Federal Register #100506EUPR

EPA Solicits Public Comment on Experimental Use Permit for Genetically Modified American Chestnut Trees

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking public comment on an application for an Experimental Use Permit (EUP) to field test genetically modified American chestnut trees. - Government Buyer: - Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - Office of Pesticide Programs - Biopesticides and Pollution Prevention Division (BPPD) - OEM/Vendor: - State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY ESF) - Products/Services Requested: - OxO American Chestnut (genetically modified with oxalate oxidase OxO) - Includes the genetic material necessary for OxO expression in Castanea dentata - Experimental field testing across up to 280 acres in multiple states - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Field tests will compare transgenic OxO American chestnuts to wild-type and control trees - Testing will inform restoration management strategies for the American chestnut - No specific product part numbers; focus is on experimental evaluation rather than commercial procurement - Public comment is being solicited as part of the permit review process - Place of Performance: - Up to 280 acres across Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin - SUNY ESF, 1 Forestry Drive, Syracuse, NY 13210

Description

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has received an application from the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY ESF) requesting an experimental use permit (EUP) for OxO American Chestnut (oxalate oxidase OxO) and the genetic material necessary for its expression in American chestnut (Castanea dentata). The permit is sought for testing across multiple states with a total area of up to 280 acres to evaluate survival, early growth, and establishment success of transgenic OxO American chestnuts compared to wild-type and control trees. The purpose is to inform restoration management strategies across the native American chestnut range. EPA is seeking public comments on this application due by June 29, 2026.

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