CBP Seeks Comments on Draft Assessment of the Use of Vehicle and Cargo Inspection Systems at Sea and Land Ports
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has issued a notice announcing the availability of a draft Programmatic Environmental Assessment (PEA) regarding potential environmental impacts resulting from its deployment of the Vehicle and Cargo Inspection System (VACIS) at various ports of entry through the U.S. and Puerto Rico.
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According to CBP, the VACIS system employs a non-intrusive inspection technique that uses low energy gamma radiation technology which allows CBP inspectors to inspect for contraband without having to physically enter into or unload motor vehicles, containers, and other conveyances.
CBP states that deployment of VACIS technology is already underway and will continue at various land and sea ports of entry throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico.
CBP explains that the VACIS system consists of the following four configurations:
VACIS II - a semi-permanent version designed for inspection of motor vehicles and cargo containers at Customs ports of entry;
Mobile VACIS - a truck mounted version designed for high-portability inspection of motor vehicles and cargo containers;
Rail VACIS - a fixed version designed specifically for installation along railroad rights of way for inspection of railroad cars; and
Pallet VACIS - a fixed pallet gamma ray (FPGR) system designed for inspection of items stored on pallets and in boxes or crates.
CBP's draft PEA, which evaluated potential impacts regarding geology and soils, water quality, air quality, noise, radiological consequences, etc. is available for 30 days (starting May 12, 2004) at http://www.cbp.gov/ImageCache/cgov/content/enforcement/port_5factivities/draft_5fvacis_2epdf/v1/draft_5fvacis.pdf.
- written comments must be received by June 28, 2004.
CBP Contact - Thomas Nelson (202) 344-2975
CBP notice (FR Pub 05/12/04) available athttp://a257.g.akamaitech.net/7/257/2422/14mar20010800/edocket.access.gpo.gov/2004/pdf/04-10731.pdf