This summer, for the first time, some parts of rural California will fail to meet the national ozone standards. Given time and sunlight, these chemicals are forming smog in the Sierras and the Central Valley. Although some expect the EPA to finalize the non-attainment designation for the five new rural areas of California this July, given the complex procedures of the EPA others don't expect the official designation to occur before December 2000. Nevertheless, addressing non-attainment conformity will be a new facet of doing business for some rural agencies. Studies consistently show that adverse effects can result from both longer exposures to lower levels of ozone as well as to briefer exposure to higher levels.
Designation triggers some challenging requirements, particularly for smaller agencies.
Each non-attainment area must develop an implementation plan describing specific enforceable actions that will result in quantifiable emission reductions. The plan includes a timetable for results. Assuming designation of new non-attainment occurs by the end of 2000, the new SIP will be due by 2003. This is done using default tests established and approved by the Air Resources Board and the Federal Highway Administration. The team conducts an informational workshop and helps impacted local agencies prepare for the challenge of meeting requirements.