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\Y"
I TITUS
.**
/// marking 11 ic 3()lh anniversaries oj Larlh Day and 1J} I. f/v Ac/re many reasons l<> celebrate. I lie
nation s cni'ironincnl is I lie cleanest il has been in decades and our economy in soaring, \evev he/ore
has it been more clear I ha I a healthy enriroiiiiienl is an important pavl oj economic prosperity.
EP1 Region S and the many ivho share our mission -- stale and local gore rn men Is. 2~ tribal mil ions,
businesses, comnninilies and noiigoremiiienlal organizations -- hare been irorking together for 30
years to enhance I lie (jiiality of life enjoyed by the residents of (Colorado. Montana, \ortli Dakota.
Son/li Dakota, I lah and II voming. II liile ire hare many reasons to be proud, this is also a lime to
reflect on the irork that remains in reaching our goals for a clean, healthy and sustainable
enrironmenl. As this report higlilighls. some rery real challenges remain.
Our Region encompasses the heart of the lies/ -- a place defined by abundant natural resources and
rair beauty. From dramatic snoircapi)ed mountains lo rast open spaces of deserts, plains and
canyons, ire lire and irork in slates ir/iere natural blessings are an integral part of our history,
economy and cultures.
The resources thai miners, ranchers and /armers hare depended on since the early I SOOs remain vital
to the lireliliood oj our Region today. Environmental resources are also helping to diversify the goods
and serrices produced here. In recent decades, ribrant commercial, recreational and lottrism-lxised
economies hare emerged in each of our stales, creating communities that depend on a clean
enrironmenl and healthy ecosystems. Drawn by lhe.se assets, people are continuing to more here at
unprecedented rales. Ironically, this groirth is contributing lo a neir generation oj environmental
threats, including sprairl and development, nonpouil source pollution and global climate change.
As environmental issues change in nature and context. EP\ has responded and continues to deliver
bottom-line results. One thing is certain, lie need to be flexible and innoratire in meeting the nation's
public health and environmental goals. "Command and control" solutions -- though use/id in getting
us to irhere ire are today -- alone mil not serve as irell in this neir century, lie must also reirard
innovation, create incentives for individuals and firms lo be more proactive, and irork more effectively
irilh onr partners.
Tins report highlights onr shared environmental successes ivhile identifying key challenges ire need to
focus on together. The partnerships ire are establishing today irill be the foundation of future
progress in protecting public heedih and the environment.
\eir alliances are being forged every day to irork on creating a sustainable environment ivilh saje
drinking ivater, clean air and health}'places to lire. /;/r/r and irork ... not just for onr generation, but
for all future generations. By irorking together, I am encouraged tlial 30 years from noir ire irill be
reflecting on another set oj impressive accoinj)lislnnenls in protecting I he enrironmenl in the
mountains, plains, deserts and cain'ons of onr states and tribal nations.
- II illidin P. }elloivtail. \dminislvalor,
Region S
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01
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T
he qnalilv of the air we hi eat lie directly afleets our
health and well-being. \ir pollution is a laclor in heart
and lung disease, as well as in increased cancer risk. Il
also harms crops and buildings, reduces visibility, and
impacts soil, lakes and streams, and the food web
thai sustains all life.
Air qualirv is one of the most obvious examples of the
progress we ve made since 1970. Thirty vears ago cats
emitted 10 limes the pollutants thev emit today
factories and power plains released thousands of tons
o( emissions direct K into the air. unchecked and
uncontrolled. In the past. Region os two biggest cities --
Denver and Salt Lake City -- routinely violated one or
more national air qualitv standards. In 10^2. Denver
violated the short-term carbon monoxide ((X))
standard on 125 days.
The 1 ()70 Clean \ir Vet introduced tough new rules to
control air pollution. Since 1()7(). we have removed ()<°>%
of lead fioiu the air. 7()% of soot. -+1 % of sulfur dioxide.
2(°>% of CO and 25% of the "smog soup" known as
ozone. Still, industrial and economic growth have
continued. Nationally from 1()7() to 1()07. the L'.S.
population grew 31 %. Cross Domestic Product rose
1-50%. and total vehicle miles traveled jumped 127%.
In the 1970s. Denver air exceeded federal limits for CO
\irtuallv even dav during the high-pollution winter
season. Vir qualitv measures such as controls on
industrial sources, cleaner-burning cars, a vehicle
inspection and maintenance program, and oxvgenated
fuels have achieved impressive results, from 1()9u-
). Denver exceeded federal CO standards onl once.
Progress Controlling
"Criteria" Air Pollutants
KPVs efforts to reduce air pollution begin with six
criteria pollutants identified in tlie Clean Air Act: O/one
(Oj). nitrogen dioxide (\0_>). paniculate matter (PM).
sulfur dioxide (SOj). carbon monoxide (('()). and lead
(Pb). For each. KP\ has set health-based standards. If
local areas exceed these standards they must take steps
to achieve compliance.
Ozone
0/one. or smog. Ls a Inug irritant formed b\ the
combination of volatile organic compounds. (\ OC.s).
oxides ol nitrogen and sunlight. Smoggv conditions
aggravate asthma, especially among children and the
elderly I hev can also cause respiratory problems lor
healthy adults working or exercising outside. Ozone
concentrations at Region <"! trend sites dropped 17%
between l()o8-()7. Ozone remains a concern in
urbanized areas, paiticnlarlv along Coloi ado s Front
Range and I tails \\asatch front.
Carbon monoxide
Concentrations of (X). a colorless, odorless gas resulting
mostlv from vehicle exhaust, dropped -Ki% between
1 ()P><"- 1 ()l)7 at Region P> trend sites. Over lime, dramatic
progress has been made in Salt Lake Cilv and Denver.
Colorado s front Range is now approaching
redesisnation as a CO attainment area. Successes have
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I I»V Id •(.ION K'M M MiSOl I \\IKO\MLM \l I'KOUil.SS
been reali/ed elsewhere also. In
Great Falls. Montana. (X)
concentrations ha\e declined o()%
since 1()87.
\iti-ooen dio.iidc
.\()j and nitrogen oxides --
together know n as N()x -- help
lorin the "round-level ozone, or
smog, dial hangs oxer cities in the
summer. Concentrations ol N()_>
decreased 7% at trend sites
between l<)88-<)7. \(\ a powerh
lung irritant and a piecinsor of
acid rain, is especially dilhcnll to
control, because ii navels easily
over "real distances.
Pdiiiciddle matter
Partictilate matter is the dirl.
smoke and soot in air. PM10. \\hicl
includes all particles under 10
microns in diametei. dropped .'52%
at trend sites between 1();!8-()7 in
Region 8. Carmakers and
industries that ha\e embraced
pollution control deserve much of
the credit. Some paniculate
pollution also comes from natural
sources like windblown dust or
lorest fires. Despite progress. I'M
remains a concei n particularly in
areas where inversions trap
pollutants for long periods of time.
Sii/fiu dio.ndc
S()_>. a major contributor to acid
rain, comes from fuel burning and
metal smelting. SOj at trend sites
dropped 44% between 1<)88-<)7 in
(Carbon Monoxide Exceedanccs &
Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) in Denver
# of Kxccedaneeh
-too
200
150
100
50
I I 1 ill I J J I I i -
66 68 ^0 ^2 ^4 76 78 80 82 84 86 88 90 92 9-t 96 98 00 20
b"1 69 71 7-'i 75 ~1~! 7') 81 83 85 K'7 89 91 93 95 97 99 10
Year
l# of K.vccdanccs ol 8ln Standard
/// ///c 1'JTOx. Di'/iri'i itiri'.\. ( Iciiiici-hiiiiiing n/ix. a rcli/c/c inx/jcction tind iiiiiinti'iidiK i'
/>m.f\'g(>ii(i/cd fuels liare dclitived iinpre.tsirt' rcx/il/x. From 7996-7999.
De/ircr e.i cceiled federal CO aldiiddi'ds i>///\ once.
Region 8. with much of the pro-
gress due to controls on coal-fired
power plants. Further S()_> reduc-
tions are expected as additional
acid rain-control deadlines come
due in the next decade. One
success slorx is that of Billings.
Montana, which re\ersed an up-
ward S()2 trend in the early IWOs
by idenlifviiig industrial sources
and initiating control measures.
Lead
I nleaded gasoline introduced in
1()7o. accounts for most ol the
07% reduction in lead concen-
trations at trend sites between
1988-1W7. In Region 8. high lead
levels are associated mostly with
localized industrial activities.
tailpipe emissions. I-"
pickup trucks will have to
(Is as nasseniier c,
ol these new
decades, almost •>
200.000
4.MOO premature deaths prevent
and 17.'5.000 respiratory illnesse
avoided. I he new rules will als
ical and <
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(1,1 v\ VIK
\ar Stdiidards
In 1907. EPA developed new
health-based standards for P\110.
an additional standard for PM 2.5
(particles under 2.3 microns in
diameter), and a revised ozone
standard. These new standards are
the result of vears of scientific
analvsis indicating that health
effects in humans occur at le\els
lower than existing standards. EPA
is pressing in federal court to adopt
these standards, \\hich will protect
sensitive groups such as children.
the elderlv and those with
respiratory disorders.
Air Toxics
Congress amended the Clean Air
Act hi 1990. asking EPA to reduce
air pollution from a vast group of
1P>8 additional "toxics --
hazardous pollutants that
eontrihute to cancer, hirth defects
and neurological disorders. To date.
EP\ has issued -H iie\\ emissions
standards regulating 79 different
source categories, such as steel
mills, paint factories and dry
cleaners. Dozens more industry -
specific deadlines will he adopted
over the next few years, leading to
significant cuts in toxic emissions.
Air Pollutant Concentrations Are Declining
Average Concentiations of Criteria Pollutants at R8 Trend Monitoring Sites 1988 vs 1097
Pollutant
CO
PMUI
Ozone
SO,
Lend
.NO,
# Trend Sues
22
101
20
33
-i
r
Standard ! 1988 Wragc
8 In Max - 9p|)in 8|)|)in
Annual Mean - 50 iiji/ni1 28 1 iijj/ni'
1 hr Max - 0 12|)pm 0 098|)])in
Annual Mean - 0.03ppm 0 00()-t|)|>in
Max Avg - 1 ") no/in1 09 ug/in '
Animal Mean - 0 053ppm 0 01-fppm
W Avriagr
-t 3ppm
19.2 ug/in'
0.081p])in
0 ()()36ppni
0 3 iig/in !
0()13ppni
Decline
1 46%
4 32%
4. 1T%
4 44%
4 67%
4 "'%
Cilice l')~(). all ,ii,t uj the "criteria ' (in /x>/lii/(iiil.^ idcnlijicd in //it' ( /can \ii \ct
/Kirc .1/ioirn iiii/trorcinciil. Concentration.'! oj /lollnlan/.t in l/ie nil, iiietimn cd til
ranons tnoni/orx acios.i I lie Region, linn1 (teen s>re(ill\ red/iced. Tlnx ora/t/ni .ilioir.i
/iioiirex.t lie/ireen /9SS and l()()~.
/>ie,i.inre.i — i>
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i,p\ Ki,(;io\ s • no M, \i:s 01 i:\\ IUONMIA r\i, PKOCKKSS
-------
er quality has always been the backbone of
environmental protection. \Vlien EPA was formed in
197(). mam of its responsibilities came from the old
Federal \\ater Quality Administration. And once the
agency \\-as up and running, many of its earl\
headlines came from enforcement of the 1972 Federal
\\ater Pollution Control Act Amendments. The 1()"74
Safe Drinking Water Act quickK followed, as did (he
1977 Clean \\ater Act -- a stronger, retitled \eision
of the 1972 law.
\\ater is also the lifeblood of the AYest. Most areas
in Region 8 average less than 15 inches of rainfall a
\ear -- a precious commodity indeed. Yet. we haven't
always recognized the importance of water. Before EPA
and the Clean \\ater Act. hundreds of communities
discharged raw sewage into waterways such as the
South Platte. Arkansas and Missouri RKers. Main
risers were lilerallv open sewers.
loday. water qiialits and qnantiu are recognized as
vital to supporting Region 8s people economies and
natural systems. However, challenges leinain. \\ hile
we luue addressed the major point sources of pollution
to our waters -- such as wastewater and industrial
discharges -- more difficulr-to-manage pollution from
mining, agriculture and urban runoff still poses threats
to surface and grouiidwater quality
The Clean Water Act
The Clean \\ater Act spells out two basic goals:
eliminating pollutant discharges into the nations lakes
risers and streams- and restoring and maintaining the
chemical, physical and biological inlegrits ol our
ssaters. In simpler terms, the \ct calls for lakes and
river.s to be clean enough to support aquatic life and
human uses such as swimming, fishing and drinking
ssaler supplies. In Region 8. EPAs efforts to reach
those goals include:
• fatdb/is/iineiil and enforcement of per/nil limits. EPA
and the Region 8 states control pollutant discharges
from over 2.000 point sources including sessage
treatment plants, storm \\aters\stenis. animal leedlots.
factories, mills, active mines, metal ss'orks. oil ss-ells
and food processors. Nationally this program presents
svell oser a billion pounds of toxic pollution from
entering our nation s water each year.
• \onpoinl HOIIICC control*, 'loday. as much as 98%
of ssaler quality problems begin ssith runoff from
agriculture, mining sites, residential and urban lands.
or atmospheric deposition. These scattered pollution
sources are more difficult to address because (lies are
so numerous and defy end-of-pipe control measures.
Since 1989. FP\ has awarded more than So8 million
in grants to Region 8 states and tribes to support
nonpoint source programs. EP\ also piovides technical
assistance to help solse ssatei qualits problems from
irrigation, lisestock pioduction. forestry, mining and
urban sources.
• Clean II atci-Stale Hero/riii" riind. Since 1987. EP\
has awarded more than Sol.'5 million to Region 8 slate
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I.I'V Kl (;i()\ 8. :!OM, \KSOI I \\IHO\MI MAI !'!«)(,KI.SS
Summary of Use Support
Rivers and Streams
Good Threatened Impaired
Good - hulk ,uppmi~.ill disputed HM-,
Threatened - \\UU-T i^ < un^idfird mmd burn
moll ll^i^ (/
nt'em and slicdins are clean enoni>/i
lo support (lesigtidlert imc.i uncli as
//.•i/ii/i!>. siriiitniiiiii find ddi/dlit' life.
revolving loan haicta lo help .states
build, upgrade and fund
\va.sle\\ater. ntonu water and
pollution control projecth. Stales
match 20% of EPA s annual
award ainountn and distribute
loans for high-priority projects.
Recently. EPA has begun
eneoin aging the use of these funds
to support nonpoint source work.
Groundwater Protection
Over one-third of Region 8s
population relies on underground
aquifers for drinking water. As
our states continue to gro\\.
groundwater use is increasing.
making its protection a priority.
To protect groundwater quality.
EPA supports states and tribes in
identifying and cleaning up
underground storage tanks
(LST's) that are leaking
petroleum and other hazardous
substances. As of the end of 1099.
cleanups of leaking tanks have
been initiated or completed at
over 1-f.OOO sites in Region 8.
EPA and the states also regulate
over 25.000 active I'ST systems.
EPA is focused on enforcing new
lank requirements that call for
substandard L STs be upgraded.
replaced or closed to meet a
national goal of 90% compliance
b\ 2000.
Progress Cleaning I p Leaking I ndergroinuJ Storage Tanks
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KPA's Underground Injection
Control program also protects
underground drinking water
source:-.. Region 8 lias thousands
of Class V injection wells or
draiiifields. shallow disposal
systems that inject liquid wastes
underground, above water
sources, \\ells vary in bize. type
and engineering complexity, and
some pose potential hazards to
groundwater. EPA recently issued
stricter regulations banning new
wells for disposing used motor oil
and large-capacit\ cesspools, and
phasing out existing wells. To
date. Region 8 and state agencies
have closed more than 1.000
Class V wells to protect
groundwater resources. Region 8
also recently produced a \ideo --
available at no cost -- to help the
regulated community comply
with Class V rules.
Pesticides
Pesticides ha\e been recognized as
a serious threat to water qualiu
for decades. The effects of DDT
and other highly toxic pesticides
-- given widespread attention by
Rachel Carson s groundbreaking
book Silent Spring -- were an
earh impetus for EPA activities.
Since the 1970s. EPA has led the
effort to eliminate the most
dangerous pesticides and regulates
the registration and use of
thousands of others.
Region 8 also works with states
and tribes to develop pesticide
IIidc.i/>i('(id and (lifficii/t-td-nidiKi^c "nonpoint" pollution .idiircc.i (ire llie
.10111 re of'/ra/er t/i/rob/e/ns nationally and in Ken/on S. The runoff of
nutrients, pesticides and sediments from irrigalcd ciopland con iin/xict both
stir/ticc and iiroiiiidiratci (/IKI///\.
management plans that locus on
protecting vulnerable gioundwater
resources. In addition. Region 8
provides grant-, for pesticide
ap
)licator training and
certification programs. By
providing safeU training
emphasizing proper techniques
for use. storage and disposal.
these programs reduce human and
environmental pesticide
exposure. In Colorado alone.
EPA Region 8 has trained o\er
1-t.OOO farmers and ranchers.
Animal Feeding
Operations (AFOs)
The influx of large-scale livestock
facilities to the Region has become
a significant environmental issue.
Manure and wastewater Iron)
these operations can pollute
waterways with excess nutrients.
organic matter and pathogens.
These pollutants can contaminate
surface and groundwater. causing
fish kills and outbreaks of toxic
algae and microbes. To address
these concerns. EPA. \\itli the I'.S.
Department of Agriculture.
recently developed a I nified
National Strategy for Animal
feeding Operations. The strategy
employs a range of flexible.
common-sense tools to
reduce potentially hai infill
runoff from AEOs.
Region 8s -\F() team has
conducted one-on-one visits \\ith
each state to learn how their
efforts can fulfill the national goal
of controlling water pollution. The
team is seeking extensive input
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i,i'\ m (,io\ B. no M:\KSOI ],\VIKO\MIM vi
Clean irater is n ralnab/e resonice lor
Region S rciidenls and nxiloix irliti
ivl\ on inn nrcr.i. lake* and i>iotind-
iraler foi drinkina iralei xnpplic.',. Out
iralcix (ilxo snppotl iff rail ion xncli ax
/is/iina. boalina (i/id tiri/iiinii/'j..
from all stakeholder.--, inc
federal partners, state agricullura
and waier |)olluti<>n agencies.
producer groups and farmers
Drinking Water
The l(F-f Safe Drinking \\atei
Act (SD\\ \) re(|iiires KPA to set
drinking water standards and
regulate public water systems
(P\YSs). These systems must
monitor regulai ly tor
coniaminants and meet specific
quality standard^ and treatment
requirement-.. To maintain local
drinking water quality KPA and
the .states monitor and record the
testing of over o() pollutants in
more than 7.000 public \vatei
systems in Region -r fro
191..r6
2o9 9.T
2-t«019
2%
4%
3%
2%
('oiiiiniiiiih triilcr x\ stt'inx arc inakiiisi
major iiiri'xl/iicn/x in ira/ci Ircatincnl
.vr.v/('//(.s' (i/id xoinci' ii'tilci /intlcclton
lo ensure n(ije and i('liable o\ erimients for source water
assessment and protection .
"roundwater protection, and
\\ellhead protection. Source water
assessments, for example, help
slaies estimate a P\\ S s
siisceplibilit) to contaminants
and create source \\ atei
management plans.
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The 1()')() amendments also
cieated drinking waier state
re\olvin» funds lor \\ aler
treatment plants and lechnolojiy
iniprovenieiiii I'J'V ollets
niatchin<> »rant^ to states
that establish re\olvin<; loan
funds for hi«h-priorit\ \\aler
treatment projects.
So. ho\\" are we (loi]i»v Drii
water data collected by KP\ and
(he slates indicate that most
s\ stems in Re«ion J] are in lull
compliance \\ilh health-based
standards, while a le\\ report
xiolalions for various tyjies of
contaminants. Most violations
occur in sinallei. rural systems
with resource and expertise
limitations. KPAs safe drinkina
\\ater »oals and oii»oin» |iollntion
pre\ention and inlrastnictnre
inipro\(Miients are e.\pecied to
ensure even moie progress in
the future.
Polluted Water
NO
SyOitterOf
Leading Sources of Pollution in Region 8 Rivers arid Streams
11\ (liomodilicalioiis (Dams and \\nti'i dixi'isions)
Resomcc K\lractioii
Municipal Point Soui'cc-
Cc
Sil\ ICIlltlllC (I'OICsll \ )
2% 4% ()% »% 10%
Percentaae ol Surveyed Miles lni[)acted
water resources. A recent Region o
case involved about 15 square
miles of uroundwaler
pristine aquifers. In 1()()(>. Re:
ordered eiu'lil oil and uas
companies to provide bottled
drinking water to 20 resident
with conlaminaled private w
the I'ort Peck Indian Reserv;
Region <> anticipates reqiiirin
alternative water s>
cleaninii' die imiiili
iproacii take
istic view o|
is approach may
air deposition o
\vastewater discharge:
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KPA I«K;I<)\ 8 • no > i, \KS or i:\\ IRONMI.N \\\.
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0,,
*ur society makes, consumes and disposes of
chemicals and \\-aste products in huge quantities. Since
19-f.">. the amount of \\aste generated in the I ,S. has
multiplied more than 500 times, making waste
management one of our most difficult and expensive
environmental challenges. Swollen landfills, abandoned
factories, leaking oil wells, and illegalk dumped or
improperly managed wastes and toxics present serious
human health and environmental risks. Hazardous
substances can migrate through the soil to where we
work, live and play, and can contaminate the air we
breathe and the water v\e drink.
for generations, few people thought twice about burying
and dumping garbage or wastes. "Out of sight, out of
mind was the prevailing mindset. It wasn't until the
frightening stories of contamination, illness and death in
places like Lo\e Canal. \e\\ York, the Valley of the
Drums. Kentucky, and Bhopal. India in the 1970s and
1980s that decisive actions were taken.
Responding to increased awareness and public demand.
Congress passed laws that EPA uses to protect our land
from hazardous materials. The passage of the Resource
Conservation and Recover) Act (RCRA) in 1976 enabled
the tracking of hazardous materials from production to
disposal. Superfuiid was established in 1980 to clean up
the nations \\orst hazardous waste sites. Hirtliennore.
citizens must now be kept informed about the presence
and potential danger of toxic materials in their
communities.
Resource Conservation and Recovery- Acl
RCRA mandates a comprehensive, life-cycle approach to
regulating hazardous wastes from "cradle to grave."
RCRA defines hazardous wastes as those which are
igtiilahle. corrosive, reactive (explosive) and toxic. EPA
and states set standards for how much waste facilities
can have and what they have to do to manage or
transport it. and outline permit requirements for waste
treatment, storage and disposal. EPAs efforts under
RCRA focus primarily on three basic elements: pre-
vention, safe waste management and corrective action.
Prevention is EPAs strategy of first choice for hazardous
wastes because it focuses on preventing pollution at the
source, before waste is generated. This minimizes the
load on disposal facilities by diverting wastes from
traditional waste streams. Region 8 and the stales
provide education, technical assistance and outreach to
industry promote waste exchanges and networks, and
assist small businesses in reducing the volumes of waste
generated. Waste minimization has also been
incorporated into enforcement actions \\here penalties
arc reduced or negotiated to include waste minimization
projects. Pollution prevention and waste minimization
opportunities are also evaluated and promoted during
hazardous waste inspections.
The safe management of hazardous waste, particularly
by having appropriate controls in place for all facilities
that manage hazardous materials, has always been the
center of the RCRA program. EPAs national goal is to
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KI,(,IO\ 8 • :ii
i. \us (
•• i:\\ IKOMII.YI \i, I>KO<;KI,SS
have 90% of all required permits
issued by 2005. with an interim
goal of 02% by 1999. RegionS
expects to meet the 90% goal
before 2005. and has
exceeded the 1999 interim goal
by having approver! controls
in place for 05% of facilities
that need them.
Correcti\e action, or cleanup of
contamination at the worst waste
management facilities, has become
the RCRA programs top priority.
FPA has set goals of controlling
human risk and ground\\ ater
contamination at these high-
priority facilities. By 2005. 90% of
the high-priori!) facilities must
haxe all current human risks under
control and 75% of current
groundwater releases under control.
The 1999 interim goals are 20%
and 10%. respecti\el\. Region 8
has identified 55 facilities on the
national list, and is currently ahead
of the pace for the interim national
goals, with -1:0% of these facilities
meeting the human risk indicator
and 33% achieving the
groundwater measure. Region 8 is
working with the states to assure
achievement of the 2005 goals
Superfund: Faster, More
Effective Cleanups
Where RCRA addresses operating
facilities. Superfund is EPAs
program to clean np sites where
serious hazardous wastes and
contamination have been left
behind. Sites requiring large-scale.
long-term and often big-ticket
cleanups are known as "remedial"
sites. These include most of the
1.300 sites on the National
Priorities List (NPL). To date.
Region 8 has placed -to sites on the
NPL and proposed sex en others.
"Removal' sites, in. comparison, are
t\pieall\ smaller-scale, shorter-term
cleanups, ranging from a few
months to a few years.
Remedial program
Congress created the NPL antici-
pating that the wltole Superfund
program would encompass just a
ie\\ hundred sites. Congress also
intended that those who caused the
contamination would pay their fair
share to clean tip the site.
Realil) \\as more complicated.
Many sites required extensive
engineering and/or scientific studies
before cleanup could begin. Also.
Mint' Site. Colorado.
In ll)')2. I~P\ stepped in It) lest ore nn
ecological tragedy: leaking cyanide.
arid mid metal-lailen mine irttlers
killed I ~ miles oj I lie \l(iint>,i
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Cl.l.xN I.\M)
Progress of National Priorities List Sites in Region 8
100%
80%
60%
40%
20%
0%
1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999
I Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study (RI/FS) I'nderway
Remedy Selected ,. Construction Underway •;;;?;• New GC Sites
I Construction Completion (CC) Reached in Previous Fiscal \ear
I Design I nderway
Some big sites in Region 8 are
being cleaned tip without being on
the final NPL. In 1W8. Kennecott
L tah Copper, state and local
agencies, and EPA reached an
agreement to clean up the largest
open-pit mine in the I .S. Over
S200 million lias* already been
spent on the cleanup.
The Snperfund program
emphasizes restoring contaminated
bites through partnerships with all
stakeholders. Region 8 focuses on
working with .stales, tribes and
local governments to bring local
solutions to sites, while
understanding that public
involvement is critical to the
process, \\ithout stakeholder
support and understanding, no
project will satisfx the needs of the
community it'b designed to protect.
Removal Program
The highest priority of the
Siiperfund program is to make sites
safe for those living or working
nearby The removal program
delivers a quick response to
immediate threats posed by the
release of hazardous substances.
Typical situations include iires or
explosions, a contaminated
drinking water supply, and threats
to humans from exposure to
hazardous substances. Most
situations are emergencies where
EPA teams up with other
government agencies rapidly
Region 8 receives over ')()()
hazardous substance release
notifications a year, but most do
not require federal removal action.
Private parties are increasingly
willing to clean up releases in the
interest of maintaining a positive
corporate image. Since the tnid-
l()80s. EPA has funded between
,'30-50 of these shorter-term
cleanups annually, at a cost
of anywhere from S-SO.OOO to
S3 million each. Region 8
has completed over 200
removals to date.
Site Redevelopment
Whenever possible, the Superl'und
program looks lor opportunities to
return sites to local municipalities
or business interests for possible
redevelopment. For example a
portion of the Denver. CO Radium
Superfund site has been cleaned up
and is no\\ home to a thriving
Home Depot store. Another
example is the Anaconda Smelter
Superfund site in Montana, which
has been transformed into a golf
course with hiking trails and plans
for future commercial and
residential development.
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KPA REGION 8 • :!() \ E \HS OF i:\VIHONMKNTAL I'HOGKI SS
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E
nvironmental progress is ultimately measured al the
community level. Nationally. EPAs laws, regulations and
Tecliiiieal criteria give us authority and a scientific basis, to
make good decisions. But at their core, most environ-
mental issues are about safety and quality of life at home
and in the workplace. Livability can be measured in many
\\ays: the quality of air we breathe, the \\holesonieness of
our food, the siistaiiiability of local economies and even the
length of our commutes.
Over the past decades. EPA has implemented hugely
successful campaigns to induce environmental hazards.
including the elimination of lead paint and gasoline in the
1970s, the removal of asbestos materials in the late 1980s
and radon gas mitigation in the early 1900s. KPA
continues to address potential risks in our homes, schools
and workplaces.
Asthma and Children 'v Health
Asthma remains a persistent problem in the U.S. The
number of children afflicted has doubled in the past 10
years, currently affecting almost five million nationwide.
Nationally, the asthma rate among children ages 5-1-t rose
7-+% between 1980-94. -\sthma can be triggered In
irritants and allergens such as smoke, dust, molds, mites
and pet dander.
Asthma is a big concern in heavily populated areas. In
Denver Coimt\ alone. 8.210 cases of childhood asthma
were reported in 1998 — along with over 19.000 adult
cases. Low-income and minority children are afflicted at
much higher rates. To minimize asthma triggers. KPA
promotes the use of common-sense, low-cost solutions for
clearing the air in homes and schools.
Since children are most vulnerable to pollution of all types.
EPA has made a major commitment to children s health.
Since 1993. EPA has considered health risks to infants arid
children in all risk characterizations and public health
standards set for the I nited States. Tliis includes air and
drinking water standards and food qualit\ protection. In
Region 8. EPAs Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools
program has helped schools provide healthy environments
for students and staff. Region 8 is also working with the
Southern I ;te and the Rock\ Boys tribes to identify
hazards to children on their reservations.
Radon
Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas. is the second
leading cause of lung cancer in the I '.S. It is odorless.
tasteless and colorless, and found naturally in soils
tliroiighout the world. Many areas in Region 8 have the
potential for high indoor radon. EPAs radon program
focuses on risk reduction through education and
outreach, training of radon professionals, teclmical
assistance to the general public, and support of state
and tribal radon programs.
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KI <;io\ 8- :ioM,\usor i \\iKo\Mi:vr\[, PUOCHLSS
Lead
Lead is a naturally occurring
substance that ib toxic when ingested
or inhaled. Lead is most hazardous
to children under six \ears of age.
Health effects include reduced
intelligence and attention span.
reading/learning disabilities and
behavioral problems. In adults, lead
exposure can damage reproductive
systems, and contribute to nerve
disorders, high blood pressure and
other problems.
EPAs ban of lead-based gasolines in
the 1()70s has greatly reduced lead
exposure. Nationally, blood lead
le\els have dropped 85% .since
1080. Nevertheless, lead contami-
nation remains a localized concern in
parts of Region 8. Indoor exposure is
most often through particles and
dust linked to deteriorating lead-
based paint. Exposure can also be
traced to contaminated soil and
water from mine wastes.
LPA provides grant money to states
and tribes for public education and
testing activities. The agency also
certifies training providers and
programs to peifonn inspections.
risk assessment and abatement
work, and requires public disclosure
about lead hazards by builders.
realtors, landlords and renovators.
EPA is also beginning to focus on
outdoor sources of lead exposm'e --
such as paints used on playgrounds
and fencers.
Asbestos
Asbestos libers, widely used in
building materials, can cause serious
lung diseases including asbestosis.
lung cancer, mesothelioma and
cancers of the digestive tract.
Asbestos-related diseases have a long
lateiicv period and symptoms may
not appear until 20—tO years after
exposure. The main focus of EPA
Region 8 s asbestos work is in
schools and public buildings. Region
8 pro\ ides assistance and oversight
for asbestos training, accreditation
and certification programs for five of
the Region 8 slates. EPA directly
implements this program in
Wyoming and on tribal lands.
Addressing Growth and
Urban Sprawl
\s in much of the West, many parts
oi Region 8 are experiencing
tremendous population growth.
\\ hile much of tliis growth is
concentrated along Colorado's Front
Range and I tab s \\asatch Front.
rural areas across the Region are also
being challenged by growth and
development pressures. According to
the Colorado Department of
Agriculture, over 100.000 acres of
agricultural lands are being
converted to tu'ban development
each year in Colorado alone.
\\liile land-use and growth-
management acthities are the
responsibility of state, tribal and
local authorities. EPA is unicjuely
positioned to encourage growth-
management measures that take
environmental impacts into
consideration. EPA Region 8 uses
existing authorities under stamtes
such as the Clean _Vir Act. the Clean
Water Act and the National
Environmental Policy Act to help
minimize the impacts of
development activities. Region 8 also
focuses on supporting state, tribal
and local efforts. Specific activities
include improving communications
and providing technical expertise
and resources to manage growth
issues such as wastewater disposal.
drinking water, water quantity
waste disposal, transportation and
air (jiiality. storm, water nuioff. and
wetlands and habitat loss. EPA also
provides funding and support for
specific projects tlrrough programs
such as Sustainable Development
Challenge Grants.
Brownfields
A browiifield is a site with actual or
perceived contamination that has
potential for redevelopment or reuse.
There are hundreds of these sites in
the Region, from abandoned
factories and shuttered gas stations.
to aging rail vards. Cleaning up and
reusing these areas often helps to
-------
l,l\ Vlil I COVIMIMTII S
preserve greeiispaee which would
otherwise be used for development.
EPAs Brownfields Rede\ elopmeiil
Initiative empowers states.
communities and other stakeholders
(o assess, clean up and reuse brown-
fields. Since 1995. EPA has provided
up to S200.000 in seed money to
over 300 states, tribes, local
governments and nonprofit groups
across the nation to expedite cleanup
or assessment of local sites. Region 8
eflorts include funding pilot projects
and research, clarifying liability
issues, entering into partnerships.
conducting outreach, developing job
training programs and addressing
environmental justice concerns.
A.i of 1999. Region 8 has provided
funding and teeliiiical support for 17
Brovvnfields Redevelopment Pilot
projects. These pilots will test
redevelopment models, remove
regulatoiy barriers while ensuring
protection, and strengthen site
assessment, environmental cleanup
and redevelopment efforts. Salt Lake
City's 650-acre Gateway District is
one example. The area is a former
industrial center' that is severelv
\cir (/('i'('l(>/>iticiil near Dearer. CO.
Till1 i/i//xiclx of [ironih and
lerclopiiicnl pone /xilen/ialh' nis>nific(iat
earn oiiiiienUil elialleiii>et< foi both I
(i/K/ ai/idll coiiiiiiiuiiliex.
impacted by abandoned sites and
changing transportation networks.
Efforts are uudcrvvav to clean up
and redevelop the District to expand
mixed-use development and provide
support facilities for the 2002 \\iiiter
Olympics.
Tribal Communities
Region 8 includes 26 federally
recognized Indian reservations and
27 tribes. Indian Country
encompasses 15.1 million acres.
approximately 4.-t% of the total land
area in Region 8.
One of EPA Region 8's highest
priorities is to protect public health
and the env iromnent in Indian
Country. Many tribal communities
are at the same place rural areas of
many states were 25 years ago.
Many lack basic chinking water and
wastewater systems, and the ability
to safelv manage or dispose of solid
~ I
and hazardous waste. In addition.
many communities on tribal lands
face challenging environmental
issues including leaking
underground storage tanks, access to
clean and safe drinking \\ater. and
groiuidwater contamination from
animal feedlots.
Most Region 8 tribes are still
developing the ahilitv to assume full
responsibility for running
environmental programs. Because
Indian Reservations are sovereign
nations -- autonomous and
independent of state authority --
EPA has what is called "trust
responsibility to directly manage
environmental programs in Indian
Country. These responsibilities
include issuing permits, conducting
inspections, taking enforcement
(,'d/('i/'d\ Xlioircaxe I'm/I'd. Sail Lake Cil\.
Tin- dbtiiifloiied /HUH! nidiitifdclniinii
bi/ildi/i" shoirn abore inll he rcderelopcd
into 50 lioii.iinsi mills mill retail .ilto/ix in
2000. Ili/Miii(lui!> lint, /\/x' ofnit.ied-iise
dei'e/o/iiiieiil in/I he a niliea/.ile/> in llie
rcntdlizdlion oj f/tc (idlcinn Di.sf/tct.
actions, and providing technical and
compliance1 assistance. In 1999. EPA
Region 8 conducted over 600
inspections in Indian Couutiy.
EPAs long-term goal is to support
each tribe in developing the capacitv
and expeitise to run its own environ-
mental programs. The Tribal Assist-
ance1 Program afso provides general
and financial assistance, helps with
assessing environmental conditions.
and develops environmental
management agreements with
individual tribes.
U filer t/iitilih'ft.i,ie,i.iiiieiit iroik irilli l/ie
I Idiidi can Stia/ee Sioit.i Tube in So/il/i
Ddkotd. I'rondinii support for
('nriroiiineiitdlprogram derelo/tineal on
Irihdl ltiiit/,1 1.1 a bi<>/)ii(>nl\ in llc
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KP\ REGION 8 • 30 \f. \RS OF ENVIROYMEN I \L PROGRESS
-------
E,
j eosystems are our basic life support systems ill the
natural world. Region 8's mountains, canyons, forests.
plains and deserts harbor dozens of luiique ecosystems --
places that are home to some of the most recognizable and
\alned areas in ihe nation. Examples of familiar places
where these s\ stems tlul\e include: Glacier. Rocky
Mountain. Zion. Black Cam on of the Gnnnison. Arches
and \ellowstoneNational Parks. I tails Great Salt Lake.
Wyoming's Thunder Basin Grassland and the Prairie
Pothole Region of North and South Dakota.
Ecosystems I rnder Pressure
\\liile the march of progress has raised our standard of
living, it has also stretched the health of our ecosystems to
their limits. Since the early 1800s. human activities have
significantly altered natural systems. Region 8 has lost
large portions of its nati\e wetland, riparian, forest and
prairie habitats to agriculture, mining, residential and
commercial development, and water management
practices. Mam species have suffered as a consequence.
\\ liile .still some of the most diverse and intact systems in
our nation. Region 8 s ecosystems are under pressure.
Large tracts of open space characterize much of out
Region's land area: however, the ecosystems found in these
areas are being affected by habitat fragmentation and
destruction, and In the pollution of the environments
plants and animals need to survive.
Aquatic ecosystems are also being impacted. Se\en major
liver systems, including the Colorado. Missouri and
.Vrkansas begin in Region 8. These ri\er systems are
famously manipulated to provide drinking water.
irrigation, flood control, power generation and other
benefits \\ater qtialit) changes and the elimination ol
habitats linked to these once free-flowing rivers ha\e been
significant. Surface waters are particularl) \nlnerable to
pollution from agriculture, mining and water capture/
transport systems. Cumulatively, these pressures have
affected communities offish, birds, insects and plants.
Regulator)- Roles
EPAs regulator) responsibilities related to ecosystems are
largely encompassed in two laws: the Clean \\ater Act
(C\VA) and the National Environmental Policy \ct
(\EPA). I nder the (AVA. EPA provides support to state
agencies to restoie and protect rivers and lakes so the\ can
support healthy aquatic communities. The C\\ \ also
includes provisions for protecting surface waters and
wetlands from the impacts of development projects. EPA
reviews and comments on permit applications submitted
to the Ann) Corps of Engineers in older to ensure
compliance with these provisions and to minimize
environmental impacts. Region 8s wetlands program also
provides grants -- over S1.o million in 1()')() -- to states.
tribes and local governments for wetlands assessment
and restoration projects.
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l,l'\ Kl,(,l<>\ « • 3(1 V. I. VliS 01 I \\ IHONMI \ I VI l'K()(;iil,SS
and the site was
\KP\ requires federal agencies to
identify and consider the environ-
mental impacts of theii actions EPA
independently reviews eii\ iron-
mental impact statements (EISs)
and offers technical assisianee and
recommendations to other agencies
and the President s Council ol Envi-
ronmental Qualilv. Because a large
part of Region <"> is federally owned
and managed land. \EP\ activities
are critical to protecting ecosysienis.
Region 8 stall reviews and com-
ment-, on dozens of EISs each vear.
\rclie.i \alional Park. I lull. Region S
;.s /ionic tit xii/nc oj l/tc inns/ scenic
and ecoh>iiic(ill'\ iinit/nc places in
I lie mi/ion.
EPAs effort*, to clean up waste .sites
through the Siiperhmd program also
contribute to ecosystem restoration.
In Eeadville. Colorado the cleanup
of hundreds of acres of contam-
inated mine \\asie is leading to
improvements in the I pper
\rkansas Ri\er. for (he lirst time in
vears. trout are returning to stretches
of the river in waters thai were once
contaminated with heaw metals.
'I'lic decline u/ llie bixttn. in nniin
ii'(i\.t a symbol of l/ic //c.s/ .s na/n/al
abundance, .sc/vcv at tc.itinioin' to
hninan itii/xtclti on eco.\} sleins. '/o(la\.
a xinall IKK lion oj I lie once //n/lion.f of
bison sinrire in I lie icestein I .S.
Enforcement Activities
KPVs enloreement activities also
play an important role in ecos\slem
protection and restoration. 1'or
example. Region 8 is increasingly
incorporating supplemental
en\ ironmental projects (SEI's)
focused on ecosystem restoration
into case settlements. Enforcement
vvoik related lo Superlnnd sites is
also leading to improvements.
Recent highlights include:
•In 1992-W1 an oil pipeline
discharged thousands ol gallons
of oil into Camas Creek on the
Flathead Indian Reservation in
Montana, causing damage to
wildlife. "I'asses and aquatic plants.
hi 1W). Re»ion 8 reached a
.settlement where the responsible
companies paid a SlOo.OOO penaln~
and restored the area. I he
companies also committed to a
SI.WOOD .supplemental
environmental project to construct
fish |wssa on the Jocko River.
\\etlands are amonii' the most
SVStems III MIC World
water quality, store water during
floods, and slowly release rain, snow-
melt, gronndwaler and lloodwaters.
\\ellands are home lo nearlv one-
lieii'ion o s we
wet meadows, lens, rina
ese pothole wetlands arc
icriea s most orod
live habitats, jjenei
(crlowl no
iratorv hir<
/./'I'.s rerieir and coi/nnen/s on a
ire/lands/x'/'i/iil in \rrada. (0 lie/pcd
local leade/s sure a pristine in ban
irelland jnnn derelopinenl. Inalead oj
be/nsi filled in and pared ore/, the
irellands became Tiro I'ands \alional
lldd/i/e Refuse.
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m:\Lrm i,( os\sii:\is
Estimated Wetland Losses
178(Ts- 1980"s
Stale Acres in H80 Acres in 1980 %
MT
\D
SD
IT
\\V
Total
2.000 000
1.H7.000
4.«2^ 500
2 •'35 100
802.000
2 000.000
13611.000
1 000 000
840.300
2.490 000
1.^80.000
558 000
1 250.000
^918.300
42%
I lixloiudl irelldiid.i lox.ici i/i lleiiion S
/,/' I .v i onniinnih -bated d/>/>/oli/>/<> xltoirx irelldiidx rexlo-
lulitin 11 ink in llie icalei slied.
This project is intended to restore
the threatened bull trout population
and preserve one of Montana s
genet icall) pure populations of
cutthroat trout.
• EPVs litigation against the VKCO
mine near Silver Bow Creek -- a
tributarv of the Clark Eork River in
Montana -- is also leading to
significant icstoration activities. EPV
stepped in to begin restoring the
severelv polluted aiea in 1 ()()5 w 11 h
an extensive cleanup plan. In 1(K)()
EPY obtained a settlement in which
VKCO paid SoO million to clean up
the Superhmd sile. Additional
penalties, damage pavments and
cleanup costs totaled over SlOO
million, supporting" continued
cleanup activities and restoration
piojects Mich as die construction
oi 1.000 acres of wetlands in the
area. Residents arc planning for
trails and lishing spots along the
reviving stream.
Community-Based,
Voluntary' Protection
\\hile not a direct regulatory
activity EPYs community-based
approach to environmental
protection is a cornerstone in
ensuring healthy and sustainable
ecosystems. The approach relies on
local organizations to build consen-
sus in communities as thev idenlilv
and solve environmental problems.
\\ here local environmental goals
correspond to EPAs bioad statutory
goals. EPV offers communities
technical and financial support.
Since 1W2. EPA lias worked
intensive!) on both small- and large-
scale ecosvstems. Tor example.
Region o is cmploving the
comniiuiitv-based approach to
l>n'axnre (ind llie xlocknt" of nun-
i KI I ire 11 on I iiienlly reduced llie
dixlnl)nlion mid tihnndiince oj lite
iidlire ciitllirotil Innil in Colorado.
llccorcn ejjoitx for the federally
lliredlened iiieeiilxick hare bronnlit
il buck tnul e.ii>dnded ilx i'(inu,e xo
//HI I 11 linx been doiriilisted jiom
"endditsiered" //> "lliienlened. "
watershed restoration an
vv asle issues in llie (Hear (ireek
watershed near Denver. In
paitnernhip with other agencies and
organi/alioiis. El'V has realized
water quality improvements in Clear
Creek that fai suipa.s.s what could
have been accomplished thioiigh
regulator) approaches alone.
Current large-scale, geographic
initiatives are now imderwav in the
I |>|)cr Missouri River Basin and the
Colorado Plateau.
I he Missouri is the longest river
the I .S.. traversing all or parts <
stales and 2o Indian reservation?
I he I pper Missouri basin s at|ii<
(lams and rcse
seasonal now
diverse
and waler uualilv
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I:P\ KKGION « • :w ^ i: VKS OK i:\\ IKONW.NTAI.
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•T,
_hink Globally Act Locally" urged a popular
bumper Clicker llial appealed in the late 1080s. The
slogan is a reminder of the environmental roles and
responsibilities we all share Cumulatively, local decisions
and issues impact global environmental conditions.
LPA recognizes that making progress in environmental
protection depends on the work we do. as individuals.
businesses and organizations, to minimize the
environmental impacts oi our daily activities. Region 8
works with various partners to promote local decisiou-
makiug that considers the basic question. "How can I
become more efficient in how 1 use the earth s
[•('sources? \\c can all do better, and Region 8 is
involved in many programs and partnerships that offer
technical assistance and incentives to change in vvavs
that benefit the planet and. olten. yield economic
benefits as well.
I'ollulion Prevention (1*2)
\\ith the 1000 Pollution Prevention Acl. LPA made
pollution prevention a strategy of choice. By 2000. some
10 000 companies nationwide are expected to be
participating in voluntary pollution prevention programs.
Iheir participation will save them almost S^7 billion a
year in energy, raw materials, and waste treatment and
disposal costs. In Region 8. proactive prevention efforts
encompass several areas.
Toxic waste reduction focuses on substances that harm
people when inhaled, swallowed or absorbed through the
skin. As tracked in the 100"7 Toxics Release Inventory
(TR1). large industrial and federal facilities in Region 8
released a total of 108 million pounds of toxics into the
air. surface water and land. However, these facilities also
recycled over 157 million pounds of toxics and used
another 30 million for energy recovery. According to the
past 10 years of TR1 reporting. Region 8 industries have
cut their on- and off-site releases of TRI chemicals bv
nearh 25%. or 50 million pounds, since 1088.
Solid waste reduction and recycling means less use o(
limited natural resources and less waste sent to landiills.
The.se activities also provide substitute raw materials
for manufacturing and promote economic growth by
creating new market opportunities. Two KPA programs
support this important effort.
• LPAs \\asle\\ise program encourages businesses to
adopt cost-effective practices to reduce solid waste
generation, collect waste materials for recycling, and
increase the manufacturing or purcha.se of recycled
products. Nationally since 100-t. participants have
recycled more than 10 million tons and have purchased
more than six million tons of recycled products. Region 8
currenth has 31 \\aste\\ise business partners.
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\us 01 i,\\ IHONMIM \i. i>no(,m:ss
• The Tolls Through Recycling
initiative (JTR) expands markets
for recycled and reusable materials.
stimulates eeonomic de\ elopment
and create-^ jobs. From 1()()4 to
1WQ. this program offered grants.
market information onireach and
networking among recycling
professional--. In Montana, for
example, a SMI 000 JTR grant to
develop local markets lor recycled
glass has diverted more than
1.000 tons ol posi-consumer
solid waste from landfills.
('(/rdlxx/rd n>c\cliiiii lacdil\. Rensiiiii
d/ifI n'c\clin ST\R products.
businesses and consumers
d eneriiv b
Removed p<
dioxide (SO.,)
Ui't
-------
dioxide (C(X) levels and global
temperature. According to Antarctic
ice core measurements. CO2 levels
are higher today than at any time
in the past 160.000 years. Those
who believe global warming is
happening conclude that if (!().>
levels continue to rise at this rate.
temperatures will likel\ rise too.
Region 8 provides information to
the public regarding the possible
impacts of global warming, and
what can be done to reduce COj
emissions and other gases that
contribute to the greenhouse effect.
Outreach efforts are targeted to
four sectors which are likely to be
adversely impacted In climate
change. These sectors -- which are
also uniquely capable of reducing
greenhouse gas emissions or
communicating the risks of climate
change to the public -- include
cities, forests and agricultural land
managers, outdoor recreation and
wildlife organizations, and
businesses, lenders and
insurance companies.
KP\s Climate Wise program also
helps companies turn energy
efficiency and pollution prevention
into corporate assets. Participants
reduce energy use and greenhouse
gas emissions and leam how to
raise profits and prodneth it\
through management practices
focused on avoiding costly
remedial environmental work.
Participants are encouraged to
innovate in designing approaches
that work best for their
organization. Region 8 currently
has 40 Climate\\ise partners.
Bv choosum P2 options
i<;e ecological loo
know, for e\a
Did von
i«e l.hineser \\i
ol the world s population, we
20% of all
>aper produced. Our
as the resl o
Iso produce al><
(I s toxic was
re at the IK
shopping for ;
new veluc
der the consei
lases. W hen i
led hvl>7()
:M'S. mestvie el
is. and eneriiv-
dowsand ap
ake a m<; d
Polvchlorinated Biphenyls
(PCBs)
PCBs are very stable man-made
chemicals that bioaccuinulate in
living things at the lop of the food
chain, including fish, birds.
mammals and humans. Commonh
used as insulating fluids in
electrical equipment. PCBs have
been found all over the world.
constituting a global tlueat to
human health and ecos\ stems. For
example. PCBs interfere with the
reproduction of plutoplanktnn --
the base of the ocean lood chain
and a large contributor to the worlc
oxygen supply.
KPA Region 8 recently presented a
paper. "PCBs. Mining and Water
Pollution to the international
communitv at the 1C)()()
International Hazardous Waste
Management conference in Tucson
AZ. The Region is working \\ith tin
I nited Nations Knviromnenlal
Program (I \KP) on worldwide
distribution of the paper, which
describes the hazards of
abandoning PCBs in underground
mines. Region 8 is also parlneied
\\itfi I >sKP in conducting an
imentor) of PCBs in the
former So\iet Republics and
third-world countries.
lakes up !.)-_.) /» o
homes and buildings can b
a •S.OOO-siiiiiire-l'ool
•e would Mil I •) lame dumps
2000 can sa
111)1080'
aiidlill wasle to three (lump
50-70% of ret a
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I:P\ RKGION K • :«> \I.\KS or I:\\IKO\\II:M \i. PKOCKKSS
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T,
.he I'.S. has achieved remarkable improvement:! in
environmental quality over the past 30 years, Ihis
success is largely due to strong environmental laws that
have evolved over time, and the coordinated efforts of
EPA and its many partners. As the character of
environmental degradation and pollution has changed.
.so too ha\e EPAs approaches. Today, challenging
' second generation" issues such as urban sprawl.
rionpoint source pollution and global climate change
re<|uire more integrated. collaborati\e and innovative
.strategies. EPA continues to develop new wavs oi doing
business to address these issues more effectively
1 laving a Denver office allows EPA Region o to tailor
its work to the unique circumstances of our six stales.
Region 8s states are landlocked, mostly arid and pre-
dominantly rural. Here, abundant public lands and
natural resources support agiicnltural and extractive
industries, as well as strong recreational and tourism-
based economies. Growth is also a dominant theme.
Between 1990 and 2000. one million new residents
moved into Region 8 and over l..~> million more are
expected by 2010.
In approaching the environmental impacts related to
these circumstances. Region 8 emplovs a varietv of
initiatives and voluntary programs that focus on
developing partnerships, increasing compliance.
enhancing agency performance and addressing specific
issues such as agriculture and mining.
Siistfiinahlc IJerelopmtml
EPA recognizes sustainable development as the
touchstone for environmental protection. The term
sustainable development means "to meet the needs ol
the present without compromising the ability ol future
generations to meet their own needs. A sustainable
L nited Stales will have a growing economy opportunities
for satisfying livelihoods and a high quality of Hie lor
generations to come.
Region 8 is highly innovative in promoting sustainable
development. For example. Region 8 and the Denver
regional office of the I S. Department of Ener»'v signed
~ 1 ~. ~
a framework agreement in 1999 to promote and jointlv
market energv efficiency, renewable energ) and
environmental technologies. This collaboration will boost
resource efficiency, improve customer service and send a
stronger, more consistent message to the public about the
benefits of clean energy.
EPA also uses Sustainable Development Challenge
Grants to support state, local and community-based
initiatives. Region 8 received over -tO grant applications
in 1998. and allocated some S328.000. Six projects were
funded in 1999 for a total of S366.000. Many grants
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I l'\ HI UO\ K • :!(! V I \KS <>l I \\ IKONVII M VI I'KOUil SS
support projects direct!) related to
growth and development issues.
including rewriting zoning rules in
Hood-prone areas of \ortli Dakota.
and assessing land-use patterns
using satellite imagery in Colo-
rado n Big Thompson watershed.
Region 8 also hosts workshops and
delivers presentations, training and
technical support to many
organizations. Foi example. Region
8 siall supported the design ol
green building standards for the
redevelopment of the former
Demer Stapleton Virport property.
In ]()()c). the Malaysian government
requested staff ex])(>rtise in
designing an environmental
andiiing program tbi its industrial
sectoi The Region also delKered a
week-long series ol siistainaMe
development \\orkshojjs at the
Bi-national Commission
meeting of the I .S. -Mexico Border
21 program in Kiisefiada. Mexico.
Agriculture
Agriculture including crop and
livestock production, is one of the
most important economic sectors in
Region 8. It is also the leading
cause of \\ater quality problem^ in
oni states. Polluted runoff from
cropland, the misuse of pesticides.
and poor grazing practices are
among the most \\ide.spread
concerns associated with
agricultural activities.
Hecogni/ing that the participation
of agricultural interests is vital to
future environmental progiess.
Region o recently established
improving relationships with the
agricultural community as its
highest priority To ensure an
Historical and Projected
Population Growth
integrated, effective response to
critical issues. Region 8 recentlv
established an Agricultural
\dvisorv Team (AAT). The A AT
has developed working
relationships with Lev stakeholders
including our State Departments of
Agriculture. State Farm Bureaus
and other agricultural groups.
Semi-annual \grirnltnre
Partnership meetings foster
understanding and a coordinated
approach to problem-solving, often
1TO 1980 1990 2000 2010
>«/;«• ( ^ < rnw, fin,mil
\iiiirnlliin'. /iii'li/i/i/i" c/op
production and lii/ I/IC.IC (K'lll'llK'1
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11 n id (im 11 \(,i s
action. The team also sponsors a
speakers series, provides program
support and advises staff on
various issues. Priority areas
include animal feedlols. pesticide
ri.sk reduction, sustainable
agricultural practices, water issues.
genetic engineering, commu-
nications and partnerships.
Mining
Addressing the environmental
impacts of past mining activities is
an enormous challenge. I here are
Past Producer I lard-Rock
Mining Sites
\\alrnliecl and National Rank
# ot Sue-
#2 Cleai Cieek CO
#.{ I'ppei Doloie,. CO-IT
#4 Arkansas Headwaier, CO
#6 St Vraiii. CO
#^ I ppei \rkansa» (JO
#8 San Miguel CO
#14 Lower Doloie.-, CO-IT
#1o I'ppt-i Mi^oun MT
Soiticc- I .S. Geological Surn>\-
over 13.000 abandoned hard-lock
mine sites in Region 8. and main
continue to threaten human and
ecosystem health. Runoff from
exposed rock and leaching piles
can earn heavy metals and toxics
into nearln rivers and streams.
acidifying and poisoning large areas
of water, hi some areas, native fish
and animal populations have been
severely imparted, requiring
extenshe cleanup efforts. Restoring
water quality and soils in severely
polluted areas is a priority. Region
8s efforts build on national and
regional initiatives to develop
multi-media and multi-statute
approaches to managing
abandoned and active mines.
Oxer half ol Region 8s most set ions
hazardous waste sites -- those on
the Superfuiid National Prioiity
List (Nl'L) -- are abandoned mines
or processing lacilities. and many
nevA and proposed NPL sites are
related to mining. 'I he Region has
made considerable progress at these
sites. Through Superlund for
example, wastewater treatment
plants now manage discharges from
the worst abandoned mine siies.
Region 8 also is working to ensure
that current mining operations
provide1 adequate measures for
protecting the environment.
Mine waste issues are also
addressed through communilv-
based partnerships, watershed
approaches and information
technology tools such as geographic
information systems (CIS). Region
8s mining team helps coordinate
these activities, locuses on emerging
mining-related environmental
issues and aids die enforcement
team in employing a sector-
based approach to promote
env ironmental compliance.
Lnrironmenlal Justice
The Knvironmental Justice (K.I)
program evohed from the idea of
"environmental equity -- a
concept that began gaining
momentum in the mid-l('80s. The
basis of E.I is that no communitv
al Dison (.oopcrative
ola received a l(l()8
uldilion lo he
development o
lor me InDe:
cullural rev
.•presents a
Klilional wav
sue annroacii mat haiances
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I l'\ III UON H • :il) M VUS or I \\IKO\\II VI \l
l SS
should be forced lo heai a
disproportionate share of
environmental impacts. Vn
Executive Order signed by
President Clinton in February 1994
required federal agencies to
incorporate environmental justice
considerations into decision-
making, "to the maximum extent
practical and permitted by law."
Region 8 established an K.I
program in 1995 with the goal of
incorporating EJ considerations
into EPA program work. Now in its
sixtli year, the EJ program has
conducted over 30 E.I trainin<>
workshops, and has provided
program guidance and consultation
sen-ices to state and federal agency
counterparts. The KJ program also
provides communities educational
and financial assistance in
identify ing and addressing local
environmental problems. From
1994-1999. the program has
provided 94 grants totaling S2.7
million to local go\ernnients.
colleges and universities, nonprofit
organizations and religious
institutions. Tribes have received 39
grants totaling over SI million,
Compliuncf. \s.sislanct>
In the past decade, compliance
assistance has emerged as an
ef fee the tool in helping the
regulated community meet and
exceed environmental requirements.
Although EPA will always
vigorously pursue those who \iolate
environmental laws, providing
brochures, manuals, training.
outreach, and technical assistance
to industry can significantly
increase voluntary compliance. In
1999. for example. EPA opened
four new Compliance Assistance
Center-, lor the paints and coatings
industry, transportation industry.
small and medium-si/ed chemical
manufacturers, and local
governments. There are no\\ a total
of nine compliance centers online.
which receive an average of 7oO
website hits per day. In addition to
the centers. EPAs other compliance
assistance efforts reached
approximately 330.000 entities
through on-site visits, hotlines.
\\orkshops. training and
distribution of checklists and
guides in 1999 alone.
ARGO
UNNEL
893
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:><>().000 />t'/>/>li\ I'm \ciirs: l/ic \i!>o
liiiini'l (/!>/>/. ii mini' i/'iitli1 I'luiiluil.
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I I 11 HI CIIVI I I \(.l S
Region os recenl initiative in the
dry cleaning sector is just one
example ol a compliance assistance
success. KPA made the review of
dry cleaning opeiatioiis and their
use of tetrachloroethylene (' perc
or PCK) a priority in the l()()()s.
"Perc . a toxic solvent commonly
used by dry cleaners is suspected
of causing cancer in humans.
Region revenlion
measures. KP\. stale agencies and
small business programs did
extensive work lo conduct
inspections and asses-, initial
compliance. Subsequent assistance
Improving Compliance in the
DrvUoa
Ifcfiian S .v onlieiicli and (iviislaiu e
('//(/I/A ll'll/l ill I llealllllii !>/>('/(l/IOIIS
increased CH/lljl/la/H'e It} -t'2"/'tt. Ill
l( it <±t' pai I tint' la I lie prtr( IHIXC oj
f/cttiu'f iiHiclntit's. In ntlililion.
upci iitoi v jxtlliilion pi ('rentitm
mil HI! ire* i educed pci c r////.s.s/f>//.s /;i
(diinil .')•)' Inns.
yielded impressive compliance
increases and reductions in
perc emissions.
Closing Thoughts
Nationally ami regionally, we have
achiexed significant improvements
in the quality of the air we breathe.
the water we s\\im in and drink.
and the places \\e li\e. Though few
ma\ remember when air quality
\iolations and raw se%\age spills
were coinmon occurrences, our
einironnient is in far belter .shape
today than a few decades ago.
It is notable that KPA's laws, and
programs are working in liarmom
with economic prosperity.
Nationally, our population grew
'•}\% and our dross Domestic
Product 1:50% from 1 <)?()-1<)
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\
ICu&t
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L .S. l.n\ iromnrolal Protection Agcm'% Region 8
\ddre- <)()<) K!ih Si . Sir. .">()() Dcinci ( () <'!02():>-1>-K><>
Oncral liilomiiiiion (>()()-22"7-/
Informal ion Resources
l',l'\ I lead<|iiarUT^ I loinepage
lill/>://ii'ir/r. c/>n. Udf
Kn\"irolac|s
Surf Vmr \\alershed
Dii'ecl Links lo l',ii\ ti oinnenlal
Region 8 State Agencies
Colorado Deparunenl ol Public I leallh and ilie Kn\ noniiie
North Dakota Dcparlnienl ol I Ic.ildi
I ,n\ noiinieiilal I leallh Section
III I />://! /•ifir./H'ti/l/i.xId/c. nil. ii\/ii(//ii//i'/iriioii
Noilh Dakota Depai'linenl ol Vuncnlliiic
I/I l/>://inrir.x/(//i'. /id. ux/ti»r/
South Dakota Depaitnienl ol I .n\ iionment
iicnltnic
III I/ >://!/ •ii'ii'..il(i/i'.:i://! ririr.e/iti. intr/i eiitoiiOS/xIdte^/lnhal. hi nil
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