1988
National Network
for Environmental I
• • P
Policy Studies |
• I
1988 Topic Catalogue J
m "Working Draft" I
• January 22,1988 j
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Table of Contents
. Topic Selection and Negotiation
TOPIC SECTIONS
Air and Radiation
Water Quality
Waste Management
Pesticides and Toxics
Enforcement and Compliance
Multi-Media
1
13
54
69
77
82
APPENDIX
. Sample Student Topic Proposal
Blank SF-171
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Region, 5, Library (5^L-1^)
§. P^rborn Street,
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TOPIC SELECTION and NEGOTIATION
SELECTION
General:
Graduate students from any University participating in the NNEPS
program are invited to submit written research proposals to EPA on the
topics/projects contained in this catalogue. There is no limit to the
number of proposals EPA will consider from a particular student.
However, EPA will only consider proposals on funded topics from those
students certified eligible to compete for these topics by the University
NNEPS Coordinator.
Proposal Process:
• Proposals should adhere to the format contained in the appendix of
this catalogue and should be accompanied by a graduate transcript.
Students competing for funded topics must also submit a completed
and signed SF-171. The blank SF-171 contained in the appendix
may be photocopied and used for this purpose.
• The proposal(s), transcript and SF-171 should be submitted to the
University NNEPS Coordinator in sufficient time to allow for
formal transmittal to EPA.
• Written proposals on topics contained in this catalogue will be
accepted for consideration between January 25 and
February 19, 1988.
NEGOTIATION
General:
Proposals received by February 19,1988 will be transmitted to the
respective project sponsors for consideration. Upon review, EPA
sponsors will contact the students of interest by phone to negotiate
project details. Negotiation should be complete by mid-March 1988.
page i
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•NNEP&
NNEPS University Network FY 88
Brigham Young
Public Policy & Administration
Law School
Cornell
Center for Environmental Research
Ecology Center for Excellence
Drexel University
Environmental Engineering
Environmental Sciences
Duke
School of Forestry and Environmental Sciences
Institute of Policy Sciences and Public Affairs
George Mason University
Center for Conflict Resolution
Harvard
Environmental & Occupational Health
Kennedy School of Government
Rutgers
Environmental Sciences
Texas A&M
Public Policy & Administration
Environmental Engineering
Tufts
Center for Environmental Management
Tuskeegee
Environmental Sciences
U. of Arizona
Public Policy & Administration
Hydrology and Water Resources
U of California (Berkeley)
Law School
Public Policy & Administration
Environmental Engineering
U. of Colorado (Boulder)
Cooperative Inst for Environmental Studies
Business School
Law School
U of Hawaii (East-West Center)
Geography and Environmental Planning
U. of Idaho (Moscow)
College of Forestry
Environmental Policy
U. of Illinois (Chicago)
Public Policy & Administration
Ecology
Environmental and Occupational Health
U. of Kansas (Lawrence)
Entymology and Biology
Environmental Engineering
U. of Michigan (Ann Arbor)
Institute for Public Policy
U. of Minnesota (Twin Cities)
HHH School of Public Affairs
Environmental Engineering
U. of North Carolina (Chapel Hill)
Public Policy & Administration
City & Regional Planning
Environmental Science
U of Puerto Rico (San Juan)
Public Health Mgmt Program
Civil Engineering
U. of Sourthern California
Public Policy & Administration
U. of Texas (Austin)
LBJ School of Public Affairs
U. of Virginia
Urban & Environmental Planning
U. of Wisconsin (Madison)
Institute for Environmental Studies
Department of Economics, Agricultural Econ.
Urban and Regional Planning
Yale
School of Forestry & Environmental Sciences.
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AIR and RADIATION
Air Quality Planning and Management
Air Toxics
Ozone
Radiation and Indoor Air Quality
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rAIR and RADIATION.
Question
1101: What are the possible environmental indicators that
could be used to track progress towards environmental
objectives for selected priority problems?
Dimensions: There are several environmental problem areas for which the Office of Air
and Radiation has no systematic means to track and evaluate environmental achievements.
Air toxics and visibility are two such areas. Some data collection may occur, but no
indicators have been established to provide uniformly reported information over time.
Expectations: The result of the study should be recommendations to the Office of Air
and Radiation for sets of environmental indicators to be used to track environmental
achievements in one or more program areas. These indicators would be for program areas
without established indicators.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
OAR/Office of Program Management Operations
EPAHQ
Question
1102: What information and data needs from program managers
are most important in the effective management of the
Regional Offices', air and radiation programs? What
Headquarters' reporting requirements are most important
and which might be eliminated, if any?
Dimensions: Examine the current two-way flow of information and data between
Headquarters program offices and the Regional Air and Radiation Divisions. Make an
assessment of the practical usefulness of this information flow and propose how this
could be better managed through the use of computers, electronic bulletin boards, and
simplified reporting requirments.
Expectations: The study should provide a qualitative assessment of both the current and
short-term requirements of OAR/Regional Office information and data. The study
would catalogue information and data needs through research of EPA files and interviews
with appropriate headquarters and regional staffs. The study could be used by EPA to
establish a priority listing of information and data and to manage it through appropriate
communication technology.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
OAR/Office of Program Management Operations
EPAHQ
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rAIR and RADIATION
Question
1103: What means are available to measure the incremental
effects of differing levels of enforcement and compliance
activity on rates of compliance?
Dimensions: Examine ways to track enforcement activity (e.g., in terms of source
inspections and follow-up actions) and correlate variations in the level of attention given to
both individual emission sources and emission source categories with measured rates of
compliance by those sources and within those source categories.
Expectations: The study should provide a survey of techniques or procedures for tracking
and comparing different levels of staff and other resource committments, as well as
different mixes of enforcement activities. Make conclusions and recommendations about
their relative accuracy and reliability vis-a-vis their ease of application. The results of this
study could be used to optimize air enforcement resource allocations relative to their
expected impacts on rates of stationary source compliance.
Funding Status; Funded
Project Sponsor: OAR/Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards
EPAHQ
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Question
1104: What methods or procedures are most effective for
integrating program and project effectiveness information
into air quality related planning and decision making?
Dimension^; Examine the ways in which information or findings about the effectiveness
and results of air quality related programs or projects are communicated to planning and
decision making personnel. Evaluate the extent to which such information influences
future planning or decision making and facilitates adjustments or corrections in ongoing
activities. The study should explicitly address the potential for communicating information
produced in programs such as EPA's stationary source rule effectiveness evaluation
program and programs to evaluate the effectiveness of air quality related transportation
and land use programs.
Expectations; The study should provide a survey of practices for presenting results of
performance evaluations and for ensuring consideration of such information by decision
makers to permit "mid-course corrections" and to facilitate further planning and
implementation activities.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
OAR/Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards
EPAHQ
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rAIR and RADIATION,
^^
Question
1105: The study would involve the research of the approved
State Implementation Plans (SIP) for the five states in
Region VI and the compilation of a data base and summary
of the currently enforceable SIP.
Dimensions: The Clean Air Act requires in Sec. 110 (h) the periodic update of SIP
requirements. This research question entails a review of past compilations of the
enforceable SIP for the Reg. VI states and the review of revisions to the SIP not
reflected in past compilations. Based upon this review background, the study would entail
preparing a detailed summary of the content of the currently enforceable state SIPs, including
the documentation of the specific revisions and the specific submittals and correspondence
which makes up the SIP. The study would also entail developing a computerized data base
for tracking this information and future updates. This study will give the researcher an
indepth knowledge of the State Air Pollution regulation development process and the SIP
review and approval process.
Expectations: The study should provide a compilation of the enforceable State Implementation
Plan for Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. This compilation would
include a computerized data base (i.e., DBase III) and a sumarry of the approved portions
of the SIP for each region VI State. This study could be used to facilitate the Regions
ability to review future SIP revisions and to enforce the existing SIP.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
SIP New Source Section
EPA Reg. VI
Y//////////S/.
W////////S.
Question
1106: To what extent can emissions planning, at a multi-state
power pool or reliability region level, be integrated
with demand-side and supply-side planning initiatives?
Dimensions: Using one reliability region or power pool as an example, the researcher would
review the power pool's purpose and operation; the institutional and regulatory environment
it operates within, and the same for the pools member utilities. The researcher would review
member utilities'existing and planned demand management and energy conservation programs
and report on the potential contribution these programs could make to mitigate adverse
impacts of acid rain control legislation.
Expectations: The study should provide a critical discussion of the ability of a power pool
or reliability region to act as regional coordinator for an emissions reductions program.
S/he would discuss the implications for a regional interstate acid rain control program of
current legal and institutional constraints.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor.
OAR/Office of Policy Analysis and Review
EPAHQ
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rAIR and RADIATION,
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Question
1107:
Does air dispersion modeling predict representative
ambient air impacts?
Dimensions: Select an area that has a stationary source(s) which emits SO(2) and/or
paniculate matter in sufficient quantities. Use EPA-approved air dispersion models and
predict what the ambient air levels would be in the vicinity of that source(s). Establish
ambient air monitoring sites at the locations predicted by the model to be the "hot spots".
Gather SO2 or particulate data by monitoring at those sites for a representative period of
time.
Expectations: The study should determine if the ambient air impacts predicted by EPA-
approved dispersion models reflect accurate estimates of actual ambient air impacts. The
comparison of monitoring data and predicted levels will provide the basis for the study.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Air, Pesticides & Toxics Management Division
EPA Reg. IV
Question
1108: Can stationary source controls continue to mitigate the
effects of rapid growth in Reg. IX? What role will
transportation control measures (TCMs) play?
Dimensions: Address the following issues: What is the relationship between TCMs and
growth? Do TCMs that increase the capacity of a roadway ultimately induce growth? What
type of growth control, if any, is necessary? Address the issues and dilemmas of regional
growth control. Describe land use planning techniques that may reduce the rampant growth
in vehicle miles traveled (VMT), i.e., job/house balance.
Expectations: The study should result in information that could be used as guidance
for local agencies to deal with the issues of transportation/growth/air quality.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Air Programs Branch
EPA Reg. IX
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rAIR and RADIATION,
Question
1109: What control technologies are cost effective in controlling
air emissions from small (25-27 ton per day) municipal
incinerators?
Dimensions: Survey 4 Reg. X States for the existence of small municipal incinerators and
identify projected incinerators in the planning stage. Survey state pollution agencies around
the U.S. and EPA headquarters for data on cost, emissions, operating parameters, and
problems and emission controls employed at existing small incinerators.
Expectations: The study should provide a summary of existing and planned small incinerators
in Reg. X. It should also include a summary of emission and operational controls employed at
existing small incinerators, their effectiveness in controlling emissions and their cost.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Air Programs Branch/Air and Toxics Division
EPA Reg. X
Question
1110:
How does the Sahara Desert dust, blown across the
Atlantic into the Caribbean affect air quality? (An
attempt to correlate air quality "violations" to natural
phenomena).
Dimensions: Gather, analyze (and correlate) data accumulated by NOAA (weather bureau)
and the Puerto Rico Environmental Quality Board in order to establish the relationship between j
Sahara Desert dust episodes and paniculate violations across Puerto Rico. "Violations'
are known to occur in areas otherwise in compliance. These "violations" are not
recognized under present regulations as natural phenomena.
Expectations: The study would address the research question utilizing available data and
statistical techniques.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor: Air and Waste Management Division
EPA Reg. II
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rAIR and RADIATION
What information do the various states use as a basis for
Air Toxics Program Development?
Question
1201:
Dimensions: Examine the approaches used by State agencies to address Air Toxics Program
development and mitigation processes. Evaluate the scientific basis of regulations/controls
used by various States, i.e., are Air Toxics regulations based on inventory reduction,
health effects data, or risk assessment? Review and integrate work done by EPA and
State agencies; Explore steps EPA can take to resolve policy differences among States
with widely varying approaches to Air Toxics mitigation/regulation.
Expectations: The study should provide a survey of information that could allow an evaluation
of State Air Toxics Programs and recommendations as to how the Agency's nationwide
air toxics strategy can be more effectively implemented.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Air Management Division
EPA Reg. Ill
Question
1202: How may EPA effectively manage an interactive public
information program associated with the release of the
toxic pollutant inventory under SARA Sec. 313?
Dimensions: Identify alternative means for providing information to the public concerning
sources, health effects and control practices of toxic pollutants, specifically including
ways to communicate responses to anticipated public inquiries in a timely and
efficient manner. The study should include examination of alternative media and methods
of presentation as well as ways to efficiently compile relevant information.
Expectations: The study should identify efficient and effective means of providing answers to
anticipated questions from the public about the origins, implications and remedial control of
toxic air pollution. The study could assist EPA in developing a public information program and
clearinghouse for responding to public inquiries.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
OAR/Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards
EPAHQ
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rAIR and RADIATION
Question
1203: Is it feasible to measure the concentrations of toxic air
pollutants in urban ambient air using a combination of
infrared spectroscopy and stainless steel canisters?
Dimensions: In previous years faculty members and graduate students at the University
of Kansas have demonstrated the feasibility of analyszing rural air for toxic pollutants
using stainless steel cannisters for sample collection and gas chromatography for
sample analysis. This work will be an extension of that work in that we will add gas
chromotography matrix isolation infrared spectroscopy, and possible long path length
infrared spectroscopy as a means of detecting, identifying, and quantitating selected
pollutants. The previous work will be extended to include some urban air samples. Since
there are many more potential sources of some air pollution in an urban setting relative to a
rural setting, it is more difficult to demonstrate a cause-effect relation using urban air.
The experimental design calls for using the known stainless steel/gas chromatography
procedures as a basis for evaluating the candidate infrared procedures. We will
concentrate on volatile halogenated hydrocarbons since they are found frequently in the
environment. We will include the use of models to locate samplers and to evaluate the
significance of the data from the study.
It is expected that the information from this activity could benefit all EPA programs, but it
would especially benefit the Superfund and air programs. Superfund is now looking at
engineering options for cleaning up several sites in Reg. VII where the soil and/or
groundwater is contaminated with volatile pollutants. Essentially, all of these require some
degree of ambient or source air monitoring.
Expectations: The final product would be a report (perhaps a masters thesis or a doctoral
dissertation) describing the work completed and the conclusions that can be drawn from the
data. In addition, we would like to obtain a set of standard operating procedures describing
how to use the methods to monitor for toxic air pollutants in an urban environment.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Environmental Services Division
EPA Reg. VII
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rAIR and RADIATION,
Question
1204: What are the potential implications of alternative (ozone,
PM10) control strategies to the control of air toxic
pollutants in the (to be selected) source category?
Dimensions: Identify the types and quantities of toxic air pollutants emitted by sources
within the (to be selected) category. Identify candidate control strategies for the control
of (ozone, PM10) and evaluate their relative effectiveness in controlling toxic emissions.
Expectations: Case studies should illustrate the potential air toxics control benefits of
integrating consideration of air toxics potential in strategy evaluation among the programs
to control criteria pollutants. The study could be used by EPA to demonstrate and encourage
integrated environmental analysis and management.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
OAR/Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards
EPAHQ
Question
1205: What are the risks of emitting toxic organics from
sewage treatment plant operations? What are the policy
implications if stringent limits are set for air emissions,
especially for the sewage treatment plants operations?
Dimensions: Review the California South Coast Air Quality Management District's Interim
Policy for Toxics and Risk Assessment along with proposed rules 223 and 1401 on Air
Quality Impact Analysis and New Source Review of Carcinogenic Air Contaminants. Examine
other recent studies on emissions of volatile organic compounds from sewage treatment
plants. Analyze the issues arising from these policies, proposed rules and recent studies.
Expectations: The study should provide a summary of recent research, policies and proposed
regulations governing VOC emissions from sewage treatment plants. Further, the study
should highlight the policy implications of such efforts especially for risk management
decisions and water program decisions in permitting and plant construction.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Status: Water Management Division
EPA Reg. IX
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rAIR and RADIATION,
Question
1301 : How can EPA and the States effectively educate the
public about the health and welfare risks associated
with ozone concentrations above the National Ambient Air
Quality Standards (NAAQS)?
Dimensions: With persistent and widespread nonattainment of the ozone NAAQS in the
Northeast, difficult choices of how much and where to control emissions of ozone precursors
will likely be debated in the public arena. The public must have a better understanding of the
risks and associated costs of continued nonattainment if they are to participate in an informed
way in this debate.
Expectations: This study should result in a broad strategy to communicate with the public
through the media and interest groups. The strategy needs to find vivid ways to present
the message and low cost ways to reach many individuals.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Air Management Division
EPA Reg. I
Question
1302: How does ozone damage crops and forests in New England?
Dimensions: Thirteen areas in New England are still measuring exceedences of the ozone
standard. Ozone at these levels damages food crops and certain tree species in New England.
A survey of the agricultural crops grown in New England that are sensitive and damaged
by ozone, their approximate yield and cash value is needed to determine their economic
value to New England agriculture. Additionally, a survey of the trees that grow in New
England forests or are grown commercially that are sensitive and damaged by ozone is
needed.
Expectations: The study should quantify the economic and aesthetic losses in New England due
to ozone in order to focus public attention and support fora reduction in ozone pollution.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
State Air Programs Branch
EPA Reg. I
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Question
1401: Risks from radon can be high but both researchers and
state officials agree that the public does not respond to
those risks in a "rational" manner. In some cases low
risks are overstated and in other cases high risks are
ignored. In general there is apathy about the problem.
Dimensions: The study should 1) summarize and present relevant research that has been
conducted; 2) present options to both EPA Reg. I and the states for developing a risk
communication strategy, and 3) develop of specific communication tools (press releases,
public service announcements, advertisements) that the region and the states could use to
implement this strategy.
Expectations:
strategy.
This study should result in an aggressive and effective risk communication
Funding Sfafus; Funded
Project Sponsor: Toxics Assessment Section
EPA Reg. I
Question
1402: How appropriate and cost effective are regulatory and
non-regulatory options for preventing and mitigating
indoor air quality problems
Dimensions: Examine indoor air quality problems in terms of the role of product and
material manufacturers, architects and builders, building owners and managers, and consumer
public behavior. Consider possible regulatory and non-regulatory government actions in the
following areas: emissions from manufactured products; indoor air quality standards or
guidelines; design construction and operational practices in buildings, and consumer behaviors
which impact indoor air quality. Evaluate options in terms of the appropriate type of
government intervention (eg; regulatory, information), costs, potential effectiveness, and
appropriate governmental level (federal, state or local),
Expectations: The study should provide an orderly presentation and evaluation of the policy
alternatives related to each of the subject areas identified. Evaluation should take into
account issues of personal choice, private vs. public spaces, existing market and legal
incentives which help or inhibit indoor air quality, government responsibilities to protect
the public health and welfare. Experiences of other government programs in other areas
should be freely referenced. The study could assist EPA in developing indoor air quality
policies and recommendations to Congress pursuant to SARA Title IV.
Funding Status: Funded
Protect Sponsor:
OAR Office of Policy Development
EPAHQ
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TA1R and RADIATION,
^^%%^^
Question
1403: What are the health and cost implications of applying
current Federal Radiation Protection Guidance for
diagnostic X-Rays to federal programs in the public sector?
Dimensions: Examine the potential health benefits of applying the Federal Guidance for
Diagnostic X-Rays to such programs as Medicare, Medicaid, and as advice to privately
funded medical care, and estimate the associated direct and indirect cash savings.
Synthesize existing studies of radiation risk, use of X-rays and the impact of the
guidance on Federal health programs as the basis for this work. The work should be
limited to those aspects of the guidance readily amenable to analysis.
Expectations: Considerable benefits to health and savings of costs have been experienced in
Federal health care programs. If the potential for comparable benefits and savings in the
public sector exists, consideration should be given to alternatives for implementing this
guidance in the public sector. The study results could be used as an eventual EPA publication.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor: OAR/Office of Radiation Programs
EPAHQ
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WATER QUALITY
Marine and Estuarine Protection
Wetlands Protection
Groundwater Protection
Municipal Wastewater Management
Water Quality Program Management
Public Water Supply
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Question
2101: What are the cumulative impacts of coastal outfalls and
combined sewer overflows on the beaches and shellfish
beds in the near coastal waters?
Dimensions: Near coastal protection along Delaware, Maryland and Virginia from the
cumulative impacts of sewage treatment plants and combined sewer overflows is to be
addressed. Identification, mapping and loadings will be assessed for impacts to beach and
shellfish closures. Design of a sampling, in conjunction with EPA/State monitoring, may be
necessary. Statistical correlation to differentiate impacts will be assessed.
Expectations: The impacts of coastal outfalls and combined sewer overflows on the
beaches and near coastal waters needs to be addressed. The results of this study could
provide critical information for the Near Coastal Initiative. Targetted specifically would be
increased protection of the beach community and near shore fishery resources. Students
with analytical technique backgrounds in marine resources, marine biology, oceanography,
and statistics are preferred.
funding States:
Project Sponsor:
Unfunded
Environmental Impact and Marine Policy Branch
Environmental Services Division
EPA Reg. Ill
Question
2102: How can managers identify and collect the state/local
information available for use in management of EPA's
new Near Coastal Waters initiatives? What gaps exist in
the information base?
Dimensions: Recent studies by NOAA have shown that much of the information needed
for management of EPA's NCW initiatives exists only at the state/local level. This infor-
mation, however, is fragmented among the various responsible agencies; it is typically
not entered into any standardized data base, and often exists in the "best professional
judgement* of experienced field biologists. The study will develop an approach and tools that
could assist states in: a) identifying and capturing the currently available information; and b)
assessing the information to identify significant data gaps.
Expectations: Through use of a selected pilot state (probably Washington), complete the
following; develop a draft interview guide to use with each state/local agency to identify the
type and location of data collected, and to quantify "opinions" by field personnel; refine the
interview guide for use as a model based upon experiences in the pilot state; produce a
summary of available information for the pilot state (by agency, type of information, means
of access, etc.); make recommendations on apparent data gaps/conflicts and means of
resolution.
Funding Status:
Project Sponsor:
Unfunded
OP&P Branch/Water Division
EPA Reg. X
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WATER QUALITY*
fm//y/////////////////^^^^^
Question
2103: How much information is required to make an informed
decision on rezoning an estuarine drainage basin in order
to protect and enhance water quality and critical habitat
areas?
Dimensions: Examine the environmental negotiation and dispute resolution
techniques that can be used to achieve administrative consensus in this complex technical
area. Particular attention should be paid to exploring approaches EPA can use to resolve
policy differences among states with widely varying laws, attitudes and approaches to
estuarine water quality and critical habitat protection.
Expectations: The study should provide a report that EPA's Reg. IV could use in addressing
the rezoning issue in the Perdido Bay drainage area and other estuarine drainage areas.
Perdido Bay and its drainage area are on the Florida/Alabama border.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Water Division
EPA Reg. IV
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Question
2104: How can the extent of impacts from floatable debris
in marine combined sewer overflow be characterized,
based on the available data and information?
Qim$r\sions; The study will cover a survey of the existing literature.
Expectations: A 10 page report summarizing the survey of the existing literature.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor: Office of Water Marine and Estuarine Protection
EPAHQ
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2105: What innovative management strategies have been
attempted and successfully implemented in the near
coastal waters dealing with combined sewer overflow
reduction for toxics, nutrients, and floatable debris?
Dimensions: The study will cover a. survey of the existing literature.
Expectations: A 10 page report summarizing the survey of the existing literature
Fundina Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor: Office of Water Marine and Estuarine Protection
EPAHQ
Question
2106: What are the risks associated with land and sea
transport of liquid hazardous waste?
Dimensions: Discuss the general regulatory requirements for the inter and intrastate
transport of liquid hazardous waste. Discuss the state-of-the-art liquid hazardous waste
transport technologies for both land and sea.
Expectations: A 10 page report summarizing the survey of the existing literature. The
study should discuss the spill probabilities associated with each of the above technologies.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor: Office of Water Marine and Estuarine Protection
EPAHQ
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2107:
How should a state's position on ocean incineration
be factored into the permit review process?
Dimensions: The study should consider the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries
Act and its preemptive authority over state ocean disposal activities. Discuss this program
in view of consistency requirements contained in the Coastal Zone Management Act. Relate
this program to 1986 amendments to the Comprehensive Environmental Response,
Compensation and Liability Act requiring states to certify that they have the capacity to
handle hazardous waste generated in their states for the next 20 years. Relate this program
to inland as well as coastal states.
Expectations: This study should examine, in detail, the role of state government in reviewing
permit applications in order to implement a safe and effective ocean incineration program.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Office of Water Marine and Estuarine Protection
EPAHQ
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2201: What are the existing public awareness networks for
wetlands conservation/aquatic ecosystem protection?
How are they currently being used to increase public
appreciation of these sensitive aquatic resources?
Dimensions: Documentation of existing environmental public awareness networks concerning
wetland and aquatic ecosystem protection is needed for the entire Mid-Atlantic Region by
State. This documentation should survey current organizational approaches at the federal-
state-local level (including environmental organizations); and the functions and limits of
current public outreach approaches. The survey should compare these approaches on the
basis of target audience, scope and timing. Suggestions should be offered for improving
routes of communication and participation in carrying out ecosystem protection policies.
Expectations: This study should result in a definitive display of environmental outreach
mechanisms for the entire Mid-Atlantic region. It will be accompanied by an evaluation of the
efficacy of each in terms of content, intended audience and extent of outreach. The completed
study could be directly incorporated into Reg. Ill efforts to improve public awareness of
regional wetlands resources.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Environmental Impact and Marine Policy Branch
Environmental Services Division
EPA Reo. Ill
Question
2202: What are the landscape/spatial characteristics of
wetland resources in Northeastern Pennsylvania?
Dimensions: This study involves an inventory and spatial analysis of wetland resources
in Northeastern Pennsylvania. The study should differentiate wetlands by size, frequency
distribution, proximity to water courses, position in the watershed, relationship to other
isolated and non-isolated systems, and by degree of clustering (patch size). The inventory
may be arranged by subwatersheds or other analytical units and may also consider
physiographic, socio-political, or landuse characteristics.
Expectations: Wetlands protection techniques within large geographic areas need to be
improved to produce information on the collective or cumulative environmental values being
contributed within a studied landscape. This study should furnish critical data on
the landscape organization of wetlands within the area which could be used to target priority
wetlands for increased protection under Clean Water Act. Students with analytical
backgrounds in geography, wetland ecology and/or resources management are preferred.
The methodology employed by the student to execute this task may be used in future
landscape level evaluations of wetlands.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor. Environmental Impact and Marine Policy Branch
Environmental Services Division
EPA Reg. Ill
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2203: Region I has assembled a list of priority wetlands in New
England to identify areas in need of additional protection.
There is now a need to verify the status of these wetlands
and to devise a plan for ensuring their protection at the
federal and/or state level.
Dimensions: This study would involve developing an "action plan" for each of the wetlands on
the priority list. The student engaged in the project would, subject to guidance, develop
criteria for determining which sites warrent extra protection. These criteria would then
be used to recommend in each case what mechanism would provide the most effective and
efficient protection. Options for protection include , but are not limited to, actions at the
state level, advance identification and 404(c).
Expectations- The final product of this project would be: 1 )a set of criteria to apply to
items on the Reg. I priority wetland list; 2) specific recommendations for future action to
protect priority wetlands 3) verification of the list's accuracy and completeness. This
effort could assist the region in redirecting its limited wetland protection resources to
the areas of greatest need.
Funding Status- Funded
Project Sponsor: Water Quality Branch/ Water Management Division
EPA Reg. I
Question
2204: How successful are wetland creation/restoration projects?
What techniques were used to develop a successful project,
and what monitoring strategies should be required to
determine a successful project?
Dimensions: Examine techniques of wetland creation/restoration in past projects; aid in the
development of a database to track monitoring studies on creation/restoration projects; aid
in the development of monitoring criteria for creation/restoration projects; explore
approaches EPA can use when determining suitable mitigation for unavoidable wetland losses.
Expectations^ The study should provide critical baseline information for establishing
successful habitat creation/restoration projects. This type of information is necessary to
assure the maintenance of essential wetland functions and values. The final product could
be used in a guidance report for future habitat creation/restoration work required by
Sec. 404 of the Clean Water Act and other regulatory programs.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Environmental Evaluation Branch/Water Division
EPA Reg. X
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2205: How effective are federal programs in mitigating wetland
losses (i.e., Sec. 404, Clean Water Act; sec. 10, River
and Harbor Act permits; FERC hydroelectric projects)?
Dimensions: Examine Sec. 404, sec 10 and FERC permit records to determine wetland
losses associated with projects and the steps that were taken to mitigate the losses; examine
mitigation projects to determine their effectiveness; review and synthesize monitoring data;
explore criteria that EPA could use to determine the suitability of mitigation efforts.
Expectations: The study should provide an evaluation of the role each program plays
regarding wetland losses and the attempts to offset these losses through mitigation. This type
of information is critical for future wetland protection strategies both at EPA headquarters
and the different regions. The study could be used for internal EPA briefings and an eventual
publication on the subject.
Fundiong Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Environmental Evaluation Branch/Water Division
EPA Reg. X
Question
2206: How can the "mitigation banking" concept be used in the
wetlands protection program of Reg. VIII and how can it be
institutionalized in the appropriate Federal programs?
Dimensions: There are numerous proposed activities within Reg. VIII every year that
require a Sec. 404 (Clean Water Act) permit and which cause unavoidable damage to
wetlands. Mitigation of this damage is many times difficult to obtain and often opposed by
project sponsors because of delay and difficulties in finding acceptable mitigation sites to
compensate for the loss. The concept of "mitigation banking' has been devised to identify and
hold (or "bank") areas suitable as mitigation areas for future projects. This project involves
investigation of .the techniques and institutional arrangements which identify mitigation
areas in advance and secure management of such areas.
Expectations: The final product of this study could be used in developing Regional policies and
procedures needed to implement "mitigation banking".
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Water Management Division
EPA Reg. VIII
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2207: How effective are wetland mitigation efforts for several
projects in a specific geographic area?
Dimensions: Examine the wetland characteristics and quality in a Federal Resevoir area.
Compare this to the wetlands lost through development and/or enhanced as part of any
mitigative effort required as conditions of 404 permits or for after-the-fact permits.
Evaluate the mitigative techniques and determine their effectiveness regarding replacement
of wetlands functional values for the impacted wetlands.
Expectations: The study should provide an analysis of the wetlands to determine their
environmental impact. The study should discuss the success, or failure, of the techniques
used. The study could be used as a model for other such area projects within the region and
nationally.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor;
Environmental Review Branch
Policy and Management Division
EPA Reg. VII
Project Sponsor:
Wetland Strategies and State Programs Branch
EPAHQ
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Question
2208: How can federal land management agencies better
protect the wetlands they hold?
Dimensions; Examine the status of wetlands on lands managed by the five federal land
management agencies - Forest Service, National Park Service, Fish and Wildlife Service,
Bureau of Land Management, and Department of Defense - in terms of available loss
estimates and the causes of those losses. Gather and synthesize information provided
by federal land management agency officials, EPA regional officials, state land
management officials, environmentalists, industry representatives, and others suggesting
ways to better protect wetlands on federal lands. Select three to five approaches for EPA
to consider, explaining the benefits and detriments of each approach.
Expectations- The study should provide information on the major causes of wetland
losses on federal lands, suggestions by the various constituencies on how better to protect
those wetlands, and an in-depth evaluation of the most feasible approaches. This information
could be used by EPA to develop an initiative of wetlands protection on federally-
managed land.
Funding Status: Unfunded
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2209:
How have federal land management agencies
incorporated wetland protection into their decision-making?
Dimensions: Federal land management agencies (Forest Service, Bureau of Land
Management, National Park Service, U.S. Fish and wildlife Service) manage a substantial
portion of the land base, and hence the wetland resources, within Reg. VIII. In the basically
semi-arid environment of Reg. VIII wetlands are an especially valuable and limited resource
yet it is not clear how wetlands protection objectives are incorporated into the various
policies of the Federal land management agencies. Compliance with Sec. 404 of the Clean
Water Act and Executive Order 11990 on the Protection of Wetlands is unclear. This study
should review how these agencies address wetlands protection. Policy for specific
activities such as planning, land exchanges, special use permits, etc. should be examined.
Expectations: The results of this review could be used as a basis to identify program areas
where wetland protection can be given a higher priority in Federal land management
activities and to propose changes to appropriate Federal memorandums of understanding,
regulations, or policy statements.
Fudina Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Water Managment Division
EPA Reg. VIII
Question
2210: Qualify the ecological risks posed to estuaries and
estuarine wetland systems in Alaska by industrial/
commercial development including state capital work
projects.
Dimensions: Identify and characterize estuarine systems within "tundra areas* of Alaska
-- a mapping exercise. Overlay major existing and potential development activities within
the estuaries - concentrating on discharges of fill material into estuarine wetlands
complexes. Survey existing literature on the environmental impacts of a particular
activity within a given estuarine setting. Identify those estuarine wetlands systems at
highest risk from development.
Expectations: Provide first level understanding of Alaska's estuarine resources found
with tundra environments and the potential developmental threats that may effect their
ecological integrity. The study could assist EPA in the prioritization of wetlands issues
within Alaska's sec. 404 program.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Alaska Operations Office
EPA Reg. X
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2211: Has the Coastal Barriers Resources Act succeeded in
reducing development on designated barrier islands?
Dimensions: Prepare background information on the intent and scope of the law
and its implementing regulations; possibly using the case study approach. Determine whether
the withholding of federal assistance has in fact led to reduced development of designated
barrier islands, and if not, explore the main factors for this failure. Suggest how
similair proposals geared to preventing destruction and degredation of wetlands might be
better drafted and implemented.
Expectations: The study should provide information on the effectiveness of withholding
federal assistance on natural resource protection. The study could be useful when
determining whether a proposal similair to the Coastal Barrier Resources Act should be
pursued with regard to wetlands.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Wetlands Strategies and State Programs Branch
EPAHQ
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Question
2212:
What are some key components of successful projects
using natural or restored wetlands to treat urban
stormwater discharges?
Dimensions: Summarize current literature (both science and policy) on the use of wetlands
for treating urban stormwater runoff. Identify and briefly review key sites across the
country. Develop case studies of particularly successful local or regional projects (5-B
cases). Identify Key factors in successful projects (i.e., wetland characteristics; multiple
use of wetland site; monitoring programs, etc.)
Expectations: The study should provide a summary of current information, case studies, and
a proposal of key components to encourage in future projects. The information could be used
in developing policies and permit conditions for the use of wetlands in urban settings for
stormwater treatment.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Protect Sponsor: Wetland Strategies and State Programs Branch
EPAHQ
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2213:
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What scientific literature is available regarding impacts
of human activities on wetland ecosystems?
pimensions: The Office of Wetlands Protection (OWP) has developed methodologies for
wetlands assessment, cumulative wetlands assessment, and wetlands deliniation to aid
regional offices in reviewing Sec. 404 permits. OWP is considering the devlopment of an
impacts assessment methodology that would allow a more rapid and accurate determination
of the impacts of activities such as conversion of wetlands to agriculture, water projects
and impacts from urbanization.
Expectations: The student would conduct a literature search of scientific texts, journals
and government publications in order to summarize existing information. The resulting
bibliography would characterize geographic areas, types of activities, and types of impacts.
The final document would also identify subject areas where literature is missing and make
recommendations of topics requiring additional research.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Office of Wetlands Protection
EPAHQ
Question
2214:
What sources of data are available on a regional scale
regarding wetland functions, land-use patterns and
natural research?
Dimensions: To assist the Office of Wetland Protection (OWP) regional offices in
assessing cumulative impacts to wetland ecosystems, OWP is considering the development
of regional inventories to track information such as water quality data, hydrological data,
land use patterns, wildlife and endangered species information. The study would identify
the availability and format of existing information resources for one pilot region.
Expectations: The student would undertake what is essentially a pilot regional inventory
to determine the feasibility of such inventories using only existing sources of data. The final
product would be a study identifying and summarizing regional data sources and data gaps.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Office of Wetland Protection
EPAHQ
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WATER QUALITY*
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Question
2215: What kind of software would be best suited for EPA's
headquarters and regional offices to track sec. 404
permitting activities?
Dimensions: The Office of Wetland Protection needs an effective system for tracking
the Sec. 404 permitting process. Ideally, such a system could allow wetlands program staff
and management to 1) administer the OWP's programs, 2) track, characterize and
summarize the review of 404 permits by EPA regional offices, 3) allow access to databases
which are needed for regional review, including potential databases and programs for GIS
(Geographical Information Systems); and 4) network with regional offices in updating files.
Expectations: Such a study, which would require an individual with strong programming
skills as well as understanding of 404 program needs, could form the basis of a pilot to be
conducted either at Headquarters or at a regional office. The intern would not be required
to specifically develop software or design network systems, but rather would contact
potential vendors who provide these skills to match 404 program needs with software
packages, cost estimates, and develop a final report reflecting these findings.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Office of Wetland Protection
EPAHQ
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Question
2216: What are the economic benefits by category (recreational,
commercial, industrial, municipal, etc.) of wetlands pro-
tection? How effective is advanced identification in
enhancing wetlands protection?
Dimensions: Identify population and industry trends in Region IV's coastal perimeter.
Determine minimum or optimum quantity of wetlands necessaty to provide commercial sport
fisheries, water quality and other essential wetland functions.
Expectations: EPA currently relies on data from public notices or other agencies to make
recommendations on permit applications. Quite often there is limited time to adequately
evaluate possible alternative sites. This study should provide basic data that could
be used in future application evaluations to minimize wetland loss. The study should also
examine the effectiveness of advanced identification in enhancing wetland protection.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Office of Policy, Planning and Evaluation
EPA Reg. IV
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2217: What are the economic, technological and social issues
associated with wetlands restoration as part of a
Superfund remedial action?
Dimensions: Identify and define issues related to the restoration of wetlands at a
Superfund site. Evaluate other EPA regional and HQ approaches towards such activity.
Identify the generic economic and technological issues for this activity. Provide generic
cost evaluation factors as a result of applying various technologies and identify economic/
social benefits to be received. Identify institutional (State, Local, Federal Agency)
considerations.
Expectations: The study will provide an overview of the issues relating to wetlands
restoration. The information could be utilized by regional project managers in their cost-
effective and overall assessment of remedial alternatives where wetlands restoration
is a consideration.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Emergency and Remedial Response Division
Program Support Branch
EPA Reg. II
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2301 :
What additional measures should be taken by EPA Reg. Ill to
maximize and coordinate groundwater protection functions
within the 8-9 existing groundwater programs?
Dimensions: The study will examine additional activities or objectives for the Regional
Groundwater Program through research and interviews of regional managers and senior staff.
It should explore: other key actions the groundwater protection section could initiate to
maximize coordination of the 8-9 Regional programs; applications for geographic information
systems within the program; feasible regional measures to address significant technical
issues in the program; and produce a report entitiled, "A Regional Groundwater Protection
Strategy."
Expectations: The study should provide a survey of managers and senior technical staff in the
various groundwater programs and, based upon additional research, produce a report with
recommendations to the Drinking Water/Groundwater Protection Branch. The report
recommendations could be used in the Regional Groundwater Steering Committee and within
the Branch to initiate activities which would maximize our regional groundwater
protection effectiveness.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor: Drinking Water/ Groundwater Protection Branch
Water Management Division EPA Reg. Ill
Question
2302: What are the local groundwater protection measures
currently used and regarded as model regulations or
efforts?
Diffrensiprjs; The study should explore the dimensions of the question which may focus on one
or all of the New England states. The study should produce a protection guidebook
of currently insituted local groundwater (and well-head) protection measures. The guide
would be a compilation of the most pertinent and effective local protection by-laws, zoning
by-laws, health codes, enforcement efforts, education and information outreach, etc. The
text could serve local officials as a reference to the most effectively worded and
well regarded protection measures under current practice. The guide would also include EPA
technical references, information on health advisories and product brandname contaminants.
Expectations: Development of a guidebook that could be distributed to local communities to
strengthen and promote their protection efforts by illustrating specific protection measures
instituted by other communities.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor
Groundwater Management Branch/Water Mangement Division
EPA Reg. I
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2303: Should EPA's efforts to protect groundwater from
agricultural practices focus on defining best managment
practices (BMPs), or upon the smaller and more definable
set of unacceptable pratices (UPs)? What statutory
mechanisms are available to EPA to protect groundwater
from nonpoint source nitrate fertilizers? Where should
the liability be for groundwater pollution caused by legal
use of agricultural chemicals? Should they be borne by
farmers, or by chemical companies or should those
liabilities be borne by government?
Dimensions: EPA recognizes that protection of groundwater from agricultural chemicals
will require farmers and chemical handlers to change their practices. Traditionally we have
focused on the need to develop BMPs, which requires determining not only what should not be
done, but what should be done. Where is the appropriate dividing line in this area between the
role of the EPA and the role of the Department of Agriculture? Should EPA focus primarily
on defining what practices are unacceptable, and work closely with the Department of
Agriculture, who should focus primarily on what practices are economically viable that
could be substituted? Within the context of out statutory authorities, our role as a
regulatory agency, and the role of the Department of Agriculture.what is the best way for
the two agencies to work together in this area?
Nitrates from normal agricultural practices have become a significant threat to groundwater
in the Midwest. Iowa and Nebraska, for instance, both have dozens of towns whose
drinking water regularly exceeds the nitrate standards. What statutory tools are available
for EPA to address this problem? Some statutes, such as the Wellhead Protection portion
of the Safe Drinking Water Act and the Toxic Substances Control Act, have been suggested
as available mechanisms. What gaps in our statutory authority exist? What efforts,
over and above those authorized by statute should EPA engage in to protect groundwater
from nonpoint source fertilizer nitrates?
At least one state has experienced difficulties because of a statute which requires the
polluters to pay in relationship to groundwater, and the polluters have been farmers who
have legally used chemicals in accordance with generally acceptable practices.
Expectations: This study is expected to provide answers to the questions in the previous
paragraph.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor: Office of Groundwater
Water Management Division
EPA Reg. VII
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2304:
What effect should differences in existing state and
regional (particularly arid vs. humid) groundwater
protection policies have on EPA groundwater protection
programs?
Dimensions: Explore the legal, political, and environmental dimensions of this issue.
Expectations: What are the inter and intraregional differences in state policies for
1) quality of groundwater to be protected; 2) protection of public and private water supplies
dependant on groundwater; 3) allowing use or development ( and degredation) of
groundwater for economic gain; 4) aquifer clean-up requirements; 5) bureaucratic
impediments to groundwatrer use? How much latitude should be given in allowing states to
implement their own policies under EPA funded programs?
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Groundwater Branch/Water Managment Division
EPA Reg. VI
Question
2305:
What are the Reg. IX Indian Nations doing to manage
and protect groundwater quality?
Dimensions: Assess individual Indian Nations' dependancy on GW for different uses,
including drinking water, agriculture, mining and industry. Collect and consolidate U.S.
Geological survey, Bureau of Indian Affairs and Bureau of Land Managment ground water
resource information and CWA 208 information on water quality planning.
Expectations: The goal of the study would be to determine the data needed for the Indian
nations to develop groundwater quality protection and management plans. The initial
assessment will provide the Office of Groundwater with information to help Indian nations
develop groundwater quality protection and management programs.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Water Managment Division
Reg. IX
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WATER QUALITY*
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Question
2401: Characterize the technical and policy rationale used by
publically owned treatment works administrators for
accepting or rejecting Superfund site wastewaters.
Dimensions: This study would be based upon a small number of case studies (app. 5-10)
of POTWs that have accepted/rejected Superfund wastewaters. The case studies can be
accomplished primarily through detailed interviews with POTW administrators and Superfund
program personnel to determine the technical and policy rationales for their decisions.
Expectations: Compilation and basic interpretation of essential findings would be
neccessary to provide a meaningful study. The findings could be used to provide a meaningful
focus to a major project now underway in the Industrial Technology Division (ITD) of OWRS.
The purpose of this project is to develop technical guidance to Office of Water regional and
POTW/pretreatment program personnel and Superfund program personnel who must
determine the feasibility of and regulatory basis for the discharge of Superfund site
wastewaters to POTWs.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Consumer Commodities Branch
OWRS/lndustrial Technology Division EPA HQ
Question
2402: How can municipal wastewater treatment plants best
control and facilitate the proper disposal of domestic
hazardous waste?
Dimensions: Many communities have not addressed this problem and are not sure exactly
how to handle it. Personnel and facilities at the local wastewater plants can often be used
to easily accomplish this function.
Expectations: Choose several plants that have implemented a program in their community
for assisting private citizens to properly dispose of their household hazardous waste. Develop
from these a suggested "model approach* for such a program.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
OW/Office of Municipal Pollution Control
EPAHQ
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2403: Is there a relationship between publicly owned
treatment works (POTW) with approved pretreatment
programs and overall compliance?
Dimensions: Data to study this question is available through PCs, pretreatment audits, and
PCIs. For each POTW, determine whether they are properly implementing their program,
categorize their program requirements with regard to the level of treatment, period
approved, and industrial user contributions. Compare this group or portions thereof with the
overall population of POTWs.
Expectations: This study should evaluate possible relationships between operating an
approved pretreatment program and compliance with the permit effluent requirements. The
results would be used for planning, as part of future guidance, and for policy considerations.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor: Office of Water Enforcement and Permits
EPAHQ
Question
2404: What additional controls are needed for municipal combined
sewer overflows?
Dimensions: Evaluate environmental problems associated with combined sewer overflows
and determine existing control technologies. Examine cost and environmental benefits.
Summarize current combined sewer overflow control practices and their effectiveness.
Compare with new control technologies examining cost and environmental benefits. Provide
case studies.
Expectations: This study should provide valuable information on the current status of
combined sewer overflow practices, including cost/benefit analysis, and help us determine
future program direction and guidance needs.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor: Office of Water Enforcement and Permits
EPAHQ
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WATER QUALITY*
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Question
2405: Evaluate the role that contract labs serve in providing
lab support for compliance monitoring at small
wastewater plants.
Dimensions: Choose a select sample of small plants to query regarding their past, present
and future needs for contract laboratory support. Determine what has made them use a
contract lab, stop using one, or plan to in the future.
Expectations: In addition to the evaluation mentioned above, the study should also
determine whether there are enough firms available to provide services; and as compliance
monitoring requirements expand, whether they provide bioassay type assessments.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
OW/Office of Municipal Pollution Control
EPAHQ
Question
2406: Are the municipalities realizing enough revenue to operate
and maintain their facilities properly?
P/P?gQS(g/1ff.' Evaluate the water/wastewater budget and expenditures in selected smaller
communities to determine the adequacy of the user charge system for recovering the
operations maintenance and replacement (OM&R) costs. The study should focus on one or two
communities with apparent problems and provide suggestions to modify their budget and user
charge systems. The scope could also include evaluation of the annual OM&R expenditures
needed by the facilities relative to current budget.
Expectations: The study should outline an approach for improved financial managment and
OM&R in selected communities. This study could provide a documented approach to evaluating
and improving local water utility financial management.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Office of Water Planning and Analysis Division
EPAHQ
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2407: From the standpoint of local decision-makers, can
State-administered technical assistance programs be
more effective? If so, how?
pimensions: In selected states assess the effectiveness of technical assistance in enabling
small community decision-makers to better plan, implement and operate wastewater
facilities. Determine the types of information and delivery systems likely to have the
greatest benefit to local officials.
Expectations: The study should assess and evaluate how EPA and the States provide
information and technical assistance to small communities and propose ways in which this
process should be improved.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Wastewater Facilities Management Branch
OW/Office of Municipal Pollution Control
EPAHQ
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Question
2408:
What conclusions can be reached regarding the
effectiveness of the construction grants program as a
way to reduce cost to users of Wastewater Systems
in small communities?
Dimensions: The review should examine the CGP's ability to complete efficient
wastewater treatment construction projects and produce environmental results while
mitigating user cost increases in small communities.
Expectations: The study could be used as a reference for the 1990 report to Congress
(mandated by Sec. 516(g) of the Water Quality Act) which, among other things, will
compare the CGP to the new State Revolving Fund (SRF) program in terms of its effect
on user rates.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Municipal Facilities Division
OW/Office of Municipal Pollution Control
EPAHQ
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2409: What kinds of computer-aided design (CAD or computer-
aided) instruction (CAI) software packages for small
community on-site treatment and outreach are practical
given available hardware and existing software
development?
Pimensions: The growing availability of CD (optical disk) ROMs offers the prospect for
integrating all modern (post 1961) SCS soil surveys, along with all state and local sanitary
codes, USGS topographic maps, flood plain maps onto a single optical disk for each state, or a
few disks for the entire country. Existing on-site wastewater treatment technology
selection and design software, such as R-Waste III allow reinterpretation of modern SCS
soil maps for many forms of on-site treatment, with algorythmic ranking of ways to
overcome soil limitations. This already offers a preliminary technology selection and CAD
function. An upgrade R-Waste III or other program might be adaptable to all soil types
contained within modern (post 1961) SCS soil surveys.
Several effective but mathematically complex models exist to allow prediction of the
performance of on-site treatment systems, and their potential groundwater impact. Like
the SCS soil surveys, some of these are predicated upon one standard form of on-site
treatment, but are adaptable to a range of available technologies and site limitations.
Modern (386-class CPU) computers could combine CD-ROM data storage with an advanced
R-Waste or other program, sophisticated surface and groundwater performance modeling,
and a user-friendly graphic interface (Macintosh, GEM, WINDOWS, etc.). This could produce
a package that would allow optimum on-site technology selection, systems design and
groundwater protection anywhere in the country using one optical and one floppy disk.
Expectations: The study should examine the existing range of hardware or prospective
hardware (CD-ROM, 386-class CPUs, low-cost parallel processors) to evaluate technology
feasibility of on-site combined software.
The study should examine the range of existing software (R-Waste III or other for technology
selection, DOE or others for surface and groundwater protection and performance) to
evaluate suitability for use in combined on-site treatment software and necessary points
of improvement.
The study should examine the cost and complexity of the reduction of appropriate nationwide
data bases to CD-ROM. These include the CSC soil survey since 1961, USGS topographic
maps, HUD floddplain maps, and a synthesis of state and local sanitary codes.
The study should examine and quantify the cost, complexity and desirability of an on-site
combined software CAD or CAI package. If such a package proves desirable, the study should
carry-out preliminary software modification or development to the extent practical with
little or no expense to the Agency.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Water Managmenet Division
EPA Reg. V
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2410:
What are the costs and benefits of various ways to
encourage water conservation?
Dimensions: For ten years consideration of water conservation in the planning and
design of construction grants projects has been a requirement of the regulations and
guidance of the Clean Water Act. Very few projects, however, whether inside or outside
of the Construction Grants Program, have seriously considered it, much less used it in the
selected alternative. In general, high-level water conservation appears cost effective,
even on a retrofit basis. This is the case where there is on-site treatment, where there is
municipal water supply, and where water heating cost are higher than the national average.
In these situations the technology usually pays for itself, regardless of actual impacts
on treatment.
Expectations: The study should review and synthesize likely impacts of water
conservation on wastewater treatment, municipal water supply and energy demand.
Evaluate actual and perceived barriers to the use of water conservation technologies,
including performance, appearance, state and local building codes, and others. Evaluate
various ways to promote the use of water conservation technologies where
appropriate, including:
-legislation, such as the national building code, FHA requirements, etc.
-requirement on new federal construction only
-direct grant or loan funds through the Construction Grants Program or the State
Revolving Loan Funds
-A national tax on water consumption
Evaluate the impact of each of these different possible initiatives comparing their
advantages and disadvantages, resulting in specific recommendations.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor: Water Management Division
EPA Reg. V
Funded NNEPS Internship in the Water Policy Office
The Water Policy Office, within the immediate Office of the Assistant Administrator
for Water, will offer a funded summer internship providing an opportunity to
conduct research on a variety of National Water Quality Program subjects.
Emphasis will be placed on Municipal Wastewater Management and Finance
(State Revolving Fund Program), Non-point source pollution control, Water
toxics and Wetlands. The internship will be conducted at EPA Headquarters in
Washington D.C.
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2501: What data are needed to support various monitoring
objectives and how can EPA support States in
designing monitoring programs?
Dimensions: This study will be in conjuction with a major EPA effort to develop a series
of technical and policy guidance documents on monitoring. The study will involve identifying
alternative data collection approaches, assessing effectiveness for various program
objectives, developing cost information, and developing program recommendations.
Expectations: The study could be used in the context of an EPA/State workgroup developing
policy guidance. The report would be used as a major element in developing the guidance.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Monitoring and Data Support Division
Office of Water Regulations and Standards
EPAHQ
Question
2502: What monitoring techniques are available to measure
the relationship between sludge contaminants (particularly
metals) and corresponding contaminants in groundwater?
Dimensions: Review the technical literature to identify case histories, analytical
procedures, and evaluation techniques that could be applied through the NPDES inspection
program. Summarize protocols from the literature and coordinate field work to
evaluate them.
Expectations: This study should identify monitoring techniques that could be used to
evaluate/detect the leaching of sludge contaminants during sludge holding and land application.
The information could be incorporated into a sludge inspection manual.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Office of Water Enforcement and Permits
EPAHQ
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WATER QUALITY*
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Question
2503: What types of biological methods could be applied to
evaluate the effects of complex effluents on aquatic
populations, recreation, and drinking water supplies
taken from surface waters?
Dimensions: Review existing test methodologies (EPA and other sources).
Compile citations for other procedures that could be applied in special situations.
Expectations; This study should provide a survey of techniques that could be refined
and applied for future compliance monitoring.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor: Office of Water Enforcement and Permits
EPAHQ
Question
2504: Pupal exuviae have been shown to provide a rapid and
cost-effective means of detecting nutrient pollution from
sewage treatment plants. Can they also be used to detect
pollution from toxic organics (e,g, PCBs)?
Qimensions- The study would include sample collection, both in areas of known contamination
and at background sites, identification of species present and relative abundances in the
samples, and correlation of those results with known toxicities.
Expectations; The study would be used to explore the feasibility of alternatives to current
monitoring procedures. The study product would be a report describing the study
procedures and results, and a Standard Operating Procedure describing the application
to routine environmental sampling.
Funduna Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Environmental Services Division
EPA Reg. VII
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WATER QUALITY*
W////////M
Question
2505: How do states interpret the meaning of their narrative
water quality standards, "free from toxics in toxic amounts?"
Dimensions: For each state, where does their narrative standard apply? At the end of
the discharge pipe/after mixing? Does it apply to certain uses? What monitoring is used
to detect violations? Provide a summary, coordinate with staff attorneys and senior
technical staff. Contact States for related guidance and legislative history.
Expectations: This study should provide a survey of how narrative Water Quality standards
are applied by each State. The results could be used to help resolve specific problems.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Office of Water Enforcement and Permits
EPAHQ
Question
2506: How effective is EPA's Rapid Bioassessment Protocol in
characterizing various levels of impact in surface waters
in Reg. VIII.
Dimensions: EPA has developed a draft field procedure to detect waters that are not
adequately supporting in-stream uses. A field testing of this Rapid Bioassessment Protocol
is needed to test its applicability and utility in the semi-arid west. This project would
involve field investigations in targetted waterbodies which represent non-impacted
and potentially impacted segments.
Expectations: The results of this study could be used to fashion Reg. Vlll's program for
performing bioawessments and could lead to policies related to use of the results of such
assessment.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor: Water Management Division
EPA Reg. VIII
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WATER QUALITY*
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Question
2507:
What statistical procedures should be used for data
reduction, to obtain the best possible estimates of
pollutant concentrations with the smallest possible
uncertainties? What is the best sampling strategy to
allow use of these statistical procedures with the
smallest expenditure of resources?
Dimensions: In cooperation with Environmental Service Division staff, examine existing
water quality data from the Ohio and Delaware Rivers. Estimate frequency distributions of
contaminants. Select optimum a-priori statistical tests, and design a. plan for collection of
more water data to be analyzed with these tests. Conduct seminar(s) to teach regional
scientists the theory and use of these statistical tests.
Expectations: The student selected for this project must have 12-15 credit hours in
statistics, and should preferrably be seeking an advanced degree in statistics. The product
should provide superior data collection plans which may result in obtaining high-quality
environmental data. The level of statistical expertise of regional scientists will be
increased. These scientists will use this knowledge in interpreting the Ohio and Delaware
River data and planning future studies.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Environmental Management Branch/Environmental Services Division
EPA Reg. Ill
Question
2508: How effective are forestry best management practices
(BMPs) in protecting fisheries on federal forest lands
in Region X?
Dimensions: It is generally recognized that BMPs are the nonpoint source controls
to achieve compliance with state water quality standards. BMPs are usually developed in
a state process and used as performance standards for proposed forest practices. Applied
research, field evaluations and analysis are needed by land managers and regulatory
agencies to determine the adequacy of BMPs in protecting fisheries and other beneficial
water uses.
Expectations: This type of research information is especially needed by states and EPA
to effectively implement Sec. 319 of the WQA of 1987. Implementing effective forestry
BMPs is very significant because over 60% of the region's land is managed by federal
agencies. Timber harvesting and related activities are nonpoint sources of pollution.
Federal lands are also significant sources of the highest remaining water quality and
habitat for fish in region X.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
OP&P Branch/Water Division
EPA Reg. X
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WATER QUALITY^
Question
2509: What barriers prevent absentee agricultural
landowners from having best management practices
implemented on rented lands in EPA Region II?
Dimensions: Examine present incentives (financial, institutional) available to
absentee land owners to implement structural/non-structural best management practices
on rented agricultural land: Emphasize practices that are water quality related: Review
and synthesize work done by EPA, USDA, and at the state and local level on this issue.
Explore approaches State and local governmental units can use to increase participation
of absentee landlords in Federal/State cost share programs, or implement best
management practices on their own.
Expectations: The study should provide a survey of information from absentee landlords
relating to the study question, and proposed actions State and local governmental units
can take to address this situation, which is believed to be a leading cause of water
quality impairments. The study could be used to identify barriers to water quality
improvement due to agricultural nonpoint sources of pollution in EPA Reg. II.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Water Standards and Planning Branch
Water Management Division EPA Reg. II
Question
2510: What is the extent of non-point source related use
impairments within Reg. V?
Dimensions: This research product would be a detailed analysis of the current
nonpoint source problems within the region. The project will also look at inter and intrastate
differences in nonpoint source pollution for both surface and groundwater.
Expectations: This study should provide a survey of nonpoint source problems within the
Region by States and between States. This product will also involve a description of the
area/extent of nonpoint source pollution by pollutant category.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Water Division
Reg.V
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2511:
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What are the benefits of Nonpoint Source Modeling in
watershed planning?
Dimensions: Examine the qualitative and quantitative benefits of nonpoint source modeling
as part of watershed planning. This should cover a review of existing models, their possible
uses and limitations, as well as a case study documenting their use as part of an NFS
control project.
Expectations: The study should provide a concept paper on the use of nonpoint source
modeling in watershed planning. The study will be used as an OW guidance document for the
States Section 319 Management Program.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Water Division
EPA Reg. V
W//////////////////^^^^^^
Question
2512:
How should EPA integrate its surface water and
groundwater programs for Nonpoint Source Control?
Dimensions: Traditionally, EPA has approached NPS control as a surface water problem,
primarily through the water quality planning aspects of the Clean Water Act (CWA). Now,
however, most states are approaching the agricultural chemicals/nonpoint source
problem through their groundwater protection strategies as a groundwater problem. EPA
is still ambivalent in this area. We have a water quality planning group which approaches
the problem from a surface water aspect, and a groundwater group which approaches it
from a groundwater perspective. The recent amendments to the CWA further the
ambivalence by establishing two nonpoint source programs - one for surface water and
one for groundwater
Expectations: The product would be a report recommending reorganization, statutory
changes, or internal procedures which would expedite EPA integration of its surface and
groundwater nonpoint source programs.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Water Compliance Branch/Water Management Divsion
EPA Reg. VII
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2513: What are the policy implications in using existing water
quality standards to assess and control nonpoint source
pollution?
Dimensions: The researcher should rely on existing information to identify and describe
the policy implications. The project will entail working at EPA Headquarters in the Office
of Water, involving interviews and documented reserach.
Expectations: Essentially a report that accurately describes the appropriate questions
that should be asked as well as areas needing further investigation. Stress is placed on the
question, not the answer.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor: Office of Water
EPAHQ
Question
2514: What could be the economic benefit to the State of
Colorado if the Arkansas River is restored to a quality,
trophy trout fishery?
Dimensions: Development of economic benefit data can provide the impetus to perform what
is typically thought to be overly expensive water quality clean-up efforts. In Colorado,
good fisheries are very valuable and are the source of significant contributions to the
States' economy through expenditures by fishermen. This study should examine the economic
benefits which could be realized if the Arkansas River is restored and the current water
quality problems are eliminated. The use of the Fryingpan River will be used as a reference
fishery in the collection of economic benefit data.
Expectations: The results of this study could be used by agencies such as the EPA to seek
financial support in clean-up of the upper Arkansas River.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Water Management Division
EPA Reg. VIII
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2515: To what extent do the projected adverse economic impacts
associated with water pollution control regulations
actually occur? Of the groups EPA projects to be affected
are particular sub-groups in fact more heavily affected
than others?
Dimensions: Examine the business/economic literature and the Agency studies relating
to economic impacts created by environmental regulation, with particular emphasis on
plant and firm closure. For one or more industrial categories recently regulated to control
waste water discharges, collect evidence to verify the economic impacts estimated to
occur as a cost of promulgating the regulation. Identify the common characteristics of
plants/firms that are impacted. Suggest approaches EPA can use to better estimate the
economic consequences caused by the environmental (water) regulations that affect U.S.
businesses.
Expectations: The study could provide Office of Water and other EPA program economists
with information that will enhance the structure of economic impact analysis, and more
contextual information for interpreting the results of same. OW and other EPA decision
makers dependent on economic impact results for regulation development will benefit as
the degree of certainty of anticipated economics effects is improved. The information
gained would be used on an ongoing basis to better support regulatory decisions.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor: Economic Analysis Branch
Office of Water Regulations and Standards EPA HQ
Question
2516:
What effect do heavy metals in sediments have on the
species richness of macroinvertebrates? Can empirical
relationships be derived which would help to establish
sediment criteria?
Dimensions: A large body of data on both metals concentrations in sediment and on species
richness of macroinvertebrates exists for Empire Lake. The study consists of computerizing
and analyzing those data to identify which metals impact the biological community, developing
empirical relationships between species richness and metal concentrations, and identifying
metals concentrations above which the biological community is endangered.
Expectations: The study should describe the methodologies and results. Projected use of
the study may include input for determining sediment criteria for metals.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor: Environmental Services Division
EPA Reg. VII
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WATER QUALITY*
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Question
2517: Under what scenarios and what physical circumstances
can EPA predict with some confidence that contaminated
sediments may exist in a body of water?
Dimensions: Anthropogenic factors which affect sediment quality in waters of the
United States are to be addressed. Efforts should result in a qualitative description of the
impacts of various industrial, agricultural, military and developmental activities on
sediment quality in runoff receiving waters, as well as a determination of likely
contaminants resulting from these activities. The scope of this study should correlate
closely with Agency responsibilities under various environmental laws. Efforts will not
involve actual field work.
Expectations: At present, EPA's environmental review capabilities are limited by a lack of
understanding of the general relationship between certain activities and the effect those
activities may have on sediments in our Nation's waters. When a proposal to disturb
those sediments, usually through dredging activities, arises, there is no background
information on possible contaminants. Because there is no indication of the nature of the
sediment quality, extensive, time-consuming and costly case-by-case sediment testing
must be completed. The proposed study should result in a report which briefly describes
activities which could result in contamination of sediments and should describe the type
of contaminant and the nature of the threat of disturbing those sediments.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor: Office of Federal Activities
EPAHQ
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Question
2518:
To what extent have sediments been inventoried and
compiled in Reg, V, and what information is available on
contaminants of concern in sediments, sources of these
contaminants, and extent of sediment contamination?
Dimensions: Access programs in both of the States in Region V that are potential generators
of sediment data; compile this information on an accessible data base; assess sediment
monitoring programs; gather information on sources of contaminated sediment sites.
Expectations: This study should provide a compendium of all Reg. V sites with
contaminated sediment problems in an easily accessible format. This document could be
used to aid the Agency in determining priority sites for remedial activities in the Region.
Funding Status: Funded
Protect Sponsor:
Water Division
EPA Reg. V
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2519: What is the effectiveness of lake restoration, protection
and management techniques being implemented through the
Reg. V Clean Lakes Program?
Dimensions: Examine the lake restoration protection and management techniques being
implemented as part of selected Reg. V Clean Lakes Projects. The existing lake project
will be reviewed for applicability to be included in the study.
Expectations: The study should provide a survey of qualitative and quantitative benefits
of the techniques examined. An analysis of frequency of techniques implemented in relation
to identified problems would be included.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Water Division
EPA Reg. V
W//////////////^^
Question
2520: Does hydropower development have an adverse impact
upon water quality and aquatic biota, particularly fish?
Dimensions: With hydropower redevelopment becoming very active, questions arise
regarding the passage of fish through turbines and whether or not they are injured and to
what extent. Injury can occur through pressure changes or by contact with turbine
blades. Fish population in the Mississippi, Illinois and Ohio Rivers could also be impacted
if hydropower interferes with fish migration. There is also a question of water quality
degredation by directing the water through the turbines where reoxygenation does not
occur. Evaluate the current literature and operating history of existing hydropower
projects to determine the impacts associated with hydropower.
Expectations: Generate a study indicating findings and conclusions regarding hydropower
impacts and what mitigation is appropriate. The study could be used by the Environmental
Review Branch to address hydropower projects in the future. Mitigative measures would
be pursued through our participation in the Federal Energy Regulatory Commissions
licensing process.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor: Environmental Review Branch/Planning and Management Division
EPA Reg. V
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WATER QUALITY*
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Question
2521: \s the Section 401 certification requirement of the
Clean Water Act effective in ensuring that FERC projects
comply with applicable water quality standards?
Dimensions: According to Sec. 401 of the Clean Water Act, no federal license shall be
granted if certification has been denied by the responsible water quality management
agency. This provision of the CWA is a potentially powerful tool for ensuring compliance
with WQS. The study will involve 1) a review of legal/policy issues regarding FERC
compliance with Sec. 401; 2) an analysis of the states' policies on 401 certification of
FERC projects and; 3) an evaluation of the effectiveness of the 401 requirement in
protecting WQS.
Expectations: The research product would be an issue paper that would point out
deficiencies in the 401 certification program and recommend measures that EPA might take
to strengthen the protection of WQS through the 401 certification of FERC projects.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Water Quality Standards and Planning Branch
EPA Reg. IX
Question
2522: How can the EPA get involved after a FERC license has
been issued, if water quality problems arise?
Dimensions: EPA guidance on the review of hydropower projects has emphasized EPA's role
in the FERC licensing process prior to the issuance of the license. Several hydropower
projects that have already received FERC licenses have significantly impacted instream
uses and water quality standards. The study will involve a case study of these FERC projects
and an examination of the administrative and legal processes available for resolving water
quality problems that arise subsequent to FERC licensing of hydropower projects.
Expectations: The study will augment existing EPA guidance by identifying the role of
EPA in resolving water quality problems resulting from hydropower projects that have
been licensed by FERC.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor: Water Quality Planning and Standards Branch
EPA Reg. IX
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2523:
How do the States in Reg. VIII currently implement the
Sec. 401 (Clean Water Act) certifications?
Dimensions: Section 401 of the Clean Water Act requires State certification that an
activity requiring a Federal license or permit will not violate applicable water quality
standards. Within Reg. VIII, there appears to be great variation in how the individual
States implement their Sec. 401 responsibilities. 401 certification is critical for issuance
of Sec. 404 permits and, hence, can play an important role in wetlands protection as well as
water quality protection. This project would review the policies, regulation and procedures
for implementing Sec. 401 for the Reg. VIII States. Individual case studies would also be
examined.
Expectations: The results of the review of 401 certification activities in Reg. VIII could be
used as a basis to seek changes in State decision-making processess appropriate
regulations and written procedures.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Protect Sponsor:
Water Management Division
EPA Reg. VIII
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Question
2524: What is the relationship and relative effect of
compliance inspections, informal enforcement activities,
and formal enforcement actions on the levels of
compliance by NPOES permitees?
Dimensions: Obtain data from National Data Base PCs. Develop test hypothesis, apply
parametic and nonparametic statistics to identify relationships.
Expectations: Develop a model, based on the analysis, that could be used to assign
resources to the 10 EPA regions.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor: Office of Water Enforcement and Permits
EPAHQ
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2525: What are the legal ramifications and hurdles in
implementing the EPA Antidegredation Policy for surface
waters in the semi-arid west?
Dimensions: The concept of antidegredation for surface water quality has been in EPA's
national regulation for many years and has been recently reaffirmed by Congress through its
amendments of the Clean Water Act. Many States, however, are slow to implement such a
policy as part of their water quality standards program because of the legal and economic
unknowns of doing so. Legal challenges related to this inaction have now been initiated with a
focus on Reg. VIII. A review of Congressional intent, EPA rulemaking, and case law would be
appropriate to determine opportunities for full implementation of this controversial policy.
Expectations: The results of this study effort could be used to guide the Reg. VIII review
of current State programs related to antidegredation and to define the appropriate legal
components needed in State rulemaking to comply with the Clean Water Act.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Water Management Division
EPA Reg. VIII
W/////////////////^^^^^
Question
2526: What is the current status of legal conflict between water
resources law and water quality law?
Dimensions: There has been a longstanding conflict between laws that direct water quality
activities and those that direct water quantity activities. Such conflict is of particuar note
in the West where the appropriation doctrine serves as a basis for water quantity law. As
new amendments to clean water statutes are adopted by Congress and legislatures, new
conflicts and issues develop in this arena. A review of the priority areas of current
conflict between water quality and quantity with focus on implementation of the Clean
Water Act in Reg. VIII should be performed to provide insight to decision-makers.
Expectations: The results of this review could be used by EPA in their review of water
resource projects as they relate to impacts on water quality.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Water Management Division
EPA Reg. VIII
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2527: What are the legal, economic and institutional considerations
involving the use of effluent taxes as a means of funding
water pollution control facilities?
Dimensions: Summarize the European experience to date in the use of the effluent tax
(e.g., Germany, France, Hungary, Czechaslovakia, and the Netherlands). Describe the various
forms of the tax used and their efficiencies. Review the factors and influences responsible
for defeating the proposed effluent tax in the U.S. in the early 1970's. Explore the potential
of using such a tax to finance water pollution control facilities.
Expectations: The study should address the dimensions mentioned in the previous paragraph.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor: Water Policy Office
EPAHQ
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Question
2528: What requirements should EPA impose for aquifer clean-up
after mining or other temporarily planned degredation?
Dimensions: Explore the economic, legal, political, and environmental dimensions of this
issue. Are current EPA regulations compatible with the concept of planned degredation
followed by aquifer clean up? What revisions of law would be required? Is temporary
degredation compatible with EPA's mission? Should it be allowed only in special cases?
Should EPA propose quality standards for groundwater as a guide or requirement for
groundwater clean-up? What are the merits of current state requirements for groundwater
clean up? Is restoration to background levels feasible? If not, how much variance should be
granted?
Expectations: The study should address the questions raised in the previous paragraph
and propose a set of relevant requirements for this situation
Funding Status: Funded
Protect Sponsor:
Water Management Division
EPA Reg. VI
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WATER QUALITY*
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Question
2601:
Should EPA establish programs for increasing protection
of "private" water supplies?
Dimensions: Explore the legal, economic, political, and public health dimensions of this
issue. How much of the U.S. population is excluded from the benefits of protection
afforded by public water supplies? What public health risks are involved in this exclusion?
What provisions of public water supply protection programs can be feasibly applied to
private water supplies? What would be the cost of this program to EPA? To citizens?
Expectations: The study should address the questions raised in the previous paragraph and
express an opinion on the original research question.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor: Water Management Division
EPA Reg. VI
Question
2602: What effects do abandoned and unplugged wells have on
drinking water aquifers in the oil and gas bearing region
of New York State? How can the Abandoned Well Survey
and the Brine Contamination Study, conducted through the
Underground Injection Control (UIC) program in EPA for three
counties in western New York State, be most effectively
utilized with respect to the determination of possible
groundwater contamination?
Dimensions: The oil and gas industry in New York State is one of the oldest in the country.
Many wells were abandoned or improperly plugged. There are few, if any, records. This
information is very critical in the UIC permit program today for Class I, II, and III wells.
Expectations; Using available information and new data determine the risk of USDW
contamination historically and in the present UIC program.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Water Management Division
EPA Reg. II
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2603:
Is it appropriate to use coliform as a surrogate for
drinking water bacteriological quality in tropical
environments?
Dimensions: It has been our experience in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, that finished
drinking water found positive for total coliform as well as fecal coliform in this tropical
environment does not correlate to increased gastrointestinal illness as would be expected.
Although our concern clearly does not have national impact it is certainly relevant to the
tropical islands under the jurisdiction of Reg. IX.
Expectations: The research project objective should be to verify our preliminary findings
and determine what is the appropriate indicator of bacteriological water quality for finished
water in tropical environments.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Water Managment Division
EPA Reg. II
Question
2604:
What are the growth rates of water hyacinths in (tropical)
resevoirs serving as drinking water sources?
Dimensions; Examine the growth or expansion rates of water hyacinths in tropical resevoirs
throughout Puerto Rico to generate base data for further studies. Water hyacinths are known
to cause a wide variety of problems, from high evaporation to augmentation of THM
precursors. Growth rates will be correlated to USGS gathered water quality data of
tributaries and resevoir effluents.
Expectations; The study should inventory and summarize growth rates of water hyacinths
in select resevoirs in Puerto Rico.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsqr Water Managmenet Division
EPA Reg. II
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2605: What are the best approaches for educating public,
environmental health professionals or managers in the
risk assessment/management process for drinking water
contamination?
Dimensions: Review EPA policy/guidance detailing risk assessment management.
Identify and review EPA and other government agency training materials or programs in
risk assessment/management. Identify innovative approaches is risk assessment training in
the private sector. Survey the State environmental/public health agencies to determine the
magnitude of drinking water contamination issues and how they conduct training in risk
assessment/management.
Expectations: The study should 1) evaluate the existing Office of Drinking Water program to
provide risk assessment/management training to public health professionals. 2) evaluate the
"Workshops on Assessment and Management of Drinking Water Contamination" conducted for
EPA and State personnel. 3) recommend innovative approaches to improve existing ODW
training programs and efforts to include modification of training materials and publications.
Funding Status; Funded
Project Sponsor; Office of Drinking Water
EPAHQ
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Question jg|
2606: What is the relationship between the amount of lead found
in the District of Columbia's drinking water and the blood
lead level found in the children consuming this water?
Dimensions: A Quality Assurance/Quality Control Project Plan will be developed to establish
a successfully defensible protocol for conducting the sampling and the interpretation of the
study results. This plan must be acceptable to an EPA peer review. Samplers must be
hired through EPA's Senior Environmental Employment Program and trained and supervised
by a NNEPS intern to ensure that the samples are collected, prepared and shipped according
to the plan. It will be the responsibility of this intern to ensure that all of the contracting
requirements to complete this task are met.
Lead is a ubiquitous in our environment. The District has found substantial
amounts of elevated lead level in the drinking water derived from homes with lead services
and copper piping which used lead solderd joints. The first-draw samples-taken after at least
six hours of no water use for the taps tested have been found to contain high levels of lead.
Expectations: The study would determine the relationship between the amount of lead found in
the childrens blood and the amount of lead found in the homes, schools, day-care centers, etc..
in the District. The collected data will be presented in a format which will be useful for: 1)
recommending further action by the District of Columbia; 2) recommending further action
by EPA; and 3) establishing an MCL and Monitoring and Reporting requirements by the EPA.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor; Water Management Division
EPA Reg. Ill
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WATER QUALITY*
Question
2607: Barriers to National Certification Programs
Dimensions: Federal drinking water requirements contain or contemplate certified professional
services, specifically in the area of water system operators, analytical laboratories and
sanitary surveyors. States have shown great reluctance to accept certifications of
competence acquired in other states. This is an economically inefficient certification
process in the context of the national need for such services. An understanding of the
barriers that constrain establishment of a national certification process is desired.
Expectations: A report on the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study
which could guide the development of a national certification program, should such a
recommendation arise.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Office of Drinking Water
EPAHQ
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Question
2608: Water Quality Available on Interstate Carriers
Dimensions: Interstate carriers, such as, trains and buses, provide drinking
water which is required to meet federal drinking water standards. The degree of compliance
with existing standards is not well known, nor is the degree of attention given to this
responsibility by the carriers well understood. A study of air carriers, the quality of the
water they provide, and the level of attention they give to this responsibility for a
set of representative carriers is desired.
Expectation^: A report on the water quality provided by, and institutional response of
typical air carriers as compared with federal drinking water regulations.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Office of Drinking Water
EPAHQ
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WASTE MANAGEMENT
Superfund'
Petroleum Releases
• Solid and Hazardous Waste Disposal
I
55
58
60
* Topics concerning SARA Title III, Section 313,
Toxic Chemical Release Reporting
are located in the Toxics Section Pgs. 74-76
I
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'WASTE MANAGEMENT^
Question
3101:
What are the social and economic issues involved in the
cleanup of Superfund sites to various levels?
Dimensions: Identify and define the social and economic issues involved in the remediation
of Superfund sites and determine the extent to which these issues should be considered when
selecting an appropriate cleanup level. Explore approaches EPA can use to resolve
differences among the public, state and responsible parties as it selects the cleanup level.
Describe circumstances when it is more appropriate to do more or less than what is required
by applicable regulations.
Expectations: The study should provide an overview of the generic social and economic
issues encountered when considering post-remedial land use of a Superfund site. Where
there are no applicable regulations, the study should identify appropriate factors to take
into consideration to determine the level of cleanup (e.g., current and proposed land use
plans, etc.).
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Emergency and Remedial Response Division
EPA Reg. II
Question
3102: What are the primary issues related to implementation of
institutional controls at Superfund sites. Which institution
(state, local government, other) would be the appropriate
choice for maintenance of a Superfund site after EPA action
has been completed? What factors should be considered in
this determination?
Dimensions: Identify and define the issues encountered by EPA in implementation of
institutional controls at Superfund sites. Evaluate other EPA regions to determine the types
of issues encountered and their resolution. Assess the various levels of public acceptance to
local, state, federal government or private party implementation and oversight of
institutional controls at these sites. Evaluate the level of EPA oversight needed in the case of
non-federal control.
Expectations; This study should provide a survey of generic issues encountered or expected
in the implementation and oversight of institutional controls. Identification and assessment
of problems/resolutions should also be provided.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Emergency and Remedial Response Division
EPA Reg. II
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Question
3103: Are Federal agencies required to comply with the
National Environmental Policy Act when proposing a
"Superfund" type cleanup on their lands?
Qimensions: With the passage of CERCLA and SARA Federal agencies are required to
cleanup waste sites on their lands. The cleanup action and the final disposal option selected
could be considered a "major action" significantly impacting the environment which
requires the agency to prepare an environmental impact statement. EPA has determined
that selection of a remedy through the Remedial Investigation Feasibility process
constitutes compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act. This is termed
functional equivilency. The study should determine whether functional eqivilency is legal
under NEPA. the study should also address the necessary requirements for other agencies to
comply with NEPA when involved in a cleanup action.
Expectations: The study should indicate the legal responsibilities of EPA and other
Federal agencies to comply with NEPA when undertaking a hazardous waste cleanup action.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor: Planning and Management Division
EPA Reg. V
Question
3104: How effective are State (and local) laws requiring
environmental risk assessments and site cleanup for
property transfers?
Dimensions: Collect information on and analyze the implementation of state and local
programs (e.g., New Jersey's Environmental Cleanup Responsibility Act) which require
environmental risk assessments, compliance reviews, and/or hazardous waste site
cleanups in conjunction with the transfer of commercial property. Evaluate: costs; impacts
on regulators and regulatees; effectiveness in identifying waste disposal sites, and non-
compliance situations, and in ensuring site cleanup; and other social and environmental
effects. Compare and contrast various laws and programs. Recommend appropriate
federal government roles (if any).
Expectations: The study should provide factual information and analysis that could guide
EPA and State agencies in determining their respective roles in better identifying hazardous
waste noncompliance situations and potential Superfund sites, and in ensuring site cleanup.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Office of Policy, Planning and Evaluation
EPAHQ
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Question
3105: Are there practical, effective alternatives to
conventional risk assessments in determining appropriate ...
cleanup levels for Superfund remediation?
Dimensions^ Analyze and develop alternative strategies for determining appropriate
cleanup levels, and compare with use of risk assessment. Possibilities include technology-
based levels, limits of practicability, etc. Use sample cases to analyze results in terms of
protectiveness, implementability, etc.
Expectations: The study could assist EPA in developing a range of strategies for
managing environmental threats at Superfund sites (managing "risk" in risk assessment
terms). Where risk assessment is of questionable utility or validity, alternative approaches
could be used.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response
EPAHQ
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Question
3106: What is the impact on the Superfund program from the
proposed use of alternative/innovative technology for
cleanup remedies?
Dimensions: The cleanup of hazardous waste sites deals with emerging and state-of-
the-art technologies. These innovative alternatives need to be examined and explored.
In EPA's Superfund enforcement program, agreements with parties responsible for the
hazardous sites must also be negotiated. The uncertainties associated with these innovative
measures can be a hindrance to these negotiations. The use of available innovative
technologies needs to be identified and assessed from both scientific and practical viewpoints.
Their impact on settlement agreement negotiations also needs to be studied.
Expectations: The study should provide a detailed evaluation of promising emerging
technologies at Superfund sites. Case studies can be presented and the project could be used
as a reference guide to EPA. The case studies can also indicate negotiation stumbling blocks
caused by dealing with these uncertain backgrounds.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Hazardous Waste Management Division
EPA Reg. Ill
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Question
3201: What are the effects of dispersants and dispersed oil on
organisms in the water column, in the Gulf of Mexico,
offshore Louisiana and Texas?
Dimensions: This study should: determine the relative toxic effects on offshore Gulf of
Mexico organisms from dispersants listed on the National Contingency Plan Product Schedule;
review literature for state-of-the-art information; compile a list of ongoing studies,
expected completion dates, and sponsoring organizations or persons.
Expectations: The study could provide information to an On-Scene Coordinator and the
appropriate members of the Regional Response Team in determining the environmental
ramifications associated with the use of oil dispersants in response to an oil spill in the
Gulf of Mexico, offshore Louisiana and Texas.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Environmental Services Division
EPA Reg. VI
Question
3202: What is the fate and transport of petroleum products
released from an underground storage tank in areas with
karst topography?
Qimensions: The study should: examine the fate and transport of hydrocarbon contaminants
released from underground storage tanks installed in karst areas; explore and sythesize
guidelines for assessing a release in such a way that the most effective corrective action
technology can be rapidly identified; examine the degree of effectiveness that existing
corrective action technologies can achieve in the recovery and cleanup levels of released
petroleum in karst areas.
Expectations: The study should provide a survey of information concerning the research
question and a proposal to better assess releases from underground storage tanks in karst
areas. The study could be used as an underground storage tank training document to be
relayed to EPA Reg. Vl's states.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Hazardous Waste Management Division
EPA Reg. VI
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Question
3203: What is the impact of petroleum underground storage tanks
in the vicinity of public water supplies in sensitive
groundwater areas?
Dimensions: This project will examine the effects of leaking underground storage tanks
on public water supplies in the vicinity of previously mapped Superfund sites and RCRA
facilities in Reg. III. Existing state notification data bases will be scanned for tanks greater
than 15 years of age. These tank locations will be prioritized using the DRASTIC system,
which ranks a. site's impact on public water supplies. Ranked sites will be candidates for
further EPA/State action.
Expectations: The project should provide computer developed maps which will locate
Underground Storage Tanks, having an age greater than 15 years which are in sensitive
groundwater areas. This information may be used to establish a priority system for
inspections and compliance monitoring activities. The project could serve as a model for
development of a geographical information system throughout the states.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor: Underground Storage Tank Section
EPA Reg. Ill
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Question
3301: What is the best way for EPA to resolve the generic
"not-in-my-backyard (NIMBY) syndrome?
Dimensions: Assess the techniques used to address disputes with the public and to achieve
a consensus and public acceptance of a selected remedy. Identify and explore approaches
EPA could use to resolve differences among members of the public.
Expectations: The study should identify and assess the various methods available to
successfully incorporate the public into the remedy selection process and address the NIMBY
syndrome. This may be done on a site-specific basis or on a generic program basis.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Protect Sponsor:
Emergency and Remedial Response Division
EPA Reg. II
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Question
3302: How are the states handling the disposal of infectious
wastes?
Dimensions: Examine the public health, environmental, economic and political issues relating
to the problem of disposal of infectious wastes.
Expectations: The study should provide a survey of state operations relating to the disposal
of infectious wastes. The survey should include, by state: the definition of infectious waste;
coverage of the regulated community; nature of the regulatory program (manifest or record
keeping, tracking system, etc.).
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor: Air and Waste Management Division
EPA Reg. II
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Question
3303:
Are owners of Treatment Storage and Disposal Facilities
experiencing difficulties in complying with the RCRA
liability coverage requirements and if so, is the lack of
available insurance a primary reason?
pirnensions: Analyze the results of a survey sent to selected TSDFs which solicit the
experiences of these facility owners in satisfying RCRA financial responsibility requirements.
Compile data, determine trends, conduct follow-up interviews or research with the regulated
community and insurance industry. Prepare and present final report summarizing trends
and recommendations for further action as appropriate.
Expectations: This information could assist the Agency in more fully characterizing the
problems that facilities are experiencing in complying with the liability coverage
requirements. The results of the survey could be used by the Agency to examine regulatory
reforms, support meaningful analysis for Congress and other public interest forums, and
respond to statements and perceptions about TSDF's lack of liability coverage.
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Office of Solid Waste
EPAHQ
Project Sponsor:
Question
3304: What are the degredation mechanisms and impacts of the
application of sewage sludges to agricultural lands? Is
biodegredation a feasible technology for dealing with landfill
leachate?
Dimensions: Determine the degredation mechanisms and fate of the elements of sewage
sludge where it is applied on agricultural lands by reviewing the subject literature and by
conducting some field experimentation. Identify measures to optimize the positive
impacts of the process and to mitigate the adverse impacts. Assess the feasibility of the
process for widespread application. Assess the potential for biodegredation of landfill
leachate by reviewing the literature on this subject and by conducting some experimentation.
Expectations: The study results could assist EPA in further formulating its position on the
land application of sludges for subsequent distribution to the public. This subject is
especially pertinent today in view of EPA's new regulations requiring NPDES-type
permitting of sewage sludge disposal. The study should provide an assessment of the
feasibility of using biodegredation to treat landfill leachate. If shown to be feasible for
widespread applications, EPA may want to support the concept and dissseminate it to
the public.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Policy and Management Division
EPA Reg. VII
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Question
3305: Is there an optimal array (type, size, and location) of
hazardous waste disposal facilities for the Northwest?
Dimensions: Using existing information on hazardous waste generation and projections
and/or assumptions about future trends in generation, the study would attempt to identify an
optimal disposal system. The variables to be tested include but are not limited to: 1) type
of disposal (e.g., land incineration); 2) size of the various facilities; and 3) locations (and
effect of using mobile units). The objective of the study would be to determine whether or
not there is an optimal system. Criteria for judging optimality could be 1) minimizing total
cost on a regional basis, and 2) minimizing risk resulting from exposure. As proposed, the
study has significant environmental and economic dimensions. Legal and political dimensions
are clearly there and could be analyzed, but it is also possible to address them in a follow-up
study.
Expectations: The study could facilitiate both public and private sector decisions about
hazardous waste disposal in the Northwestern United States for the next ten to twenty years.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Washington Operations Office
EPA Reg. X
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Question
3306:
How can EPA assist Indian governments in seeking
solutions to the problems of the disposal of solid and
hazardous wastes on Indian lands?
Dimensions: A study performed for EPA indicated that tribal governments were very
concerned about the problems of solid and hazardous waste disposal on Indian lands. These
concerns indicate a need to outline the scope of the problem by collecting and correlating
data that may exist in various Agencies and Branches of the Federal Government including
the Indian Health Service, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, EPA regional and headquarters
offices and Congress. Once this is accomplished, an evaluation can be made of the relative
health risk of solid and hazardous waste disposal problems to people living on Indian lands.
From this point EPA's role in short and long-range solutions to these problems may be
discussed.
Expectations: The study should provide the EPA Office of Federal Activities with a
discussion document that is suitable for distribution. It should define the magnitude of the
solid and hazardous waste problems on Indian lands, evaluate the potential health risks of
these problems, and outline EPA's role in seeking short and long-term solutions.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Office of Federal Activities
EPAHQ
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Question
3307: What is the most appropriate way for Indian Tribes to
control, regulate and dispose of solid wastes on Tribal
lands?
Dimensions: Identify alternative means for Indian Tribes to dispose of solid wastes. Tribes
have been using municipal landfills for the disposal of their solid wastes (non-hazardous).
These landfills are now closing; the tribes need assistance in the development of procedures,
guidelines and regulations for the disposal of these wastes. The study should evaluate waste
reduction methods as well as the development of regulations to control landfills and
prevent environmental degredation. The study should identify roles for appropriate Federal
Agencies (BIA, IMS, HUD, etc.) with regards to solid waste management on Indian lands.
Expectations: The study should outline methods for regulating landfills as well as identify
alternative means for disposing of solid hazardous wastes. The study should also develop
model guidelines for the regulation of solid waste landfills on Tribal lands.
Funding Status: Funded
Protect Sponsor:
Regional Indian Affairs Coordinator
EPA Reg. V
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Question
3308: What is the economic benefit (if any) of recovery of
burnable materials from garbage vs. landfill?
Dimensions: Develop a matrix to study economic factors derived from recovery of burnable
materials in garbage that cities could use to offset costs.
Expectations: The study should provide a decision process that would allow cities to evaluate
benefits derived from sources other than landfill of garbage. The study should evaluate small
medium and large cities based on their tonage of garbage and benefit based on reclamation.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsoj: Environmental Service Division
EPA Reg. VI
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Question
3309:
Incineration vs. land disposal
Dimensions: Conduct a literature survey and evaluate the comparative advantages and
disadvantages of incineration versus land disposal.
Expectations: The study should provide a comprehensive survey and evaluation of the
pros and cons of incineration vs. land disposal. This study could assist EPA and the public
in the development of a comprehensive baseline of information for decision-making.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Environmental Services Division
EPA Reg. VI
Question
3310: What are the cost-benefit ratio and the distributional
and equity effects of California's Recycling Incentives Act?
Dimensions: Examine the cost of the incentive system including administrative impacts
and the time costs of compliance as well as the benefits in terms of resource recovery and
reduced litter. Explore the political dimensions of this Act including who actually pays the
cost of the system. Explore ways to learn and generalize from this experience.
Expectations: The study should utilize traditional methods of cost-benefit analysis and
expand that research into the distributional impacts of the law. The study could be an
internal Office of Policy, Planning and Evaluation briefing document supporting renewed
EPA interest in recycling.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Office of Policy, Planning and Evaluation
EPAHQ
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Question
3311: How should information on risk be communicated to the
public for proposed hazardous waste incinerators in EPA
Reg. IX?
Dimensions: Analyze and compile information on risk for the four proposed incinerators
in Reg. IX. Develop a format for communicating risk to the public which summarizes
available information on the subject. Identify information gaps and provide recommendations
for further technical work in this area. This information will be "field tested" through
public review.
Expectations^ The study should provide a model format and four examples of a risk
information package which could facilitate understanding of the subject by the public.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor; Air Management Division
EPA Reg. IX
Question
3312: At what point does waste mininimization become
counter-productive?
Dimensions: Waste minimization has been embraced as a "cure-all" to our hazardous waste
management problems. However, sometimes waste minimization techniques result in wastes
that are highly toxic due to concentration or are difficult to manage due to changes in
physical form (e.g., liquid wastes that are no longer incinerable when its form is changed to
a solid). The study should identify and assess the limitations of waste minimization.
Expectations: The study should identify the problems associated with "excess" waste
minimization and propose guidelines for waste minimization practices that are counter-
productive.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Office of Program Management
EPA Reg. IV
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Question
3313: What substitutes are available to
used by manufacturers?
Dimensions: Examine toxic chemicals commonly used in
solvents) and identify acceptable substitutes that would
without generating hazardous waste and/or other toxic
replace toxic chemicals
manufacturing process (e.g.,
meet operational requirements
byproducts.
Expectations: The study should provide a list of substitutes for toxic chemicals that could
be used by EPA and the States to assist industries in identifying waste minimization
techniques.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor: Office of Program Management
EPA Reg. IV
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3314: How are the RCRA-regulated chemical wastes being managed
nationwide and what environmental problems are resulting
from this management?
Dimensions: Examine management techniques being utilized nationwide. Develop information,
if possible, on the quantities of hazardous waste generated nationally. Evaluate the effect-
iveness of different management techniques and/or environmental problems resulting from
wastes. Explore ways to improve waste management.
Expectations: The study should provide a survey of information regarding hazardous
wastes which could be utilized in establishing Agency priorities in addressing these wastes.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
RCRA Branch/Waste Management Division
EPA Reg. VII
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Question
3315: What specifically are coal tar (coal gasification) byproducts
used for? What data/plans information does local (city,
county, etc.) government possess regarding manufactured
gas plants?
Dimensions: Through historical literature (1900-1950) and interviews with former
plant owners/operators, summarize the uses, treatment and disposal methods for the
byproduct coal tar. Using a list of city location, review records from local governments for
selected cities (EPA Sponsor has list for each state). Determine the existence and
availability of plant plans, specs, capacities and other site-specific information.
Expectations: The study should provide a comprehensive survey of the subject literature/
information and should summarize the various uses treatment and disposal of coal tar
across several regions. An evaluation of the accessibility, quality, and reliability of the
information should also be provided. Finally the study should summarize the city-specific
information reviewed.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor: Waste Management Division
EPA Reg. VII
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Question
3316: Can ferro-cyanide wastes from former coal gasification
plants be treated biologically?
Dimensions: Review current literature to determine what bio-treatments have been used
or are now being investigated. Review literature from 1900 to present to determine if
biological treatment was ever done/explored/contemplated for treatment of ferro-cyanide
waste from coal gas plants. Contact with EPA's office of Research and Development may
also be necessary to conduct this study.
Expectations: The study should provide a comprehensive survey of the subject literature
and information on biotreatment methodologies. The study should also provide an inventory
of plant locations, owners, operators and results (if any) of treatment use. Recommendations
for other bio-techniques could also be useful.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Superfund Branch/Waste Management Division
EPA Reg. VII
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Question
3317:
What analytical techniques have been used for ppb
analysis of coal tar wastes? What techniques show promise
for ppb analysis with low detection limits?
Dimensions: High PAH content sample results have high (ppm) detection limits
due to interference. These high levels often mask the presence of highly carcinogenic PAH.
This study will involve a. review of available information to determine applicable
techniques and procedures for ppb analysis with low detection limits.
Expectations: The study should summarize available analytical techniques, typical
detection/quantification limits and special problems. Reports should then focus on
analytical techniques/procedures which show promise to provide QA/QC'd results in the
ppb range for both liquid and solid coal tar samples containing high content (up to 10%) PAH.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor: Superfund Branch/Waste Management Division
EPA Reg. VII
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PESTICIDES and TOXICS
Pesticide Regulation/Management
Toxic/Hazardous Substances
-Asbestos
-PCB Control
-SAEA Title III, Section 313
Toxics Chemical Release Reporting
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Question
4101
What were the actual economic and related social
consequences of selected EPA actions taken to restrict use
of pesticides?
Dimensions: The study should examine five to ten EPA actions taken four or more years ago
to determine the consequences. For example, what pest control methods are now used as a
result of the action taken? How were registrants affected? Any noticable impact on
consumers? Examples of agency action include bans of silvex from lawns, 2, 4, 5-T from
forests and Toxaphene from use as a soybean herbacide.
Expectations: This study should contain information that could enable EPA to test and
improve its methodology for assessing benefits. The study should also provide historical
information on the economic effects of EPA programs.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Office of Policy, Planning and Evaluation
EPAHQ
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Question
4102: How can a survey be designed to obtain pesticide usage
information in the most cost-effective manner?
Dimensions: Design a nationwide survey of pesticide users that would yield reliable data
while minimizing costs. Demonstrate how statistical techniques can be used to minimize the
sample sizes.
Expectations: The design could be considered for use in possible interagency surveys.
Reliable usage data is needed to assess pesticide risks and benefits more accurately than is
currently possible.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor; Office of Policy, Planning and Evaluation
EPAHQ
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Question
4103:
How can an ideal state pesticide management plan be
structured?
Dimensions: Compare/contrast states that currently have state pesticide management
plans and create an ideal state pesticide management plan, integrating the most effective
components of the states plans. EPA's Proposed Pesticide Strategy will soon be released by
the Agency. The strategy proposes that each state create a specific pesticide management
plan that includes pesticide contamination prevention measures to protect groundwater and a
corrective response scheme for instances where contamination occurs.
Expectations: The study should suggest a useful framework for developing a state
management plan. The framework could be used to provide guidance to the states as
management plans are developed in the future.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Office of Pesticide Programs
EPAHQ
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Question
4104:
What are the resources required by Reg. X states to
effectively implement new emerging programs and
requirements in the area of pesticide regulation and
management?
Dimensions: Identify the new and ongoing requirements in the pesticide program area. Survey
each Reg. X state to determine what organizations have responsibilities for these functions,
and what their current staffing and budget support capabilities are to carry out these
responsibilities. Determine what resources would be required to implement the program at
three alternate levels of completeness and adequacy.
Expectations: The study should provide the following information for each of the Reg. X states:
-Current and projected program demands over the next 3-5 years
-Current staffing and budget levels in state agency involved
-Projected budget needs (and staffing) over the next 3-5 years at three alternate levels
of program implementation.
Funding Status; Unfunded
Project Sponsor: Air and Toxics Division
EPA Reg. X
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PESTICIDES and TOXICS,
Question
4105: How effective are the regulatory actions taken by the
Office of Pesticides Programs (OPP) on pesticides products,
with respect to compliance by the retail and user level?
Dimensions: Numerous actions are taken each year on pesticides registration, use
classifications and label changes. Most of the compliance and enforcement activities have
been delegated to States, but many changes required by EPA are never targetted as
enforcement priorities. There are also special allowances and negotiated settlements
between OPP and industry for which little or no follow-up is conducted. Selected actions
should be monitored in the field to determine compliance levels.
Expectations: This study should provide a sound inspection strategy for the PCB program
which could be updated and implemented annually.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Environmental Services division
EPA Reg. V
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Question
4201: To what extent are asbestos containing building materials
present in rental housing?
Dimensions: New AHERA-quality inspections will be conducted to accurately determine the
extent of the asbestos problem in rental housing. New data is essential since most early
surveys based their conclusions on inspections much less thorough than the AHERA-type
inspections.
Expectations: The study should provide accurate data on the subject which could be used to
base future EPA policy regarding the possible extension of AHERA to other classes of
buildings.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor: Environmental Services Division
EPA Reg. V
Question
4202: Can the strategy for PCB inspection targeting be improved?
Dimensigris; Review office files to determine the statistical relationship between
inspection and compliance status. Estimate PCB population throughout Reg. V according to
population and industry data.
Expectations: The study should provide a sound inspection strategy that could be used by
the PCB program. The strategy should be flexible enough to allow for annual updates and
implementation.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor: Environmental Services Division
EPA Reg. V
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Question
4203: Given the SARA requirements that EPA ensures data on the
manufacture, use, release and effects of chemicals is made
available to the public, to what extent should EPA pursue
efforts to "create demand" by the public for the information?
What are the range of possible effects of creating the
artificial demand and consequences of not doing so? How
might EPA target the information marketing to result in its
best use to identify chemical risks warranting EPA/State/
other response?
Dimensions: The study should focus on Sec. 313 of Title HI of SARA, which requires EPA to
ensure that certain types of information concerning locations where chemicals are
manufactured, used and released to the environment is made available to the public. EPA's
implementing program has decided to "market" the data and interpretive tools to various
categories of the public, creating demand for the information that might not have developed on
its own (based on preliminary focus group analysis of public interest in similair types of
chemical information). The study should examine the explicit "right-to-know" granted under
SARA and the implicit "duty to tell" imposed on EPA to evaluate whether there is also a
"duty to sell" the information to the public with all of its ramifications..
The study should evaluate the range of possible and probable impacts of generating interest
in and use of this information (which is normally used by professionals) by the lay public.
The study should examine: public apathy and/or information overload; public misinterpretation
of the implications of the data resulting in misunderstanding of the risks and need for action,
how the dissemination of the information impacts the public's trust in local, state and
federal officials; what categories of the public are likely to be able to use the information and
for what purposes; and how public interest in and use of this information can be anticipated
to be different from other categories of information made available by EPA and other agencies
Expectations: The study should provide a strong analytical basis for accepting or rejecting
the following hypothesis:
1) In general, the lay public is apathetic about information on the presence and hazard of
chemicals, especially if no imminent hazard is likely. 2) In most communities, there
will be some "activists* who in pursuit of their private interests will intentionally or
unintentionally foster some community interest. 3) Public dissemination of information
showing large continuing releases of chemicals to the environment will foster new public
attitudes about pollution control (e.g., zero discharge vs. apathy). 4) Most private
attempts to use the information will be for private gain (e.g., litigation). 5) Local
officials will resist dissemination of the information fearing public overreation.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Office of Policy, Planning and Evaluation
EPAHQ
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4204: What methods can be employed to inform the public about
the existence and potential use of SARA Title III, Sec. 3"\3
information?
Dimensions: Section 313 data is due in July and will be available next fall. The purpose of
this data is "Community Right to Know", yet it is likely that local officials and the public will
not be aware that section 313 exists, much less know how the data should be interpreted.
The research could consist of surveys of local officials to determine their level of
awareness, sponsoring a workshop to present a hypothetical case and evaluate responses,
development of outreach tools, and development of a summary paper with
recommendations.
Expectations: The purpose of this work would be to develop methods that the region can use to
reach out to the public and to local officials to help them become aware of 313 and to learn
how to use the data effectively.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Toxics Assessment Section
EPA Reg. I
Question
4205: How can individual communities interpret the data that will
become available under Title III?
Dimensions; In three communities, use techniques from economics, psychology and/or
social science to explore expectations of Local Emergency Planning Committees and
representative community members regarding what Title III information can or should do for
them. Determine what these groups see as the biggest gaps in their ability to interpret the
data as related to their goals. Report on their suggestions for how to make the interpretive
tasks more tractable. Use appropriate analysis to develop recommendations for specific
actions that can be taken by EPA headquarters or regions, or by states and local governments.
Expectations: The study should analyze the information gathered relevant to the research
question and propose a model or specific actions for improving the communication of Title
III information so that communities can interpret it. The study could be used for internal
briefing with OTS, OSWER, and OEA.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Status:
Office of Policy, Planning and Evaluation
EPAHQ
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PESTICIDES and TOXICS,
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Question
4206: What is the best approach to integrate the Federal and
New Jersey State Right-to-Know Programs relative to
SARA Title III Sec. 313?
Dimensions: Significant differences exist between the Federal EPA and the New Jersey
Community Right-to-Know programs which require industries to file toxic release inventory
forms by July 1, 1988. The differences involve the universe of industries affected, the
chemicals to be inventoried, the inventory periods and the filing deadlines. These differences
are likely to cause confusion among the regulated community and may result in noncompliance
and unecessary filing.
Expectations: The study should compare and contrast the important aspects of these
two programs and explore reporting/filing mechanisms that will satisfy the requirements
of each. Additionally, suggestions for more effective public outreach would be useful. (Note:
The student researcher may have an opportunity to play a role in the outreach efforts)
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Environmental Services Division
EPA Reg. II
m/////////////////^^^^
Question
4207: How may the SARA, Title HI, Sec. 313, Toxic Chemical
Release Reporting Data best be used to assess risk?
Dimensions: Under Sec. 313, affected facilities must report annual releases of certain
chemicals to U.S. EPA. EPA strongly feels that the data will drive future legislative
initiatives and provide the Agency and the public with data from which local environmental
and health risks can be assessed and communicated to all concerned and interested parties.
The EPA expects that their Graphical Exposure Modeling System (GEMS) will be instrumental
in data analysis and interpretation.
Expectations^ The study should demonstrate how the GEM system can incorporate the
313 data and identify "exposure/risk hotspots" in Reg. V.
Funding Status: Funded
Protect Sponsor: Environmental Services Division
EPA Reg. V
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ENFORCEMENT and COMPLIANCE
Civil/Criminal Enforcement*
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Environmental Law -
Internship Opportunity
* Additional enforcement, compliance and
environmental law related topics are located
in the Media-specific and Multi-Media sections
78
79
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ENFORCEMENT and COMPLIANCE MM
What combination of sentencing options, as provided for in
the United States Sentencing Guidelines, (which became
effective on Nov. 1, 1987) would fairly penalize
environmental criminal conduct while achieveing the greatest
impact on environmental compliance by individuals and
corporations?
Dirriensions: Review past sentencing practices in environmental criminal cases to determine
what role should be served and what information should be provided by Agency criminal
enforcement and program personnel to facilitate the new sentencing procedures outlined by the
Sentence Guidelines. Assess sentence practices by state courts for those that may warrant
adoption on the federal level, and suggest a technique to measure financial gain to a defendant
and loss to a victim of environmental criminal misconduct for purposes of recommending fines
for individual and criminal defendants.
Expectations: The agency to date has played a largely passive role as to the sentencing
stage of environmental criminal prosecutions. The proposed study would provide a framework
for determining to what extent the EPA, on both the HQ and Regional level can play a more
active role at this point in time when federal sentencing practices are undergoing the
considerable changes mandated by the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. The study will also provide
a basis for drafting recommended refinements to the U.S. Sentencing Commission in the
guidelines as applied to environmental offenses.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor: Office of Enforcement and Compliance Monitoring
EPAHQ
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Question ^
5102: What is the statutory/regulatory basis for organization
and funding of enforcement programs restricting the export
of hazardous wastes?
Dimensions: Identify applicable civil and criminal laws, regulation and treaties (Federal);
describe the organization, activities and general funding of enforcement programs in key
federal agencies (e.g., DOT, U.S. Customs and EPA), including the regional components.
Select one or two states (e.g., Texas, California, and New York) and analyze the same
aspects: organization, activities and funding. Identify possible areas for improvement.
Expectations: The study should provide a survey of information related to the research
question and identify potential areas for improvement
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Office of Enforcement and Compliance Monitoring
EPAHQ
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'ENFORCEMENT and COMPLIANCEMH
Question
5103: What effects do state administrative hearing boards
have on permit and enforcement actions undertaken by
state environmental agencies?
Dimensions: Conduct a survey of state hearing boards in order to classify them by type,
function, or authority (optional). Select a sample for and conduct a detailed analysis of board
structure, relationship with the state agency, and disposition of standards, permits,
penalties, and/or orders proposed by the state environmental agency; and explore how EPA
can address board actions/practices which have a negative impact on enforcement.
Expectations: The study should provide quantitative and qualitative information as well as a
description of the assessment methodology and classification scheme. The study will be used
to assist in EPA/State development of enforcement agreements.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
OECM/Compliance Policy and Planning Branch
EPAHQ
I
luestion
5104: Do legal barriers exist which limit the ability of the
government to enter into ADR agreements pursuant to
which the government may agree to be bound by the decision
of the neutral? Does binding ADR constitute an unlawful
"delegation" of the government's decision-making/policy-
making responsibility? Can criteria be designed which set
forth acceptable bounds for binding ADR?
DimqQSions: The study would review all legal issues relevant to the bounds of decision-
making/policy-making discretion and the conditions upon which such discretion must be
exercised. Such a study would review the guidance provided by relevant statutes and their
legislative histories, and any relevant case law. The study would also review applicable
government-wide orders or guidelines promulgated by the Department of Justice, Office of
Management and Budget or other entities of the executive branch. It would consider and
analyze relevant policy considerations regarding the establishment of precedent, notice,
judicial or administrative due process, and other policy concerns.
Expectations- The study would provide guidance to governmental policy makers about the
necesary limits on the use of ADR in resolving environmental enforcement cases. The study
would help establish appropriate bounds on the use of binding ADR tools by providing
criteria for the identification and application of appropriate legal constraints.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
OECM/Office of Compliance Analysis and Program Operations
EPAHQ
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'ENFORCEMENT and COMPLIANCE Mi
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Question
5105: How can neutral third parties assist in the resolution of
environmental enforcement actions? What action should EPA
take to overcome barriers to the use of alternative dispute
resolution (ADR) techniques and to train EPA staff on the
application of ADR techniques? How should EPA document its
experience in analyzing cases for ADR, nominating and
selecting cases, choosing neutrals, and resolving (or failing
to resolve) specific cases?
Dimensions: The study will review the techniques for environmental negotiation and
dispute resolution and apply theories discussed in the academic literature to the resolution
of environmental enforcement cases. The study will specifically review the use of ADR
involving the resolution of disputes arising in the administration of 1) public assistance
programs (veteran's benefits, social security), 2) the federal procurement process (Navy
contracts appeals), 3) Federal or state regulatory programs (Army Corps of Engineers),
and 4) state environmental programs.
In addition to the analysis noted above, the investigator will participate with EPA in the ADR
activities being conducted during the study period under EPA's "pilot" ADR program. This
participation will involve consulting with EPA staff about the use of ADR, assisting in the
nomination and selection of cases, identifying neutrals, administering the ADR process, and
documenting EPA's case-by-case experience as a guide to future ADR use.
Expectations: The study will be used to identify barriers to the use of ADR in environmental
enforcement cases, to recommend specific steps EPA should take to overcome such barriers,
and to provide practical criteria and procedures for the future use of ADR in resolving
environmental enforcement cases.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor: OECM/Office of Compliance Analysis and Program Operations
EPAHQ
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^ENFORCEMENT and COMPLIANCE^
Funded NNEPS
Internship in the Office of
the General Counsel
The Office of the General Counsel will offer a funded
summer NNEPS internship which will provide an opportunity
to conduct legal research on a variety of topics under
EPA's organic statutes. The internship will be conducted
at EPA Headquarters in Washington D.C.
Interested law students should submit a
completed and signed SF-171 and an
updated graduate transcript to the
University NNEPS coordinator for consideration.
I
I
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MULTI-MEDIA
Program Management
-variations in approach
Program Evaluation
Information Management
Risk Assessment
(see also Toxics, page 76)
Resources Management
Pollutant Transfer
International Environmental
Program Development
83
85
86
87
89
91
92
I
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i
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/MULTI-MEDIA
w^ffiffimm0M%m
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/MULTI-MEDIA
Question
6103: In 1985 EPA sponsored 5 specific projects in 5
States to develop improved planning and priority-setting
processes. To what extent were the 5 state pilot projects
(Maryland, New Jersey, Kentucky, Kansas, and Oregon)
useful to the States. Did they advance their environmental
planning for the future? What are the payoffs from the
States' perspective?
Dimensions: The study would review the results of one or more of the 5 original State
pilot projects initiated in 1985. The focus would be on the benefits that the States gained
from their pilot projects and an evaluation of the projects. With emphasis on providing
greater flexibility to the States in the future, we need to know how best to assist the States
in comprehensive environmental planning.
Expectations: Each of the State projects would be a seperate study, with collaboration
between them on study design. The study would help assess the value of the various pilot
projects. Did we invest too much in preliminary data gathering? Did the geographic
information system payoff as expected in New Jersey? How useful was the atlas prepared
by Oregon? This kind of feedback would be very useful as EPA contemplates ways to
encourage and strenghten State planning in the future. The final product would be a series
of briefings, a summary paper, and a longer analytic report.
Funding Status: Funded
Protect Sponsor:
Office of Policy, Planning and Evaluation
EPA HQ
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Question
6104: Can a reliable quantitative method be developed to
geographically rank counties in Pennsylvania (or other
geographic sub-areas) for environmental stress based on
a variety of multi-media pollution parameters?
Dimensions: Review and summarize work done on geographic targetting by HQ OPPE,
other EPA offices, and external organizations; review Reg. Ill cross-media projects (for
the region and Pennsylvania); explore alternative geographic ranking systems using a variety
of criteria for which existing data can be accessed through EPA/State data bases and develop
a system for ranking Pennsylvania counties which will complement the ongoing Pennsylvania
cross-media projects, and can be adapted for any state.
Expectations: The study could complement Reg. Ill's Pennsylvania project by adding a
geographic dimension to the setting of issue-oriented environmental priorities. The study
could be used by Pennsylvania and EPA to target areas for spending pollution control funds
and to identify critical areas where special efforts may be necesary in order to reduce
environemtnal risks to acceptable levels.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Environmental Services Division
EPA Reg. Ill
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J MULTI-MEDIA ISIH
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Question Egg
6105: What trends can be identified in environmental liability
judgements against small enterprises and what are the
apparent ramifications for Federal and state regulatory
agencies?
Dimensions: Examine tort and criminal liability claims under selected environmental
statutes to identify any trends or patterns in applicable court decisions. The study should
focus on those cases involving damages to the physical environment by small businesses. In
addition, the study should identify ramifications to federal and state authorities resulting
from the identified trends in judicial decisions. The study may be desgined so as to evaluate
the question through use of a survey approach or through case study analysis. The study
might compile case statistics and percentile figures compiled by year and by statute, as
well as magnitude of damages awarded, magnitude of penalties and cleanup costs relative to
the capital of the small enterprise. Particular attention should be given to determining
litigation decided in favor of plaintiff versus those decisions favoring the defendant.
Ramifications to federal and state authorizations would likely be identified through
interviews and the examination of relevant articles and literature.
Expectations: The study should assist EPA in evaluating the effectiveness of liability
protection as provided under the various environmental statutes. Ramifications to federal
and state authorities identified in the study may serve as the basis for formulating alternative
enforcement strategies.
FundingStatus^ Funded
Project Sponsor: Office of Policy, Planning and Evaluation
EPAHQ
Question
6106:
How do the actual cost impacts of a selected EPA
regulatory action(s) compare with the costs previously
predicted during development of the rule?
Dimensions: One or more EPA regulatory actions (at least 3 years old) are to be
selected as a means of comparing costs actually experienced during and after implementation
of the rule(s) with these costs previously predicted through the regulatory impact analysis.
Cost impacts should be restricted to a particular sector of society or the economy. For
example, a given action or set of actions might be examined for the resulting impact on
municipalities, agriculture, the recycling industry, a particuar industrial source category,
or any other sector relevant to the selected rule. Costs might identify not only a monetary
estimate, but manhour burdens, shifting of existing resources, recordkeeping and reporting
burdens, and other related costs which may be reasonably obtained. Costs must be structured
so as to allow comparison with available cost projections compiled during rule development.
Expectations: The study should enable EPA to evaluate the relative accuracy of its pro-
jections as well as identify significant costs omitted in previous projections. A secondary
benefit to be realized from a study examining multiple EPA actions will be the identification of
cumulative and/or synergistic impacts on a given sector. Overall, the study should provide
insights that may result in the improvement and refinement of existing mechanisms/
assumptions used in estimating regulatory impacts.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor: Office of Policy, Planning and Evaluation/ EPA HQ
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1 MULTI-MEDIA^
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Question
6107: How does public participation function most effectively
in enabling a community to deal with environmental issues?
Dimensions: Examine the different methods of public participation and the roles they play
in the full scope of environmental government. Conduct a 2-part survey utilizing and
comparing existing survey materials and designing additional surveys: public awareness
and attitudes toward a variety of environmental issues; evaluation of public participation
use and effectiveness by local and state government regulators. Create a matrix of interface
which would target non-functional techniques and deficiency areas while developing
suggested modifications to increase public participation effectiveness. Identify and analyze
effective public environmental organizational accomplishments creating historical case
studies to be deposited in public repositories and used as agency training resources.
Expectations: In order to maximize the effects of the agency's efforts to strengthen
development of, and support for, important environmental decisions, a review and analysis
of public participation would provide external documentation of functionality. A matrix would
be useful in evaluation of communities and types of environmental problems, while a collection
of these case studies could provide profile data useful to both the agency and the public.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Congressional and External Affairs Office
EPA Reg. IV
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Question vjt
6108: What information on new technology is most successfully
incorporated into program decisions at the Regional level?
Dimensions: Determine the areas of responsibility at the regional level where knowledge
of the applications of new technology is most important. Examine how regional staff presently
became informed of new technology from the Office of Research and Development,
Academic institutions and the private sector.
Expectations: The study should develop a communication strategy to increase the flow of
information of new technology to regional staff. It should identify the areas where this
information is most needed and the strategy best suited for the type of information and the
target audience. The study could be implemented by a new center for Environmental Learning
in Reg. VI.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Management Division
EPA Reg. VI
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JMULTl-l
Question
6109:
Lee Thomas, EPA's Administrator, has identified the
Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) as a source of
chemical specific information used in a risk assessment.
The sytem, however, currently includes 260 chemicals
with plans to expand the system over the next calendar
year. The objective of this study is to identify additional
chemical data systems and personnel available for
chemical specific information when that information is not
available in IRIS.
Dimensions: In 1986, a catalog of toxilogical data bases was developed and used by the EPA
regions and HQ program offices. This study will update the information in the catalogue and
identify new sources of data.
Expectations: The study should result in a catalogue that includes the following information:
1) name of data base acronym; 2) administrative information (contact person, phone number,
computer charges, limitations/restrictions on users); 3) technical questions (contact person,
phone number); 4) ease of use; 5) description of type of information in system, level of
detail; 6) critical evaluation of the limitations of the system; 7) critical evaluation of the
usefulness of the system
Funding Status: Unfunded
Pro/ect Sponsor:
Office of Policy and Management
EPA Reg. II
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Question w%
6110: The agency routinely calculates health risk "numbers" that
can be used in a variety of risk assessment activities. At
both HQ and the regional offices, exactly which offices are
using these risk numbers and specifically for what activities?
Are the available risk numbers being used to the fullest
extent possible (for regulatory planning, etc. activities) or
are decisions being made more on the basis of factors other
than health?
Dimensions: The study should examine the use of health risk numbers at HQ and all the
regions for activities related to air, water and both solid and hazardous waste.
Expectations: The study should provide an inventory of the EPA activities relevant to the
research question. The study should identify agency activities or programs that do not
currently make use of health risk numbers but that could benefit by their use. The study
could be used as an internal Office of Policy Anlysis (OPA) document to identify specific
offices that could be targeted for training on the use of risk assessment approaches developed
for Agency use.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor
Office of Policy Analysis
EPAHQ
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KZ-
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/MULTI-MEDIA
Question
6111:
What models useful for risk assessment and exposure
assessment in all media (i.e., solids, air, water, etc.)
are currently available or anticipated to be available in the
next year that might be useful to regional staff?
Dimensions: An existing compilation of model information needs to be updated and expanded.
The purpose of the study is to develop a catlogue including the following information:
1) name and acronym of the models; 2) type of computer system; 3) identification of the
availability of programs on a PC or main frame; 4) restrictions if any; 5) contact person
for administrative problems (i.e., computer charges) and technical problems (i.e., program
bugs, logging on to the system, etc. ); 6) detailed brief description of the usefulness of
system, when to use it and when not to, data used to verify model; 7) detailed brief
description of system limitations; 8) indication of whether the model would be applicable
to a site-specific risk assessment and; 9) identification of data requirements for use of the
model.
Expectations: Currently, a number of risk assessment and exposure assessment models
are available in different HQ program offices. However, a central catalogue listing all of the
models, their usefulness and limitations, is not available. This study should result in a
catalogue with enough background information so that a knowledgeable user will be able to
review the various models and identify the model that will be most useful for a site-
specific risk assessment. Further, a number of models for each specific media will be
identified so that a user will have choice of models.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Office of Program Management
EPA Reg. II
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Tl-MEDIA
Question ,, , . , ,. . „ . , .
6112- w muc^ information does the risk manager need, or
want, in order to make his decision? Are we trying to
develop various quantitative and qualitative approaches
that are used by the risk assessors to generate information
that, in reality, is of little or no use to the risk managers?
Dimensions: EPA sponsors ongoing research to develop quantitative and qualitative
methods for estimating health risks associated with environmental exposures. Further, it
has been observed that risk assessors feel that they could do much better risk assessments if
only they had more "numbers" and more approaches for quantifying and comparing risks. For
example, if an appropriate approach could be devloped for quantifying health risks at
exposures above the RfD (reference dose), then one could compare the risks associated with
different exposure scenarios and that information would be useful to the decision-maker.
The study would involve a small survey of risk management practicies involved with
priority setting at hazardous waste sites.
Expectations: The study should provide a detailed presentation of the survey results. The
study could be used as part of a briefing document for the Office of Policy Analysis (OPA) to
help define joint activities with the Office of Research and Development that yield risk
assessment approaches that are useful to the decision-makers.
Fundina Status: Unfunded
Proect Spnsojr'L
Office of Policy Analysis
EPAHQ
Question
6113
Has the National Environmental Policy Act/Environmental
Impact Statement/Environmental Assessment process
resulted in Federal projects being carried out, constructed,
implemented in an environmentally sensitive manner?
Dimensions: Examine federal projects that have been reviewed to determine if Federal
agencies are implementing their programs and projects in an environmentally sound manner.
Evaluate whether or not mitigation is being implemented on projects and if that mitigation
is beneficial. Provide recommendations on additional or other types of mitigation that would
bring Federal projects in closer harmony with the environment.
Expectations: The result of the study could be used by the Environmental Review Branch
in formulating comments on Environmental Impact Statements, Environmental Assessments
and findings of Significant Importance. The study recommendations could also be used to
advise Federal agencies of generic concerns, situations where changes are needed and the
appropriate steps to achieve the studies.
Fundina Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Environmental Review Branch
EPA Reg. V
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1 MULTI-MEDIAE^
Question
6114: How can the transfer of resources between competing
units be accomplished with minimal long-term
negative effects?
Dimensions: The Office of Compliance Monitoring within the Office of Pesticides and
Toxic Substances will take over enforcement functions under the Federal Insecticide,
Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). These functions are currently within the organiza-
tional framework of the Office of Pesticide Programs. Reorganization is always traumatic
when it involves the transfer of resources from one administrative entity to another.
Functional statements must be drawn up that fit both policy and reality. Standard operating
procedures must be drawn up that will put policy into effect. New space must be
developed to provide a suitable work environment for transferred personnel. Existing
functional units must be expanded to accomodate new personnel and be interlinked. All this
must be accomplished without losing momentum in this pressurized regulatory atmosphere.
Expectations: A NNEPS intern would participate fully in workgroup meetings. Using
management skills developed in a masters level program, the intern would lay out the best
pathways to achieve transfer of resources and management with least disruption of ongoing
programs; help develop administrative unit structures to accomodate new functions; help in
the development of administrative and technical position descriptions within operative units;
and help carry the concept from draft to final implementation in the minimal time.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor OPTS/Office of Compliance Monitoring
EPAHQ
Question
6115: What elements are present in a recruitment program that
result in the successful placement of affirmative action/
protected class candidates and how can we incorporate
them into EPA's recruitment for professional and
administrative positions?
Dimensions: Examine statistics on Affirmative Action placements in scientific, engineering
and administrative organizations. Survey those that have reduced their unrepresentation
index. Identify recruitment and publicity strategies that successfully attracted minority
and female applicants. Research current literature, applicable laws and regulations to
identify "workable" approaches.
Expectations: The study should provide a list of colleges, universities and organizations with
significant enrollment/membership of minorities, females and other protected classes. It
should also yield a checklist/summary of elements that predict successful recruitment and
placement and an analysis of their applicability to the public arena. It should provide
several "model" programs for EPA to consider.
Funding Status: Funded
Project Sponsor:
Policy and Mangement Division
EPA Reg. VII
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L
JMULTl-l
Question
6116: What is the impact of EPA's use of the Intergovernmental
Personnel Act (IPA) in improving state-federal cooperation
and coordination? What benefits/drawbacks accrue to both
agencies in the exchange program?
Dimensions: Assess at least six case histories of IPA program exchanges between EPA
and state environmental organizations. Determine the effect of the program on both
organizations. How long-lasting were these effects? Was the term of the IPA long enough
for meaningful results to occur? What level of exchange (GS or GM level) appears most
fruitful? Provide recommendations for improving the program and enhancing the benefits
to environmental programs in both state and federal government. The study should also
describe the methodology used to assess the success or failure of the assignment^ e.g.,
questionnaires, interviews, review of output indicators, etc.).
Expectations: The study should result in a written report describing each IPA exchange
studied. The case studies should result in a model for a productive IPA exchange and highlight
the characteristics which are important in determining the success of such an assignment.
The study could be used as an internal agency briefing document and a guide for improving the
effectiveness of actual IPA assingments in the future.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor;
Office of Policy and Mangement
EPA Reg. II
Question
6117: What are the policy implications of bioengineered organisms
released in one medium (e.g., soil) being transported to
another medium (e.g., air or water)?
Dimensions: It is highly probable that some bioengineered organisms released in
agricultural ecosystems will be transported in active or dormant forms by wind and water.
Although these organisms may have been developed in the context of FIFRA or TSCA, their
regulation under other acts may sometimes be necessary. This leads to questions on the
applicability of traditional approaches developed to deal with chemical pollutants (criteria
development, standards setting, release controls, monitoring, etc.).
Expectations: The study would seek to determine the applicability and adequacy of existing
chemical-based policies. The study would serve as a source of briefing materials to be used
within OPPE and other EPA offices.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Office of Policy Analysis
EPA HQ
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1'MULTI-MEDIA 03
Question
6201: What is the infrastructure in Pacific Rim Nations and their
major legislation and regulations addressing the hazardous
waste materials issue?
Dimensions: What Pacific Rim countries have laws addressing the hazardous materials
problem? How much waste is produced, transported, treated, disposed and/or stored in
Pacific Rim countries? How many countries have hazardous waste treatment facilities?
What forms of waste are causing the majority of environmental and health problems?
Expectations: The study should provide a broad overview of wastes produced, stored,
treated, etc. and any environmental and health problems associated with the wastes. The
study should be accomplished by: 1) compiling the related laws and regulations of the
Pacific Rim Nations; 2) compiling a list of problems and priorities of these Nations; 3)
examining major influences that impact the Pacific Rim Nations; 4) and follow-up on the
Pacific Rim Consortium Conference Recommendations Conference Scheduled for Feb. 88.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Office of
EPA HQ
International Activities
Question
6202: What is the impact of Land Based Sources (LBS) of
pollution in the Caribbean Sea?
Dimenisons: What nations in the Caribbean Sea have an infrastructure, legislation and
regulation to address LBS? What are the impacts to resources in the Caribbean Sea's Nations?
Why are not all nations signing onto the Caribbean Action Plan?
Expectations: Provide a broad overview of the legislative and regulatory problems and
possible answers to the reluctance of Caribbean nations to address land base sources of
pollution. The Caribbean Action Plan is presently underway. The study coud provide additional
insight into the effectiveness of the CAP.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor: Office of International Activities
EPAHQ
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7MULTI-MEDIA £Z3
Question
6203: Are maquiladora (in-bond) industries on the U.S./Mexico
border area creating a hazardous waste/toxics problem of
concern to the U.S. and/or Mexican governments?
Dimensions: What are the types and quantities of hazardous materials exported to
Mexico from the U.S. for use in the maquiladora industries? Give overall parameters along
the border. What are the types and volumes of hazardus wastes generated in the maquiladora
processes? What are the destinations of these wastes? What U.S. laws and regulations
govern these hazardous materials? What agencies administer, track, andenforce them? What
Mexican laws and regulations govern these hazardous materials and wastes? What agencies
administer, track, and enforce them? What types and quantities of hazardous materials and
wastes are stored in the border area? What waste disposal facilities exist in the border
area?
Expectations: The study should provide a broad overview of the magnitude of the hazardous
waste problem created by the maquiladora industry, and how it is currently being tracked and
regulated. This should be accomplished by: a) developing an inventory of all hazardous
wastes produced, stored, and disposed of along the border (i.e., up to 100 km south of the
border), and b) examining the existing regulatory framework and at the actual monitoring
and enforcement carried out by U.S. and Mexican agencies. This information could assist EPA
in identifying further Federal legislation and U.S./Mexico agreements needed in order to
control this problem.
Funding Status: Unfunded
Project Sponsor:
Office of International Affairs
EPAHQ
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NNEPS
Research/Project
Proposal
-Format and Example-
Research Question: State the question and number. Paraphrase if necessary.
What are the international organizations [e.g., World Bank, Agency for International Development (AID),
International Union for the Conservation of Nature (ILJCN)] doing to protect or prevent adverse impacts on
wetlands and what more can they do? Question #0000
Proposed Research Plan/Period: Briefly describe how and when you would
conduct your research on this question.
Some well-placed phone calls can save a lot of time in the library. So my investigation would begin with a
week or two of phone interviews with a range of people already familiar with (1) wetland protection issues and
(2) the impact of USAID, World Bank and lUCN-type policies on environmental media. I would include USAID and
World Bank program officers, UNEP officials, public interest organizations with international environmental
programs, and academic specialists as well as with people inside EPA.
Then I would select three or four organizations to represent the range of agencies active internationally
(bilateral, multilateral, quasigovernmental). I would look at specific programs or projects currently underway at
these agencies to assess wetlands impact. I would also analyze the organizational structures and political
contexts in which these agencies operate to gain a grasp of how these factors influence their projectsimpacts on
wetlands, as well as the legal authorities of these agencies.
At this point I would be starting to condsider possible changes in the policies that might bring about effective
wetlands protection. I would look closely at any environmental protection provisions already incorporated into
formal guidelines of these agencies to see if any could be applicable to wetland protection. For instance, USAID
requires a type of environmental impact report before its funds can be used to purchase pesticides. The World
Bank has guidelines which mandate a similair assessment before pesticides are to be used. EPA and State efforts
to protect wetlands might also suggest international policy options. Research period is June 1-Aug 31,.1988.
Expected End Product: Briefly describe your expected end product.
I would expect my end product to be a report summarizing the impacts these international agencies are
having on wetlands, along with a substantive analysis of the legal and political factors driving these impacts.
The report would include specific recommendations for policy changes.
Relevant Student
Background/Information: Briefly describe your academic and/or professional
experience or interests that qualify you to conduct this
research.
Though I do not have a background in wetlands protection or water issues in general, I have been working for
the past five years on international pesticide issues. I am already familiar with some of the mechanisms currently
in place at the World Bank and USAID to regulate how their funds are used for pesticides. Last year I wrote
Problem Pesticides, Pesticide Problems, an analysis of the International Code of Conduct on the Distribution and
Use of Pesticides approved in November 1986 by the FAO as well as a guide on how to monitor for compliance with
the code.
Please include the following information on your proposal:
• Name • Major Advisor
.University/Department .Advisors Phone
• Home Address • Geographic Preference
• Phone Numbers with Hours Available (preferred location for the study)
-------
NNEPS
Research/Project
Proposal
Research Question: State the question and number. Paraphrase if necessary.
Proposed Research Plan/Period: Briefly describe how and when you would
(attach extra sheets if necesary) conduct your research on this question.
Expected End Product: Briefly describe your expected end product.
Relevant Student
Background/Information: Briefly describe your academic and/or professional
experience or interests that qualify you to conduct this
research.
Please include the following information on your proposal:
• Name • Major Advisor
.University/Department .Advisors Phone
• Home Address • Geographic Preference
• Phone Numbers with Hours Available (preferred location for the study)
-------
Standard Form 171
\pplication for Federal Employment
(Formerly Personal
Qualifications Statement)
)O NOT SUBMIT A RESUME INSTEAD OF THIS APPLICA-
TION.
FYPE OR PRINT CLEARLY IN DARK INK. If you need more space
or an answer, continue in item 47 on page 4 or use a sheet of paper the
same size as this page. On each sheet write your name. Social Secunty
Number, and the announcement number or job title. Attach all sheets
o this application at the top of page 3.
f you do not answer all questions fully and correctly, you may delay
aur review of your application and lose job opportunities.
Jnless we ask for additional material in the announcement or qualifica-
ion information, do not attach any materials, such as: official position
descriptions, performance evaluations, letters of recommendation, cer-
ifieates of training, publications, etc. Any materials you attach which
MB did not ask for may be removed from your application and will not
se returned to you.
•Ve suggest that you keep a copy of this application for your use. If
;ou plan to make copies of your application, we suggest you leave items
1, 2, 48 and 49 blank Complete these blank items each time you
apply YOU MUST SIGN AND DATE. IN INK, EACH COPY YOU
SUBMIT.
If you are applying for a specific Federal civil service examina-
tion (whether or not a written test is required)'
—Read the announcement and other material provided. Make sure
that your work experience and/or education meet the qualifications
described
—Make sure that you are allowed to apply at this time. Civil service
examinations may be closed to receipt of new applications for specific
types of jobs, grade levels, and/or geographic locations. Follow any
directions on "How to Apply".
—If a written test is required, follow the instructions on your admission
card (for example: "Bring a completed SF171 to the test").
—If a written test is not required, mail this application to the address
in the announcement.
— Include all forms required by the announcement.
If you are applying for a specific vacancy in a Federal agency:
—Study the vacancy announcement to make sure that you meet the
qualifications for the job and are allowed to apply Some jobs are
limited to people who work for the Federal Government, have worked
for the Federal Government m the past, or have an application on
file with the Office of Personnel Management.
— Mail this application to the address in the vacancy announcement.
—Include all forms that are required by the announcement.
If you change your address, notify all offices that have your applica-
tion. Always include your Social Secunty Number.
/ork Experience (Item 24)
Carefully complete each experience block you need to describe your
work experience. Unless you qualify based on education alone, your
rating will depend on your description of previous jobs. Do
not leave out any jobs you held during the last ten years.
• Under Description of Work, write a clear and brief, but complete
description of your major duties and responsibilities for each job In-
clude any supervisory duties, special assignments, and your accomp-
lishments in the job. We may verify your description with your former
employers.
• If you had a major change of duties or responsibilities while you worked
for the same employer, describe each major change as a separate job.
• Wnte in each experience block your name at that time, if it is differ-
ent from the name you currently use. Show your former name in
parentheses on the first line under Description of Work.
Veteran Preference (Item 22)
• DO NOT LEAVE 22 blank. If you do not claim veteran preference.
place an "X" in box number 1. "NO PREFERENCE".
• You cannot receive veteran preference if you afeTetired, or plan to
retire, at or above the rank of major or lieutenant commander, unless
you have a service-connected disability (see "10-POINT PREFER-
ENCE" below).
• Some Vietnam Era and disabled veterans qualify for special hiring pro-
grams. More information is available from any Federal Job Information
Center
• 5-POINT PREFERENCE If you claim 5-point preference you must
have:
—Received an honorable or general discharge (a clemency discharge
does not meet the requirements of the Veteran Preference Act), and
—Served on active duty anytime between December 7, 1941, and
July 1, 1955; or
—Served more than 180 consecutive days of active duty, any part of
which was after January 31, 1955. and before October 15. 1976 (do
not count active duty for training under the ''6-month" Reserve or
National Guard programs/; or
—Served in a military action for which you received or were entitled to
receive a Campaign Badge or Expeditionary Medal. Write the
names of your Campaign Badges and Expeditionary Medals in 47.
If you claim 5-point preference place an "X" in box number 2, "5-
POINT PREFERENCE".
• 10-POINT PREFERENCE. If you claim 10-pomt preference you
must meet the requirements for one of the groups below, as de-
scribed in the Standard Form 15. Application for 10-Pomt Veteran Pref-
erence (SF-15). The SF-15 is available by mail from any Federal Job
Information Center.
—Non-Compensably Disabled or Purple Heart Recipient;
—Compensably Disabled (less than 30%),
—Compensably Disabled (30% or more);
—Spouse, Widow(er), or Mother of a deceased or disabled veteran.
If you claim 10-point preference, place an "X" in the box that applies
to you (3 or 4 or 5 or 6). ATTACH A COMPLETED SF-15 TO
THIS APPLICATION, TOGETHER WITH THE PROOF REQUESTED
IN THE SF-15.
The Office of Personnel Management is authorized to rate applicants for
jderal jobs under sections 1302. 3301. and 3304 of title 5 of the U.S. Code.
action 1104 of title 5 allows the Office of Personnel Management to author-
z other Federal agencies to rate applicants for Federal jobs. We need the
formation you put on this form and associated application forms to see how
ell your education and work skills qualify you for a Federal job. We also need
formation on matters such as citizenship and military service to see whether
3u are affected by laws we must follow in deciding who may be employed
/ the Federal Government.
We must have your Social Secunty Number (SSN) to keep your records
raight because other people may have the same name and birthdate. The
5N has been used to keep records since 1943, when Executive Order 9397
iked agencies to do so. The Office of Personnel Management may also use
your SSN to make requests for information about you from employers, schools,
banks, and others who know you, but only as allowed by law or Presidential
directive. The information we collect by using your SSN will be used for em-
ployment purposes and also for studies and statistics that will not identify you
Information we have about you may also be given to Federal. State and
local agencies for checking on law violations or for other lawful purposes. We
may send your name and address to State and local Government agencies.
Congressional and other public offices, and public international organizations,
if they request names of people to consider for employment. We may also
notify your school placement office if you are selected for a Federal job.
Giving us your SSN or any of the other information is voluntary However,
we cannot process your application, which is the first step toward getting a
job, if you do not give us the information we request.
DETACH THIS PAGE • NOTE ADDITIONAL WORK EXPERIENCE BLOCKS ON BACK
-------
Application for Federal Employment—SF 171
foad the Instructions before you complete this application. Type or print clearly in dark Ink.
Form Approved:
OMB No. 3206-0012
NERAL INFORMATION
What kind o) )0b are you applying for' G/ve ftf/e and announcement number (i! any)
If the announcement lists several |ob titles, which |0bs are you applying for?
Social Security Number
4 Birth date (Month, Day. Year)
-ii-y-K:'i'ii|j u i- I',.+">«* ir-m*— T- •—.!
^&?;Mala^
Name fiasf, First. Middle)
street address or RFD number (include apartment number, it any)
State
ZIP Code
'(her names ever used
Home Phone
ATM Coat
Number
7 Sex (tor statistical use)
D Male D Female
9 Work Pho
AIM Coctt
ne
Numtwr
E>l
Were you ever employed as a civilian by the Federal Government? If "NO", go to 11.
If "YES", mark each type of job you held with an "X".
D Temporary D Career-Conditional D Career D Excepted
What is your highest grade, classification series and |0b title7
Dates at highest grade- FROM
TO
Do you have any applications for Federal employment on file with the U.S. Office of
Personnel Management? I) "NO", mark here D and go to 12 If "YES", write below
and continue in 47 the information for each application; (a) the name of the office that
has your application, (b) the title of the |ob. (c) the date of your Notice of Results, and
(d) your rating.
FOR USE OF EXAMINING OFFICE ONLY
jE; Material
Is; D Submitted
fc D Returned
Entered register-
£-'- Notations.
Form reviewed.
;/-. Form approved.
?•' Option
^~
7,;
'., "
F
fr
'" *'.
t*
$'
Grade
Earned
Rating
L., Initials and Date
^
Preference
r-~l SPonts
U(T«ntJ
10 PB (30%)
nOr Mort
Come Oo
10 PB Ins
DTlumWk
Come Os
DOItir
lOPomts
1 1 Druncwed
nBting
invntifaiM
Aug.
Rating
ANNOUNCEMENT NO. APPLICATION NO.
L" : FOR USE OF APPOINTING OFFICER ONLY
I'
Preference has been verified through proof that the separation
was under honorable conditions, and other proof as required.
5 Point
LJ
Signature and Title
I—I IO-Ptwt-30% o< More
I—I CcmaenuDie OoiOmiy
LJ
D,
AILABILITY**-'
When can you start
work? (Month and Year)
•J 3 What is the lowest pay you will accept?
Pay S per OR Grade.
Are you willing to work:
A. In the Washington, O.C., metropolitan area?
B Outside the 50 United States? .
C Any place in the United States?
D. Only in (list the location/s])
YES
NO
Are you willing to work:
Are you willing to take
a temporary job lasting:
Are you willing to travel
away from home for:
A. 40 hours per week (full-time)'
8. 25-32 hours per week (part-time?) . .
C. 17-24 hours per week (part-time)?
D. 16 or fewer hours per week (part-time)?
E. In an intermittent |0b (on-call/seasonal)?
F. Weekends, shifts, or routing shifts?
A. 5 to 12 months (sometimes longer)?
B 1 to 4 months'
C. Less than 1 month?
A. 1 to 5 nights each monti'
B. 6 to 10 nights each montn' ' . .
C. 11 or more nights each mor.:' . .
THE FEDERAL oovEnNMENT is AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Page 1 PREVIOUS EDITION USABLE NSN 7540-00-935-7150
'MILITARY SERVICE AND VETERAN PREFERENCE'*'*'*^?
•J Q Have you served on active duty in the United States Military Service?
ff your only active duty was training in the Reserves or National Guard.
answer "NO". If "NO", go to 22 .
•J9 Were you honorably discharged from the military service' It your dis- ~
charge was changed to ' 'honorable "or ' 'general" bya Discharge Review
Board, answer "YES". II you received a clemency discharge, answer
"NO". If "NO", explain in 47 [
20 Did you or will you retire at or above the rank ef major or lieutenant
commander? ...
21 List the dates.
FROM
iranch, and sen:
TO
il number for all active du
BRANCH Of SERVICE
[y service.
SERIAL NUMBER
22
Place an "X" in the box next to your Veteran Preference claim
See the instructions for eligibility information.
Mark only one box
NO PREFERENCE
5-POINT PREFERENCE—You must show proof when you are hired.
10-POINT PREFERENCE-lf you Claim 10-point preference, you must complete
t Standard Form 15, which is available at any Federal Job Information Center.
ATTACH THE COMPLETED SF 15 TO THIS APPLICATION, TOGETHER WITH THE
PROOF REQUESTED IN THE SF 15.
Non-compensably disabled or Purple Heart recipient
Compensably disabled (less than 30%).
Spouse, widow(er). or mother.
Compensably disabled (30% or more).
Sundvd Farm 171 (B»v 284)
Office ol Pvraonntl Mmnagtmwv
FPM Chads' 295
-------
IRK EXPERIENCE */f you haveno work experience,-mite rNONE~*in A below and go to 25 on page 3
YES
NO
May we ask your present employer about your character, qualifications
and work record? A "NO" will not affect our review of your qualifications.
If you answer "NO" and we need to contact your present employer before
we can offer you a iob, we will contact you first
READ WOBK EXPERIENCE ON THE INSTRUCTION PAGE BEFORE YOU BEGIN
• Descnbe your current or most recent job in Block A and work backwards, descnbing
each iob you held during the past 10 years
• You may sum up in one block work that you did more than 10 yean ago But, if that
work is related to the type of job you are applying for, describe each related |0t> in a
separate block.
• If you were unemployed for longer than 3 months, list the dates and your address(es)
at that time in 47 Do not list unemployment that was more than 10 years ago.
• INCLUDE VOLUNTEER WORK (non-paid work)-tt the work (or a part of the work) is like
the |ob you are applying for, complete all parts of the experience block just as you would
for a paying job. You may receive credit for work experience with religious, community,
welfare, service, and other organizations.
• INCLUDE MILITARY SERVICE-You should complete all parts of the experience block |ust
as you would for a non-military iob. including all supervisory experience. Describe each
maior change of duties or responsibilities in a separate experience block
• IF YOU NEED MORE EXPERIENCE BLOCKS OR MORE SPACE TO DESCRIBE A JOB-
For more blocks, use the SF171-A or sheets of paper the same size as this page (be sure to
include all information we ask for in A or B below). On each sheet show your name. Social
Security Number, and the announcement number or iob title
For more space continue in 47 or on a sheet of paper as described above.
• IF YOU NEED TO UPDATE (ADD MORE RECENT JOBS), use the SF 172 or a sheet of paper
as described above.
Name and address of employers
organization /include 2IP Code, it known)
Exact title of your job
Kind of business or organization (manufacturing, account-
ing, social service, etc.)
Dates employed (give month and year)
From. To:
Salary or earnings
Starting S
Ending S
Your immediate supervisor
Name Area
II Federal employment (civilian or mililaryi list
the date ol your laM promotion
per
per
Code Telephone Number
series, grade or rank and
Average number of hours per week
Place of employment
City
State
Number and job titles of any employees you
supervise(d)
Your reason tor wanting to leave
Description of work Describe your specific duties, responsibilities and accomplishments in this ;ob
or personnel and budget/, write the approximate percentage ot time you spent doing each
It you describe more than one type ol work itor example carpentry and painting
,*For Agency Use (•kill codes, etc.)
Name and address of employer s organization (include ZIP Code, if known) Dates employed (give month ana year)
From To:
Exact title of your job
Kind of business or organization (manufacturing, account-
ing, social service, etc.)
Salary or earnings
Starting $ per
Ending S per
Your immediate supervisor
Name
Area Code Telephone Number
I
If Federal employment icmlian or military), list series, grade or rank, and
the date of your last promotion
Average number ot hours per week
Place of employment
City
State
Number and |0b titles of any employees you
supervised
Your reason for leaving
Description ot work Describe your specific duties, responsibilities and accomplishments in this iob If you describe more than one type of work (for example, carpentry and painting.
or personnel and budget), write the approximate percentage of time you spent doing each
For Agency Use (skill codes, etc.)
Page 2
FOR MORE EXPERIENCE BLOCKS SEE SF 171-A ON BACK OF INSTRUCTION PAGE
-------
PUCATION vv-. •----..::;- .---.-.•.• • •-. ..-.-A -- ,-:,-::_ .-•--.:. ..,.,w •;••-':.- ', -. 'V/ . ":. '-.-»• '-- '• •-.-'I
)id you graduate from high school' It you have a GED high school equivalency or will
raduate within the next nine months, answer "YES".
IS
0
> If "YES", give
, If "NO", give
month and year of gra
tie highest grade you c
rtiiahnn-
JAME AND LOCATION reify, sfafe and ZIP code) OF COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY 11 you expect
o graduate within nine months, give the month and y«ir you expect to receive your degree
)
)
>
CHIEF UNDERGRADUATE SUBJECTS
Show ma/or on the first line
!)
)
NO OF CREDITS COMPLETED
Semester Hours OR Quartet Hours
ave you completed any other courses or training related to the kind ol lobs you YES
re applying tor (tor example, trade, vocational. Armed forces, or business;? IJQ
MONTH AND YEAR
TRAINING
COMPLETED
)
»
»
TOTAL
CLASSROOM
HOURS
SUBJECT(S)
26 Write the name and location (city and stale) of the last high school you attended
27 Have y°u ever attended
college or graduate scho
MONTH AND YEAR ATTENDED
From To
YES
u" NO
> If "YES", continue with 28
, If "NO", go to 31
NO OF CREDITS COMaETED
Semtster Hours OR Quarter Hours
- -
30 CHIEF GRADUATE SUBJECTS
Show mayor on the first line
1)
2)
3)
i If "YES", give the information requested
> If "NO", go to 32
TYPE OF DEGREE
(eg BA.MAl
YEAR OF
DEGREE
NO OF CREDITS COMPLETED
Semester Hours OR Quartet Hours
below (More courses'— Use a sheet ot paper)
NAME AND LOCATION OF SCHOOL
(dry. state, and ZIP code, if known)
CERTIFICATE
DIPLOMA etc
CIAL SKILLS, ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND AWARDS
.ist your special qualifications, skills or accomplishments that may help you get a job. Some examples are. skills with machines, most important publications (do no! submit copies), public
speaking and writing experience, membership in professional or scientific societies: patents or inventions: etc
How many words per
minute can you'
TYPE1 I TAKE DICTATION'
Agencies may test your
Mitt before hiring you.
34 list job-related licenses or certificates that you have.
LICENSE OR CERTIFICATE
sucti
1)
2)
Do you speak or read a language other than English (include sign language)"* YES
Applicant* for jobs that require * language other than English may be
nven an Interview conducted solely in that language. NO
LANGUAGE(S)
1)
2)
CAN PREPARE AND
GIVE LECTURES
Fluently • Witt) Difficulty
as registered nurse, lawyer, ra
DATE OF LATEST LICENSE
OR CERTIFICATE
dio operator, timer's, pilot's, etc
STATE OR OTHER LICENSING AGENCY
1 If "YES", list each language and place an "X" m each column that applies to
< If "NO", go to 36
CAN SPEAK AND UNDERSTAND
Fluently • Passably
CAN TRANSLATE ARTICLES
Into English • From English
you.
CAN READ ARTICLES
FOR OWN USE
Easily
Witn Difficulty
List any honors, awards, or fellowships you have received. For each, give the year it was received.
List three people who are not related to ,-. > and who know your qualifications and fitness for the kind ot |ob(s) tor which you are applying Oo not list supervisors you listed under 24
FULL NAME OF REFERENCE
1)
2)
3)
PRESENT BUSINESS OR HOME ADDRESS
(Number, street, city, state, and ZIP code)
.
TELEPHONE NUMBER(S)
(Include area code)
BUSINESS OR OCCUPATION
3
-------
ACKGROUND INFORMATION—You must answer each question in this section before we can process your mpplication
Place an "X" in the proper column for each question below
J Are you a citizen of the United States? If "NO", write the country or countries you are a omen of
Impotent note about questions 39 through 44: We will consider the date, facts, and circumstances of each event you list. In most cases you can still be considered for Federal
lobs However. H you fail to tell the truth or fail to list all relevant events, this failure may be grounds for not hiring you. tor firing you after you begin work, or tor criminal
prosecution |18 USC 1001)
During the last 10 yews, were you flrtd from any fob for any reason, did you quit after bilng told Hurt you would b* find, or did you leave by mutual agreement because of
specific problems? II "YES", use <7 to wnte for each |ob: >) the name of the employer: b) the approximate date you left the >ot. and c) the reason(s) why you ten
When answering questions 48 through 44 you mty omit: 1) traffic fines of $100.00 or less: 2) any violation of law committed before your 18th birthday, tf finally decided in
juvenile court or under a youth offender law: 3) any conviction set aside under the Federal Youth Corrections Act or similar State law. 4) any conviction whose record was
expunged under Federal or State law.
) Have you ever been convicted of or forfeited collateral for any Mony?
A Mony is defined as any violation of law punishable by imprisonment of longer than one year, except tor violations called misdemeanors under Safe law which are punishable- by
imprisonment of two years or less
J Have you ever been convicted of or forfeited collateral lor any firearms or explosives violation?
2 During the last 10 yon have you forfeited collateral, been convicted, been imprisoned, been on probation, or been on parole? Do not include violations reported m 40 or 41
above ...
3 Are you now under charges for my violation of law?
4 Have you ever been convicted by a eaurt-m»rttil? If no military service, answer "NO"
IF YOU ANSWERED "YES" TO 40, 41, 42. 43. or 44. GIVE DETAILS IN 47. For each violation wnte the 1) Hate. 2} charge. 31 place. 4) court, antt S) acton taken
5 Do any of your relatives work for the United States Government or the United States Armed Forces' Include farcer, momer. nusoanrf. wife: son: daughter, brother: safer, one*.
aunf. first cousin, nephew: mece. tather-mJaw. mother-m-law. son-in-law: daughter-in-law, brother-in-law, ssfer-#i-iaw. stepfather, stepmother: stepson, stepdaughter, stepbrother.
stepsister, half brother, and halt sister .
0 "YES", use 47 to wnte for each of these relatives, their a! name, b) relationship, c) department, agency, or branch of the Armed forces.
Do you receive or have you ever applied lor retirement pay. pension, or other pay based on military. Federal civilian or District of Columbia Government service'
'DITIONALlSPACE FOR ANSWERS
7 Wnte the number to which each answer applies. If you need more tpaee. use sheets of paper the same see as this page. On each sheet wnte your name, Social Security Number, and
the announcement number or tab title. Attach aH additional sheets at the top of page 3.
IGNATURE, CERTIFICATION, AND RELEASE OF INFORMATION
YOU MUST SIGN THIS APPLICATION. Read the following carefully before you sign.
A false statement on any part of your application may be grounds for not hiring you, or for firing you after you begin work. Also, you may be punished
by fine or imprisonment (U.S. Code, Title 16. Section 1001).
I undenrtand that any information I give may be investigated as allowed by law or Presidential order,
I consent to .the release of information about my ability and fitness for Federal employment by employers, schools, law enforcement agencies
and other individuals and organizations, to investigators, personnel staffing specialists, and other authorized employees of the Federal Government.
I certify that to the best of my knowledge and belief, all of my statements are true, correct, complete, and made in good faith.
SIGNATURE: (Sign each application in dark ink)
49 DATE SIGNED (Month, day, year)
Page 4
U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE : 1987 - 176-050
-------
Standard Form 1 71 -A— Continuation Sheet for SF 171 35£S&«
• Attach all SF 171-A's to your application at the top of page 3.
Name a as!. First. MiOOle)
Job Title or Announcement Number You Are Applying For
2. Social Secunty Number
4. Date Completed
•ADDITION ALWORK EXPERIENCE BLOCKS IFiNEEDED -rv&-- -.• "''-^ • :^ -: , ;~ ::.-~y ;. ' -~-^x - .^^ -•*?*•*• **£$«*** -•->«•-«; -^^H
1 Name and address ot employer s organization (include ZIP Code it known*
Exact title of your |ot>
Kind o1 business or organization {manufacturing
ing, social service, ere )
Your immediate supervisor
Name
Dates employed Igive month ana yean
From To
Salary or earnings
Starting S per
Ending S per
Area Code Telephone Number
I I
account- If Federal employment icmlian or military! list series, grade or rank and
the date of your last promotion
Average number of hours per week
Place ol employment
City
State
Number and |OD titles of any employees you
supervised
Your reason tor leaving
Description of work Describe your specific duties responsibilities and accomplishments in this |0b II you describe more man one type ot work nor example carpentry ana painting
or personnel ana budgeti write the approximate percentage of time you spent doing each
HBHL^HHilli^BBIi^i^iVi^i^Hi^HHili^iHilli^ili^illi^Hlllllllfli^i^iH ./For Agency Ute(ikin codes, etc.)
Name and address of employer s organization imcluoe ZIP Code it known;
Exact title ot your job
Kind of business or organization (manufacturing, account-
ing, social service, etc.)
Dales employed igive month ana year/
From To
Salary or earnings
Starting $ per
Ending S per
Your immediate supervisor
Name Area Code Telephone Number
1
It Federal employment icivilian or military i list series, grade or rank and
the date ol your last promotion
- --
Average number ot hours per week
Place of employment
City
State
Number and iob titles ol any employees
supervised
Your reason tor leaving
'
yc
Description of work Describe your specific duties, responsibilities and accomplishments in this iob It you Otscritx more man one type ot work tloi example carpentry ano painting
or personnel am OuOgeti. write the approximate percentage ot time you spent doing each
_- For Agency U» (skill codes.
Tnr rCDEHAL GOVEBNMFt." 'S AN EOUAt OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Pf. U'lOUS EDITION US ^BL£ NSN 7540-00-935-7157
Standard form 171-A (Ax
Othc* al Panenrw Manai
FPM OiapMr 295
-------
,v
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Eseion 5, Library (5PL-16)
230 S. Dearborn Street, Bo«« 1670
CMc**o, IL 6060^
-------
i ,> I
-------
s&NNEPS
National Network for Environmental Policy Studies
For more information contact:
The National Network for Environmental Policy Studies
Office of Policy, Planning and Evaluation
Rm. 1019WT/PM-219
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
401 M. St. SW. Washington D.C. 20460
(202) 382-4020
------- |