Which agency administers the Vessel General Permit (VGP)?

• A. The U.S. Coast Guard
• B. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
• C. The Department of Transportation
• D. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Answer: (D)

The main point is identifying which agency issues and manages the Vessel General Permit. The Vessel General Permit is an environmental permit issued under the Clean Water Act as part of the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System. It sets requirements for discharges incidental to the normal operation of vessels in U.S. waters, including things like ballast water and bilge discharges, and it is administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The U.S. Coast Guard handles safety and regulatory oversight of ships, but the permit itself comes from EPA, not that agency. The other agencies listed do not administer the VGP.