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas and Hancock Whitney. The banks today joined The Purple Lemon, a faith-based
... Show Full Article
DALLAS, Texas, April 10 -- The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas, a district bank in the Federal Home Loan Bank System, issued the following news release:
* * *
FHLB Dallas and Hancock Whitney Support Transitional Housing in Patterson, Louisiana, with $1.17M Grant
*
PATTERSON, LOUISIANA, April 10, 2026 -There's a larger transitional housing apartment complex available to residents of South Louisiana, made possible in part by a $1.17 million Affordable Housing Program (AHP) grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas and Hancock Whitney. The banks today joined The Purple Lemon, a faith-basedmission, to celebrate the grand opening of an expanded transitional housing development that assists people recovering from addictions and homelessness.
The AHP grant, which was awarded by FHLB Dallas through Hancock Whitney, enabled The Purple Lemon to buy and expand an apartment building to 26 units of transitional housing. The upgraded community provides comprehensive supportive services-including counseling, job training, life-skills education, support groups to help residents experiencing homelessness to achieve long-term stability.
"The AHP grant is helping us change the trajectory for people working to rebuild their lives," said Stacey Lancaster, founder and director of The Purple Lemon. "With this support, we were able to expand our housing and will be able to provide a safe environment for more residents during their recovery journey."
AHP grants are awarded annually through FHLB Dallas member institutions to support the development and rehabilitation of affordable housing for low-income households.
"We are honored to support The Purple Lemon in expanding housing for individuals working toward long-term recovery and independence," said LaCarsha Babers, vice president and community outreach officer at Hancock Whitney. "We are proud of our relationship with FHLB Dallas that helped bring this project to life."
The organization began in 2019 by providing food and outreach to people experiencing homelessness and a year later began housing individuals in a leased apartment and providing supportive services.
"The Purple Lemon's commitment to supportive, recovery-focused housing reflects the impact the Affordable Housing Program is meant to create," said Greg Hettrick, senior vice president and director of Community Investment at FHLB Dallas.
About Hancock Whitney
Since the late 1800s, Hancock Whitney has embodied core values of Honor & Integrity, Strength & Stability, Commitment to Service, Teamwork, and Personal Responsibility. Hancock Whitney offices and financial centers in Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, and Texas offer comprehensive financial products and services, including traditional and online banking; commercial and small business banking; private banking; trust and investment services; healthcare banking; and mortgage services. The company also operates combined loan and deposit production offices in the greater metropolitan areas of Nashville, Tennessee, and Atlanta, Georgia. More information is available at www.hancockwhitney.com.
About the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas
The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas is one of 11 district banks in the FHLBank System created by Congress in 1932. FHLB Dallas, with total assets of $108.5 billion as of December 31, 2025, is a member-owned cooperative that supports housing and community development by providing competitively priced loans and other credit products to approximately 800 members and associated institutions in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico and Texas. For more information, visit fhlb.com.
Contact Information:
Corporate Communications
Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas
fhlb.com
214.441.8445
***
Original text here: https://www.fhlb.com/library/press-releases/2026/fhlb-dallas-and-hancock-whitney-support-transition
EPA Issues Class VI Well Permit to PureField Carbon Capture in Kansas
WASHINGTON, April 10 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
* * *
EPA Issues Class VI Well Permit to PureField Carbon Capture in Kansas
*
Permit is first-of-its-kind in Region 7
LENEXA, KAN. (APR. 10, 2026) - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 7 issued a final Underground Injection Control (UIC) Class VI well permit to PureField Carbon Capture, LLC, near the city of Russell, Kansas. It is the first Class VI well permit in Kansas and across Region 7's four Heartland states.
Class VI wells inject carbon dioxide (CO2) into deep rock formations
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 10 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
* * *
EPA Issues Class VI Well Permit to PureField Carbon Capture in Kansas
*
Permit is first-of-its-kind in Region 7
LENEXA, KAN. (APR. 10, 2026) - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 7 issued a final Underground Injection Control (UIC) Class VI well permit to PureField Carbon Capture, LLC, near the city of Russell, Kansas. It is the first Class VI well permit in Kansas and across Region 7's four Heartland states.
Class VI wells inject carbon dioxide (CO2) into deep rock formationsfor long-term storage. This injection process is also called geologic sequestration. Under the Safe Drinking Water Act, EPA has authority to protect underground sources of drinking water and make permitting decisions based on underlying geology.
"This permit exemplifies EPA's support of domestic energy production and unleashing American energy dominance," said EPA Region 7 Administrator Jim Macy. "We'll continue to advance projects that grow rural economies while fulfilling the agency's core mission of protecting human health and the environment."
Through this permit, the PureField facility near Russell is allowed to inject CO2 generated during ethanol production into the subsurface for a period of 12 years. The company is authorized to inject up to 150,000 metric tons of CO2 per year, for a total permitted injection volume of 1.8 million metric tons of CO2. The CO2 must be injected into the Arbuckle rock formation at a depth between 3,448 and 3,606 feet below ground surface.
To ensure safety, PureField is required to test and monitor the well and the area overlying the injection zone during the 12-year injection period, and for 50 years after injection has ended. A copy of the permit and associated documents are available.
Visit EPA's Class VI wells webpage for more information on Class VI projects.
Learn more about EPA Region 7
View all Region 7 news releases
Visit the Region 7 Media page
Connect with EPA Region 7 on Facebook and Instagram
Follow us on X: @EPARegion7
***
Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-issues-class-vi-well-permit-purefield-carbon-capture-kansas
EPA Approves Carbon Storage Permit in Putnam County, Illinois
WASHINGTON, April 10 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Approves Carbon Storage Permit in Putnam County, Illinois
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CHICAGO (April 10, 2026) - Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a permit for Marquis Carbon Injection LLC to inject and store carbon dioxide underground at its proposed injection well in Putnam County, Illinois.
"Following a thorough, science-based technical review and extensive public engagement, EPA is approving this permit with stringent safeguards and long-term monitoring to protect underground sources
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 10 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Approves Carbon Storage Permit in Putnam County, Illinois
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CHICAGO (April 10, 2026) - Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a permit for Marquis Carbon Injection LLC to inject and store carbon dioxide underground at its proposed injection well in Putnam County, Illinois.
"Following a thorough, science-based technical review and extensive public engagement, EPA is approving this permit with stringent safeguards and long-term monitoring to protect underground sourcesof drinking water," said EPA Region 5 Administrator Anne Vogel. "This carbon storage project is expected to spur economic development in Putnam County by supporting local jobs and attracting private investment."
"After a lengthy review period, I am pleased the EPA moved forward to approve this vital project for central Illinois. This project is a win for agriculture, manufacturing, and biofuels industries in Putnam County and across the region," said U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood. "The approval of this carbon sequestration project will create new jobs and help secure investments that drive local economic growth across my district. I support Marquis Carbon Injection's commitment to our farmers and the future of biofuels production."
With this permit, Marquis will be allowed to construct a well to inject up to 1.5 million metric tons of carbon dioxide per year over a period of six years, or 9 million metric tons in total. Marquis will also be required to monitor the well during the injection phase and for 12 years after to ensure the stored carbon dioxide remains confined within the injection zone and underground sources of drinking water are not endangered. The permit was issued following extensive review and public engagement. EPA determined that the well meets all requirements for approval, including stringent safety measures.
The deep formation where the injected carbon would be permanently stored is between 3,094 and 4,854 feet beneath the surface and is protected by an approximately 400-foot-thick confining zone composed of impermeable shale and carbonates preventing the upward migration of sequestered carbon from the storage reservoir into underground sources of drinking water. EPA has concluded that well materials, intended operation of the well and the underlying geology of the proposed storage site are appropriate to prevent endangerment of underground sources of drinking water. Throughout the injection process, EPA will maintain robust oversight.
The process of permanently storing carbon underground is known as "carbon sequestration." Under the Safe Drinking Water Act, EPA developed specific and rigorous criteria to protect underground sources of drinking water from carbon dioxide stored underground.
For more information on EPA's injection permit process, click here Exit EPA's website.
***
Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-approves-carbon-storage-permit-putnam-county-illinois
To Advance U.S. Energy Dominance, EPA Proposes Several Amendments to Coal Combustion Residuals (CCR) Requirements
WASHINGTON, April 9 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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To Advance U.S. Energy Dominance, EPA Proposes Several Amendments to Coal Combustion Residuals (CCR) Requirements
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Proposal to Expand Permitting Flexibility, Promote Beneficial Use, and Maintain Transparency While Protecting Human Health and the Environment
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a rule proposing several revisions to the federal regulations governing the disposal of coal combustion residuals (CCR) and the beneficial use of CCR. This proposal would promote resource
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 9 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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To Advance U.S. Energy Dominance, EPA Proposes Several Amendments to Coal Combustion Residuals (CCR) Requirements
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Proposal to Expand Permitting Flexibility, Promote Beneficial Use, and Maintain Transparency While Protecting Human Health and the Environment
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a rule proposing several revisions to the federal regulations governing the disposal of coal combustion residuals (CCR) and the beneficial use of CCR. This proposal would promote resourcerecovery, allow for site-specific considerations in permitting, provide regulatory relief while continuing to protect human health and the environment, and ensure continued transparency. The proposal would also encourage beneficial use, potentially reducing the need for disposing of CCR, set protective and uniform standards for CCR storage piles, and decrease the use of new natural resources.
"These commonsense changes to the CCR regulations reflect EPA's commitment to restoring American energy dominance, strengthening cooperative federalism, and accommodating unique circumstances at certain CCR facilities," said EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin. "Our proposed changes will increase transparency and promote resource recovery while continuing to protect human health and the environment for all Americans now and into the future."
EPA's proposal would encourage beneficial use of CCR to create environmental and economic benefits while reducing the need for disposal. The rule would also set protective and uniform standards for CCR storage piles, decreasing the use of new natural resources, and improving the strength, durability, and workability of the resulting cement and concrete.
This proposal would also establish a new pathway for CCR units to comply with groundwater monitoring, corrective action, closure, and post-closure requirements under federal or approved state CCR permits. Under these changes, permit authorities could tailor requirements to site-specific risks and factors and utilize new technologies. These changes would benefit Americans by providing states with greater oversight and permitting authority involvement. In addition, these changes would ensure safety and compliance with CCR permits, more sensible placement of monitoring wells, and more efficient use of resources.
EPA is focused on a commonsense approach to regulating CCR to maintain environmental and human health protections while reducing regulatory burden and combating rising energy costs. Additional closure options would be available to facilities that completed closure of legacy surface impoundments under regulatory oversight prior to the effective date of the Legacy Final Rule.
This rule also proposes rescinding CCR management unit (CCRMU) regulations because the requirements are infeasible and impractical, and in turn, reducing burden on energy production, to combat higher energy costs for consumers.
EPA will accept comments on this proposal for 60 days after publication in the Federal Register. EPA will also hold an online public hearing on this proposal.
For more information, visit the 2026 Proposed CCR Amendments webpage.
Background
On May 8, 2024, EPA published the "Legacy CCR Surface Impoundments" rule. This final rule established requirements for the disposal of CCR in a new type of regulated CCR unit known as "legacy surface impoundments." It also established requirements for CCRMUs to address previously unregulated solid waste management of CCR that involves the direct placement of CCR on the land at certain electric utilities.
On March 12, 2025, EPA committed to taking swift action on CCR, including state permit program reviews and updates to the CCR regulations. Since then, EPA has approved permit programs for North Dakota and Wyoming. EPA has also made significant progress working with other states as they seek to manage their own CCR programs. EPA will continue working with state partners to prioritize timely action and empower those with local expertise to oversee more effective CCR disposal operations.
On February 6, 2026, EPA announced a final rule that extends the compliance deadlines for CCRMU requirements. This action provides additional time to meet facility evaluation requirements and to comply with groundwater monitoring provisions. Additionally, in November, EPA proposed to extend an alternative closure requirement deadline. This deadline extension would promote electric grid reliability by allowing a subset of coal-fired power producers to continue to operate.
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Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/advance-us-energy-dominance-epa-proposes-several-amendments-coal-combustion-residuals
Strom Thurmond Federal Building and Courthouse in Columbia, SC Listed For Disposition
WASHINGTON, April 9 -- The General Services Administration issued the following news release:
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Strom Thurmond Federal Building and Courthouse in Columbia, SC Listed For Disposition
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This disposition eliminates underutilized federal space resulting in nearly $59.4 million in savings
COLUMBIA, S.C. - Today, the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) announced the planned disposition of the Strom Thurmond Federal Building and Courthouse, located at 1835 and 1845 Assembly Street in Columbia, South Carolina. The buildings served as a courthouse and federal hub until 2003, when court
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 9 -- The General Services Administration issued the following news release:
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Strom Thurmond Federal Building and Courthouse in Columbia, SC Listed For Disposition
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This disposition eliminates underutilized federal space resulting in nearly $59.4 million in savings
COLUMBIA, S.C. - Today, the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) announced the planned disposition of the Strom Thurmond Federal Building and Courthouse, located at 1835 and 1845 Assembly Street in Columbia, South Carolina. The buildings served as a courthouse and federal hub until 2003, when courtoperations transitioned to the nearby Matthew J. Perry, Jr. Courthouse.
GSA is advancing this disposition as part of ongoing efforts to consolidate the federal real estate portfolio and cut government waste. The agency will continue to work closely with tenants to ensure they can effectively carry out their important work.
"GSA continues to lead the way in executing President Trump's directive to fortify the federal real estate portfolio by eliminating underutilized and vacant space," said GSA Administrator Edward C. Forst. "With this disposition we are saving taxpayers approximately $56.3M in delinquent maintenance and another $3.1M in annual maintenance costs."
Located in Columbia's downtown government district along Assembly Street, the Strom Thurmond Federal Building and Courthouse occupies a prominent position within South Carolina's capital city. The property benefits from its proximity to state government offices, educational institutions, and the growing Main Street district, presenting a significant redevelopment opportunity in the heart of Columbia's downtown.
GSA remains committed to solving long-term problems that exist in the federal portfolio of assets, reduce waste, and deliver long-term value to the American people. For more information, visit assets identified for accelerated disposition.
About GSA: GSA provides centralized procurement and shared services for the federal government. GSA manages a nationwide real estate portfolio of approximately 360 million rentable square feet, oversees more than $126 billion in products and services via federal contracts, and delivers technology services to millions of people across dozens of federal agencies. GSA's mission is to deliver exceptional customer experience and value in real estate, acquisition, and technology services to the government and the American people. For more information, visit GSA.gov and follow us at @USGSA.
Contact
press@gsa.gov
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Original text here: https://www.gsa.gov/about-us/newsroom/news-releases/strom-thurmond-federal-building-and-courthouse-listed-for-disposition-04092026
EPA Recognizes Excellence and Innovation in Lummi Water Infrastructure Project
WASHINGTON, April 9 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Recognizes Excellence and Innovation in Lummi Water Infrastructure Project
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SEATTLE (April 9, 2026) - Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recognized The Lummi Tribal Sewer and Water District with a PISCES award for Excellence in Environmental and Public Health Protection, for the upgrade of the Gooseberry Point Wastewater Treatment Plant. This project, financed in part by state revolving fund programs, demonstrates the importance of water infrastructure for supporting healthy
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 9 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Recognizes Excellence and Innovation in Lummi Water Infrastructure Project
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SEATTLE (April 9, 2026) - Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recognized The Lummi Tribal Sewer and Water District with a PISCES award for Excellence in Environmental and Public Health Protection, for the upgrade of the Gooseberry Point Wastewater Treatment Plant. This project, financed in part by state revolving fund programs, demonstrates the importance of water infrastructure for supporting healthyAmericans and laying a foundation for economic prosperity.
"Here in Region 10, we're pleased to see the Lummi Tribal Sewer and Water District recognized for their investment in resilient, forward-looking water infrastructure," said EPA Region 10 Administrator Emma Pokon. "Their work reflects the very best of cooperative federalism-local expertise, innovative solutions, and federal investment working hand-in-hand to power the Great American Comeback."
The Clean Water State Revolving Fund and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund programs have provided a foundation of federal investment in water infrastructure for decades. The SRF programs directly support EPA's Powering the Great American Comeback Initiative, which emphasizes the need for clean air, land, and water for every American and the importance of cooperative federalism.
EPA's George F. Ames PISCES program celebrates innovation demonstrated by wastewater and stormwater projects financed by the CWSRF programs. Twenty-six projects carried out by state or local governments, public utilities, and private entities were recognized by the 2026 PISCES program.
The Lummi Tribal Sewer and Water District received a $15 million CWSRF loan to make necessary upgrades to the Gooseberry Point Wastewater Treatment Plant. For years, the aging Gooseberry Point WWTP was not adequately treating wastewater and the aging infrastructure caused frequent permit exceedances. The project upgraded the plant to a reliable activated sludge process and added an effluent pump station to overcome hydraulic constraints. These improvements ensured higher quality, permit-compliant discharges through the outfall, even during high tides and storms.
The upgrades will reduce pollution and public health risks and will restore protection for commercial and Tribal shellfish beds, which the Lummi Nation depends on for sustenance, cultural practices, and economic activity. The project improves habitat for marine species such as the Southern Resident Orca pod, marbled murrelets, and Puget Sound rockfish.
See the full list of recognized projects and learn more about the AQUARIUS and PISCES programs.
Background
The SRF programs are EPA-state partnerships that provide communities with low-cost financing for a wide range of water quality and drinking water infrastructure projects. The SRFs have provided over $265 billion in financial assistance to more than 50,000 water quality infrastructure projects and 76,000 drinking water projects across the country.
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Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-recognizes-excellence-and-innovation-lummi-water-infrastructure-project
EPA Recognizes Excellence and Innovation in Kentucky Water Infrastructure Projects
WASHINGTON, April 9 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Recognizes Excellence and Innovation in Kentucky Water Infrastructure Projects
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LEXINGTON, Kentucky (April 9, 2026) - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Assistant Administrator for Water Jessica Kramer recently recognized 48 water infrastructure projects for excellence and innovation, including two in Kentucky. These projects, financed in part by State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs, demonstrate the importance of water infrastructure for supporting healthy Americans and laying a foundation
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 9 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Recognizes Excellence and Innovation in Kentucky Water Infrastructure Projects
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LEXINGTON, Kentucky (April 9, 2026) - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Assistant Administrator for Water Jessica Kramer recently recognized 48 water infrastructure projects for excellence and innovation, including two in Kentucky. These projects, financed in part by State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs, demonstrate the importance of water infrastructure for supporting healthy Americans and laying a foundationfor economic prosperity.
"Across the country, states are putting State Revolving Fund resources to work in ways that deliver real, lasting benefits for communities by modernizing aging systems, strengthening resilience, and ensuring families can rely on safe, clean water every day," said Assistant Administrator Kramer. "These projects show that when we pair federal investment with state leadership, we can protect human health, support local economies, and reach communities that have too often been left behind."
"The awards in the Southeast region prove that smaller communities can execute big ideas when it comes to improving water infrastructure," said EPA Regional Administrator Kevin McOmber. "I am thrilled to see communities utilizing the CWSRF and DWSRF programs to strengthen their water utilities for the protection of human health and the environment."
The Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) programs have provided a foundation of federal investment in water infrastructure for decades. The SRF programs directly support EPA's Powering the Great American Comeback Initiative, which emphasizes the need for clean air, land and water for every American and the importance of cooperative federalism.
City of Georgetown recognized with PISCES award
EPA's George F. Ames PISCES program celebrates innovation demonstrated by wastewater and stormwater projects financed by the CWSRF programs. Twenty-six projects carried out by state or local governments, public utilities, and private entities were recognized by the 2026 PISCES program.
Scott County and City of Georgetown faced an urgent problem: two failing, privately owned, 60-year-old package wastewater plants serving 10 properties were causing sanitary sewer overflows and contributing to elevated E. coli levels in Cane Run Creek. The city and county extended sanitary sewers and built the regional Cane Run Pump Station through a city-county-state-nonprofit collaboration supported by the CWSRF.
The project implemented a long-term regional fix by installing a 6.4-million-gallons-per-day pump station and force main, eliminating two package plants, and consolidating seven aging pump stations into one.
The total cost of the Georgetown/Scott County South Sewer Extension and Cane Run Pump Station was $26,425,258, with $23,540,000 from the CWSRF.
See the full list of recognized projects and learn more about the AQUARIUS and PISCES programs.
Background
The SRF programs are EPA-state partnerships that provide communities with low-cost financing for a wide range of water quality and drinking water infrastructure projects. The SRFs have provided over $265 billion in financial assistance to more than 50,000 water quality infrastructure projects and 76,000 drinking water projects across the country.
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Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-recognizes-excellence-and-innovation-kentucky-water-infrastructure-projects
EPA Announces Canton, Ohio, Area Now Meets the Clean Air Act Standard for Lead
WASHINGTON, April 9 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Announces Canton, Ohio, Area Now Meets the Clean Air Act Standard for Lead
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Air monitoring consistently finds the Canton area meets the lead air quality standard, protecting public health and reducing harmful pollution.
Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the Canton, Ohio, area now meets the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for lead under the Clean Air Act and is proposing to redesignate the area to "attainment." Airborne lead in the Canton area has decreased
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 9 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Announces Canton, Ohio, Area Now Meets the Clean Air Act Standard for Lead
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Air monitoring consistently finds the Canton area meets the lead air quality standard, protecting public health and reducing harmful pollution.
Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the Canton, Ohio, area now meets the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for lead under the Clean Air Act and is proposing to redesignate the area to "attainment." Airborne lead in the Canton area has decreased98% since EPA first designated the area as nonattainment in April 2023.
"After concerted efforts by the State of Ohio and EPA, Canton residents can breathe easier knowing high levels of this dangerous pollutant are no longer detected in their air," said EPA Regional Administrator Anne Vogel. "Ohio EPA will continue to monitor air quality in the community to help with early detection and prevention of any potential issues in the future."
After monitoring revealed air quality in the area had exceeded the national lead standard, EPA worked with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and the Canton City Public Health Department to reduce lead emissions from the Republic Steel facility, which has since decided to consolidate its operations to other locations.
For EPA to redesignate an area to attainment, the agency must determine the state has met all applicable requirements of the Clean Air Act including meeting the lead standard. Since September 2023, monitoring data in the Canton area has consistently shown lead concentrations well below the EPA's standard. Ohio EPA will continue to monitor the air quality for lead in Canton to ensure public health is protected.
EPA will publish the proposal in the Federal Register and open a 30-day public comment period. The notice will include instructions on how to submit comments and the deadline for doing so. After reviewing public input, EPA will issue a final decision.
To learn more about lead and the National Ambient Air Quality Standards, visit EPA's website.
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Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-announces-canton-ohio-area-now-meets-clean-air-act-standard-lead
EPA Announces Canton, Ohio, Area Now Meets the Clean Air Act Standard for Lead
WASHINGTON, April 9 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Announces Canton, Ohio, Area Now Meets the Clean Air Act Standard for Lead
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Air monitoring consistently finds the Canton area meets the lead air quality standard, protecting public health and reducing harmful pollution.
Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the Canton, Ohio, area now meets the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for lead under the Clean Air Act and is proposing to redesignate the area to "attainment." Airborne lead in the Canton area has decreased
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 9 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Announces Canton, Ohio, Area Now Meets the Clean Air Act Standard for Lead
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Air monitoring consistently finds the Canton area meets the lead air quality standard, protecting public health and reducing harmful pollution.
Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the Canton, Ohio, area now meets the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for lead under the Clean Air Act and is proposing to redesignate the area to "attainment." Airborne lead in the Canton area has decreased98% since EPA first designated the area as nonattainment in April 2023.
"After concerted efforts by the State of Ohio and EPA, Canton residents can breathe easier knowing high levels of this dangerous pollutant are no longer detected in their air," said EPA Regional Administrator Anne Vogel. "Ohio EPA will continue to monitor air quality in the community to help with early detection and prevention of any potential issues in the future."
After monitoring revealed air quality in the area had exceeded the national lead standard, EPA worked with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and the Canton City Public Health Department to reduce lead emissions from the Republic Steel facility, which has since decided to consolidate its operations to other locations.
For EPA to redesignate an area to attainment, the agency must determine the state has met all applicable requirements of the Clean Air Act including meeting the lead standard. Since September 2023, monitoring data in the Canton area has consistently shown lead concentrations well below the EPA's standard. Ohio EPA will continue to monitor the air quality for lead in Canton to ensure public health is protected.
EPA will publish the proposal in the Federal Register and open a 30-day public comment period. The notice will include instructions on how to submit comments and the deadline for doing so. After reviewing public input, EPA will issue a final decision.
To learn more about lead and the National Ambient Air Quality Standards, visit EPA's website.
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Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-announces-canton-ohio-area-now-meets-clean-air-act-standard-lead
