Notices. Notice and request for comments

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BILLING CODE 3410-11-M DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE National Agricultural Statistics Service Notice of Intent To Revise and Extend a Currently Approved Information Collection AGENCY: National Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA. ACTION: Notice and request for comments. SUMMARY: In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, this notice announces the intent of the National Agricultural Statistics Service

(NASS)to request revision and extension of a currently approved information collection, the National Childhood Injury and Occupational Injury Survey of Farm Operators. Revision to burden hours may be needed due to changes in the size of the target population, sampling design, and/or questionnaire length. DATES: Comments on this notice must be received by April 14, 2008 to be assured of consideration. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments, identified by docket number 0535-0235, by any of the following methods: • *E-mail:* *ombofficer@nass.usda.gov* . Include docket number above in the subject line of the message. • *Fax:*

(202)720-6396. • *Mail:* Mail any paper, disk, or CD-ROM submissions to: NASS Clearance Officer, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Room 5336 A, Mail Stop 2024, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250-2024. • *Hand Delivery/Courier:* Hand deliver to: NASS Clearance Officer, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Room 5336 A South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250-2024. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Joseph T. Reilly, Associate Administrator, National Agricultural Statistics Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture,

(202)720-4333. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: *Title:* National Childhood Injury and Occupational Injury Survey of Farm Operators. *OMB Control Number:* 0535-0235. *Expiration Date of Approval:* 06/30/2008. *Type of Request:* To extend and revise its title and scope of the currently approved information collection to The National Childhood Injury and Occupational Injury Survey of Minority Farm Operators. *Abstract:* The National Childhood Injury and Occupational Injury Survey of Minority Farm Operators is designed to:

(1)Provide estimates of childhood nonfatal injury incidence and description of injury occurring to children less than 20 years of age who reside on, work on, or visit minority farms and

(2)describe the occupational injury experience of minority farm operators. Data will be collected by telephone from all 50 states with 25,000 operations receiving a Childhood Injury version only and 25,000 receiving a combined Childhood Injury and Occupational Injury version. Questions will relate to injury problems occurring during the 2008 calendar year. These data will update and enhance existing data series used by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health to:

(1)Establish a measure of the number and rate of childhood injuries associated with farming operations and study the specific types of injuries sustained and

(2)describe the scope and magnitude of occupational injuries associated with farming operations. The collection combines the childhood and occupational injury studies to reduce the number of contacts on the targeted farm population. Reports will be generated and information disseminated to all interested parties concerning the finding of this study. Authority: These data will be collected under the authority of 7 U.S.C. 2204(a). Individually identifiable data collected under this authority are governed by section 1770 of the Food Security Act of 1985, 7 U.S.C. 2276, which requires USDA to afford strict confidentiality to non-aggregated data provided by respondents. This Notice is submitted in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (Pub. L. 104-13 codified at 44 U.S.C. 3501, et seq.) and Office of Management and Budget regulations at 5 CFR part 1320 (60 FR 44978, August 29, 1995). *Estimate of Burden:* Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 3 minutes per response for the childhood injury questions and 10 minutes for the combined interview; screen-outs will be allowed early in both instruments if no injuries were incurred. *Respondents:* Farm operators. *Estimated Number of Respondents:* 50,000. *Estimated Total Annual Burden on Respondents:* 5,400 hours. Copies of this information collection and related instructions can be obtained without charge from the YA NASS Clearance Officer, at

(202)720-2248. *Comments:* *Comments are invited on:*

(a)Whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information will have practical utility;

(b)the accuracy of the agency's estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used;

(c)ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and

(d)ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, including through the use of appropriate automated, electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology. All responses to this notice will become a matter of public record and be summarized in the request for OMB approval. Signed at Washington, DC, January 14, 2008. Joseph T. Reilly, Associate Administrator. [FR Doc. E8-2757 Filed 2-13-08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410-20-P DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Federal Consistency Appeal by AES Sparrows Point LNG, LLC and Mid-Atlantic Express, LLC AGENCY: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Department of Commerce (Commerce). ACTION: Notice of stay—closure of administrative appeal decision record. SUMMARY: This announcement provides notice that the Secretary of Commerce has stayed, for a period of 60 days, closure of the decision record in an administrative appeal filed by AES Sparrows Point, LLC and Mid-Atlantic Express, LLC (AES Consistency Appeal). DATES: The decision record for the AES Consistency Appeal will now close on April 14, 2008. ADDRESSES: Office of the General Counsel for Ocean Services, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, 1305 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Odin-Smith, Attorney-Advisor, Office of the General Counsel, via e-mail at *gcos.inquiries@noaa.gov,* or at

(301)713-7392. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: In August 2007, AES Sparrows Point, LLC and Mid-Atlantic Express, LLC (AES or Appellant) filed an appeal with the Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) pursuant to section 307(c)(3)(A) of the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 (CZMA). The appeal was taken from an objection by the Maryland Department of the Environment (State), relating to AES' proposal to construct and operate a liquefied natural gas terminal in Baltimore County, Maryland, and an associated 88-mile natural gas pipeline. Under the CZMA, the Secretary must close the decision record in an appeal 160 days after the notice of appeal is published in the **Federal Register** . However, the CZMA authorizes the Secretary to stay closing the decision record for up to 60 days when the Secretary determines it necessary to receive, on an expedited basis, any supplemental information specifically requested by the Secretary to complete a consistency review or any clarifying information submitted by a party to the proceeding related to information in the consolidated record compiled by the lead Federal permitting agency. After reviewing the AES Consistency Appeal decision record developed to date, the Secretary has decided to solicit supplemental and clarifying information. In order to allow receipt of this information, the Secretary hereby stays closure of the decision record, currently scheduled to occur on February 14, 2008, until April 14, 2008. Additional information about the AES Consistency Appeal and the CZMA appeals process is available from the Department of Commerce CZMA appeals Web site *http://www.ogc.doc.gov/czma.htm.* Dated: February 11, 2008. Joel La Bissonniere, Assistant General Counsel for Ocean Services. [Federal Domestic Assistance Catalog No. 11.419 Coastal Zone Management Program Assistance.] [FR Doc. E8-2814 Filed 2-13-08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510-08-P DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Proposed Information Collection; Comment Request; Southeast Region Gulf of Mexico Red Snapper IFQ Program AGENCY: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: The Department of Commerce, as part of its continuing effort to reduce paperwork and respondent burden, invites the general public and other Federal agencies to take this opportunity to comment on proposed and/or continuing information collections, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. DATES: Written comments must be submitted on or before April 14, 2008. ADDRESSES: Direct all written comments to Diana Hynek, Departmental Paperwork Clearance Officer, Department of Commerce, Room 6625, 14th and Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230 (or via the Internet at *dHynek@doc.gov* ). FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Requests for additional information or copies of the information collection instrument and instructions should be directed to Jason Rueter,

(727)824-5350 or *jason.rueter@noaa.gov.* SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Abstract The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Alaska Region manages the red snapper fishery in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico under the Reef Fish Fishery Management Plan (FMP). The Gulf of Mexico red snapper fishery is overcapitalized. This overcapitalization has led to derby fishery conditions. The Individual Fishing Quota

(IFQ)program reduced overcapacity and eliminated derby “race” fishing conditions in the fishery. As part of this program, the Southeast Regional Office needs to collect percent ownership in a corporation from IFQ participants. The IFQ program has a cap on share percent ownership of six percent. Without the ability to track corporate shareholder information, NOAA Fisheries Service will be unable to enforce this share ownership cap. The regulations implementing the FMP are at 50 CFR part 622. The recordkeeping and reporting requirements at 50 CFR part 622 form the basis for this collection of information. NMFS Southeast Region requests information from IFQ participants. This information, upon receipt, results in an increasingly more efficient and accurate database for management and monitoring of the red snapper IFQ program in the Gulf of Mexico EEZ. II. Method of Collection Paper applications, electronic reports, and telephone calls are required from participants, and methods of submittal include Internet and facsimile transmission of paper forms. III. Data *OMB Number:* 0648-0551. *Form Number:* None. *Type of Review:* Regular submission. *Affected Public:* Not-for-profit institutions; and business or other for-profit organizations. *Estimated Number of Respondents:* 1,417. *Estimated Time per Response:* 1 minute. *Estimated Total Annual Burden Hours:* 24 (1,039 total). *Estimated Total Annual Cost to Public:* $0. IV. Request for Comments Comments are invited on:

(a)Whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information shall have practical utility;

(b)the accuracy of the agency's estimate of the burden (including hours and cost) of the proposed collection of information;

(c)ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and

(727)824-5350 or *jason.rueter@noaa.gov.* SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Abstract The Sustainable Fisheries Division, Southeast Regional Office, National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), is entrusted with the conservation, management, and protection of marine fishery resources inhabiting federal waters off the southeastern United States from North Carolina through Texas and Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Division is the Region's focal point for implementing NMFS's primary legislative authority for fisheries management and research, the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act), as amended by the Sustainable Fisheries Act (SFA). The Division works directly with the Region's three fishery management councils established by Congress to perform the mandates of the Magnuson-Stevens Act. These mandates are accomplished through fishery management plans for marine finfish and crustaceans that support important commercial and recreational fisheries in the Gulf of Mexico, South Atlantic Ocean, and Caribbean Sea and consider conservation and management issues, sociological and economic issues, and regulatory issues. Functions and activities required to fulfill this and other responsibilities as specified in the Magnuson-Stevens Act include: Providing guidance on fisheries management; providing technical assistance and advice in preparing fishery management plans

(FMP)in accordance with national standard guidelines and other applicable laws; coordinating public review and compilation of comments; initiating Secretarial review of FMP and amendments; drafting regulations and **Federal Register** notices, as well as reviewing and responding to comments received during rulemaking; FMP implementation; and monitoring. A major component of fisheries management in the Region is the permit system and the information collected by these permits. The permit/endorsement system has the following uses: a. Registration of actual and/or potential fishing vessels/dealers. b. Collection of data relevant to the characteristics of both vessels and (potential) fishermen. c. Secure compliance (e.g., do not issue permits until unpaid penalties have been collected and reporting requirements are fulfilled). d. Provide a mailing list for the dissemination of regulatory information. e. Register participants for fisheries with special restrictions/limited access. f. Provide sample frames for data collection. g. Permit purchase information for fleet economic analyses. Accordingly, numerous FMP and amendments have been developed by the Region which requires the collection of information for purposes of proper implementation of these rules. Regulations implementing the FMP and their collection of information appear at 50 CFR 600.305, 50 CFR 600.315, and 50 CFR 622.5. The need to collect percent ownership in a corporation from permit holders is necessary information for the red snapper Individual Fishing Quota

(IFQ)program. The IFQ program has a cap of six percent on share percent ownership. Without the ability to track corporate shareholder information, NOAA Fisheries Service will be unable to enforce this share ownership cap. Additionally, crew size is being collected to better understand the nature of the fishery, the number of participants who are not permit holders, and the potential socioeconomic effects of regulations within a given fishery. II. Method of Collection Paper applications, electronic reports, and telephone calls are required from participants. Methods of submittal include Internet and facsimile transmission of paper forms. III. Data *OMB Number:* 0648-0205. *Form Number:* None. *Type of Review:* Regular submission. *Affected Public:* Not-for-profit institutions; and business or other for-profit organizations. *Estimated Number of Respondents:* 16,820. *Estimated Time per Response:* 1 hour and 24 minutes. *Estimated Total Annual Burden Hours:* 15,671. *Estimated Total Annual Cost to Public:* $650,679. IV. Request for Comments Comments are invited on:

(a)Whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information shall have practical utility;

(b)the accuracy of the agency's estimate of the burden (including hours and cost) of the proposed collection of information;

(c)ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and

(d)ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information on respondents, including through the use of automated collection techniques or other forms of information technology. Comments submitted in response to this notice will be summarized and/or included in the request for OMB approval of this information collection; they also will become a matter of public record. Dated: February 8, 2008. Gwellnar Banks, Management Analyst, Office of the Chief Information Officer. [FR Doc. E8-2687 Filed 2-13-08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510-22-P DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Joint Subcommittee on Ocean Science and Technology Interagency Working Group on Ocean and Coastal Mapping ACTION: Notice of public workshop. SUMMARY: The Interagency Working Group on Ocean and Coastal Mapping (IWG-OCM), established under the governance of the Joint Subcommittee on Ocean Science and Technology (JSOST), will host a workshop from Tuesday, February 26, 2008, until Thursday, February 28, 2008, to support the development of a National Ocean and Coastal Mapping Strategic Action Plan. Participation is by invitation only; however, plenary sessions will be open to the public. *Dates and Times:* The public plenary sessions will be on Tuesday, February 26, 2008, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and on Thursday, February 28, 2008, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. *Location:* Florida Atlantic University SeaTech Campus, Auditorium (Room 205), 101 North Beach Road, Dania Beach, Florida 33004. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Persons interested in obtaining additional information including a workshop agenda should visit *http://www.csc.noaa.gov/iwg/* or contact Carol Jeffords or Tricia Gibbons at 703-642-0972. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: In response to the findings of the U.S. Ocean Action Plan, JSOST established the IWG-OCM in 2006. This interagency working group—co-chaired by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Geological Survey, and Minerals Management Service—seeks to avoid duplication of mapping ocean and coastal mapping activities and facilitate the coordination and leveraging of mapping resources across the federal sector and with state, industry, academic, and non-governmental organization mapping interests. The workshop will bring together individuals from federal mapping agencies, non-federal mapping interests, and stakeholders to frame a Strategic Action Plan designed to expand, improve, and/or develop

(a)coordination and partnerships;

(b)data collection, availability, dissemination, interoperability, and standardization; and

(c)products and tools required of ocean and coastal geospatial data users. The public plenary sessions are accessible to people with physical disabilities. Public comment periods will be scheduled at the end of the day's deliberations on Tuesday and Thursday. Each individual or group wishing to make a verbal presentation will be limited to a total time of five

(5)minutes. Approximately fifteen

(15)seats will be available for the public on a first-come, first-served basis. Dated: February 4, 2008. Captain Steven Barnum, Director, Office of Coast Survey. [FR Doc. E8-2753 Filed 2-13-08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510-JE-P DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Notice of Proposed Information Collection Requests AGENCY: Department of Education. SUMMARY: The IC Clearance Official, Regulatory Information Management Services, Office of Management, invites comments on the proposed information collection requests as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. DATES: Interested persons are invited to submit comments on or before April 14, 2008. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Section 3506 of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. chapter 35) requires that the Office of Management and Budget

(OMB)provide interested Federal agencies and the public an early opportunity to comment on information collection requests. OMB may amend or waive the requirement for public consultation to the extent that public participation in the approval process would defeat the purpose of the information collection, violate State or Federal law, or substantially interfere with any agency's ability to perform its statutory obligations. The IC Clearance Official, Regulatory Information Management Services, Office of Management, publishes that notice containing proposed information collection requests prior to submission of these requests to OMB. Each proposed information collection, grouped by office, contains the following:

(1)Type of review requested, e.g., new, revision, extension, existing or reinstatement;

(2)Title;

(3)Summary of the collection;

(4)Description of the need for, and proposed use of, the information;

(5)Respondents and frequency of collection; and

(6)Reporting and/or Recordkeeping burden. OMB invites public comment. The Department of Education is especially interested in public comment addressing the following issues:

(1)Is this collection necessary to the proper functions of the Department;

(2)will this information be processed and used in a timely manner;

(3)is the estimate of burden accurate;

(4)how might the Department enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and

(5)how might the Department minimize the burden of this collection on the respondents, including through the use of information technology. Dated: February 11, 2008. Angela C. Arrington, IC Clearance Official, Regulatory Information Management Services, Office of Management. Office of Postsecondary Education *Type of Review:* New. *Title:* Financial Status and Program Performance Final Report for State and Partnership for the Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP). *Frequency:* One time. *Affected Public:* Not-for-profit institutions; State, Local, or Tribal Gov't, SEAs or LEAs. *Reporting and Recordkeeping Hour Burden:* * Responses:* 175. * Burden Hours:* 6,125. *Abstract:* The purpose of this information collection is to determine whether recipients of GEAR UP have made substantial progress towards meeting the objectives of their respective projects, as outlined in their grant applications and/or subsequent work plans. In addition, the final report will enable the Department to evaluate each grant project's fiscal operations for the entire grant performance period, and compare total expenditures relative to federal funds awarded, and actual cost-share/matching relative to the total amount in the approved grant application. This report is a means for grantees to share the overall experience of their projects and document achievements and concerns, and describe effects of their projects on participants being served; project barriers and major accomplishments; and evidence of sustainability. The report will be GEAR UP's primary method to collect/analyze data on students' high school graduation and immediate college enrollment rates. Requests for copies of the proposed information collection request may be accessed from *http://edicsweb.ed.gov,* by selecting the “Browse Pending Collections” link and by clicking on link number 3593. When you access the information collection, click on “Download Attachments” to view. Written requests for information should be addressed to U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, LBJ, Washington, DC 20202-4537. Requests may also be electronically mailed to *ICDocketMgr@ed.gov* or faxed to 202-401-0920. Please specify the complete title of the information collection when making your request. Comments regarding burden and/or the collection activity requirements should be electronically mailed to *ICDocketMgr@ed.gov.* Individuals who use a telecommunications device for the deaf

(TDD)may call the Federal Information Relay Service

(FIRS)at 1-800-877-8339. [FR Doc. E8-2815 Filed 2-13-08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4000-01-P DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request AGENCY: Department of Education. SUMMARY: The IC Clearance Official, Regulatory Information Management Services, Office of Management invites comments on the submission for OMB review as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. DATES: Interested persons are invited to submit comments on or before March 17, 2008. ADDRESSES: Written comments should be addressed to the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, Attention: Education Desk Officer, Office of Management and Budget, 725 17th Street, NW., Room 10222, Washington, DC 20503. Commenters are encouraged to submit responses electronically by e-mail to *oira_submission@omb.eop.gov* or via fax to

(202)395-6974. Commenters should include the following subject line in their response “Comment: [insert OMB number], [insert abbreviated collection name, e.g., “Upward Bound Evaluation”]. Persons submitting comments electronically should not submit paper copies. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Section 3506 of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. chapter 35) requires that the Office of Management and Budget

(1)Type of review requested, e.g., new, revision, extension, existing or reinstatement;

(2)Title;

(3)Summary of the collection;

(4)Description of the need for, and proposed use of, the information;

(5)Respondents and frequency of collection; and

(6)Reporting and/or Recordkeeping burden. OMB invites public comment. Dated: February 11, 2008. Angela C. Arrington, IC Clearance Official, Regulatory Information Management Services, Office of Management. Office of Elementary and Secondary Education *Type of Review:* Extension of a currently approved collection. *Title:* Migrant Education Program

(MEP)Regulations, Sections 200.83, 200.84, and 200.88. *Frequency:* Other: Biennially. *Affected Public:* State, Local, or Tribal Gov't, SEAs or LEAs; Individuals or household. *Reporting and Recordkeeping Hour Burden:* * Responses:* 43. * Burden Hours:* 19,925. *Abstract:* Section 200.83 of the regulations for title I, part C establish the minimum requirements an SEA must meet for development of a comprehensive needs assessment and plan for service delivery as required under section 1306(b) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), as amended (Pub. L. 107-110). Section 200.84 of the regulations establish the minimum requirements the SEA must meet to implement the program evaluation required under section 1304(c)(2) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). Section 200.88 of the regulations clarify that, for the purposes of the MEP, only “supplemental” State or local funds that are used for programs specifically designed to meet the unique needs of migratory children can be excluded in terms of determining compliance with the “comparability” and “supplement”, not “supplant” provisions of the statute. Requests for copies of the information collection submission for OMB review may be accessed from *http://edicsweb.ed.gov,* by selecting the “Browse Pending Collections” link and by clicking on link number 3540. When you access the information collection, click on “Download Attachments” to view. Written requests for information should be addressed to U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW., LBJ, Washington, DC 20202-4537. Requests may also be electronically mailed to *ICDocketMgr@ed.gov* or faxed to 202-401-0920. Please specify the complete title of the information collection when making your request. Comments regarding burden and/or the collection activity requirements should be electronically mailed to *ICDocketMgr@ed.gov.* Individuals who use a telecommunications device for the deaf

(TDD)may call the Federal Information Relay Service

(FIRS)at 1-800-877-8339. [FR Doc. E8-2816 Filed 2-13-08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4000-01-P DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Docket No. IC08-603-000; FERC-603] Commission Information Collection Activities, Proposed Collection; Comment Request; Extension February 7, 2008. AGENCY: Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Department of Energy. ACTION: Notice of proposed information collection and request for comments. SUMMARY: In compliance with the requirements of section 3506(c)

(a)of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (Pub. L. 104-13), the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (Commission) is soliciting public comment on the specific aspects of the information collection described below. DATES: Comments on the collection of information are due by April 15, 2008. ADDRESSES: Copies of the proposed collection of information can be obtained from the Commission's Web site ( *http://www.ferc.gov/legal/ceii-foia.asp* ) or click on “Legal Resources”, “Critical Energy Infrastructure Information” and then click on CEII Request form. Copies of the Non Disclosure Agreement

(NDA)can be obtained from the Commission's Web site *http://www.ferc.gov/legal/ceii-foia/ceii/gen-nda.pdf.* Written comments may be submitted to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Attn: Michael Miller, Office of the Executive Director, ED-34, 888 First Street, NE., Washington, DC 20426. Comments may be filed either in paper format or electronically. Those parties filing electronically do not need to make a paper filing. For paper filings, the original and 14 copies of such comments should be submitted to the Office of the Secretary, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 888 First Street, NE., Washington, DC 20426 and refer to Docket No. IC08-603-000. Documents filed electronically via the Internet must be prepared in the acceptable filing format and in compliance with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's submission guidelines. Complete filing instructions and acceptable filing formats are available at ( *http://www.ferc.gov/help/submission-guide/electronic-media.asp* ). To file the document electronically, access the Commission's Web site at *http://www.ferc.gov/docs-filing/efiling.asp* ), and then follow the instructions for each screen. First time users will have to establish a user name and password. The Commission will send an automatic acknowledgement to the sender's e-mail address upon receipt of comments. All comments may be viewed, printed or downloaded remotely via the Internet through FERC's homepage using the eLibrary link. For user assistance, contact *ferconlinesupport@ferc.gov* or toll-free at

(866)208-3676 or for TTY, contact

(202)502-8659. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Michael Miller may be reached by telephone at

(202)502-8415, by fax at

(202)273-0873, and by e-mail at *michael.miller@ferc.gov.* SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The information collected under the requirements of FERC-603 “Critical Energy Infrastructure Information” (OMB No. 1902-0197) is used by the Commission to implement procedures for gaining access to critical energy infrastructure information

(CEII)that would not otherwise be available under the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. 552). On February, 21, 2003, the Commission issued Order No. 630 (66 FR 52917) to address the appropriate treatment of CEII in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and to restrict unrestrained general access due to the ongoing terrorism threat. These steps enable the Commission to keep sensitive infrastructure information out of the public domain, decreasing the likelihood that such information could be used to plan or execute terrorist attacks. The process adopted in Order No. 630 is a more efficient alternative for handling requests for previously public documents than FOIA The Commission has defined CEII to include information about “existing or proposed critical infrastructure that

(i)relates to the production, generation, transportation, transmission, or distribution of energy;

(ii)could be useful to a person planning an attack on critical infrastructure;

(iii)is exempt from mandatory disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act, and

(iv)does not simply give the location of the critical infrastructure. Critical infrastructure means existing and proposed systems and assets, whether physical or virtual, the incapacity or destruction of which would negatively affect security, economic security, public health or safety, or any combination of those matters. A person seeking access to CEII may file a request for that information by providing information about their identity and reason as to the need for the information. Through this process, the Commission is able to review the requester's need for the information against the sensitivity of the information. The compliance with these requirements is mandatory. *Action:* The Commission is requesting a three-year extension of the current expiration date, with changes to the existing collection of data. Specifically, the Commission seeks information on business references to assist in identification of the requester, and on the payment of fees for CEII requests and in particular the requester's obligation for payment. *Burden Statement:* Public reporting burden for this collection is estimated as: Number of respondents annually Number of responses per respondent Average burden house per response Total annual burden hours

(3)(1)×(2)×(3) 200 1 .30 60 The estimated total cost to respondents is $3,646. The cost per respondent = $18. (60 hours @ $61 hourly rate (rounded off)). The reporting burden includes the total time, effort, or financial resources expended to generate, maintain, retain, disclose, or provide the information including:

(1)Reviewing instructions;

(2)developing, acquiring, installing, and utilizing technology and systems for the purposes of collecting, validating, verifying, processing, maintaining, disclosing and providing information;

(3)adjusting the existing ways to comply with any previously applicable instructions and requirements;

(4)training personnel to respond to a collection of information;

(5)searching data sources;

(6)completing and reviewing the collection of information; and

(7)transmitting, or otherwise disclosing the information. The estimate of cost for respondents is based upon salaries for professional and clerical support, as well as direct and indirect overhead costs. Direct costs include all costs directly attributable to providing this information, such as administrative costs and the cost for information technology. Indirect or overhead costs are costs incurred by an organization in support of its mission. These costs apply to activities which benefit the whole organization rather than any one particular function or activity. Comments are invited on:

(1)Whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the Commission, including whether the information will have practical utility;

(2)the accuracy of the agency's estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used;

(3)ways to enhance the quality, utility and clarity of the information to be collected; and

(4)ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, including the use of appropriate automated, electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology e.g. permitting electronic submission of responses. Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary. [FR Doc. E8-2720 Filed 2-13-08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6717-01-P DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Project No. 2146-117] Alabama Power Company; Notice of Application for Amendment of License and Soliciting Comments, Motions to Intervene, and Protests February 7, 2008. Take notice that the following hydroelectric application has been filed with the Commission and is available for public inspection: a. *Application Type:* Non-Project Use of Project Lands and Waters. b. *Project No:* 2146-117. c. *Date Filed:* January 18, 2008. d. *Applicant:* Alabama Power Company. e. *Name of Project:* Coosa River Project. f. *Location:* On the Coosa River, in Elmore County, Alabama and Floyd County, Georgia. g. *Filed Pursuant to:* Federal Power Act, 16 U.S.C. 791a-825r. h. *Applicant Contact:* Keith Bryant, 600 18th Street North, Birmingham, AL 35203;

(205)257-1403. i. *FERC Contact:* Gina Krump, Telephone

(202)502-6704, and e-mail: *Gina.Krump@ferc.gov* . j. *Deadline for filing comments, motions to intervene, and protest:* March 3, 2008. All documents (original and eight copies) should be filed with: Secretary, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 888 First Street, NE., Washington, DC 20426. The Commission's Rules of Practice and Procedure require all interveners filing documents with the Commission to serve a copy of that document on each person whose name appears on the official service list for the project. Further, if an intervener files comments or documents with the Commission relating to the merits of an issue that may affect the responsibilities of a particular resource agency, they must also serve a copy of the document on that resource agency. A copy of any motion to intervene must also be served upon each representative of the Applicant specified in the particular application. k. *Description of Request:* Alabama Power Company is seeking Commission approval to issue a permit to RHEMA, LLC for the construction of a boat ramp, four boat docks, totaling 60 slips, walking trails, and two storm water drains. The proposed facilities would serve the residents of Sunset Shores Condominiums. APC is also seeking authorization to allow RHEMA, LLC to withdrawal of up to 2,400 gallons per day of water from the project reservoir for landscape watering, as needed. The proposal would not require dredging or excavation. l. *Locations of the Application:* A copy of the application is available for inspection and reproduction at the Commission's Public Reference Room, located at 888 First Street, NE., Room 2A, Washington, DC 20426, or by calling

(202)502-8371. This filing may also be viewed on the Commission's Web site at *http://www.ferc.gov* using the “eLibrary” link. Enter the docket number excluding the last three digits in the docket number field to access the document. You may also register online at *http://www.ferc.gov/docs-filing/esubscription.asp* to be notified via e-mail of new filings and issuances related to this or other pending projects. For assistance, call 1-866-208-3676 or e-mail *FERCOnlineSupport@ferc.gov* , for TTY, call

(202)502-8659. A copy is also available for inspection and reproduction at the address in item

(706)485-8704. i. *FERC Contact:* Rebecca Martin at 202-502-6012, or e-mail *rebecca.martin@ferc.gov* j. *Deadline for filing comments and or motions:* March 7, 2008. All documents (original and eight copies) should be filed with: The Secretary, Secretary, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 888 First Street, NE., Washington DC 20426. Please include the project number (P-1951-153) on any comments or motions filed. The Commission's Rules of Practice and Procedure require all intervenors filing documents with the Commission to serve a copy of that document on each person whose name appears on the official service list for the project. Further, if an intervenor files comments or documents with the Commission relating to the merits of an issue that may affect the responsibilities of a particular resource agency, they must also serve a copy of the document on that resource agency. A copy of any motion to intervene must also be served upon each representative of the Applicant specified in the particular application. k. *Description of Application:* The licensee requests Commission approval to grant a permit to SOS Development, LLC for constructing nine, ten-slip, boat docks (11,970 square feet total), six of which would be located within coves; 15,050 linear feet (2.85 miles) of seawall, and a 200-square foot boat ramp. Since many of the boat docks would be constructed in currently unnavigable, shallow areas, approximately 7,800 cubic yards of dredging also would be performed. The proposed facilities and improvements would be as part of a development called “The Sanctuary on Lake Sinclair,” and would be used by its residents. l. *Location of Application:* A copy of the application is available for inspection and reproduction at the Commission's Public Reference Room, located at 888 First Street, NE, Room 2A, Washington, DC 20426, or by calling

(202)502-8659. A copy is also available for inspection and reproduction at the address in item

(866)208-3676 (toll free). For TTY, call

(202)502-8659. *Comment Date:* 5 p.m. Eastern Time on February 15, 2008. Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary. [FR Doc. E8-2721 Filed 2-13-08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6717-01-P DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Docket No. CP07-208-000] Rockies Express Pipeline LLC; Notice of Technical Conference February 7, 2008. On February 20, 2008, staff of the Office of Energy Projects

(OEP)will hold a technical conference for the REX East Project. Rockies Express Pipeline LLC requested the Technical Conference to discuss compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. The technical conference will be held on Wednesday, February 20, 2008, at 1 p.m. (EST), in Room 3M-2B at the Commission Headquarters, 888 First Street, NE., Washington, DC. Commission conferences are accessible under section 508 of the Rehabilitation act of 1973. For accessibility accommodations please send an e-mail to *accessibility@ferc.gov* or call toll free 1-866-208-3372 (voice) or 202-208-8659 (TTY), or send a FAX to 202-208-2106 with the required accommodations. Information concerning any changes to the above may be obtained from the Commission's Office of External Affairs at

(202)502-8004 or toll free at 1-866-208-FERC (208-3372). Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary. [FR Doc. E8-2731 Filed 2-13-08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6717-01-P DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Project No. 2206-033] Progress Energy Carolinas, Inc; Notice of Application for Non-Project Use of Project Lands and Waters and Soliciting Comments, Motions To Intervene, and Protests February 7, 2008. Take notice that the following application has been filed with the Commission and is available for public inspection: a. *Application Type:* Non-Project Use of Project Lands and Waters. b. *Project No:* 2206-033. c. *Date Filed:* December 7, 2007. d. *Applicant:* Progress Energy Carolinas, Inc. e. *Name of Project:* Yadkin-Pee Dee River Hydroelectric Project, Tillery Development. f. *Location:* This project is located on the Yadkin Pee Dee River in North Carolina. The Tillery Development is located in Stanly and Montgomery counties, North Carolina. This project does not occupy any Tribal or federal lands. g. *Filed Pursuant to:* Federal Power Act, 16 U.S.C. 791(a) 825(r) and 799 and 801. h. *Applicant Contact:* Mr. Cecil Gurganus, Manager of Hydropower Operations; Progress Energy Carolinas, Inc.; 910-439-5211, extension 1205. i. *FERC Contact:* Any questions on this notice should be addressed to Shana High at

(202)502-8674. j. *Deadline for filing comments and/or motions:* March 7, 2008. All documents (original and eight copies) should be filed with: Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 888 First Street, NE., Washington, DC 20426. Please include the project number (P-2206-033) on any comments or motions filed. Comments, protests, and interventions may be filed electronically via the internet in lieu of paper. See 18 CFR 385.2001(a)(1)(iii) and the instructions on the Commission's Web site under the “e-Filing” link. The Commission strongly encourages e-filings. k. *Description of Request:* Progress Energy has requested Commission authorization to permit Tillery Tradition Golf Villas Marina to construct a marina, boat landing and seawall. The construction would result in 91 boat slips and a pre-cast concrete boat landing. Currently, there are no boating facilities at this site. l. *Location of the Application:* This filing is available for review at the Commission or may be viewed on the Commission's Web site at *http://www.ferc.gov* , using the “eLibrary” link. Enter the docket number excluding the last three digits in the docket number field to access the document. For assistance, contact FERC Online Support at *FERCOnlineSupport@ferc.gov* or toll-free at

(866)208-3676, or for TTY, contact

(202)502-8659. m. Individuals desiring to be included on the Commission's mailing list should so indicate by writing to the Secretary of the Commission. n. *Comments, Protests, or Motions To Intervene:* Anyone may submit comments, a protest, or a motion to intervene in accordance with the requirements of Rules of Practice and Procedure, 18 CFR 385.210, .211, .214. In determining the appropriate action to take, the Commission will consider all protests or other comments filed, but only those who file a motion to intervene in accordance with the Commission's Rules may become a party to the proceeding. Any comments, protests, or motions to intervene must be received on or before the specified comment date for the particular application. o. *Filing and Service of Responsive Documents:* Any filings must bear in all capital letters the title “COMMENTS”, “PROTEST”, OR “MOTION TO INTERVENE”, as applicable, and the Project Number of the particular application to which the filing refers. A copy of any motion to intervene must also be served upon each representative of the Applicant specified in the particular application. p. *Agency Comments:* Federal, State, and local agencies are invited to file comments on the described applications. A copy of the applications may be obtained by agencies directly from the Applicant. If an agency does not file comments within the time specified for filing comments, it will be presumed to have no comments. One copy of an agency's comments must also be sent to the Applicant's representatives. Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary. [FR Doc. E8-2727 Filed 2-13-08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6717-01-P DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Docket No. EL08-19-000] Public Service Electric and Gas Company; Notice of Filing February 7, 2008. Take notice that on February 4, 2008, Public Service Electric and Gas Company submitted an amendment to its December 7, 2007 Petition for Declaratory Order. Any person desiring to intervene or to protest this filing must file in accordance with Rules 211 and 214 of the Commission's Rules of Practice and Procedure (18 CFR 385.211, 385.214). Protests will be considered by the Commission in determining the appropriate action to be taken, but will not serve to make protestants parties to the proceeding. Any person wishing to become a party must file a notice of intervention or motion to intervene, as appropriate. Such notices, motions, or protests must be filed on or before the comment date. On or before the comment date, it is not necessary to serve motions to intervene or protests on persons other than the Applicant. The Commission encourages electronic submission of protests and interventions in lieu of paper using the “eFiling” link at *http://www.ferc.gov* . Persons unable to file electronically should submit an original and 14 copies of the protest or intervention to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 888 First Street, NE., Washington, DC 20426. This filing is accessible on-line at *http://www.ferc.gov* , using the “eLibrary” link and is available for review in the Commission's Public Reference Room in Washington, DC. There is an “eSubscription” link on the Web site that enables subscribers to receive e-mail notification when a document is added to a subscribed docket(s). For assistance with any FERC Online service, please e-mail *FERCOnlineSupport@ferc.gov* , or call

(866)208-3676 (toll free). For TTY, call

(202)502-8659. *Comment Date:* 5 p.m. Eastern Time on February 25, 2008. Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary. [FR Doc. E8-2718 Filed 2-13-08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6717-01-P DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Project No. 943-103] Public Utility District No. 1 of Chelan County; Notice of Application for Amendment of License and Soliciting Comments, Motions To Intervene, and Protests February 7, 2008. Take notice that the following hydroelectric application has been filed with the Commission and is available for public inspection: a. *Application Type:* Non-project use of project lands and waters. b. *Project No.:* 943-103. c. *Date Filed:* October 5, 2007. d. *Applicant:* Public Utility District No. 1 of Chelan County, Washington. e. *Name of Project:* Rock Island Hydroelectric Project. f. *Location:* The project is located on the Columbia River in Chelan County, Washington. The project does not occupy any Federal or tribal lands. g. *Filed Pursuant to:* Federal Power Act 16 U.S.C. 791(a)-825(r). h. *Applicant Contact:* Michelle Smith, License and Natural Resource Compliance Manager, Public Utility District No. 1 of Chelan County, P.O. Box 1231, Wenatchee, WA 98807-1231. Phone:

(888)663-8121, Ext. 4180. i. *FERC Contact:* Any questions on this notice should be addressed to Brian Romanek at

(202)502-6175, or e-mail address: *Brian.Romanek@ferc.gov* . j. *Deadline for filing comments, motions to intervene, and protest:* February 29, 2008. k. *Description of the Application:* The Public Utility District No. 1 of Chelan County, Washington, licensee of the Rock Island Hydroelectric Project, has filed an application seeking authorization from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to remove 1.01 acres of land from Wenatchee Riverfront Park, and the hydroelectric project. The land would be conveyed to the City of Wenatchee (City). Also, the licensee proposes to add 0.87 acre of land to the park, and the project. This land exchange, which has been coordinated with the City, would accommodate a roadway corridor modification, consistent with the City's plans for improving riverfront access for the public. This modification would entail adding approximately 55 parking spaces and 170 linear feet of trails and walkways. In addition, the licensee proposes to remove from the project a 0.47 acre parcel of land that was discovered to be mistakenly included within the project boundary. The City is the fee-title owner of the parcel. It abuts the City's old water works building. l. *Locations of the Application:* A copy of the application is available for inspection and reproduction at the Commission's Public Reference Room, located at 888 First Street, NE., Room 2A, Washington, DC 20426, or by calling

(202)502-8659. A copy is also available for inspection and reproduction at the address in item

(h)above. m. Individuals desiring to be included on the Commission's mailing list should so indicate by writing to the Secretary of the Commission. n. *Comments, Protests, or Motions to Intervene:* Anyone may submit comments, a protest, or a motion to intervene in accordance with the requirements of Rules of Practice and Procedure, 18 CFR 385.210, .211, .214. In determining the appropriate action to take, the Commission will consider all protests or other comments filed, but only those who file a motion to intervene in accordance with the Commission's Rules may become a party to the proceeding. Any comments, protests, or motions to intervene must be received on or before the specified comment date for the particular application. o. *Filing and Service of Responsive Documents:* Any filings must bear in all capital letters the title “COMMENTS”, “PROTEST”, or “MOTION TO INTERVENE”, as applicable, and the Project Number of the particular application to which the filing refers. All documents (original and eight copies) should be filed with: Secretary, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 888 First Street, NE., Washington DC 20426. A copy of any motion to intervene must also be served upon each representative of the Applicant specified in the particular application. p. *Agency Comments:* Federal, State, and local agencies are invited to file comments on the described application. A copy of the application may be obtained by agencies directly from the Applicant. If an agency does not file comments within the time specified for filing comments, it will be presumed to have no comments. One copy of an agency's comments must also be sent to the Applicant's representatives. q. Comments, protests and interventions may be filed electronically via the Internet in lieu of paper. See, 18 CFR 385.2001(a)(1)(iii) and the instructions on the Commission's Web site at *http://www.ferc.gov* under the “e-Filing” link. Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary. [FR Doc. E8-2729 Filed 2-13-08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6717-01-P DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Docket No. RM98-1-000] Records Governing Off-the-Record Communications; Public Notice February 7, 2008. This constitutes notice, in accordance with 18 CFR 385.2201(b), of the receipt of prohibited and exempt off-the-record communications. Order No. 607 (64 FR 51222, September 22, 1999) requires Commission decisional employees, who make or receive a prohibited or exempt off-the-record communication relevant to the merits of a contested proceeding, to deliver to the Secretary of the Commission a copy of the communication, if written, or a summary of the substance of any oral communication. Prohibited communications are included in a public, non-decisional file associated with, but not a part of, the decisional record of the proceeding. Unless the Commission determines that the prohibited communication and any responses thereto should become a part of the decisional record, the prohibited off-the-record communication will not be considered by the Commission in reaching its decision. Parties to a proceeding may seek the opportunity to respond to any facts or contentions made in a prohibited off-the-record communication, and may request that the Commission place the prohibited communication and responses thereto in the decisional record. The Commission will grant such a request only when it determines that fairness so requires. Any person identified below as having made a prohibited off-the-record communication shall serve the document on all parties listed on the official service list for the applicable proceeding in accordance with Rule 2010, 18 CFR 385.2010. Exempt off-the-record communications are included in the decisional record of the proceeding, unless the communication was with a cooperating agency as described by 40 CFR 1501.6, made under 18 CFR 385.2201(e)(1)(v). The following is a list of off-the-record communications recently received by the Secretary of the Commission. The communications listed are grouped by docket numbers in ascending order. These filings are available for review at the Commission in the Public Reference Room or may be viewed on the Commission's Web site at *http://www.ferc.gov* using the eLibrary link. Enter the docket number, excluding the last three digits, in the docket number field to access the document. For assistance, please contact FERC, Online Support at *FERCOnlineSupport@ferc.gov* or toll free at

(866)208-3676, or for TTY, contact

(202)502-8659. Docket No. Date received Presenter or requester Prohibited: 1. EL07-101-000, EL05-121-003, ER07-1233-000, ER05-6-044, ER05-6-100, EL04-135-103, EL02-111-120, EL03-212-116, ER07-1261-000, EL04-135-046, EL02-111-064, EL03-212-060 2-7-08 Mark Dempsey. 2. CP07-208-000 1-31-08 Sarah Lehman Exempt: Project No. 11910-002 1-30-08 Rob Burns Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary. [FR Doc. E8-2717 Filed 2-13-08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6717-01-P DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Docket No. RM05-30-000] Rules Concerning Certification of the Electric Reliability Organization and Procedures for the Establishment, Approval and Enforcement of Electric Reliability Standards; Notice of New Docket Prefix “NP” for Notices of Penalty Filed by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation February 7, 2008. Notice is hereby given that a new docket prefix “NP” has been established for Notices of Penalty filed by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation

(NERC)pursuant to Order No. 672, issued February 3, 2006. 1 1 *Rules Concerning Certification of the Electric Reliability Organization; and Procedures for the Establishment, Approval, and Enforcement of Electric Reliability Standards* (Order No. 672), III FERC Stats. & Regs. ¶ 31,204 (2006). Regional Entities have authority under Order No. 672 to assess penalties for violations of Reliability Standards approved by the Commission. After a Regional Entity assesses a penalty, NERC reviews it. If appropriate, NERC will make a filing with the Commission called a “Notice of Penalty.” Each “Notice of Penalty” will receive a new “NP” docket number. 2 2 The Commission had previously indicated that a Notice of Penalty will receive an “RC” docket number. *Notice of New RR, RD, and RC Prefixes* , issued April 7, 2006. The current Notice of New Docket Prefix supersedes our previous designation. The “RC” docket prefix will continue to be used for other filings relating to compliance with Reliability Standards, including appeals of registration decisions made by NERC. Notices of Penalty may be submitted using the Commission's electronic filing system ( *http://www.ferc.gov/docs-filing/efiling.asp* ). The Commission intends to release a new version of its electronic filing system on February 29, 2008. The new version will greatly expand the documents eligible for efiling and will eliminate the need for most of the special filing procedures currently posted on the Commission's Web site. If NERC plans to file any Notices of Penalty before February 29, 2008, NERC should contact the efiling Help Line (202-502-8258; *efiling@ferc.gov* ) in advance of filing to request pre-assignment of an NP Docket Number. If NERC plans to file any Notice of Penalty that includes non-public information, or an entity seeks to file an Application for Review that includes non-public information, contact the efiling Help Line. Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary. [FR Doc. E8-2730 Filed 2-13-08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6717-01-P DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Project No. 12551-001] Salvatore and Michelle Shifrin; Notice of Application Tendered for Filing with the Commission, Soliciting Additional Study Requests, and Establishing Procedual Schedule for Licensing and Deadline for Submission of Final Amendments February 7, 2008. Take notice that the following hydroelectric application has been filed with the Commission and is available for public inspection. a. *Type of Application:* Exemption From Licensing. b. *Project No.:* P-12551-001. c. *Date Filed:* January 25, 2008. d. *Applicant:* Salvatore and Michelle Shifrin. e. *Name of Project:* Mansfield Hollow Hydro Power Project. f. *Location:* On the Natchaug River in Tolland County, Connecticut. The project would occupy lands of the United States. g. *Filed Pursuant to:* Public Utilities Regulatory Policies Act of 1978, 16 U.S.C. 2705, 2708. h. *Applicant Contact:* Salvatore or Michelle Shifrin, 78 Bricktop Road, Windham, CT 06280,

(860)423-7709. i. *FERC Contact:* Tom Dean,

(202)502-6041. j. *Cooperating Agencies:* We are asking Federal, State, and local agencies and Indian tribes with jurisdiction and/or special expertise with respect to environmental issues to cooperate with us in the preparation of the environmental document. Agencies who would like to request cooperating status should follow the instructions for filing comments described in item l below. k. Pursuant to section 4.32(b)(7) of 18 CFR of the Commission's regulations, if any resource agency, Indian Tribe, or person believes that an additional scientific study should be conducted in order to form an adequate factual basis for a complete analysis of the application on its merit, the resource agency, Indian Tribe, or person must file a request for a study with the Commission not later than 60 days from the date of filing of the application, and serve a copy of the request on the applicant. l. Deadline for filing additional study requests and requests for cooperating agency status: March 25, 2008. All documents (original and eight copies) should be filed with: Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 888 First Street, NE., Washington, DC 20426. Additional study requests and requests for cooperating agency status may be filed electronically via the internet in lieu of paper. The Commission strongly encourages electronic filings. See 18 CFR 385.2001(a)(1)(iii) and the instructions on the Commission's Web site at ( *http://www.ferc.gov* ) under the “eFiling” link. m. This application is not ready for environmental analysis at this time. n. *Description of Project:* The Mansfield Hollow Hydro Power Project would consist of:

(1)The existing 80-foot-long, 10-foot-high Kirby Mill Dam;

(2)the existing 1.6-acre reservoir;

(3)the existing headgate structure;

(4)the existing 12-foot-wide, 8-foot-foot-high, 330-foot-long head race channel;

(5)a new powerhouse containing five generating units with a total installed capacity of 500 kilowatts;

(6)the existing 5-foot-wide, 7-foot-high, 100-foot-long conduit and 75-foot-long open tailrace; and

(7)appurtenant facilities. The project would have an average annual generation of about 2,500 megawatt-hours. In addition to a new powerhouse, project restoration would consist of:

(1)A new 12-foot-wide, 8-foot-high, 330-foot-long head race channel;

(2)a new 20-foot-wide, 8-foot-high, 20-foot-long box culvert connected to a new 25-foot-wide, 4-foot-high, 153-foot-long open channel tail race; and

(3)a new 275-foot-long transmission line. o. A copy of the application is available for review at the Commission in the Public Reference Room or may be viewed on the Commission's Web site at *http://www.ferc.gov* using the “eLibrary” link. Enter the docket number excluding the three digits in the docket number field to access the document. For assistance, please contact FERC Online Support at *FERCOnlineSupport@ferc.gov* or toll free at

(866)208-3676, or for TTY, contact

(202)502-8659. A copy is also available for inspection and reproduction at the address in item h above. You may also register online at *http://www.ferc.gov/docs-filing/esubscription.asp* to be notified via e-mail of new filings and issuances related to this or other pending projects. For assistance, contact FERC Online Support. p. With this notice, we are initiating consultation with the Connecticut State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO), as required by section 106, National Historic Preservation Act, and the regulations of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, 36 CFR 800.4. q. *Procedural schedule and final amendments:* The application will be processed according to the following Hydro Licensing Schedule. Revisions to the schedule will be made as appropriate. The Commission staff proposes to issue one environmental assessment rather than issue a draft and final EA. Comments, terms and conditions, recommendations, prescriptions, and reply comments, if any, will be addressed in an EA. Staff intends to give at least 30 days for entities to comment on the EA, and will take into consideration all comments received on the EA before final action is taken on the license application. Issue Acceptance Letter or Deficiency Letter April 2008. Issue Scoping Document May 2008. Notice of application is ready for environmental analysis August 2008. Notice of the availability of the EA April 2009. Final amendments to the application must be filed with the Commission no later than 30 days from the issuance date of the notice of ready for environmental analysis. Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary. [FR Doc. E8-2722 Filed 2-13-08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6717-01-P DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Project No. 12574-002] Santiam Water Control District; Notice of Application Accepted for Filing and Soliciting Motions To Intervene, Protests, Scoping Comments, and Waiving Pre-Filing Consultation February 7, 2008. Take notice that the following hydroelectric application has been filed with the Commission and is available for public inspection. a. *Type of Application:* Small Hydro Exemption from Licensing. b. *Project No.:* P-12574-002. c. *Date Filed:* June 18, 2007, and supplemented on July 18, 2007, pursuant to Order Denying Rehearing (119 FERC ¶ 61,159). d. *Applicant:* Santiam Water Control District. e. *Name of Project:* Stayton Hydroelectric Project. f. *Location:* On the Stayton Ditch near the Town of Stayton, Marion County, Oregon. The project would not occupy United States land. g. *Filed Pursuant to:* Public Utilities Regulatory Policies Act of 1978, 16 U.S.C. 2705, 2708. h. *Applicant Contact:* Larry Trosi, Manager, Santiam Water Control District, 284 East Water Street, Stayton, OR 97383,

(503)769-2669. i. *FERC Contact:* Tom Dean,

(202)502-6041. j. *Deadline for filing motions to intervene, protests, and scoping comments:* 60 days from the issuance date of this notice. All documents (original and eight copies) should be filed with: Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 888 First Street, NE., Washington, DC 20426. The Commission's Rules of Practice require all intervenors filing documents with the Commission to serve a copy of that document on each person on the official service list for the project. Further, if an intervenor files comments or documents with the Commission relating to the merits of an issue that may affect the responsibilities of a particular resource agency, they must also serve a copy of the document on that resource agency. Motions to intervene, protests, and scoping comments may be filed electronically via the Internet in lieu of paper. The Commission strongly encourages electronic filings. See 18 CFR 385.2001(a)(1)(iii) and the instructions on the Commission's Web site ( *http://www.ferc.gov* ) under the “eFiling” link. k. This application has been accepted for filing but is not ready for environmental analysis at this time. l. Santiam Water Control District proposes to restore operation to the Stayton Project which was operated by Pacific Power until 1992. As proposed, the Stayton Project would consist of:

(1)The existing power canal headgate structure and fish ladder, and the fish screen and 28-inch-diameter, 600-foot-long juvenile fish bypass return pipe located near the upstream end of Stayton Ditch;

(2)the 0.5-mile-long Stayton Ditch;

(3)the existing 24-foot-long by 12-foot-high intake structure equipped with 24.6-foot-long by 12-foot-high and 3-inch bar spacing trashracks located just upstream of the powerhouse;

(4)the existing 40-foot-long V-type spillway weir and integral powerhouse containing a single 600-kilowatt generating unit;

(5)the existing 24-foot-long by 12-foot-high outlet structure located just downstream of the powerhouse;

(6)the existing 0.5-mile-long tailrace channel and tailrace fish barrier;

(7)the existing 100-foot-long, 2,400-kilovolt transmission line; and

(8)appurtenant facilities. The project would have an average annual generation of 4,320 megawatt-hours. Additional project facilities may include the existing:

(1)Spill dam and fish ladder located on the North Channel of the Santiam River just upstream of the power canal headgate structure; and

(2)the berm habitat channel located between the powerhouse and tailrace fish barrier. m. *Pre-filing Consultation:* The tendering notice issued on August 7, 2007 stated our intent to use the consultation that has occurred on this project for the previous conduit exemption application supplemented with National Environmental Policy Act scoping as a means to conduct further consultation with resource agencies and interested entities. Therefore, we noted our intent to waive pre-filing consultation sections 4.38(a)-(g) which requires, among other things, holding a joint meeting and distributing and consulting on a draft exemption application. In letters filed on August 10 and 17, 2007, the U.S. Department of the Interior and Oregon Water Resources Department, respectively, noted numerous omissions in the exemption application that were identified in 2005 but were not addressed, and recommended additional consultation to assist in developing a complete exemption application. Since we will be conducting scoping, additional consultation will be afforded. Therefore, we are waiving sections 4.38(a)-(g) of the pre-filing consultation regulations. n. Scoping. Commission staff are soliciting comments, recommendations, and information, on the Scoping Document

(SD)issued on February 7, 2008. Copies of the application and SD outlining the subject areas to be addressed in the EA were distributed to the parties on the Commission's mailing list and the applicant's distribution list. Copies of the SD may be viewed on the Web at *http://www.ferc.gov* using the “eLibrary” link. Enter the docket number excluding the last three digits in the docket number field to access the document. For assistance, call 1-866-208-3676 or for TTY,

(202)502-8659. A copy of the application is also available for inspection and reproduction at the address in item h above. You may also register online at *http://www.ferc.gov/docs-filing/esubscription.asp* to be notified via e-mail of new filings and issuances related to this or other pending projects. For assistance, contact FERC Online Support. o. Commission staff intend to prepare a single Environmental Assessment

(EA)for the Stayton Project in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act. The EA will consider both site-specific and cumulative environmental impacts and reasonable alternatives to the proposed action. p. Anyone may submit a protest or a motion to intervene in accordance with the requirements of Rules of Practice and Procedure, 18 CFR 385.210, 385.211, and 385.214. In determining the appropriate action to take, the Commission will consider all protests filed, but only those who file a motion to intervene in accordance with the Commission's Rules may become a party to the proceeding. Any protests or motions to intervene must be received on or before the specified deadline date for the particular application. All filings must:

(1)Bear in all capital letters the title “PROTEST” or “MOTION TO INTERVENE;”

(2)set forth in the heading the name of the applicant and the project number of the application to which the filing responds;

(3)furnish the name, address, and telephone number of the person protesting or intervening; and

(4)otherwise comply with the requirements of 18 CFR 385.2001 through 385.2005. Agencies may obtain copies of the application directly from the applicant. A copy of any protest or motion to intervene must be served upon each representative of the applicant specified in the particular application. Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary. [FR Doc. E8-2723 Filed 2-13-08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6717-01-P DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Project No. 516-452] South Carolina Electric and Gas; Notice of Application for Non-Project Use of Project Lands and Waters and Soliciting Comments, Motions To Intervene, and Protests February 7, 2008. Take notice that the following application has been filed with the Commission and is available for public inspection: a. *Application Type:* Non-project use of project lands and waters. b. *Project No.:* 516-452. c. *Date Filed:* January 17, 2008. d. *Applicant:* South Carolina Electric & Gas Company (SCE&G). e. *Name of Project:* Saluda Hydroelectric Project. f. *Location:* The Saluda Hydroelectric Project is located in Lexington County, near Columbia, South Carolina. The project does not occupy any Tribal or federal lands. g. *Filed Pursuant to:* Federal Power Act, 16 U.S.C. 791(a)825(r) and 799 and 801. h. *Applicant Contact:* Mr. James M. Landreth, SCE&G; Mail Code: K61, Columbia, South Carolina 29218. i. *FERC Contact:* Any questions on this notice should be addressed to Brian Romanek at

(202)502-6175, or e-mail address: *Brian.Romanek@ferc.gov.* j. * Deadline for Filing Comments, Motions To Intervene, and Protest:* March 7, 2008. k. *Description of Request:* SCE&G has requested Commission authorization to issue a permit to Lighthouse Developments, Inc. to use project lands and waters (Lake Murray) for a community marina that would accommodate 84 watercraft. The marina would include a launch ramp and parking lot. The marina would not include fuel-dispensing equipment, electric service, or pump-out equipment. l. *Locations of the Application:* A copy of the application is available for inspection and reproduction at the Commission's Public Reference Room, located at 888 First Street, NE., Room 2A, Washington, DC 20426, or by calling

(202)502-8659. A copy is also available for inspection and reproduction at the address in item

(h)above. m. Individuals desiring to be included on the Commission's mailing list should so indicate by writing to the Secretary of the Commission. n. *Comments, Protests, or Motions To Intervene:* Anyone may submit comments, a protest, or a motion to intervene in accordance with the requirements of Rules of Practice and Procedure, 18 CFR 385.210, .211, and .214. In determining the appropriate action to take, the Commission will consider all protests or other comments filed, but only those who file a motion to intervene in accordance with the Commission's Rules may become a party to the proceeding. Any comments, protests, or motions to intervene must be received on or before the specified comment date for the particular application. o. *Filing and Service of Responsive Documents:* Any filings must bear in all capital letters the title “COMMENTS”, “PROTEST”, or “MOTION TO INTERVENE”, as applicable, and the Project Number of the particular application to which the filing refers. All documents (original and eight copies) should be filed with: Secretary, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 888 First Street, NE., Washington DC 20426. A copy of any motion to intervene must also be served upon each representative of the Applicant specified in the particular application. p. *Agency Comments:* Federal, State, and local agencies are invited to file comments on the described application. A copy of the application may be obtained by agencies directly from the Applicant. If an agency does not file comments within the time specified for filing comments, it will be presumed to have no comments. One copy of an agency's comments must also be sent to the Applicant's representatives. q. Comments, protests and interventions may be filed electronically via the Internet in lieu of paper. See 18 CFR 385.2001(a)(1)(iii) and the instructions on the Commission's Web site at *http://www.ferc.gov* under the “e-Filing” link. Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary. [FR Doc. E8-2728 Filed 2-13-08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6717-01-P DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Docket Nos. ER07-1330-000, ER07-1330-001, ER07-1330-002] Twin Cities Hydro LLC; Notice of Issuance of Order February 7, 2008. Twin Cities Hydro LLC (Twin Cities) filed an application for market-based rate authority, with an accompanying tariff. The proposed market-based rate tariff provides for the sale of energy, capacity and ancillary services at market-based rates. Twin Cities also requested waivers of various Commission regulations. In particular, Twin Cities requested that the Commission grant blanket approval under 18 CFR Part 34 of all future issuances of securities and assumptions of liability by Twin Cities. On February 7, 2008, pursuant to delegated authority, the Director, Division of Tariffs and Market Development-West, granted the requests for blanket approval under Part 34 (Director's Order). The Director's Order also stated that the Commission would publish a separate notice in the **Federal Register** establishing a period of time for the filing of protests. Accordingly, any person desiring to be heard concerning the blanket approvals of issuances of securities or assumptions of liability by Twin Cities, should file a protest with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 888 First Street, NE., Washington, DC 20426, in accordance with Rules 211 and 214 of the Commission's Rules of Practice and Procedure. 18 CFR 385.211, 385.214 (2004). The Commission encourages the electronic submission of protests using the FERC Online link at *http://www.ferc.gov.* Notice is hereby given that the deadline for filing protests is March 10, 2008. Absent a request to be heard in opposition to such blanket approvals by the deadline above, Twin Cities is authorized to issue securities and assume obligations or liabilities as a guarantor, indorser, surety, or otherwise in respect of any security of another person; provided that such issuance or assumption is for some lawful object within the corporate purposes of Twin Cities, compatible with the public interest, and is reasonably necessary or appropriate for such purposes. The Commission reserves the right to require a further showing that neither public nor private interests will be adversely affected by continued approvals of Twin Cities' issuance of securities or assumptions of liability. Copies of the full text of the Director's Order are available from the Commission's Public Reference Room, 888 First Street, NE., Washington, DC 20426. The Order may also be viewed on the Commission's Web site at *http://www.ferc.gov,* using the eLibrary link. Enter the docket number excluding the last three digits in the docket number filed to access the document. Comments, protests, and interventions may be filed electronically via the internet in lieu of paper. See, 18 C.F.R. 385.2001(a)(1)(iii) and the instructions on the Commission's Web site under the “e-Filing” link. The Commission strongly encourages electronic filings. Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary. [FR Doc. E8-2719 Filed 2-13-08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6717-01-P DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Project No. 1984-153] Wisconsin River Power Company; Notice of Application for Non-Project Use of Project Lands and Waters and Soliciting Comments, Motions To Intervene, and Protests February 7, 2008. Take notice that the following hydroelectric application has been filed with the Commission and is available for public inspection: a. *Application Type:* Non-Project Use of Project Lands and Waters. b. *Project No:* 1984-153. c. *Date Filed:* January 15, 2008. d. *Applicant:* Wisconsin River Power Company. e. *Name of Project:* Petenwell Castle Rock Hydroelectric Project. f. *Location:* The proposed development is located on the Little Yellow River South, a tributary to the Wisconsin River, in Juneau County, Wisconsin. This project does not occupy any federal or tribal lands. g. *Filed Pursuant to:* Federal Power Act, 16 U.S.C. 791a—825r. h. *Applicant Contact:* Mr. Shawn Puzen, Wisconsin River Power Company, P.O. Box 19002, Green Bay, WI 54307-9001,

(920)433-1094. i. *FERC Contact:* Any questions on this notice should be addressed to Shana High at

(202)502-8674. j. *Deadline for filing comments and or motions:* March 07, 2008. All documents (original and eight copies) should be filed with: Kimberly D. Bose, Secretary, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, 888 First Street, NE., Washington, DC 20426. Please include the project number (P-1984-153) on any comments or motions filed. Comments, protests, and interventions may be filed electronically via the internet in lieu of paper. See, 18 CFR 385.2001(a)(1)(iii) and the instructions on the Commission's Web site under the “e-Filing” link. The Commission strongly encourages e-filings. k. *Description of Request:* The licensee has requested Commission authorization to permit Hidden Bay, LLC to improve the 15th Avenue boat landing. Proposed improvements include replacing the existing ramp with 12-foot-wide concrete planks; constructing a turn-around; and installing a 6-foot-wide handicap-accessible pier, a parking lot, and a 6-foot-wide gravel trail along the west side of 15th Avenue from the parking lot to the boat launch. The parking lot would be constructed on private property and be deeded to the Town of Germantown upon completion, assuring that it will remain open to the general public. The improvements would serve the general public, and the residents of a private subdivision developed by Hidden Bay on property adjacent to the project. l. *Location of the Application:* This filing is available for review at the Commission or may be viewed on the Commission's Web site at *http://www.ferc.gov* , using the “eLibrary” link. Enter the docket number excluding the last three digits in the docket number field to access the document. For assistance, contact FERC Online Support at *FERCOnlineSupport@ferc.gov* or toll-free at

(866)208-3676, or for TTY, contact

(OMB)responses to Agency Clearance requests, in compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3501 *et seq.* ). An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. The OMB control numbers for EPA's regulations are listed in 40 CFR part 9 and 48 CFR chapter 15. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Rick Westlund

(202)566-1682, or e-mail at *westlund.rick@epa.gov* and please refer to the appropriate EPA Information Collection Request

(ICR)Number. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: OMB Responses to Agency Clearance Requests OMB Approvals EPA ICR Number 0318.11; Clean Watersheds Needs Survey (Renewal); was approved 01/17/2008; OMB Number 2040-0050; expires 01/31/2011. EPA ICR Number 2250.01; Information Collection in Support of EPA's Stewardship Program for Nanoscale Materials; was approved 01/18/2008; OMB Number 2070-0170; expires 01/31/2011. EPA ICR Number 0143.10; Recordkeeping Requirements for Producers of Pesticides under section 8 of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) (Renewal); in 40 CFR part 169; was approved 01/24/2008; OMB Number 2070-0028; expires 01/31/2011. EPA ICR Number 1808.05; Environmental Impact Assessment of Nongovernmental Activities in Antarctica (Renewal); in 40 CFR part 8; was approved 01/28/2008; OMB Number 2020-0007; expires 01/31/2011. EPA ICR Number 1049.11; Notification of Episodic Releases of Oil and Hazardous Substances (Renewal); in 40 CFR part 110, 40 CFR part 117, and 40 CFR part 302; was approved 01/28/2008; OMB Number 2050-0046; expires 01/31/2011. EPA ICR Number 1198.08; Chemical-Specific Rules, TSCA section 8(a) (Renewal); in 40 CFR part 704; was approved 01/28/2008; OMB Number 2070-0067; expires 01/31/2011. EPA ICR Number 1564.07; NSPS for Small Industrial-Commercial-Institutional Steam Generating Units (Renewal); in 40 CFR part 60, subpart Dc; was approved 01/28/2008; OMB Number 2060-0202; expires 01/31/2011. EPA ICR Number 1246.10; Reporting and Recordkeeping for Asbestos Abatement Worker Protection (Renewal); in 40 CFR part 763, subpart G; was approved 01/28/2008; OMB Number 2070-0072; expires 01/31/2011. EPA ICR Number 0193.09; NESHAP for Beryllium (Renewal); in 40 CFR part 61, subpart C; was approved 01/28/2008; OMB Number 2060-0092; expires 01/31/2011. EPA ICR Number 2226.03; Revisions to Standards of Performance for New Stationary Sources, and NESHAP for Source Categories (Direct Final Rule for Revisions to Consolidated Federal Air Rule); in 40 CFR part 65; was approved 01/29/2008; OMB Number 2060-0599; expires 01/31/2011. EPA ICR Number 1053.09; NSPS for Electric Utility Steam Generating Units (Renewal); in 40 CFR part 60, subpart Da; was approved 01/30/2008; OMB Number 2060-0023; expires 01/31/2011. EPA ICR Number 2047.02; Participation by Disadvantaged Business Enterprises in Procurement under Environmental Protection Agency

(EPA)Financial Assistance Agreements (Final Rule); was pre-approved 01/30/2008; OMB Number 2090-0030; expires 01/31/2011. EPA ICR Number 1904.03; The Sun Wise School Program (Renewal); was approved 02/06/2008; OMB Number 2060-0439; expires 02/28/2011. EPA ICR Number 2087.03; Concentrated Aquatic Animal Production Effluent Guidelines (Renewal); in 40 CFR part 451, sections 3, 11(d) and 21(g); was approved 02/06/2008; OMB Number 2040-0258; expires 02/28/2011. EPA ICR Number 1427.08; NPDES Compliance Assessment/Certification Information (Renewal); in 40 CFR 122.41, 40 CFR 122.44, 40 CFR 122.45, 40 CFR 122.47, 40 CFR 123.25, 40 CFR 155.41, 40 CFR 413.03, 40 CFR 423.12, 40 CFR 423.13, 40 CFR 423.15, 40 CFR 430, 40 CFR 431.14, 40 CFR 431.15, 40 CFR 431.16, 40 CFR 431.17, 40 CFR 433.12, 40 CFR 434, 40 CFR 435, 40 CFR 439, 40 CFR 455.42, 40 CFR 455.43, 40 CFR 455.44, 40 CFR 455.45, 40 CFR 465.03, 40 CFR 466.03, 40 CFR 467.03, 40 CFR 469.13, 40 CFR 501.15; was approved 02/06/2008; OMB Number 2040-0110; expires 02/28/2011. EPA ICR Number 1959.03; National Listing of Fish Advisories (Renewal); was approved 02/06/2008; OMB Number 2040-0226; expires 02/28/2011. EPA ICR Number 1287.09; Questionnaire for Nominees for the Annual National Clean Water Excellence Awards Program (Renewal); in 40 CFR part 105; was approved 02/06/2008; OMB Number 2040-0101; expires 02/28/2011. EPA ICR Number 2103.03; Title IV of the Public Health Security and Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response Act of 2002: Drinking Water Security and Safety (Renewal); was approved 02/06/2008; OMB Number 2040-0253; expires 02/28/2011. Short Term Extension EPA ICR Number 1230.07; Prevention of Significant Deterioration Non-Attainment Area new Sources Review; on 01/31/2008; was granted an extension of the expiration date to 04/30/2008. Withdrawn EPA ICR Number 2214.01; Chlorine and Chlorinated Hydrocarbon Manufacturing Segment Questionnaire was withdrawn by the Agency on 01/17/2008. Dated: February 7, 2008. Sara Hisel-McCoy, Director, Collection Strategies Division. [FR Doc. E8-2780 Filed 2-13-08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6560-50-P ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY [EPA-HQ-OAR-2008-0118; FRL-8529-3] Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Collection; Comment Request; Title of ICR; EPA ICR No. 2292.01, OMB Control No. 2060-NEW AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act

(PRA)(44 U.S.C. 3501 *et seq* ), this document announces that EPA is planning to submit a request for a new Information Collection Request

(ICR)to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Before submitting the ICR to OMB for review and approval, EPA is soliciting comments on specific aspects of the proposed information collection as described below. DATES: Comments must be submitted on or before April 14, 2008. ADDRESSES: Submit your comments, identified by Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2008-0118, by one of the following methods: • *http://www.regulations.gov* : Follow the on-line instructions for submitting comments. • *E-mail: a-and-r-docket@epa.gov.* • *Fax:*

(734)214-4939. • *Mail:* Percent High Evaporative Emitters in Fleet, Environmental Protection Agency, EPA Docket Center (EPA/DC), Air and Radiation Docket and Information Center, Mail code 6102T, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20460. • *Hand Delivery:* Environmental Protection Agency, EPA Docket Center (EPA/DC), Air and Radiation Docket and Information Center, Mail code 6102T, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20460. Such deliveries are only accepted during the Docket's normal hours of operation, and special arrangements should be made for deliveries of boxed information. *Instructions:* Direct your comments to Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2008-0118. EPA's policy is that all comments received will be included in the public docket without change and may be made available online at *http://www.regulations.gov* , including any personal information provided, unless the comment includes information claimed to be Confidential Business Information

(CBI)or other information whose disclosure is restricted by statute. Do not submit information that you consider to be CBI or otherwise protected through *http://www.regulations.gov* or e-mail. The *http://www.regulations.gov* website is an “anonymous access” system, which means EPA will not know your identity or contact information unless you provide it in the body of your comment. If you send an e-mail comment directly to EPA without going through *http://www.regulations.gov* your e-mail address will be automatically captured and included as part of the comment that is placed in the public docket and made available on the Internet. If you submit an electronic comment, EPA recommends that you include your name and other contact information in the body of your comment and with any disk or CD-ROM you submit. If EPA cannot read your comment due to technical difficulties and cannot contact you for clarification, EPA may not be able to consider your comment. Electronic files should avoid the use of special characters, any form of encryption, and be free of any defects or viruses. For additional information about EPA's public docket visit the EPA Docket Center homepage at *http://www.epa.gov/epahome/dockets.htm.* FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Constance Hart, Assessment and Standards Division, Office of Transportation and Air Quality, Environmental Protection Agency, 2000 Traverwood Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48105; telephone number:

(734)214-4340; fax number:

(734)214-4939; e-mail address: *hart.connie@epa.gov.* SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: How Can I Access the Docket and/or Submit Comments: EPA has established a public docket for this ICR under Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2008-0118, which is available for online viewing at *http://www.regulation.gov* , or in person viewing at the OTAQ Docket in the EPA Docket Center (EPA/DC), EPA West, Room 3334, 1301 Constitution Ave., NW., Washington, DC. The EPA/DC Public Reading Room is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays. The telephone number for the Reading Room is 202-566-1744, and the telephone number for the Office of Air and Radiation Docket is

(202)566-1742. Use *http://www.regulations.gov* to obtain a copy of the draft collection of information, submit or view public comments, access the index listing of the contents of the docket, and to access those documents in the public docket that are available electronically. Once in the system, select “search”, then key in the docket ID number identified in this document. What information is EPA particularly interested in? Pursuant to section 3506(c)(2)(A) of the PRA, EPA specifically solicits comments and information to enable it to:

(i)Evaluate whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the Agency, including whether the information will have practical utility;

(ii)Evaluate the accuracy of the Agency's estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used;

(iii)Enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and

(iv)Minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, including through the use of appropriate automated electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology, e.g., permitting electronic submission of responses. In particular, EPA is requesting comments from very small businesses (those that employ less than 25) on examples of specific additional efforts that EPA could make to reduce the paperwork burden for very small businesses affected by this collection. What should I consider when I prepare my comments for EPA? You may find the following suggestions helpful for preparing your comments: 1. Explain your views as clearly as possible and provide specific examples. 2. Describe any assumptions that you used. 3. Provide copies of any technical information and/or data you used that support your views. 4. If you estimate potential burden or costs, explain how you arrived at the estimate that you provide. 5. Offer alternative ways to improve the collection activity. 6. Make sure to submit your comments by the deadline identified under DATES. 7. To ensure proper receipt by EPA, be sure to identify the docket ID number assigned to this action in the subject line on the first page of your response. You may also provide the name, date, and **Federal Register** citation. What information collection activity or ICR does this apply to? *Docket ID No.* EPA-HQ-OAR-2008-0118. *Affected entities:* Entities potentially affected by this action are individual owners of light duty passenger cars and trucks. *Title:* Determine Percentage of High Evaporative Emission Vehicles in On-road Fleet of Motor Vehicle Passenger Cars and Light Trucks *ICR numbers:* EPA ICR No. 2292.01, OMB Control No. 2060-NEW. *ICR status:* This ICR is for a new information collection activity. An Agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information, unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. The OMB control numbers for EPA's regulations in title 40 of the CFR, after appearing in the **Federal Register** when approved, are listed in 40 CFR part 9, are displayed either by publication in the **Federal Register** or by other appropriate means, such as on the related collection instrument or form, if applicable. The display of OMB control numbers in certain EPA regulations is consolidated in 40 CFR part 9. *Abstract:* The purpose of this study is to investigate the fractions of passenger cars and light trucks in the on-road fleet that have atypically high emissions of evaporative hydrocarbons. In past and current programs, vehicles with high evaporative emissions have been measured in the laboratory. In some cases, high emissions represented the state of the vehicle in use, and in others, high emissions were induced for experimental purposes. However, a critical data gap in the utilization of these data is reasonably accurate estimates for the prevalence of high emitting vehicles in the fleet. In addressing this need, the results of this study will be used to improve the accuracy of evaporative emission inventories for EPA's planning and regulations as well as for States in analyses supporting compliance with the Clean Air Act. *Burden Statement:* The annual public reporting and recordkeeping burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 1.0 hours per response. Burden means the total time, effort, or financial resources expended by persons to generate, maintain, retain, or disclose or provide information to or for a Federal agency. This includes the time needed to review instructions; develop, acquire, install, and utilize technology and systems for the purposes of collecting, validating, and verifying information, processing and maintaining information, and disclosing and providing information; adjust the existing ways to comply with any previously applicable instructions and requirements which have subsequently changed; train personnel to be able to respond to a collection of information; search data sources; complete and review the collection of information; and transmit or otherwise disclose the information. The ICR provides a detailed explanation of the Agency's estimate, which is only briefly summarized here: *Estimated total number of potential respondents:* 4350. *Frequency of response:* One time for 95%, twice for 5%. *Estimated total average number of responses for each respondent:* 2.88. *Estimated total annual burden hours:* 3785. *Estimated total annual costs:* $111,934. This includes an estimated burden cost of $111,934 and an estimated cost of $0 for capital investment or maintenance and operational costs. What is the next step in the process for this ICR? EPA will consider the comments received and amend the ICR as appropriate. The final ICR package will then be submitted to OMB for review and approval pursuant to 5 CFR 1320.12. At that time, EPA will issue another **Federal Register** notice pursuant to 5 CFR 1320.5(a)(1)(iv) to announce the submission of the ICR to OMB and the opportunity to submit additional comments to OMB. If you have any questions about this ICR or the approval process, please contact the technical person listed under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT . Dated: February 7, 2008. Chester France, Assessment and Standards Division. [FR Doc. E8-2782 Filed 2-13-08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6560-50-P ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY [EPA-HQ-OAR-2004-0082, FRL-8529-5] Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission to OMB for Review and Approval; Comment Request; EPA's Natural Gas STAR Program (Renewal); EPA ICR No. 1736.05, OMB Control Number 2060-0328 AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA)(44 U.S.C. 3501 *et seq.* ), this document announces that an Information Collection Request

(ICR)has been forwarded to the Office of Management and Budget

(OMB)for review and approval. This is a request to renew an existing approved collection. The ICR, which is abstracted below, describes the nature of the information collection and its estimated burden and cost. DATES: Additional comments may be submitted on or before March 17, 2008. ADDRESSES: Submit your comments, identified by Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2004-0082, to

(1)EPA online using *http://www.regulations.gov* (our preferred method), by e-mail to *a-and-r-Docket@epa.gov* , or by mail to: EPA Docket Center, Environmental Protection Agency, Air and Radiation Docket, Environmental Protection Agency, Mailcode: 2822T, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460, and

(2)OMB by mail to: Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, Office of Management and Budget (OMB), Attention: Desk Officer for EPA, 725 17th Street, NW., Washington, DC 20503. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Suzie Waltzer, Office of Atmospheric Program, Climate Change Division, 6207J, Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460; telephone number: 202-343-9544; fax number: 202-343-2202; e-mail address: *waltzer.suzanne@epa.gov.* SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: EPA has submitted the following ICR to OMB for review and approval according to the procedures prescribed in 5 CFR 1320.12. On November 1, 2007, (72 *FR* 61875) EPA sought comments on this ICR pursuant to 5 CFR 1320.8(d). EPA received no comments during the comment period. Any additional comments on this ICR should be submitted to EPA and OMB within 30 days of this notice. EPA has established a public docket for this ICR under Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2004-0082, which is available for online viewing at *http://www.regulations.gov* , or in person viewing at the Air and Radiation Docket in the EPA Docket Center (EPA/DC), EPA West, Room 3334, 1301 Constitution Ave., NW., Washington, DC. The EPA/DC Public Reading Room is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays. The telephone number for the Reading Room is 202-566-1744, and the telephone number for the Air and Radiation Docket is 202-566-1742. Use EPA's electronic docket and comment system at *http://www.regulations.gov* , to submit or view public comments, access the index listing of the contents of the docket, and to access those documents in the docket that are available electronically. Once in the system, select “docket search,” then key in the docket ID number identified above. Please note that EPA's policy is that public comments, whether submitted electronically or in paper, will be made available for public viewing at *http://www.regulations.gov* as EPA receives them and without change, unless the comment contains copyrighted material, confidential business information (CBI), or other information whose public disclosure is restricted by statute. For further information about the electronic docket, go to *http://www.regulations.gov.* *Title:* EPA's Natural Gas STAR Program (Renewal). *ICR numbers:* EPA ICR No. 1736.05, OMB control number 2060-0328. *ICR status:* This ICR is currently scheduled to expire on March 31, 2008. Under OMB regulations, the Agency may continue to conduct or sponsor the collection of information while this submission is pending at OMB. An Agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information, unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. The OMB control numbers for EPA's regulations in title 40 of the CFR, after appearing in the **Federal Register** when approved, are listed in 40 CFR part 9, are displayed either by publication in the **Federal Register** or by other appropriate means, such as on the related collection instrument or form, if applicable. The display of OMB control numbers in certain EPA regulations is consolidated in 40 CFR part 9. *Abstract:* Natural Gas STAR is an EPA-sponsored, voluntary program that encourages natural gas companies to adopt cost effective methods for reducing methane emissions. Natural Gas STAR Partners agree to implement cost-effective technologies and practices to reduce methane emissions, which will save participants money and improve environmental quality. EPA needs to collect information to establish program participation and to obtain general information on new Natural Gas STAR Partners. EPA also uses the information collection to evaluate a Partner's progress and performance, assess overall program results, and develop technical guidance documents for the benefit of the industry. Information collection is accomplished through the use of an annual reporting process that allows companies to report their accomplishments in either a traditional hard-copy format or electronically. Participation in Natural Gas STAR is voluntary. Natural Gas STAR Partners may designate information submitted under this ICR as confidential business information. EPA will treat all such information as confidential business information and will not make the company or agency-specific information collected under this ICR available to the general public. *Burden Statement:* The annual public reporting and recordkeeping burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 5,610 hours (24.2 hours per response). Burden means the total time, effort, or financial resources expended by persons to generate, maintain, retain, or disclose or provide information to or for a Federal agency. This includes the time needed to review instructions; develop, acquire, install, and utilize technology and systems for the purposes of collecting, validating, and verifying information, processing and maintaining information, and disclosing and providing information; adjust the existing ways to comply with any previously applicable instructions and requirements which have subsequently changed; train personnel to be able to respond to a collection of information; search data sources; complete and review the collection of information; and transmit or otherwise disclose the information. *Respondents/Affected Entities:* The processing, production, transmission, and distribution sectors of the natural gas industry. *Estimated Number of Respondents:* 155. *Average Frequency of Response:* Yearly. *Estimated Total Annual Hour Burden:* 5,610. *Estimated Total Annual Cost:* $550,677 (includes $696 in capitalized O&M costs). *Changes in the Estimates:* The overall annual reporting burden for respondents has increased from 4,705 hours in the previous ICR to 5,610 hours in the current ICR as a result of an increase in the number of Partners in the Natural Gas STAR program. Despite this increase, the average burden per partner has decreased from 40.6 hours per Partner to 36.2 hours per Partner. This decrease can be attributed to a larger percentage of Partners using the on-line Annual Report forms, and the availability of new materials on the Natural Gas STAR Web site. Fifty-eight percent of reporting partners used the on-line system in 2004 while 65% of reporting partners used the on-line system in 2007. Partners reported a subsequent decreased burden of 15% for this activity. The hourly burden estimates for data collection remained the same per Partner because the information requested and the collection methodology did not change. Dated: February 7, 2008. Sara Hisel-McCoy, Director, Collection Strategies Division. [FR Doc. E8-2783 Filed 2-13-08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6560-50-P ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY [EPA-HQ-OPP-2007-0320; FRL-8529-4] Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission to OMB for Review and Approval; Comment Request; Application and Summary Report for an Emergency Exemption for Pesticides; EPA ICR No. 0596.09, OMB Control No. 2070-0032 AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act

(PRA)(44 U.S.C. 3501, *et seq.* ), this document announces that an Information Collection Request

(ICR)has been forwarded to the Office of Management and Budget

(1)EPA online using *www.regulations.gov* (our preferred method), by mail Office of Pesticide Programs

(OPP)Regulatory Public Docket (7502P), Environmental Protection Agency 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460, and

(2)OMB by mail to: Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, Office of Management and Budget (OMB), Attention: Desk Officer for EPA, 725 17th Street, NW., Washington, DC 20503. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Cameo Gianne Smoot, Field and External Affairs Division, 7506P, Office of Pesticide Programs, Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460; telephone number: 703-305-5454; fax number: 703-308-5884; e-mail address: *smoot.cameo@epa.gov.* SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: EPA has submitted the following ICR to OMB for review and approval according to the procedures prescribed in 5 CFR 1320.12. On June 4, 2007 (72 FR 30794), EPA sought comments on this ICR pursuant to 5 CFR 1320.8(d). EPA received no comments. Any additional comments on this ICR should be submitted to EPA and OMB within 30 days of this notice. EPA has established a public docket for this ICR under Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OPP-2007-0320, which is available for online viewing at *www.regulations.gov* , or in person viewing at the OPP Regulatory Public Docket in Rm. S-4400, One Potomac Yard (South Building), 2777 S. Crystal Drive, Arlington, VA. The hours of operation of this Docket Facility are from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays. The Docket telephone number is

(703)305-5805. Use EPA's electronic docket and comment system at *www.regulations.gov* , to submit or view public comments, access the index listing of the contents of the docket, and to access those documents in the docket that are available electronically. Once in the system, select “docket search,” then key in the docket ID number identified above. Please note that EPA's policy is that public comments, whether submitted electronically or in paper, will be made available for public viewing at *www.regulations.gov* as EPA receives them and without change, unless the comment contains copyrighted material, Confidential Business Information (CBI), or other information whose public disclosure is restricted by statute. For further information about the electronic docket, go to *www.regulations.gov.* *Title:* Application and Summary Report for an Emergency Exemption for Pesticides. *ICR numbers:* EPA ICR No. 0596.09, OMB Control No. 2070-0032. *ICR Status:* This ICR is scheduled to expire on February 29, 2008. Under OMB regulations, the Agency may continue to conduct or sponsor the collection of information while this submission is pending at OMB. An Agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information, unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. The OMB control numbers for EPA's regulations in title 40 of the CFR, after appearing in the **Federal Register** when approved, are listed in 40 CFR part 9, are displayed either by publication in the **Federal Register** or by other appropriate means, such as on the related collection instrument or form, if applicable. The display of OMB control numbers in certain EPA regulations is consolidated in 40 CFR part 9. *Abstract:* Section 18 of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) authorizes the Environmental Protection Agency

(EPA)to grant emergency exemptions to states and Federal agencies to allow an unregistered use of a pesticide for a limited time if EPA determines that emergency conditions exist. A Section 18 action arises when growers and others encounter a pest problem on a site for which there is either no registered pesticide available, or for which there is a registered pesticide that would be effective but is not yet approved for use on that particular site. Section 18 also allows states to submit requests to EPA to grant unregistered pesticide use exemptions for public health and quarantine reasons. Responses to this collection of information are mandatory. *Burden Statement:* The annual public reporting and recordkeeping burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 83 hours per application and 16 hours per summary report. Burden means the total time, effort, or financial resources expended by persons to generate, maintain, retain, or disclose or provide information to or for a Federal agency. This includes the time needed to review instructions; develop, acquire, install, and utilize technology and systems for the purposes of collecting, validating, and verifying information, processing and maintaining information, and disclosing and providing information; adjust the existing ways to comply with any previously applicable instructions and requirements which have subsequently changed; train personnel to be able to respond to a collection of information; search data sources; complete and review the collection of information; and transmit or otherwise disclose the information. *Respondents/Affected Entities:* State Agency, U.S. Territory, or Federal Agency. *Estimated No. of Respondents:* 60. *Frequency of Collection:* On occasion. *Estimated Total Annual Hour Burden:* 49,500 hours. *Estimated Total Annual Labor Costs:* $2,472,770. *Changes in Burden Estimates:* There is no change in the 49,500 hours in the total estimated respondent burden compared with that identified in the ICR currently approved by OMB. Dated: February 7, 2008. Sara Hisel-McCoy, Director, Collection Strategies Division. [FR Doc. E8-2784 Filed 2-13-08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6560-50-P ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY [FRL-8528-9] Revised Renewable Fuel Standard for 2008, Issued Pursuant to Section 211(o) of the Clean Air Act as Amended by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: Section 211(o) of the Clean Air Act (CAA or the Act), as amended by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (EISA), requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency

(EPA)to annually determine a renewable fuel standard

(RFS)which is applicable to refiners, importers and certain blenders of gasoline, and publish the standard in the **Federal Register** . On the basis of this standard, each obligated party determines the volume of renewable fuel that it must ensure is consumed as motor vehicle fuel. This standard is calculated as a percentage, by dividing the amount of renewable fuel that the Act requires to be blended into gasoline for a given year by the amount of gasoline expected to be used during that year, including certain adjustments specified by the Act. In this notice we are publishing an RFS 7.76% for 2008. This standard is intended to lead to the use of 9 billion gallons of renewable fuel in 2008, as required by amended section 211(o). This standard supersedes the 2008 RFS that EPA published on November 27, 2007, before enactment of the EISA. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Chris McKenna, Environmental Protection Agency, MC 6406J, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460; telephone number: 202-343-9037; fax number: 202-343-2801; E-mail address: *mckenna.chris@epa.gov* . SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Calculation of 2008 RFS A. Background On November 27, 2007, EPA published a Notice in the **Federal Register** announcing a renewable fuel standard for 2008 of 4.66%. This standard was designed to result in the use of 5.4 billion gallons of renewable fuel in 2008, as required by CAA section 211(o) at the time EPA published the standard. On December 19, 2007, President Bush signed into law the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (EISA), which, among other things, amended CAA section 211(o) to require the use of 9.0 billion gallons of renewable fuel in 2008. Today's Notice announces the recalculated standard for 2008, based on the volume of renewable fuel that amended section 211(o) now requires. In today's Notice we are using the calculational procedure set forth in the final rulemaking for the Renewable Fuel Standard Program, as we did in the November 27, 2007, Notice. The formula includes a variable representing the volume of renewable fuel required by section 211(o), and EPA is today using that formula with the renewable fuel volume for 2008 required by the EISA amendments to section 211(o) to recalculate the RFS for 2008. Since the RFS rule establishes clear legal criteria for deriving the standard (including specification of the formula used in today's Notice, and all data sources), EPA is simply applying facts to pre-established law in issuing the re-calculated final 2008 RFS. EPA is advising the regulated community of the revised standard through a **Federal Register** Notice, without prior notice and comment, in accordance with the Clean Air Act and EPA regulations. The 2008 RFS is calculated by dividing the volume of renewable fuels required by CAA section 211(o) to be blended into gasoline in 2008, by the volume of gasoline projected by the Energy Information Administration

(EIA)to be consumed in 2008 (including certain adjustments specified by the Act). The following equation from the final RFS Program regulations summarizes all of the variables that must be considered in the calculation. EN14FE08.003 Where RFStd i = Renewable Fuel Standard in year i, in percent. RFV i =Annual volume of renewable fuels required by section 211(o)(2)(B) of the Act for year i, in gallons. G i =Amount of gasoline projected to be used in the 48 contiguous states, in year i, in gallons. R i =Amount of renewable fuel blended into gasoline that is projected to be consumed in the 48 contiguous states, in year i, in gallons. GS i = Amount of gasoline projected to be used in Alaska, Hawaii, or a U.S. territory in year i if the state or territory opts-in, in gallons. RS i = Amount of renewable fuel blended into gasoline that is projected to be consumed in Alaska, Hawaii, or a U.S. territory in year i if the state or territory opts-in, in gallons. GE i = Amount of gasoline projected to be produced by exempt small refineries and small refiners in year i, in gallons (through 2010 only unless exemption extended under §§211(o)(9)(A)(ii) or (B)). Cell i = Beginning in 2013, amount of renewable fuel that is required to come from cellulosic sources, in year i, in gallons (250,000,000 gallons minimum). EISA section 210(a)(1) also states that, “For calendar year 2008, transportation fuel sold or introduced into commerce in the United States (except in noncontiguous States or territories), that is produced from facilities that commence construction after the date of enactment of this Act shall be treated as renewable fuel within the meaning of section 211(o) of the Clean Air Act only if it achieves at least a 20 percent reduction in lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions compared to baseline lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions.” EISA further provides that for 2008 and 2009, any ethanol plant that is fired with natural gas, biomass or any combination thereof is deemed to be in compliance with the 20 percent lifecycle greenhouse gas reduction requirement. Based on the text of this section, which is not an amendment to section 211(o) of the CAA and is not covered by the rulemaking provision in EISA section 202(a)(1) (amending section 211(o)(2)(A)(i)), EPA believes that these 2008 requirements are self-implementing, and therefore immediately effective. EPA intends to address the meaning of the term “commence construction”, and also address what transportation fuels other than ethanol from a facility fired by natural gas, biomass or some combination of the two satisfy the 20 percent lifecycle greenhouse gas reduction requirement, in the context of a proposed rule designed to implement the EISA amendments to the RFS program. EPA further notes, however, that is unlikely that any facilities for the production of transportation fuel that commence construction following enactment of EISA will be operational during 2008. Therefore, the 20 percent lifecycle greenhouse gas reduction requirement is unlikely to have a real-world impact for 2008. While EISA requires a substantial change in the 2008 RFS, we believe that the required renewable production capacity will come on line this year. In addition, at current oil prices, we would expect it to be economic to use the volume of renewable fuel required by EISA for 2008. We also believe RINS generated in excess of the 2007 RFS can be applied to the 2008 RFS to provide additional flexibility to the fuel supply market. However, we recognize that in the short term there may be some catching-up required for the distribution infrastructure to deliver the required volume of renewable fuel. B. Data Sources for 2008 RFS Calculation The following discussion describes the sources of data for the variables in the above equation. For ease of calculation, this discussion regroups the terms (G i −R i ) + (GS i −RS i ) in the denominator of the above equation into the terms (G i + GS i )−(R i + RS i ). Calculation of (RFV i −Cell i ), Total Amount of Renewable Fuels From Non-Cellulosic Sources That Must Be Blended Into Gasoline in 2008 The EISA amended CAA section 211(o) to require 9.0 billion gallons of renewable fuels to be blended into gasoline in 2008. Since the amended CAA section 211(o) does not include a cellulosic volume requirement until 2013, the amount of renewable fuel required to be produced from cellulosic sources in 2008 (Cell i ) remains, zero. Thus the total amount of renewable fuels from non-cellulosic sources that must be blended into gasoline in 2008 is 9.0 billion gallons. Calculation of (G i + GS i ), total amount of gasoline projected to be used in the 48 contiguous states plus opt-in states/territories, in year i, in gallons CAA section 211(o) requires the Administrator of the EIA by October 31 of each year to provide EPA with an estimate of the volumes of gasoline projected to be sold or introduced into commerce in the United States for the following year. During the development of the RFS Program, EIA informed EPA that the projected gasoline consumption in “Table 4a: U.S. Petroleum Supply, Consumption, and Inventories” (formerly “Table 5a. U.S. Petroleum Supply and Demand: Base Case”) of the October issue of the monthly *Short-Term Energy Outlook*

(STEO)should be used to calculate the RFS for the coming year. The October 2007 STEO projects that an average of 9.42 million barrels/day of gasoline will be consumed in all of the United States in 2008. Multiplying this average consumption rate by 366 days (2008 is a leap year) produces a total consumption of 144.80 billion gallons of gasoline in 2008. Only one non-contiguous state or territory has petitioned EPA to opt into the RFS Program beginning in 2008. Hawaii petitioned EPA on June 22, 2007 to opt into the RFS program, and EPA approved their request. 1 Thus, Alaska is the only one of the 50 states that is not included in the RFS Program. 1 Letter to the Honorable Linda Lingle, Governor of Hawaii, from Stephen Johnson of EPA dated July 30, 2007. In order to calculate gasoline consumption in the 48 contiguous states plus Hawaii, we subtracted Alaska's projected gasoline consumption from the projected nationwide gasoline consumption of 144.80 billion gallons. Alaska's projected gasoline consumption was calculated by multiplying the projected nationwide gasoline consumption in 2008 by the ratio of Alaska's gasoline consumption in 2006 to the total U.S. consumption in 2006, based on Table 48, “Prime Supplier Sales Volumes of Motor Gasoline by Grade Formulation, PAD District, and State” gasoline data from EIA's *Petroleum Marketing Annual 2006* (the final rulemaking used data from *Petroleum Marketing Annual 2005* ). According to EIA, Prime Supplier data reflects where gasoline is used, rather than where it is produced. 2 Alaska's projected gasoline consumption in 2008 is 0.30 billion gallons. Subtracting this consumption from the projected nationwide consumption of 144.80 billion gallons in 2008 produces a total consumption of 144.50 billion gallons of gasoline in 2008 in the 48 contiguous states plus Hawaii. 2 Energy Information Administration, *Petroleum Marketing Annual 2006,* Explanatory Notes, Relationship of Refiner and Prime Supplier Sales Volumes” (p. 382). Calculation of (R i + RS i , total amount of renewable fuel blended into gasoline that is projected to be consumed in the 48 contiguous states plus opt-in states/territories, in year i, in gallons The projected gasoline consumption in the October 2007 STEO includes renewable fuel that is blended into gasoline. This volume of renewable fuel must be subtracted from the total volume of gasoline in order to calculate the total consumption of non-renewable gasoline. In Table 8 of the October 2007 STEO, EIA estimates that 0.755 quadrillion Btu of ethanol will be used as transportation fuel in all of the United States in 2008. Dividing this energy usage by the high heating value of ethanol (3.539 million Btu/barrel), and multiplying by 42 gallons/barrel produces a total ethanol usage of 8.96 billion gallons nationwide in 2008. Since Hawaii has opted in, but Alaska has not opted in, to the RFS program for 2008, Alaska's renewable fuels consumption must be subtracted from the nationwide renewable fuels consumption to calculate renewable consumption in the 48 contiguous states plus Hawaii. In Chapter 2 of the Regulatory Impact analysis for the RFS program rulemaking, EPA estimated that ethanol consumption in Alaska would be negligible prior to 2012. Thus, we project renewable fuels consumption in the 48 contiguous states plus Hawaii to be 8.96 billion gallons in 2008. 3 For purposes of recalculating the 2008 RFS, we will round this value to 9.0 billion gallons, which is equivalent to the volume of renewable fuel required by amended section 211(o) for 2008. 3 Table 2.2-21 “2012 Forecasted Ethanol Consumption by State,” Regulatory Impact Analysis: Renewable Fuel Standard Program, April 2007. Calculation of GE i , amount of gasoline projected to be produced by exempt small refineries and small refiners in year i, in gallons 4 4 Through 2010 only, unless the exemption is extended under 211(o)(9)(A)(ii) or

(B)of the Act. In the final rulemaking establishing the RFS program regulations, we stated that we would estimate the combined small refinery and small refiner gasoline volume using a constant percentage of national consumption. Using information from gasoline batch reports submitted to EPA, EIA data and input from the California Air Resources Board regarding California small refiners, we estimated this percentage to be 13.5%. 5 5 “Calculation of the Small Refiner/Small Refinery Fraction for the Renewable Fuel Program,” memo to the docket from Christine Brunner, ASD, OTAQ, EPA, September 2006. Multiplying the projected nationwide consumption of gasoline in 2008 (144.80 billion gallons) by 13.5% results in a total projected production of 19.55 billion gallons of gasoline from small refiners and small refineries in 2008. Calculation of RFStd i , renewable fuel standard in year i, in percent Substituting all of the terms calculated above into the equation for RFStd i results in the following RFS for 2008, EN14FE08.004 Therefore, the RFS for 2008 is 7.76%. This is the standard referenced in 40 CFR 80.1105(b) through

(d)and which obligated parties apply to determine their renewable volume obligation under 40 CFR 80.1107. This recalculated 2008 RFS supersedes, and therefore replaces for all purposes, the 2008 standard published by EPA on November 27, 2007. Dated: February 7, 2008. Stephen L. Johnson, Administrator. [FR Doc. 08-679 Filed 2-13-08; 8:45 am]

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