In November and December 2008, two Circulars were published by all International Group Clubs informing members about recent developments in connection with the EPA Vessel General Permit requirements. The Circular contained an explanation of the VGP issued by the EPA which would cover all commercial vessels provided the owner or operator filed a Notice of Intent (NOI) to receive coverage under the VGP. NOIs must be filed no later than 19 September 2009 and it is possible to do so online.
For further information, see the update on the EPA website, particularly under the heading “How to Become Authorized Under the VGP”.
O’Brien’s Circular 011-09 dated 18 June 2009 also contains useful guidance.