As part of its efforts to develop and implement Data Quality Guidelines, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently announced plans to develop “Assessment Factors” to assist the agency in evaluating the quality of information and data that it receives from external sources. EPA has posted a draft of Assessment Factors for Evaluating the Quality of Information from External Sources which explains the new indicators. The agency is accepting public comments on the document from September 6 through September 30, 2002. EPA also scheduled a public meeting to hear input on the draft document. The meeting is being held on September 20, 2002 in Washington, DC. Those interested can submit comments and even get more information on the meeting and register online. OMB Watch is currently reviewing the document and plans to submit both written comments as well as speak at the public meeting.