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I have also directed my staff to explore the effectiveness of a short-term (24 

 hours) nitrogen oxides increment in the prevention of significant deterioration 

 program to address ecosystem effects of nitrogen loading as well as its possible 

 effects on formation of ozone. 



Finally, I have asked my staff in each of our program offices to consider 

 protection of class I areas as part of their regulatory activities. By building on 

 existing programs, we may be able to leverage our resources and bring about 

 improvements in class I area air quality sooner than might otherwise occur. 



In summary, EPA is now actively engaged on a course to protect visibility 

 and other air quality related values of class I areas. Based on the scientific 

 foundation presented in the NAS Report, we intend to develop the technical tools 

 to address regional haze. In addressing the different regional problems, we plan to 

 bring various constituencies together to explore alternative approaches, including 

 nonregulatory options where appropriate. The Grand Canyon Visibility Transport 

 Commission is well on its way to defining the policies for its region. EPA wants to 

 aid in developing similar mechanisms for other regions to assure that all class I 

 areas are effectively protected. With respect to damage to class I area 

 ecosystems, EPA will continue to aggressively implement its acid rain and ozone 

 regulatory programs and will make every effort to incorporate the latest knowledge 

 into decisions on ambient standards and new source review programs. We will 

 also look for opportunities to build on our other existing regulatory programs to 

 improve air quality in our National Parks and wilderness areas. 



Mr. Chairman, this completes my written testimony. As you requested, I 

 have attached to my statement budget information related to protecting air quality 

 in class I areas. I will be pleased to answer any questions you have. 



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