83_FR_29202 83 FR 29081 - Anchorage Grounds; Lower Chesapeake Bay, Cape Charles, VA

83 FR 29081 - Anchorage Grounds; Lower Chesapeake Bay, Cape Charles, VA

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 121 (June 22, 2018)

Page Range29081-29085
FR Document2018-13439

The Coast Guard proposes to amend the regulations for Hampton Roads, Virginia and adjacent water anchorage grounds by establishing a new, deep-water anchorage ground and relocating an existing anchorage ground near Cape Charles, VA on the Lower Chesapeake Bay. Maritime infrastructure improvements and growth in both size and volume of vessel traffic entering the port, including large and deep-draft vessels have prompted this proposed rulemaking to ensure that the Hampton Roads Anchorage Grounds continue to safely and effectively support current and future deep-draft vessel anchorage demands. We moved the proposed locations of the anchorage grounds in this notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) further offshore than the potential locations we identified in an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) we published in 2016. We did so based on our review and analysis of public comments on the ANPRM and the results of an environmental study referenced in our preliminary Record of Environmental Consideration for this NPRM. We propose to establish an Anchorage R that is further offshore of Cape Charles, VA, and to relocate the existing Anchorage Q (Quarantine Anchorage) south of its current location to a more secluded location on the southern Chesapeake Bay. The intended effect of this proposed rulemaking is to protect the environment, facilitate the safe navigation of maritime commerce and national defense assets, and more safely and effectively support commercial vessel anchoring requirements on the Lower Chesapeake Bay. We invite your comments on this proposed rulemaking.

Federal Register, Volume 83 Issue 121 (Friday, June 22, 2018)
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 121 (Friday, June 22, 2018)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 29081-29085]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2018-13439]


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DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

Coast Guard

33 CFR Part 110

[Docket Number USCG-2015-1118]
RIN 1625-AA01


Anchorage Grounds; Lower Chesapeake Bay, Cape Charles, VA

AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking; notice of public meetings.

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SUMMARY: The Coast Guard proposes to amend the regulations for Hampton 
Roads, Virginia and adjacent water anchorage grounds by establishing a 
new, deep-water anchorage ground and relocating an existing anchorage 
ground near Cape Charles, VA on the Lower Chesapeake Bay. Maritime 
infrastructure improvements and growth in both size and volume of 
vessel traffic entering the port, including large and deep-draft 
vessels have prompted this proposed rulemaking to ensure that the 
Hampton Roads Anchorage Grounds continue to safely and effectively 
support current and future deep-draft vessel anchorage demands. We 
moved the proposed locations of the anchorage grounds in this notice of 
proposed rulemaking (NPRM) further offshore than the potential 
locations we identified in an advance notice of proposed rulemaking 
(ANPRM) we published in 2016. We did so based on our review and 
analysis of public comments on the ANPRM and the results of an 
environmental study referenced in our preliminary Record of 
Environmental Consideration for this NPRM. We propose to establish an 
Anchorage R that is further offshore of Cape Charles, VA, and to 
relocate the existing Anchorage Q (Quarantine Anchorage) south of its 
current location to a more secluded location on the southern Chesapeake 
Bay. The intended effect of this proposed rulemaking is to protect the 
environment, facilitate the safe navigation of maritime commerce and 
national defense assets, and more safely and effectively support 
commercial vessel anchoring requirements on the Lower Chesapeake Bay. 
We invite your comments on this proposed rulemaking.

DATES: Comments and related material must be received by the Coast 
Guard on or before July 17, 2018. Additionally, the Coast Guard will 
hold several public meetings to allow the public the opportunity to 
provide comment. The first public meeting will be held on

[[Page 29082]]

Monday, June 25, 2018, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Slover Public Library 
Meeting Room, 235 E Plume Street, Norfolk, VA 23510. Two public 
meetings will be held on Tuesday, July 10, 2018, at Cape Charles Civic 
Center, 500 Tazwell Avenue, Cape Charles, VA; the first meeting will be 
held from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and the second meeting will be held from 6 
p.m. to 8 p.m.

ADDRESSES: You may submit comments identified by docket number USCG-
2015-1118 using the Federal eRulemaking Portal at http://www.regulations.gov. See the ``Public Participation and Request for 
Comments'' portion of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section for further 
instructions on submitting comments.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If you have questions about this 
proposed rulemaking, call or email CDR Ken Kostecki, Sector Hampton 
Roads Prevention Chief, 757-668-5536, email 
[email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

I. Table of Abbreviations

AIS Automated Information System
ANPRM Advance notice of proposed rulemaking
COTP Captain of the Port
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
DOD Department of Defense
DHS Department of Homeland Security
FR Federal Register
MD Maryland
NM Nautical Miles
Sec.  Section
NPRM Notice of proposed rule-making
PWSA Port and Waterways Safety Act
U.S.C. United States Code
VA Virginia

II. Background, Purpose, and Legal Basis

    On April 19, 2016, the Coast Guard published an advance notice of 
proposed rule-making (ANPRM) in the Federal Register (81 FR 22939) to 
solicit public comments on amending certain anchorage regulations in 
Hampton Roads for the possible creation of a new anchorage in the lower 
Chesapeake Bay near Cape Charles, VA. We received 35 comment letters in 
response to the ANPRM. On June 27, 2016, we published a 45-day 
extension and announced two public meetings (81 FR 41487). On August 
16, 2016, we announced one additional meeting and reopened the comment 
period (81 FR 54531). We scheduled the meetings to receive comments on 
the ANRPM to allow for greater public involvement. The meetings were 
held in--
     Norfolk, VA, on July 19, 2016;
     Melfa, VA, on July 20, 2016; and
     Cape Charles, VA, on August 17, 2016.
    At the three public meetings, we heard from 20 speakers and we 
received a total of 35 individual comment letters. On December 16, 
2016, the Coast Guard issued a news release to inform the public that a 
review of comments and the environmental study would be conducted. In 
November 2017, the Coast Guard completed its environmental review. In 
January 2018, the Center for Disease Control, the U.S. Navy Fleet 
Forces Command, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, North Atlantic 
provided comments identifying and addressing adverse impacts from the 
proposed anchorage establishment.
    The purpose of this NPRM is to solicit comments on proposed 
rulemaking for establishing a federal commercial anchorage ground, 
Anchorage R, 3 nautical miles (NM) west of Cape Charles, VA and 
relocating the existing quarantine anchorage ground currently off Cape 
Charles, VA to a more secluded location in the lower Chesapeake Bay 
that is 6 NM southwest of Fishermans Island, VA. With the increasing 
trend of larger and deeper-draft ships calling within Virginia and 
Maryland, our efforts to improve navigation safety of both national 
defense and commercial vessels and to protect the environment can be 
accomplished by providing an anchorage of adequate size, depth and 
capacity.
    The legal basis and authorities for this notice of proposed 
rulemaking are found in 33 U.S.C. 471, 33 CFR 1.05-1, DHS Delegation 
No. 0170.1, which collectively authorize the Coast Guard to propose, 
establish, and define regulatory anchorage grounds.

III. Discussion of Comments on ANRPM

    This section provides a detailed discussion of the public comments 
received during the ANPRM's comment period and public meeting. We 
received 35 comment letters in response to the ANPRM. In addition, we 
hosted three public meetings to provide another forum for obtaining 
public feedback on the ANRPM.
    Twenty-three comments were received from the public meetings. 
Comments submitted to the online docket and received at the public 
meeting aligned into five categories: Environmental concerns, local 
economy and tourism, safety and security compliance concerns, view shed 
concerns, and anchorage proponent. Copies of the public meeting sign-in 
sheets and written comments received are available for viewing in the 
public docket for this rulemaking. Commenters represented a wide range 
of individuals and entities, including State and local government 
officials, port authorities, representatives of affected industries, 
such as maritime, port, and other facilities, and private citizens. The 
comments received from these parties helped to inform the proposal in 
this NPRM.

1. Environmental Concerns

    We received 22 comments opposing the anchorage location due to 
environmental concerns, such as light and noise pollution and potential 
vessel discharge. In the ANPRM, we inquired about the possible 
establishment of a deep-water anchorage ground west of Cape Charles, VA 
on the Chesapeake Bay. These comments on the ANPRM combined with the 
results of our environmental study caused us to move the anchorages we 
are proposing in this NPRM further offshore. The Coast Guard has 
prepared a preliminary Record of Environmental Consideration (REC) for 
this NPRM and has made a preliminary determination that the proposed 
Anchorage R and new Quarantine Anchorage do not cumulatively or 
individually have a significant effect on the human environment.
    Also, we noted that there are existing laws and regulations in 
place to govern behavior of mariners and vessels related to these 
concerns about the release of pollutants. In terms of the discharge of 
pollutants, our regulations in 33 CFR part 151 and the Act to Prevent 
Pollution from Ships implement provisions of the International 
Convention for Prevention of Pollution from Ships and subject violators 
to penalties. Also, the Ports and Waterways Safety Act (PWSA) of 1972, 
(33 U.S.C. 1221, 1223, 1228, 1232 et seq.) and PWSA-implementing 
regulations help us ensure vessel compliance with all applicable 
standards, vessel operating requirements, vessel conditions for entry 
into port and enforcement provisions. In addition, 46 U.S.C. subtitle 
II, part B, specifically 3305, 3307, and 3714, authorize and call for 
merchant vessel inspections and examinations. Foreign-flagged vessels 
are subject to Port State Control examinations to ensure compliance 
with applicable marine pollution, sewage, waste, and safety and 
security laws and regulations. Additionally, under current COTP 
procedures, Sector Hampton Roads has instituted a random and 
unannounced spot check program for any vessel, foreign or U.S. flagged, 
anchored off of Cape Charles to ensure regulatory compliance.
    Under 33 CFR 110.168(c)(8) and (9), the COTP may prescribe specific

[[Page 29083]]

conditions for vessels preventing them from being in a dead ship 
status, (that is, control unavailable for normal operations) while in 
an anchorage ground, without prior approval of the COTP. Under Sec.  
160.216 of this chapter, vessels experiencing casualties, such as main 
propulsion, main steering or anchoring equipment malfunction, or which 
are planning to perform main propulsion engine repairs or maintenance, 
must immediately notify the Coast Guard COTP. Under Sec.  160.111 of 
this chapter, the Coast Guard COTP may direct a vessel to depart the 
anchorage during periods of severe weather or at other times as deemed 
necessary in the interest of port safety. During these adverse weather 
conditions, under Sec.  110.168(c)(8) and (9) of this chapter the 
vessel operator in an anchorage ground must comply with all severe 
weather precautionary measures directed by the COTP to include but not 
limited to having additional anchors ready for letting go and standing 
a continuous and live anchor watch.
    To further enhance the safety of the waters of the Chesapeake Bay, 
the Quarantine Anchorage was relocated to a more secluded location to 
provide an additional layer of protection should a hazardous condition 
exist onboard the vessel.

2. Local Economy and Tourism

    Sixteen comments received were opposed to the anchorage due to the 
proximity to the shore and its impact to the commercial and 
recreational boaters that use the Cape Charles City Channel, also known 
as the Cherrystone Inlet Channel. In this NPRM, the Coast Guard shifted 
the anchorage 3 NM from the coastline and into deeper water keeping 
Cherry Stone Channel Inlet, connected to Cape Charles, VA, open to 
workboats, fishing vessels, and recreational boats transiting this 
inlet to support the local economy and tourism. Also, by moving the 
anchorage north of an existing regulated navigation area, 33 CFR 
165.501, this will direct vessels to no longer routinely anchor 
offshore Bulters Bluff, Kiptopeke State Park Beach, Jackspot at the 
Sunset Beach and Chesapeake Bay Resort and Beach Club but instead to 
use a dedicated anchorage ground. This will move the lights from ships 
anchored there further offshore.
    Although boaters would be allowed to fish in the proposed anchorage 
ground, we would strongly discourage crab pot fishing as we would 
around any places vessels anchor because lines may get caught or cut by 
the anchors and propellers of vessels anchoring. Mariners deciding to 
fish in the anchorage ground would do so at the risk of their lines or 
other fishing gear getting snagged or cut by anchor lines or 
propellers. Fishing vessels would also need to comply with the 
provisions outlined in the Navigation Rules of the Road (see 33 CFR 
part 83).
    An additional commenter opposed the anchorage contemplated in the 
ANPRM requesting that if the ships could not anchor closer to Norfolk 
than they should anchor at sea until they are called to port. The Coast 
Guard cannot direct vessels to anchor greater than 12 NM offshore or to 
stay at sea where they could become exposed to unsafe environmental 
weather conditions. However, in this NPRM, the proposed anchorage is 
being shifted further west from Cape Charles, VA and will now be 
regulated, enhancing the overall safety and security of both vessels 
and the public.

3. Safety and Security Compliance Concerns

    Ten comments were received regarding vessel safety and crewmember 
security. Under 33 CFR part 160, subpart C, in general, U.S. vessels in 
commercial service and foreign vessels entering port must provide a 
Notice of Arrival to the Coast Guard. The vessel's Notice of Arrival is 
vetted by numerous federal agencies to ensure compliance with 
applicable safety and security laws prior to the vessel and its crews 
entering U.S. waters. Speaking specifically to foreign crewmembers, 
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) screen and provide escort 
protocol for those individuals who are seeking to go ashore. All 
crewmembers must remain onboard the vessel unless clearance from CBP 
has been obtained prior to going ashore.

4. View From Shore Concerns

    A total of six comments were received opposing the anchorage due to 
the negative impact anchored vessels could have on the view from shore 
and diminished property values. The Coast Guard considered these 
comments to find an alternate anchorage area. Based on exposure to 
weather, tug and barge traffic density, and navigational safety 
concerns for areas west of Chesapeake Channel due to drafts between 25 
feet and 35 feet with numerous shoals, the proposed alternative areas 
were considered unsafe for deep draft vessels to anchor. To mitigate 
the issues associated with the view shed, the Coast Guard moved the 
anchorage to 3 NM offshore vice the original 1.5 NM and as far west as 
500 yards from the Chesapeake Channel. Directly east of Cape Charles 
heading north towards the Cherry Stone Camp Grounds, the anchorage gets 
progressively narrower to reduce the overall number of vessels offshore 
that would be viewed on the horizon.

5. Anchorage Proponent

    Three responses were received in support of a new, deep-water 
anchorage due to the growing maritime infrastructure in the 
Commonwealth of Virginia. With the support of the anchorage, there were 
also recommendations to review the existing anchorages within the lower 
Chesapeake Bay, to maintain the original anchorage proposal, and to 
expand the boundaries of the anchorage proposal. The existing 
anchorages will not be reviewed for this rulemaking. The need to adjust 
the anchorage to include deep water to the north of the proposed area 
was suggested and incorporated into this adjusted proposal. Various 
mariner subject matter experts were consulted to ensure navigation 
safety of both anchored vessels and vessels transiting near the 
proposed Anchorage R and the proposed Quarantine Anchorage. With 
limited availability of a deep draft anchorage in the existing naval 
anchorages, this anchorage proposal is anticipated to enhance the 
navigation safety of the port and more safely and effectively support 
commercial vessel anchoring requirements on the Lower Chesapeake Bay.

IV. Discussion of the Proposed Rule

    The Coast Guard proposes to establish a new Anchorage R and 
relocate the existing Quarantine Anchorage. This proposal reflects our 
consideration of all comments received from the ANPRM and the Record of 
Environmental Consideration. We believe this will more effectively 
establish a new deep-water anchorage ground for commercial vessels to 
support the new and projected growth in maritime commerce vessel 
traffic throughout the Port of Virginia. The approximate depths of the 
proposed new Anchorage R will be located in naturally deep water with 
charted depths between 25 and 101 feet. The average depth of the 
northern half of the anchorage is between 45 and 101 feet. The average 
depth of the southern half of the anchorage is between 25 and 45 feet.
    The 7.9 NM long eastern boundary of the proposed Anchorage R is 
located 3 NM to the west of landside Cape Charles, VA on the Lower 
Chesapeake Bay. The southernmost boundary is 3.9 NM, and runs parallel 
with, and 500 yards north of the existing Regulated Navigation Area (33 
CFR 165.501) connected along the SE to S coordinates

[[Page 29084]]

listed in the proposed regulatory language below. The western boundary 
of the anchorage grounds runs parallel along, and no less than 500 
yards east of York Spit Channel for 13.9 NM to include the 11.2 NM 
between lighted buoy 24 and lighted buoy 38 and then continues to the 
northeast for 2.7 NM north of lighted buoy 38, connected along the 
listed S, SW and NW coordinates. The final northern most boundary is 
0.6 NM connected by the listed NW and NE coordinates.
    The Coast Guard proposes moving the existing Quarantine Anchorage 
(Anchorage Q), from the current location 3.5 NM to the west of landside 
of Cape Charles, VA, and east of York Spit Channel between lighted 
buoys 36 to 38, relocating it 6 NM southwest of Fishermans Point, VA. 
The new location runs 625 yards west of York Spit Channel between buoys 
16 and 18. The eastern boundary of proposed Anchorage Q runs parallel 
to York Spit Channel for 2.2 NM, connected by the NE and SE coordinates 
as outlined in the proposed regulatory language. The southernmost 
boundary is 1.3 NM from the emergency restricted area outside the 
Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, connected by the listed SE and SW 
coordinates. The westernmost boundary is 2.2 NM, connected by the 
listed SW and NW coordinates. The northernmost boundary is 450 yards 
southwest of York River Entrance Channel and runs for 1.3 NM, connected 
by the listed NW and NE coordinates.
    The regulatory text we are proposing, including the coordinates 
mention above, appears at the end of this document. You may find a 
drawing of the proposed anchorage grounds in the docket. Look for 
Illustration of Contemplated Anchorage ``R'' and ``Quarantine'' 
Anchorage.

V. Regulatory Analyses

    We developed this proposed rule after considering numerous statutes 
and Executive orders related to rulemaking. Below we summarize our 
analyses based on a number of these statutes and Executive orders and 
we discuss First Amendment rights of protestors.

A. Regulatory Planning and Review

    Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 direct agencies to assess the 
costs and benefits of available regulatory alternatives and, if 
regulation is necessary, to select regulatory approaches that maximize 
net benefits. Executive Order 13771 directs agencies to control 
regulatory costs through a budgeting process. This NPRM has not been 
designated a ``significant regulatory action,'' under Executive Order 
12866. Accordingly, the NPRM has not been reviewed by the Office of 
Management and Budget (OMB), and pursuant to OMB guidance it is exempt 
from the requirements of Executive Order 13771.
    This regulatory action determination is based on the size, 
location, and historical vessel traffic data pertaining to the proposed 
anchorage locations. The regulation would ensure approximately 18 
square miles of anchorage grounds are designated to provide a necessary 
commercial deep draft anchorage and enhance the navigational safety of 
large naval and commercial vessels transiting within the lower 
Chesapeake Bay. In reviewing historical Automated Information System 
(AIS) track line data of vessel transits, the proposed Anchorages 
Quarantine and R areas are safe locations for vessels to anchor in a 
minimally trafficked section of the Chesapeake Bay while maintaining a 
more appropriate safe distance from shore.

B. Impact on Small Entities

    The Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980, 5 U.S.C. 601-612, as 
amended, requires Federal agencies to consider the potential impact of 
regulations on small entities during rulemaking. The term ``small 
entities'' comprises small businesses, not-for-profit organizations 
that are independently owned and operated and are not dominant in their 
fields, and governmental jurisdictions with populations of less than 
50,000. The Coast Guard certifies under 5 U.S.C. 605(b) that this 
proposed rule would not have a significant economic impact on a 
substantial number of small entities.
    While some owners or operators of vessels intending to use the 
anchorage may be small entities, for the reasons stated in section IV.A 
above, this proposed rule would not have a significant economic impact 
on any vessel owner or operator. The towns and communities along the 
western coast of Eastern Shore of Virginia have an economy based on 
tourism and numerous small entities and businesses. The anchorage will 
regulate and move vessels who are currently anchoring in the general 
vicinity away from the shore and beaches, lessening impacts these small 
entities may currently experience.
    If you think that your business, organization, or governmental 
jurisdiction qualifies as a small entity and that this rule would have 
a significant economic impact on it, please submit a comment explaining 
why you think it qualifies and how and to what degree this rule would 
economically affect it.
    Under section 213(a) of the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement 
Fairness Act of 1996 (Pub. L. 104-121), we want to assist small 
entities in understanding this proposed rule. If the rule would affect 
your small business, organization, or governmental jurisdiction and you 
have questions concerning its provisions or options for compliance, 
please contact the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT 
section. The Coast Guard will not retaliate against small entities that 
question or complain about this proposed rule or any policy or action 
of the Coast Guard.

C. Collection of Information

    This proposed rule would not call for a new collection of 
information under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-
3520).

D. Federalism and Indian Tribal Governments

    A rule has implications for federalism under Executive Order 13132, 
Federalism, if it has a substantial direct effect on the States, on the 
relationship between the national government and the States, or on the 
distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of 
government. We have analyzed this proposed rule under that Order and 
have determined that it is consistent with the fundamental federalism 
principles and preemption requirements described in Executive Order 
13132.
    Also, this proposed rule does not have tribal implications under 
Executive Order 13175, Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal 
Governments, because it would not have a substantial direct effect on 
one or more Indian tribes, on the relationship between the Federal 
Government and Indian tribes, or on the distribution of power and 
responsibilities between the Federal Government and Indian tribes. If 
you believe this proposed rule has implications for federalism or 
Indian tribes, please contact the person listed in the FOR FURTHER 
INFORMATION CONTACT section.

E. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act

    The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 1531-1538) 
requires Federal agencies to assess the effects of their discretionary 
regulatory actions. In particular, the Act addresses actions that may 
result in the expenditure by a State, local, or tribal government, in 
the aggregate, or by the private sector of $100,000,000 (adjusted for 
inflation) or more in any one year. Though this proposed rule would not 
result in such an expenditure, we do discuss the

[[Page 29085]]

effects of this rule elsewhere in this preamble.

F. Environment

    We have analyzed this proposed rule under Department of Homeland 
Security Directive 023-01 and Commandant Instruction M16475.1 (series) 
OM, which guides the Coast Guard in complying with the National 
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321-4370f), and have made 
a preliminary determination that this action is one of a category of 
actions that do not individually or cumulatively have a significant 
effect on the human environment. This proposed rule involves amending 
the regulations for Hampton Roads and adjacent water anchorages by 
establishing an anchorage, Anchorage R, 3 NM west of Cape Charles, VA 
and relocating the existing Quarantine Anchorage, Anchorage Q, to a 
more secluded position that is 6 NM southwest of Fishermans Point, VA. 
Normally, such actions are categorically excluded from further review 
under paragraphs L59(a) and L59(b) of Appendix A, Table 1 of DHS 
Instruction Manual 023-01-001-01, Rev. 01. A preliminary Record of 
Environmental Consideration supporting this determination is available 
in the docket where indicated under ADDRESSES. We seek any comments or 
information that may lead to the discovery of a significant 
environmental impact from this proposed rule.

VI. Public Participation and Request for Comments

    We view public participation as essential to effective rulemaking 
and will consider all comments and material received during the comment 
period. Your comment can help shape the outcome of this rulemaking. If 
you submit a comment, please include the docket number for this 
rulemaking, indicate the specific section of this document to which 
each comment applies, and provide a reason for each suggestion or 
recommendation.
    We encourage you to submit comments through the Federal eRulemaking 
Portal at http://www.regulations.gov. If your material cannot be 
submitted using http://www.regulations.gov, contact the person in the 
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section of this document for alternate 
instructions.
    We accept anonymous comments. All comments received will be posted 
without change to http://www.regulations.gov and will include any 
personal information you have provided. For more about privacy/docket, 
visit http://www.regulations.gov/privacyNotice.
    Documents mentioned in this NPRM as being available in the docket, 
and all public comments, will be in our online docket at http://www.regulations.gov and can be viewed by following that website's 
instructions. Additionally, if you go to the online docket and sign up 
for email alerts, you will be notified when comments are posted or a 
final rule is published.
    We plan to hold three public meetings to receive oral comments on 
this NPRM, one in Norfolk, VA and two in Cape Charles, VA. The first 
public meeting will be held on Monday, June 25, 2018, from 5 p.m. to 7 
p.m. at Slover Public Library Meeting Room, 235 E. Plume Street, 
Norfolk, VA 23510. Two public meetings will be held on July 10, 2018 at 
Cape Charles Civic Center, 500 Tazwell Avenue, Cape Charles, VA; the 
first meeting will be held from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and the second meeting 
will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. For information on facilities or 
services for individuals with disabilities or to request special 
assistance at the public meeting, contact the person named in the FOR 
FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section, above.

List of Subjects in 33 CFR Part 110

    Anchorage grounds.

    For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Coast Guard proposes 
to amend 33 CFR part 110 as follows:

PART 110--ANCHORAGE REGULATIONS

0
1. The authority citation for part 110 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  33 U.S.C., 471, 1221 through 1236, 2071; 33 CFR 
1.05-1; Department Homeland Security Delegation No 0170.1.

0
2. In Sec.  110.168, add introductory text in paragraph (a), revise 
paragraph (a)(6), and add paragraph (a)(7) to read as follows:


Sec.  110.168   Hampton Roads, Virginia and adjacent waters.

    (a) Anchorage Grounds. All coordinates in this section for 
anchorage grounds are based on North American Datum of 1983 (NAD 83).
* * * * *
    (6) Anchorage Q. Quarantine Anchorage. The waters bound by a line 
connecting the following points:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
              Latitude                            Longitude
------------------------------------------------------------------------
37[deg]05'40'' N                     076[deg]08'12'' W
37[deg]05'40'' N                     076[deg]07'19'' W
37[deg]03'46'' N                     076[deg]05'58'' W
37[deg]03'46'' N                     076[deg]06'51'' W
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (7) Anchorage R. The waters all within the Chesapeake Bay, bound by 
a line connecting the following points:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
              Latitude                            Longitude
------------------------------------------------------------------------
37[deg]19'10'' N                     076[deg]05'00'' W
37[deg]12'00'' N                     076[deg]05'00'' W
37[deg]09'08'' N                     076[deg]08'19'' W
37[deg]11'23'' N                     076[deg]08'49'' W
37[deg]19'10'' N                     076[deg]05'46'' W
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *

    Dated: June 8, 2018.
Meredith Austin,
Rear Admiral, U.S. Coast Guard, Commander, Fifth Coast Guard District.
[FR Doc. 2018-13439 Filed 6-19-18; 4:15 pm]
 BILLING CODE 9110-04-P



                                                                           Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 121 / Friday, June 22, 2018 / Proposed Rules                                          29081

                                                 Order 13175 (Consultation and                           Request for Comments’’ section of this                 DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND
                                                 Coordination with Indian Tribal                         preamble. This proposed rule would be                  SECURITY
                                                 Governments) because it would not                       categorically excluded under paragraph
                                                 have a substantial direct effect on one or              L54 of Appendix A, Table 1 of DHS                      Coast Guard
                                                 more Indian tribes, on the relationship                 Instruction Manual 023–01(series).
                                                 between the Federal Government and                      Paragraph L54 pertains to regulations                  33 CFR Part 110
                                                 Indian tribes, or on the distribution of                that are editorial or procedural. We seek              [Docket Number USCG–2015–1118]
                                                 power and responsibilities between the                  any comments or information that may
                                                 Federal Government and Indian tribes.                                                                          RIN 1625–AA01
                                                                                                         lead to the discovery of a significant
                                                 K. Energy Effects                                       environmental impact from this                         Anchorage Grounds; Lower
                                                    We have analyzed this proposed rule                  proposed rule.                                         Chesapeake Bay, Cape Charles, VA
                                                 under Executive Order 13211 (Actions                    List of Subjects in 33 CFR Part 105                    AGENCY:  Coast Guard, DHS.
                                                 Concerning Regulations That
                                                 Significantly Affect Energy Supply,                       Maritime security, Reporting and                     ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking;
                                                 Distribution, or Use). We have                          recordkeeping requirements, Security                   notice of public meetings.
                                                 determined that it is not a ‘‘significant               measures.                                              SUMMARY:    The Coast Guard proposes to
                                                 energy action’’ under that order because                                                                       amend the regulations for Hampton
                                                 although it is a ‘‘significant regulatory                 For the reasons listed in the preamble,
                                                                                                         the Coast Guard proposes to amend 33                   Roads, Virginia and adjacent water
                                                 action’’ under Executive Order 12866, it                                                                       anchorage grounds by establishing a
                                                 is not likely to have a significant                     CFR part 105 as follows:
                                                                                                                                                                new, deep-water anchorage ground and
                                                 adverse effect on the supply,                                                                                  relocating an existing anchorage ground
                                                 distribution, or use of energy, and the                 PART 105—MARITIME SECURITY:
                                                                                                         FACILITIES                                             near Cape Charles, VA on the Lower
                                                 Administrator of OMB’s Office of                                                                               Chesapeake Bay. Maritime
                                                 Information and Regulatory Affairs has                                                                         infrastructure improvements and growth
                                                 not designated it as a significant energy               ■ 1. The authority citation for part 105
                                                                                                         continues to read as follows:                          in both size and volume of vessel traffic
                                                 action.                                                                                                        entering the port, including large and
                                                 L. Technical Standards                                    Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1226, 1231; 46 U.S.C.           deep-draft vessels have prompted this
                                                                                                         70103; 50 U.S.C. 191; 33 CFR 1.05–1, 6.04–             proposed rulemaking to ensure that the
                                                    The National Technology Transfer                     11, 6.14, 6.16, and 6.19; Department of                Hampton Roads Anchorage Grounds
                                                 and Advancement Act, codified as a                      Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1.               continue to safely and effectively
                                                 note to 15 U.S.C. 272, directs agencies
                                                                                                                                                                support current and future deep-draft
                                                 to use voluntary consensus standards in                 ■ 2. Amend § 105.253, as proposed to be
                                                                                                                                                                vessel anchorage demands. We moved
                                                 their regulatory activities unless the                  added August 23, 2018 at 81 FR 57712,
                                                                                                                                                                the proposed locations of the anchorage
                                                 agency provides Congress, through                       by revising paragraphs (a)(1) and (2) and              grounds in this notice of proposed
                                                 OMB, with an explanation of why using                   adding paragraphs (a)(3) and (4) to read               rulemaking (NPRM) further offshore
                                                 these standards would be inconsistent                   as follows:                                            than the potential locations we
                                                 with applicable law or otherwise
                                                                                                         § 105.253     Risk Group classifications for           identified in an advance notice of
                                                 impractical. Voluntary consensus
                                                                                                         facilities.                                            proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) we
                                                 standards are technical standards (e.g.,
                                                                                                                                                                published in 2016. We did so based on
                                                 specifications of materials, performance,                 (a) * * *                                            our review and analysis of public
                                                 design, or operation; test methods;
                                                                                                           (1) Beginning August 23, 2018:                       comments on the ANPRM and the
                                                 sampling procedures; and related
                                                                                                         Facilities that receive vessels                        results of an environmental study
                                                 management systems practices) that are
                                                                                                         certificated to carry more than 1,000                  referenced in our preliminary Record of
                                                 developed or adopted by voluntary
                                                                                                         passengers.                                            Environmental Consideration for this
                                                 consensus standards bodies.
                                                    This proposed rule does not use                                                                             NPRM. We propose to establish an
                                                                                                           (2) Beginning August 23, 2018:
                                                 technical standards. Therefore, we did                                                                         Anchorage R that is further offshore of
                                                                                                         Facilities that handle Certain Dangerous               Cape Charles, VA, and to relocate the
                                                 not consider the use of voluntary                       Cargoes (CDC) in bulk and transfer such
                                                 consensus standards.                                                                                           existing Anchorage Q (Quarantine
                                                                                                         cargoes from or to a vessel.                           Anchorage) south of its current location
                                                 M. Environment                                            (3) Beginning August 23, 2021:                       to a more secluded location on the
                                                   We have analyzed this proposed rule                   Facilities that handle CDC in bulk, but                southern Chesapeake Bay. The intended
                                                 under Department of Homeland                            do not transfer it from or to a vessel.                effect of this proposed rulemaking is to
                                                 Security Management Directive 023–01                      (4) Beginning August 23, 2021:                       protect the environment, facilitate the
                                                 and Commandant Instruction                              Facilities that receive vessels carrying               safe navigation of maritime commerce
                                                 M16475.lD, which guide the Coast                                                                               and national defense assets, and more
                                                                                                         CDC in bulk but, during the vessel-to-
                                                 Guard in complying with the National                                                                           safely and effectively support
                                                                                                         facility interface, do not transfer it from
                                                 Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42                                                                           commercial vessel anchoring
                                                                                                         or to the vessel.                                      requirements on the Lower Chesapeake
                                                 U.S.C. 4321–4370f), and have made a
                                                 preliminary determination that this                     *      *     *    *     *                              Bay. We invite your comments on this
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                                                 action is one of a category of actions that               Dated: June 15, 2018.                                proposed rulemaking.
                                                 do not individually or cumulatively                     Karl L. Schultz,                                       DATES: Comments and related material
                                                 have a significant effect on the human                  Admiral, U.S. Coast Guard, Commandant.                 must be received by the Coast Guard on
                                                 environment. A preliminary Record of                                                                           or before July 17, 2018. Additionally,
                                                                                                         [FR Doc. 2018–13345 Filed 6–21–18; 8:45 am]
                                                 Environmental Consideration (REC)                                                                              the Coast Guard will hold several public
                                                                                                         BILLING CODE 9110–04–P
                                                 supporting this determination is                                                                               meetings to allow the public the
                                                 available in the docket where indicated                                                                        opportunity to provide comment. The
                                                 under the ‘‘Public Participation and                                                                           first public meeting will be held on


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                                                 29082                     Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 121 / Friday, June 22, 2018 / Proposed Rules

                                                 Monday, June 25, 2018, from 5 p.m. to                      • Cape Charles, VA, on August 17,                   and entities, including State and local
                                                 7 p.m. at Slover Public Library Meeting                 2016.                                                  government officials, port authorities,
                                                 Room, 235 E Plume Street, Norfolk, VA                      At the three public meetings, we                    representatives of affected industries,
                                                 23510. Two public meetings will be                      heard from 20 speakers and we received                 such as maritime, port, and other
                                                 held on Tuesday, July 10, 2018, at Cape                 a total of 35 individual comment letters.              facilities, and private citizens. The
                                                 Charles Civic Center, 500 Tazwell                       On December 16, 2016, the Coast Guard                  comments received from these parties
                                                 Avenue, Cape Charles, VA; the first                     issued a news release to inform the                    helped to inform the proposal in this
                                                 meeting will be held from 1 p.m. to 3                   public that a review of comments and                   NPRM.
                                                 p.m. and the second meeting will be                     the environmental study would be
                                                                                                         conducted. In November 2017, the Coast                 1. Environmental Concerns
                                                 held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
                                                                                                         Guard completed its environmental                         We received 22 comments opposing
                                                 ADDRESSES: You may submit comments
                                                                                                         review. In January 2018, the Center for                the anchorage location due to
                                                 identified by docket number USCG–
                                                                                                         Disease Control, the U.S. Navy Fleet                   environmental concerns, such as light
                                                 2015–1118 using the Federal
                                                                                                         Forces Command, and the U.S. Army                      and noise pollution and potential vessel
                                                 eRulemaking Portal at http://
                                                                                                         Corps of Engineers, North Atlantic                     discharge. In the ANPRM, we inquired
                                                 www.regulations.gov. See the ‘‘Public
                                                                                                         provided comments identifying and                      about the possible establishment of a
                                                 Participation and Request for
                                                                                                         addressing adverse impacts from the                    deep-water anchorage ground west of
                                                 Comments’’ portion of the
                                                                                                         proposed anchorage establishment.                      Cape Charles, VA on the Chesapeake
                                                 SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section for
                                                                                                            The purpose of this NPRM is to solicit              Bay. These comments on the ANPRM
                                                 further instructions on submitting                                                                             combined with the results of our
                                                                                                         comments on proposed rulemaking for
                                                 comments.                                                                                                      environmental study caused us to move
                                                                                                         establishing a federal commercial
                                                 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:   If                   anchorage ground, Anchorage R, 3                       the anchorages we are proposing in this
                                                 you have questions about this proposed                  nautical miles (NM) west of Cape                       NPRM further offshore. The Coast Guard
                                                 rulemaking, call or email CDR Ken                       Charles, VA and relocating the existing                has prepared a preliminary Record of
                                                 Kostecki, Sector Hampton Roads                          quarantine anchorage ground currently                  Environmental Consideration (REC) for
                                                 Prevention Chief, 757–668–5536, email                   off Cape Charles, VA to a more secluded                this NPRM and has made a preliminary
                                                 HamptonRoadsWaterway@uscg.mil.                          location in the lower Chesapeake Bay                   determination that the proposed
                                                 SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:                              that is 6 NM southwest of Fishermans                   Anchorage R and new Quarantine
                                                                                                         Island, VA. With the increasing trend of               Anchorage do not cumulatively or
                                                 I. Table of Abbreviations                               larger and deeper-draft ships calling                  individually have a significant effect on
                                                 AIS Automated Information System                        within Virginia and Maryland, our                      the human environment.
                                                 ANPRM Advance notice of proposed                        efforts to improve navigation safety of                   Also, we noted that there are existing
                                                   rulemaking                                            both national defense and commercial                   laws and regulations in place to govern
                                                 COTP Captain of the Port                                vessels and to protect the environment                 behavior of mariners and vessels related
                                                 CFR Code of Federal Regulations                         can be accomplished by providing an                    to these concerns about the release of
                                                 DOD Department of Defense                               anchorage of adequate size, depth and                  pollutants. In terms of the discharge of
                                                 DHS Department of Homeland Security                                                                            pollutants, our regulations in 33 CFR
                                                 FR Federal Register
                                                                                                         capacity.
                                                                                                            The legal basis and authorities for this            part 151 and the Act to Prevent
                                                 MD Maryland
                                                 NM Nautical Miles                                       notice of proposed rulemaking are                      Pollution from Ships implement
                                                 § Section                                               found in 33 U.S.C. 471, 33 CFR 1.05–1,                 provisions of the International
                                                 NPRM Notice of proposed rule-making                     DHS Delegation No. 0170.1, which                       Convention for Prevention of Pollution
                                                 PWSA Port and Waterways Safety Act                      collectively authorize the Coast Guard                 from Ships and subject violators to
                                                 U.S.C. United States Code                               to propose, establish, and define                      penalties. Also, the Ports and
                                                 VA Virginia                                             regulatory anchorage grounds.                          Waterways Safety Act (PWSA) of 1972,
                                                                                                                                                                (33 U.S.C. 1221, 1223, 1228, 1232 et
                                                 II. Background, Purpose, and Legal                      III. Discussion of Comments on ANRPM                   seq.) and PWSA-implementing
                                                 Basis
                                                                                                            This section provides a detailed                    regulations help us ensure vessel
                                                    On April 19, 2016, the Coast Guard                   discussion of the public comments                      compliance with all applicable
                                                 published an advance notice of                          received during the ANPRM’s comment                    standards, vessel operating
                                                 proposed rule-making (ANPRM) in the                     period and public meeting. We received                 requirements, vessel conditions for
                                                 Federal Register (81 FR 22939) to solicit               35 comment letters in response to the                  entry into port and enforcement
                                                 public comments on amending certain                     ANPRM. In addition, we hosted three                    provisions. In addition, 46 U.S.C.
                                                 anchorage regulations in Hampton                        public meetings to provide another                     subtitle II, part B, specifically 3305,
                                                 Roads for the possible creation of a new                forum for obtaining public feedback on                 3307, and 3714, authorize and call for
                                                 anchorage in the lower Chesapeake Bay                   the ANRPM.                                             merchant vessel inspections and
                                                 near Cape Charles, VA. We received 35                      Twenty-three comments were                          examinations. Foreign-flagged vessels
                                                 comment letters in response to the                      received from the public meetings.                     are subject to Port State Control
                                                 ANPRM. On June 27, 2016, we                             Comments submitted to the online                       examinations to ensure compliance with
                                                 published a 45-day extension and                        docket and received at the public                      applicable marine pollution, sewage,
                                                 announced two public meetings (81 FR                    meeting aligned into five categories:                  waste, and safety and security laws and
                                                 41487). On August 16, 2016, we                          Environmental concerns, local economy                  regulations. Additionally, under current
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                                                 announced one additional meeting and                    and tourism, safety and security                       COTP procedures, Sector Hampton
                                                 reopened the comment period (81 FR                      compliance concerns, view shed                         Roads has instituted a random and
                                                 54531). We scheduled the meetings to                    concerns, and anchorage proponent.                     unannounced spot check program for
                                                 receive comments on the ANRPM to                        Copies of the public meeting sign-in                   any vessel, foreign or U.S. flagged,
                                                 allow for greater public involvement.                   sheets and written comments received                   anchored off of Cape Charles to ensure
                                                 The meetings were held in—                              are available for viewing in the public                regulatory compliance.
                                                    • Norfolk, VA, on July 19, 2016;                     docket for this rulemaking. Commenters                    Under 33 CFR 110.168(c)(8) and (9),
                                                    • Melfa, VA, on July 20, 2016; and                   represented a wide range of individuals                the COTP may prescribe specific


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                                                                           Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 121 / Friday, June 22, 2018 / Proposed Rules                                           29083

                                                 conditions for vessels preventing them                  risk of their lines or other fishing gear              anchorage gets progressively narrower
                                                 from being in a dead ship status, (that                 getting snagged or cut by anchor lines or              to reduce the overall number of vessels
                                                 is, control unavailable for normal                      propellers. Fishing vessels would also                 offshore that would be viewed on the
                                                 operations) while in an anchorage                       need to comply with the provisions                     horizon.
                                                 ground, without prior approval of the                   outlined in the Navigation Rules of the
                                                                                                                                                                5. Anchorage Proponent
                                                 COTP. Under § 160.216 of this chapter,                  Road (see 33 CFR part 83).
                                                 vessels experiencing casualties, such as                   An additional commenter opposed                        Three responses were received in
                                                 main propulsion, main steering or                       the anchorage contemplated in the                      support of a new, deep-water anchorage
                                                 anchoring equipment malfunction, or                     ANPRM requesting that if the ships                     due to the growing maritime
                                                 which are planning to perform main                      could not anchor closer to Norfolk than                infrastructure in the Commonwealth of
                                                 propulsion engine repairs or                            they should anchor at sea until they are               Virginia. With the support of the
                                                 maintenance, must immediately notify                    called to port. The Coast Guard cannot                 anchorage, there were also
                                                 the Coast Guard COTP. Under § 160.111                   direct vessels to anchor greater than 12               recommendations to review the existing
                                                 of this chapter, the Coast Guard COTP                   NM offshore or to stay at sea where they               anchorages within the lower
                                                 may direct a vessel to depart the                       could become exposed to unsafe                         Chesapeake Bay, to maintain the
                                                 anchorage during periods of severe                      environmental weather conditions.                      original anchorage proposal, and to
                                                 weather or at other times as deemed                     However, in this NPRM, the proposed                    expand the boundaries of the anchorage
                                                 necessary in the interest of port safety.               anchorage is being shifted further west                proposal. The existing anchorages will
                                                 During these adverse weather                            from Cape Charles, VA and will now be                  not be reviewed for this rulemaking.
                                                 conditions, under § 110.168(c)(8) and (9)               regulated, enhancing the overall safety                The need to adjust the anchorage to
                                                 of this chapter the vessel operator in an               and security of both vessels and the                   include deep water to the north of the
                                                 anchorage ground must comply with all                   public.                                                proposed area was suggested and
                                                 severe weather precautionary measures                                                                          incorporated into this adjusted
                                                                                                         3. Safety and Security Compliance                      proposal. Various mariner subject
                                                 directed by the COTP to include but not                 Concerns
                                                 limited to having additional anchors                                                                           matter experts were consulted to ensure
                                                 ready for letting go and standing a                        Ten comments were received                          navigation safety of both anchored
                                                 continuous and live anchor watch.                       regarding vessel safety and crewmember                 vessels and vessels transiting near the
                                                    To further enhance the safety of the                 security. Under 33 CFR part 160,                       proposed Anchorage R and the
                                                 waters of the Chesapeake Bay, the                       subpart C, in general, U.S. vessels in                 proposed Quarantine Anchorage. With
                                                 Quarantine Anchorage was relocated to                   commercial service and foreign vessels                 limited availability of a deep draft
                                                 a more secluded location to provide an                  entering port must provide a Notice of                 anchorage in the existing naval
                                                 additional layer of protection should a                 Arrival to the Coast Guard. The vessel’s               anchorages, this anchorage proposal is
                                                 hazardous condition exist onboard the                   Notice of Arrival is vetted by numerous                anticipated to enhance the navigation
                                                 vessel.                                                 federal agencies to ensure compliance                  safety of the port and more safely and
                                                                                                         with applicable safety and security laws               effectively support commercial vessel
                                                 2. Local Economy and Tourism                            prior to the vessel and its crews entering             anchoring requirements on the Lower
                                                    Sixteen comments received were                       U.S. waters. Speaking specifically to                  Chesapeake Bay.
                                                 opposed to the anchorage due to the                     foreign crewmembers, U.S. Customs and
                                                 proximity to the shore and its impact to                Border Protection (CBP) screen and                     IV. Discussion of the Proposed Rule
                                                 the commercial and recreational boaters                 provide escort protocol for those                        The Coast Guard proposes to establish
                                                 that use the Cape Charles City Channel,                 individuals who are seeking to go                      a new Anchorage R and relocate the
                                                 also known as the Cherrystone Inlet                     ashore. All crewmembers must remain                    existing Quarantine Anchorage. This
                                                 Channel. In this NPRM, the Coast Guard                  onboard the vessel unless clearance                    proposal reflects our consideration of all
                                                 shifted the anchorage 3 NM from the                     from CBP has been obtained prior to                    comments received from the ANPRM
                                                 coastline and into deeper water keeping                 going ashore.                                          and the Record of Environmental
                                                 Cherry Stone Channel Inlet, connected                                                                          Consideration. We believe this will
                                                 to Cape Charles, VA, open to workboats,                 4. View From Shore Concerns                            more effectively establish a new deep-
                                                 fishing vessels, and recreational boats                    A total of six comments were received               water anchorage ground for commercial
                                                 transiting this inlet to support the local              opposing the anchorage due to the                      vessels to support the new and
                                                 economy and tourism. Also, by moving                    negative impact anchored vessels could                 projected growth in maritime commerce
                                                 the anchorage north of an existing                      have on the view from shore and                        vessel traffic throughout the Port of
                                                 regulated navigation area, 33 CFR                       diminished property values. The Coast                  Virginia. The approximate depths of the
                                                 165.501, this will direct vessels to no                 Guard considered these comments to                     proposed new Anchorage R will be
                                                 longer routinely anchor offshore Bulters                find an alternate anchorage area. Based                located in naturally deep water with
                                                 Bluff, Kiptopeke State Park Beach,                      on exposure to weather, tug and barge                  charted depths between 25 and 101 feet.
                                                 Jackspot at the Sunset Beach and                        traffic density, and navigational safety               The average depth of the northern half
                                                 Chesapeake Bay Resort and Beach Club                    concerns for areas west of Chesapeake                  of the anchorage is between 45 and 101
                                                 but instead to use a dedicated anchorage                Channel due to drafts between 25 feet                  feet. The average depth of the southern
                                                 ground. This will move the lights from                  and 35 feet with numerous shoals, the                  half of the anchorage is between 25 and
                                                 ships anchored there further offshore.                  proposed alternative areas were                        45 feet.
                                                    Although boaters would be allowed to                 considered unsafe for deep draft vessels                 The 7.9 NM long eastern boundary of
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                                                 fish in the proposed anchorage ground,                  to anchor. To mitigate the issues                      the proposed Anchorage R is located 3
                                                 we would strongly discourage crab pot                   associated with the view shed, the Coast               NM to the west of landside Cape
                                                 fishing as we would around any places                   Guard moved the anchorage to 3 NM                      Charles, VA on the Lower Chesapeake
                                                 vessels anchor because lines may get                    offshore vice the original 1.5 NM and as               Bay. The southernmost boundary is 3.9
                                                 caught or cut by the anchors and                        far west as 500 yards from the                         NM, and runs parallel with, and 500
                                                 propellers of vessels anchoring.                        Chesapeake Channel. Directly east of                   yards north of the existing Regulated
                                                 Mariners deciding to fish in the                        Cape Charles heading north towards the                 Navigation Area (33 CFR 165.501)
                                                 anchorage ground would do so at the                     Cherry Stone Camp Grounds, the                         connected along the SE to S coordinates


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                                                 29084                     Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 121 / Friday, June 22, 2018 / Proposed Rules

                                                 listed in the proposed regulatory                       Order 12866. Accordingly, the NPRM                        Under section 213(a) of the Small
                                                 language below. The western boundary                    has not been reviewed by the Office of                 Business Regulatory Enforcement
                                                 of the anchorage grounds runs parallel                  Management and Budget (OMB), and                       Fairness Act of 1996 (Pub. L. 104–121),
                                                 along, and no less than 500 yards east                  pursuant to OMB guidance it is exempt                  we want to assist small entities in
                                                 of York Spit Channel for 13.9 NM to                     from the requirements of Executive                     understanding this proposed rule. If the
                                                 include the 11.2 NM between lighted                     Order 13771.                                           rule would affect your small business,
                                                 buoy 24 and lighted buoy 38 and then                       This regulatory action determination                organization, or governmental
                                                 continues to the northeast for 2.7 NM                   is based on the size, location, and                    jurisdiction and you have questions
                                                 north of lighted buoy 38, connected                     historical vessel traffic data pertaining              concerning its provisions or options for
                                                 along the listed S, SW and NW                           to the proposed anchorage locations.                   compliance, please contact the person
                                                 coordinates. The final northern most                    The regulation would ensure                            listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
                                                 boundary is 0.6 NM connected by the                     approximately 18 square miles of                       CONTACT section. The Coast Guard will
                                                 listed NW and NE coordinates.                           anchorage grounds are designated to                    not retaliate against small entities that
                                                    The Coast Guard proposes moving the                  provide a necessary commercial deep                    question or complain about this
                                                 existing Quarantine Anchorage                           draft anchorage and enhance the                        proposed rule or any policy or action of
                                                 (Anchorage Q), from the current                         navigational safety of large naval and                 the Coast Guard.
                                                 location 3.5 NM to the west of landside                 commercial vessels transiting within the
                                                 of Cape Charles, VA, and east of York                   lower Chesapeake Bay. In reviewing                     C. Collection of Information
                                                 Spit Channel between lighted buoys 36                   historical Automated Information                         This proposed rule would not call for
                                                 to 38, relocating it 6 NM southwest of                  System (AIS) track line data of vessel                 a new collection of information under
                                                 Fishermans Point, VA. The new location                  transits, the proposed Anchorages                      the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995
                                                 runs 625 yards west of York Spit                        Quarantine and R areas are safe                        (44 U.S.C. 3501–3520).
                                                 Channel between buoys 16 and 18. The                    locations for vessels to anchor in a
                                                                                                                                                                D. Federalism and Indian Tribal
                                                 eastern boundary of proposed                            minimally trafficked section of the
                                                                                                                                                                Governments
                                                 Anchorage Q runs parallel to York Spit                  Chesapeake Bay while maintaining a
                                                 Channel for 2.2 NM, connected by the                    more appropriate safe distance from                       A rule has implications for federalism
                                                 NE and SE coordinates as outlined in                    shore.                                                 under Executive Order 13132,
                                                 the proposed regulatory language. The                                                                          Federalism, if it has a substantial direct
                                                                                                         B. Impact on Small Entities                            effect on the States, on the relationship
                                                 southernmost boundary is 1.3 NM from
                                                 the emergency restricted area outside                      The Regulatory Flexibility Act of                   between the national government and
                                                 the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel,                       1980, 5 U.S.C. 601–612, as amended,                    the States, or on the distribution of
                                                 connected by the listed SE and SW                       requires Federal agencies to consider                  power and responsibilities among the
                                                 coordinates. The westernmost boundary                   the potential impact of regulations on                 various levels of government. We have
                                                 is 2.2 NM, connected by the listed SW                   small entities during rulemaking. The                  analyzed this proposed rule under that
                                                 and NW coordinates. The northernmost                    term ‘‘small entities’’ comprises small                Order and have determined that it is
                                                 boundary is 450 yards southwest of                      businesses, not-for-profit organizations               consistent with the fundamental
                                                 York River Entrance Channel and runs                    that are independently owned and                       federalism principles and preemption
                                                 for 1.3 NM, connected by the listed NW                  operated and are not dominant in their                 requirements described in Executive
                                                 and NE coordinates.                                     fields, and governmental jurisdictions                 Order 13132.
                                                    The regulatory text we are proposing,                with populations of less than 50,000.                     Also, this proposed rule does not have
                                                 including the coordinates mention                       The Coast Guard certifies under 5 U.S.C.               tribal implications under Executive
                                                 above, appears at the end of this                       605(b) that this proposed rule would not               Order 13175, Consultation and
                                                 document. You may find a drawing of                     have a significant economic impact on                  Coordination with Indian Tribal
                                                 the proposed anchorage grounds in the                   a substantial number of small entities.                Governments, because it would not have
                                                 docket. Look for Illustration of                           While some owners or operators of                   a substantial direct effect on one or
                                                 Contemplated Anchorage ‘‘R’’ and                        vessels intending to use the anchorage                 more Indian tribes, on the relationship
                                                 ‘‘Quarantine’’ Anchorage.                               may be small entities, for the reasons                 between the Federal Government and
                                                                                                         stated in section IV.A above, this                     Indian tribes, or on the distribution of
                                                 V. Regulatory Analyses                                  proposed rule would not have a                         power and responsibilities between the
                                                   We developed this proposed rule after                 significant economic impact on any                     Federal Government and Indian tribes.
                                                 considering numerous statutes and                       vessel owner or operator. The towns and                If you believe this proposed rule has
                                                 Executive orders related to rulemaking.                 communities along the western coast of                 implications for federalism or Indian
                                                 Below we summarize our analyses                         Eastern Shore of Virginia have an                      tribes, please contact the person listed
                                                 based on a number of these statutes and                 economy based on tourism and                           in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
                                                 Executive orders and we discuss First                   numerous small entities and businesses.                CONTACT section.
                                                 Amendment rights of protestors.                         The anchorage will regulate and move
                                                                                                         vessels who are currently anchoring in                 E. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
                                                 A. Regulatory Planning and Review                       the general vicinity away from the shore                 The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
                                                    Executive Orders 12866 and 13563                     and beaches, lessening impacts these                   of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 1531–1538) requires
                                                 direct agencies to assess the costs and                 small entities may currently experience.               Federal agencies to assess the effects of
                                                 benefits of available regulatory                           If you think that your business,                    their discretionary regulatory actions. In
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                                                 alternatives and, if regulation is                      organization, or governmental                          particular, the Act addresses actions
                                                 necessary, to select regulatory                         jurisdiction qualifies as a small entity               that may result in the expenditure by a
                                                 approaches that maximize net benefits.                  and that this rule would have a                        State, local, or tribal government, in the
                                                 Executive Order 13771 directs agencies                  significant economic impact on it,                     aggregate, or by the private sector of
                                                 to control regulatory costs through a                   please submit a comment explaining                     $100,000,000 (adjusted for inflation) or
                                                 budgeting process. This NPRM has not                    why you think it qualifies and how and                 more in any one year. Though this
                                                 been designated a ‘‘significant                         to what degree this rule would                         proposed rule would not result in such
                                                 regulatory action,’’ under Executive                    economically affect it.                                an expenditure, we do discuss the


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                                                                           Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 121 / Friday, June 22, 2018 / Proposed Rules                                                 29085

                                                 effects of this rule elsewhere in this                  docket, visit http://                                      (7) Anchorage R. The waters all
                                                 preamble.                                               www.regulations.gov/privacyNotice.                      within the Chesapeake Bay, bound by a
                                                                                                            Documents mentioned in this NPRM                     line connecting the following points:
                                                 F. Environment                                          as being available in the docket, and all
                                                   We have analyzed this proposed rule                   public comments, will be in our online                          Latitude                Longitude
                                                 under Department of Homeland                            docket at http://www.regulations.gov
                                                 Security Directive 023–01 and                           and can be viewed by following that                     37°19′10″   N            076°05′00″   W
                                                 Commandant Instruction M16475.1                                                                                 37°12′00″   N            076°05′00″   W
                                                                                                         website’s instructions. Additionally, if                37°09′08″   N            076°08′19″   W
                                                 (series) OM, which guides the Coast                     you go to the online docket and sign up                 37°11′23″   N            076°08′49″   W
                                                 Guard in complying with the National                    for email alerts, you will be notified                  37°19′10″   N            076°05′46″   W
                                                 Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42                    when comments are posted or a final
                                                 U.S.C. 4321–4370f), and have made a                     rule is published.                                      *       *       *   *     *
                                                 preliminary determination that this                        We plan to hold three public meetings
                                                 action is one of a category of actions that                                                                       Dated: June 8, 2018.
                                                                                                         to receive oral comments on this NPRM,
                                                 do not individually or cumulatively                     one in Norfolk, VA and two in Cape                      Meredith Austin,
                                                 have a significant effect on the human                  Charles, VA. The first public meeting                   Rear Admiral, U.S. Coast Guard, Commander,
                                                 environment. This proposed rule                         will be held on Monday, June 25, 2018,                  Fifth Coast Guard District.
                                                 involves amending the regulations for                   from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Slover Public                  [FR Doc. 2018–13439 Filed 6–19–18; 4:15 pm]
                                                 Hampton Roads and adjacent water                        Library Meeting Room, 235 E. Plume                      BILLING CODE 9110–04–P
                                                 anchorages by establishing an                           Street, Norfolk, VA 23510. Two public
                                                 anchorage, Anchorage R, 3 NM west of                    meetings will be held on July 10, 2018
                                                 Cape Charles, VA and relocating the                     at Cape Charles Civic Center, 500                       ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
                                                 existing Quarantine Anchorage,                          Tazwell Avenue, Cape Charles, VA; the                   AGENCY
                                                 Anchorage Q, to a more secluded                         first meeting will be held from 1 p.m.
                                                 position that is 6 NM southwest of                      to 3 p.m. and the second meeting will                   40 CFR Part 63
                                                 Fishermans Point, VA. Normally, such                    be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. For                       [EPA–R03–OAR–2018–0304; FRL–9979–
                                                 actions are categorically excluded from                 information on facilities or services for               70—Region 3]
                                                 further review under paragraphs L59(a)                  individuals with disabilities or to
                                                 and L59(b) of Appendix A, Table 1 of                    request special assistance at the public                Commonwealth of Pennsylvania;
                                                 DHS Instruction Manual 023–01–001–                      meeting, contact the person named in                    Allegheny County Health Department,
                                                 01, Rev. 01. A preliminary Record of                    the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT                     Withdrawal of Section 112(l)
                                                 Environmental Consideration                             section, above.                                         Delegation Authority for the Chemical
                                                 supporting this determination is                                                                                Accident Prevention Regulations
                                                 available in the docket where indicated                 List of Subjects in 33 CFR Part 110
                                                 under ADDRESSES. We seek any                                                                                    AGENCY:  Environmental Protection
                                                                                                           Anchorage grounds.
                                                 comments or information that may lead                                                                           Agency (EPA).
                                                                                                           For the reasons discussed in the
                                                 to the discovery of a significant                                                                               ACTION: Proposed rule.
                                                                                                         preamble, the Coast Guard proposes to
                                                 environmental impact from this                          amend 33 CFR part 110 as follows:                       SUMMARY:   Environmental Protection
                                                 proposed rule.                                                                                                  Agency (EPA) is notifying the public
                                                                                                         PART 110—ANCHORAGE                                      that Allegheny County Health
                                                 VI. Public Participation and Request for
                                                                                                         REGULATIONS                                             Department (ACHD) has completed the
                                                 Comments
                                                    We view public participation as                      ■ 1. The authority citation for part 110                regulatory process for voluntary
                                                 essential to effective rulemaking and                   continues to read as follows:                           withdrawal from EPA’s delegation of
                                                 will consider all comments and material                                                                         authority to enforce the chemical
                                                                                                           Authority: 33 U.S.C., 471, 1221 through               accident prevention regulations, and
                                                 received during the comment period.                     1236, 2071; 33 CFR 1.05–1; Department
                                                 Your comment can help shape the                         Homeland Security Delegation No 0170.1.                 EPA is proposing to modify
                                                 outcome of this rulemaking. If you                                                                              amendments indicating that ACHD does
                                                                                                         ■ 2. In § 110.168, add introductory text                not have delegated authority to
                                                 submit a comment, please include the                    in paragraph (a), revise paragraph (a)(6),
                                                 docket number for this rulemaking,                                                                              implement and enforce the regulatory
                                                                                                         and add paragraph (a)(7) to read as                     requirements. EPA is also notifying the
                                                 indicate the specific section of this                   follows:
                                                 document to which each comment                                                                                  public that each facility subject to the
                                                 applies, and provide a reason for each                  § 110.168 Hampton Roads, Virginia and                   previously approved ACHD delegated
                                                 suggestion or recommendation.                           adjacent waters.                                        chemical accident prevention program
                                                    We encourage you to submit                             (a) Anchorage Grounds. All                            is required to maintain continuous
                                                 comments through the Federal                            coordinates in this section for anchorage               compliance with applicable
                                                 eRulemaking Portal at http://                           grounds are based on North American                     requirements. This action is being taken
                                                 www.regulations.gov. If your material                   Datum of 1983 (NAD 83).                                 under the Clean Air Act (CAA).
                                                 cannot be submitted using http://                       *     *   *      *     *                                DATES: Written comments must be
                                                 www.regulations.gov, contact the person                   (6) Anchorage Q. Quarantine                           received on or before July 23, 2018.
                                                 in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION                          Anchorage. The waters bound by a line                   ADDRESSES: Submit your comments,
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS




                                                 CONTACT section of this document for                    connecting the following points:                        identified by Docket ID No. EPA–R03–
                                                 alternate instructions.                                                                                         OAR–2018–0304 at https://
                                                    We accept anonymous comments. All                            Latitude                    Longitude           www.regulations.gov, or via email to
                                                 comments received will be posted                                                                                duke.gerallyn@epa.gov. For comments
                                                 without change to http://                               37°05′40″   N                 076°08′12″   W            submitted at Regulations.gov, follow the
                                                 www.regulations.gov and will include                    37°05′40″   N                 076°07′19″   W            online instructions for submitting
                                                                                                         37°03′46″   N                 076°05′58″   W
                                                 any personal information you have                       37°03′46″   N                 076°06′51″   W
                                                                                                                                                                 comments. Once submitted, comments
                                                 provided. For more about privacy/                                                                               cannot be edited or removed from


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Document Created: 2018-11-06 09:50:41
Document Modified: 2018-11-06 09:50:41
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionProposed Rules
ActionNotice of proposed rulemaking; notice of public meetings.
DatesComments and related material must be received by the Coast Guard on or before July 17, 2018. Additionally, the Coast Guard will hold several public meetings to allow the public the opportunity to provide comment. The first public meeting will be held on Monday, June 25, 2018, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Slover Public Library Meeting Room, 235 E Plume Street, Norfolk, VA 23510. Two public meetings will be held on Tuesday, July 10, 2018, at Cape Charles Civic Center, 500 Tazwell Avenue, Cape Charles, VA; the first meeting will be held from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and the second meeting will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
ContactIf you have questions about this proposed rulemaking, call or email CDR Ken Kostecki, Sector Hampton Roads Prevention Chief, 757-668-5536, email HamptonRoadsWaterw[email protected]
FR Citation83 FR 29081 
RIN Number1625-AA01

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