US-MEXICO'
Border XXI Program
1997 - 1998 Implementation Plans and
1996 Accomplishments Report
EPA 160-R-98-001
United States -Mexico
International Border Area
D%M
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Table Of Contents
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INTRODUCTION
CHAPTER I 1996 ACCOMPLISHMENTS REPORTS
Natural Resources
Water
Air
Hazardous & Solid Waste
Contingency Planning and Emergency Response
Environmental Information Resources
Pollution Prevention
Environmental Health
Cooperative Enforcement and Compliance
CHAPTER II 1997 IMPLEMENTATION PLANS
Natural Resources
Water
Air
Hazardous & Solid Waste
Contingency Planning and Emergency Response
Environmental Information Resources
Pollution Prevention
Environmental Health
Cooperative Enforcement and. Compliance
DIRECTORY of CONTACTS
GLOSSARY
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178
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BORDER xxi PROGRAM
1997 IMPLEMENTATION PLANS
AND
1996 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN ACCOMPLISHMENTS REPORT
INTRODUCTION
The Border XXI Program is an innovative binational effort which brings together the diverse U.S.
and Mexican federal entities responsible for the shared border environment to work cooperatively
toward sustainable development through protection ofhuman health and the environment as well as
proper management of natural resources in each country. The Border XXI Framework Document
(FrameworkDocument) is a product of broad public input which defines five-year objectives for the
border environment and describes mechanisms for fulfilling those objectives by facilitating federal,
state and local involvement.
Nine binational Workgroups implement the Border XXI Program by integrating the efforts of
participating entities and defining specific projectsto meet Border XXI objectives. Each Workgroup
is lead by a U.S. and Mexican Co-Chairperson. The Workgroups ensure effective coordination of
bilateral efforts by bringing together representatives from federal and state agencies from both
countries with a wide array of environmental interests and perspectives. The Workgroups have
developed or are in the process of exploring the development of subgroups and other mechanisms
to assure the participation of tribal and other border communities in implementation of the Program.
The Border XXI Workgroups are: (1) Natural Resources; (2) Water; (3) Air; (4) Hazardous and Solid
Waste; (5) Contingency Planning and Emergency Response; (6) Environmental Information
Resources; (7) Pollution Prevention; (8) Environmental Health; and, (9) Cooperative Enforcement
and Compliance. These nine Workgroups meet individually as necessary and convene as a whole
at least once a year.
The Border XXI Program 1997-1998 Implementation Plans and 1996 Implementation Plan
Accomplishments Report reflects the United States' and Mexican governments' continuing efforts
and commitment to provide the public with information on projects that will advance the long-term
objectives outlined in the Frame-work Document, based on federal funding levels for a given year.
Chapter I documents the 1996 accomplishments and progress achieved by each of the nine Border
XXI Workgroups in advancing the long-term objectives of the Border XXI Program. Some of the
Workgroup Reports also include preliminary information on 1997 activities. Chapter II reflects
Workgroup projects that are being carried out during 1997 and 1998 which include Fiscal Year
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(FY)1997 funding. The information provided includes the purpose, project description, funding,
partners and points of contact for each project. During 1998, an addendum to this Implementation
Plan will be published describing additional projects funded in FY98 that have not been included in
this report.
For subsequent years following 1998, the governments of Mexico and the U.S. are in the process of
negotiating on a schedule for releasing the annual Border XXI Workgroup work plans which would
outline the projects and program investments based on resource expectations.
Many acronyms and other kinds of abbreviations are used throughout this document. A Glossary
of Abbreviations on page 178.
Additional information about these activities and future projects is available directly from the
Workgroup staff and can be obtained through correspondence, telephone calls, or electronic mail
messages. A list of these contacts with addresses and telephone numbers is included in Directory
of Contacts, page 169 of this document. In addition, individuals who are on public advisory boards,
such as the Good Neighbor Environmental Board or the Joint Advisory Committee for the
Improvement of Air Quality in the El Paso, Texas, Ciudad Juarez and Dona Ana County Air Basin
may be contacted.
For further information on the Border XXI Program or other border activities please call
1-800-334-0741 or visit the U.S.-Mexico Home Page at http://www.epa.gov/usmexicoborder.
IV
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CHAPTER I
1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments
Report
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NATURAL RESOURCES WORKGROUP
1996 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN ACCOMPLISHMENTS REPORT
Project Name: Training Course on Management Planning of Protected Areas in Mexico
The Management of Natural Protected Areas course (course 12) was given September 22-October
4 in Cuatrocienegas, Coahuila, with 24 participants. The Workshop in General Management
Planning (course 13) was given November 12-23 with 18 participants in Coahuila and Texas.
Project: Exchange of Biological Data and Expansion of Biodiversity Information Networks
The Smithsonianlnstitution (SI), BRD, and CONABIO are working to increase access to information
on Mexico's biodiversity by documenting and computerizing data on collection from Mexico in the
SI Museum of Natural History. Methods of electronic documentation and georeferencing of
informationfrom biological collections were successfully tested. In 1997, BRD and CONABIO will
coordinate bilateral efforts to begin computerizing information on the flora and fauna of biosphere
reserves and other protected areas using protocols developed by Man and the Biosphere (MAB)
program of UNESCO.
Project: Lower Rio Grande Ecosystem Initiative
A bibliography has been developed that compiles references to the literature on the biological
resources of the lower Rio Grande/Rio Bravo watershed. Additionally, a document has been
developed that compiles a listing of DOI bureau activities and programs in that region. Together,
these sources of information will enable resource managers to identify areas of common interest,
leverage resources, and avoid duplication of effort.
Project: Binational Fire Management Agreement
The U.S. and Mexico have begun discussions on the development of a binational agreement for
international fire management, and a draft agreement has been exchanged.
Project: Upper San Pedro River Basin Binational Education/Training Project
A workshorVtraining session was held for resource managers from the U.S. and Mexico who work
on the San Pedro River on issues such as water use, livestock grazing, wildlife habitat, recreation
Opportunities, cultural resources, and restoration uses. The session was taught by people dealing with
the issues at the ground level. The management of the Cananea Mining Company in Mexico, where
the headwaters of the San Pedro River reside, provided a tour of the facilities. The training provide
a forum for a positive binational dialogue.
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Chapter I Natural Resources Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
Project: The Restoration of Desert Vegetation in the Santa Cruz River
A study was conducted of the riparian habitat of the Upper Santa Cruz River Watershed in Sonora,
Mexico and Arizona, U.S. to review potential limitations to recovery of the stream corridor. Areas
upstream and downstream of the Nogales International Wastewater Treatment Plant were studied.
Additionally, a handbook on community-based restoration efforts for riparian systems on the Santa
Cruz River Watershed was written by the Sonoran Institute with the support and contribution of the
DOL
Project: National Aerial Photography Program
On the U.S. side of the border, new 1:40,000 color infrared imagery has been acquired by USGS for
the entire border region. Mexico is in the progress of completing the acquisition of 1:175,000 scale
black and white photography and has begun -- in selected areas — to initiate 1:40,000 scale color
infrared photography. Using the new photography, USGS has begun a major effort to produce over
3,000 Digital Orthophoto Quadrangles covering the border region. USGS completed border-wide
coverage of Digital Elevation Models, Digital Raster Graphic, and Public Land Survey system and
boundary data categories. In 1997-1998, digital data will be integrated between the two countries to
be used in various applications such as applications for ecosystem and habitat management,
environmental surveys, agriculture and forestry issues, and land use studies.
Project: Arizona Fire Ecology Program and Border Area Fire Suppression
USFS Coronado NF reps, joined SEMARNAP Sonora Forestry staff in Yecora, Sonora to give
presentations on fire prevention and the role of fire in different ecosystems. They visited three public
schools in Yecora and two at nearby Mesa del Campanero reaching about 200 students in primary,
secondary, and college preparatory schools in Yecora and about 30 in primary and secondary schools
in Mesa del Campanero. In addition the USFS-SEMARNAP team visited six sawmills and one
furniture factory in Yecora County to provide information and education on fire prevention. The
local fire suppression crew, La Brigada de Yecora, was given a refresher basic firefighter course and
some hands on training in prescribed burning. Boys from the secondary school observed the
prescribed burn to gain a better understanding of fire as a tool in ecosystem management.
A fire suppression training course was held in Cananea, Sonora for firefighters from surrounding
communities including Cananea, Cumpas, Imuris, and Agua Prieta. The training was jointly
instructed by USFS and SEMARNAP-Sonora reps. 50 firefighters attended the course.
A two-week long course was held in "Los Berros", State of Mexico in November by members from
the Prescott NF, PROBOSQUE, SEMARNAP-Campeche and Quintana Roo, Universities of
Chihuahua and UAAAN, and SEMARNAP-Forestry Division. This course is geared toward
individuals who already have basic fire training but need additional skills in organization and
oversight of firefighting crews. The course includes instruction on how to train others in basic fire
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Chapter I Natural Resources Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
suppression and fire behavior predictions. Also includes training on the development and execution
of a prescribed burn plan.
Project: Reintroduction of Wild Turkey (Gould's Turkey)
Studies of the distribution and abundance of the Wild Turkey were carried out. Training in
techniques was carried out and methodologies for repopulation from the wild turkey population in
Arizona (Coronado National Forest) were implemented.
Wild Turkeys from Mexican Sonoran forests were captured and released with collars and radio
transmitters. Monitoring and habitat management will continue to be carried out.
An additional 38 turkeys were transplanted from Yecora, Sonora across the border to the Coronado
NF. This activity is in its second year. The Mexican government, through INE, facilitated the visas
for capture and export. There will be a report of the results.
Project: Assessment. Inspection, and Training for Reduction of Forest Pests and Disease at the
Border
In the states of Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua, Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas, under the Border
XXI Program, PROFEP A did a total of 18,647 inspections of shipment as of July 31,1996. This is
equivalent to 589,061 cubic meters of forest products and 38,733,639 manufactured pieces.
The principle products inspected were new and used cutwood, plywood, plank wood, manufactured
wood, and Christmas trees, verifying 630,379 of these.
Of the 116 cases of pests detected, 25 were at high risk and quarantined for the necessary treatment
to prevent the propagation into Mexican populations. 181 unbeatable shipments were not allowed
to enter Mexico.
As such, through implementation of the proposed indicator (inspected shipments and shipments
declined) the high risk index was put together for the performance period that was .97% of the total
observed actions. If the indicator applies to shipments subject to quarantine and fumigation treatment
(inspected shipments to rejected shipments more than subjected shipments to treatment), the risk
index would rise to 1.59%
Training courses were given for inspection for pest and disease identification and quarantine and
fumigation treatments.
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Chapter I Natural Resources Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
Project: Practices for the Sustainable Use of Forests
A draft of the handbook on Best Management Practices designed for technical field use completed
and translated into Spanish this year. Technicians in Mexico are using the manual to test its utility
before a final version is completed. A trip to Mexico occurred to identify the demonstration area and
types of practices that would be implemented on site. Additionally, a group of Mexican foresters
from the ejido and SEMARNAP visited the Gila NF, New Mexico to observe first hand how BMPs
are being implemented on forested areas in the U.S.
Project: Coronado National Forest/State of Sonora Sister Forest Partnership
This year, numerous exchanges of personnel occurred to observe and assist in implementing
prescribed burns in Arizona and Sonora. In addition, experts from the University of Arizona and
RMRS joined USFS personnel to exchange information and provide training on the identification
and control of mistletoe and bark beetle outbreaks in Sonora.
Project: El Largo-Madera Ecosystem Management Practice
Two members of the Ejido Larod Madera spent three weeks working with USFS engineers to digitize
current base ecosystem information.
Project: Implementation of the Management Program for the Biosphere Reserve Alto Golfo
de California and Colorado River Delta. Baja California and Sonora
- Protection and Conservation:
- Zoning and information dissemination: 70 signs and postings were created and placed in the
reserve. - A description pamphlet was created and is in the final phase of revisions.
- Administration and operation: there is a plan for 9 hired staff, one in the reserve, two vehicles,
computer equipment and office furniture.
Project: Implementation of the Management Program for the Biosphere Reserve for the El
Pinacate and Gran Desierto de Altar. Sonora
- Protection and Conservation: Personnel were hired to supervise activities.
- Zoning and information dissemination: 70 signs and postings were created and placed in the
reserve. - A description pamphlet was created and is in the final phase of revisions.
- Administration and operation: there is a plan for 7 hired staff, one in the reserve, two vehicles,
computer equipment and office furniture.
- A study of extractive activities of non-metallic minerals was carried out: This study was done to
determine the appropriate sites to for volcanic rock (morusa) extraction with the least impact.
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Chapter I Natural Resources Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
Project: Emerging Program for Maderas del Carmen Flora and Fauna Protection Area
- Protection and Conservation: Reserve personnel were hired.
- Administration and basic operation: two technical coordinators were hired, a vehicle, computer
equipment, furniture and office materials and resources for operation were provided.
- Preparation of the Management Program.
Project: Emerging Program for Santa Elena Canyon Flora and Fauna Protection Area.
- Protection and Conservation: Reserve personnel were hired.
- Administrationand basic operation: a Director and two technical coordinators were hired, a vehicle,
computer equipment, furniture and office materials and resources for operation were provided.
- Preparation of the Management Program.
Project: Base Study for the Establishment of a Natural Protected Area in Laguna Madre.
Tamaulipas
A study was done and a document was compiled with basic information of ecological and
environmental characteristics and diagnostics of the Laguna Madre region in Tamaulipas. Likewise,
it contains a proposal for establishing limits for a natural protected area for the conservation of the
Laguna and identification of the relevant areas for the protection of habitats for aquatic birds.
Project: Implementation of training courses and meetings on experiences in the administration
and operation of National Protected in the Northern Border
The Congress on "Biodiversity and Natural Protected Areas in the Northern border: Actual Situation,
Problems and Alternatives for Conservation and Management" occurred in Mexicali, B.C. in
November, 1996. Participants included 61 researchers, specialists and representatives from the
Northern region of Mexico and staff from the Coordination Unit of Natural Protected Areas of INE.
Flora and Fauna Inventory for the Laguna Madre, Tamaulipas
The study consisted of an inventory for flora and fauna species of the northern region of the estuarine
system of the Laguna Madre.
There were 31 sites inventoried to identify species through review of 2 herbariums, 9 collections
from 6 higher education and research institutions, as well as bibliographies. In total, they registered
110 species belongingto 90 types of bivalve mollusks and gastropods. Before this study, there had
been no registered species of poliquetes, crustaceans, and starfish.
The results indicated that there is a wide distribution of flora and fauna even though the fauna is
congregated in the northeast of the Laguna near the canal Boca El Mezquital, because of the
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Chapter I Natural Resources Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
proximity to the marine environment. The Lagunahas a homogenous environment given the hyper
salinity, the substrate limestone- clay dominance, and the wide distribution of aquatic vegetation.
Project: Biological Diversity of the Meadows of the Northeast of Mexico
An inventory was conducted of the terrestrial vertebrates and flora, from Chihuahua to Sonora
between the Sierra de San Luis to Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua. The results were presented in list of
species localities and taxonomic group. It did not include maps.
Mammals ofBaja California
From the bibliographic research and revision of 7 scientific collections, the mammals of Baja
California are representative of 105 species, 49 genuses, 20 families, and 6 orders.
This indicates the state of relative richness in mammal species, highlighting the taxonomic groups
with affinity for arid zones, fundamentally of the neoartic type. Ten species are endemic to the state
because of geographic isolation of the islands and the peninsula.
The species in danger of extinction or threatened are small in number and are in a restricted area and
are species of interest to hunting. The change and transformation of the original ecosystem also
increases the vulnerability of the species. The study contains a species list, the inventory location,
collector, author, and year registered or inventoried.
Project: Review of the Actual Situation of Floral Habitats of Estuary Habitats in the Border
Zone of the State of Sonora
The study consisted of a bibliographic review of the flora of the Santa Cruz, San Pedro, and Sonoyta
rivers in Sonora, and a review of the UNAM herbariums, the University of Arizona and the
institutions in Sonora.
The study results showed that the Sonoyta river has the most species of exotic and introduced flora
and is the most dry. The San Pedro river has the most use (agriculture and grazing) and the riverbed
is moderately deteriorated. The information presents species lists, inventory sites, and distribution
maps.
Project: Rural Aquaculture
The program was initiated in 1995 and includes, among other aquaculture activities, repopulation of
reservoirs, including rivers, stream and basins for the benefit of the local population.
In reference to repopulation efforts, its important to note that in 1996 the General Directorate of
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Chapter I Natural Resources Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
Aquaculture introduced in three border states 1,384,046 spawn, of which Coahuila received
1.036,000, equivalent to 74.85%, Tamaulipas received 323,000 (23.34%), and Chihuahua with only
25,000 (1.81%). For species type, carp was the principle species introduced contributing to 64.8%
of the total. Tilapia was 22%, catfish was 6.6%, lobina was 4.8%, and trout was 1.8%.
These repopulation activities together with 6 implemented projects with an investment of near 3.7
million pesos supported a population of approximately 26,000 habitants through improvement of
their diet and generation of important jobs and investments of commercialization and local use.
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WATER WORKGROUP
1996 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN ACCOMPLISHMENTS REPORT
INTRODUCTION:
This interim report is to provide the National Coordinators and other interested parties with a brief
summary of the actions taken on the projects identified in the 1996 Implementation Plan. More
detailed, project specific information, can be obtained from the project contact listed in the
implementation plan.
The Water Workgroup is dedicated to binational implementation plans which recognize that
coordinated actions are necessary although important parallel activities may be undertaken in each
country. This Progress Report will stress binational federally funded activities with transboundary
impact but will also recognize any parallel activities of non-federal agencies of State and local
governments with transboundary impacts.
Budgetary considerationsrequired that the activities in 1996 be within the available annual resources
of each country. The Water Workgroup worked to leverage the federal resources with those of the
States and other organizations.
OBJECTIVES:
The Water Workgroup has had progress in meeting its two primary objectives for 1996:
•Develop relationships and establish mechanisms which encourage ongoing binational
communication and information exchange to increase effectiveness of project planning and
implementation; and
•Act on the binational obj ecti ves for environmental infrastructure development, pollution prevention,
watershed planning and management, water quality monitoring, environmental training, promoting
water conservation and public education and involvement.
ACTIONS:
Environmental Infrastructure Development
•Rio Grande Cities Facilities Planning ~ The U.S. and Mexico, with the assistance of the
International Boundary and Water Commission, have reached agreement on the technical activities
necessary to develop projects for wastewater treatment facilities in the communities of Reynosa,
Piedras Negras and Ciudad Acufia. Consulting firms, under contract to the IB WC, are in place. EPA
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Chapter I Water Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
and the Comision Nacional del Agua will continue to work with the IBWC, in coordination with
local operating agencies, to facilitate the development of these projects.
In preliminary conversations between Mexico and the United States it has been agreed
that, in respect to the analysis of the hydraulic and sanitary infrastructure needs of the
cities, towns and communities near the Rio Grande, needs will be based on individual
locations or by watershed.
•Mexicali and Nogales Wastewater — The U.S. and Mexico are cooperating on the planning and
construction of wastewater infrastructure in Mexicali and Nogales. In 1996, IBWC, with funding
provided by EPA, procured the services of architectural and engineering consultants to prepare
facilities plans, which will evaluate the technical, environmental, and financial aspects of project
alternatives and to facilitate public information activities. In Nogales, agreement was reached on the
components of the facilities plan in October 1996.
In 1996, actions were also taken to rehabilitate the existing wastewater infrastructure, while
plans for additional infrastructure are developed. In Nogales, an infiltration and inflow study
and emergency repairs were conducted on the U.S. side in the period from August 1995 to
October 1996 and additional rehabilitation projects in the U.S. and Mexico were scheduled
for 1997. Mexico initiated the construction of the Los Alisos and the implementation
of the Master Plan for drinking water, sewer, and wastewater treatment for Nogales.
In Mexicali, eleven short-term projects were identified and construction was initiated.
Several discharges of raw wastewater to the New River have been eliminated or significantly
reduced.
•Tijuana International Wastewater Treatment Project — In 1996, construction of the advanced
primary portion of the SouthBay International Waste water Treatment Plant and the South Bay Ocean
Outfall continued. The U.S. conducted supplemental environmental studies to determine the impacts
associated with operation of the treatment plant pending completion of the ocean outfall and
secondary treatment.
To achieve the COCEF certification, the Parallel Construction for wastewater
treatmentin Tijuana and San Diego was initiated as well as the rehabilitation of the San
Antonio de Los Buenos treatment plant.
Pollution Prevention
•Industrial Source Control
In 1996, the U.S. continued to work with Mexico regarding industrial discharges to the
wastewater collection systems in Nogales and Tijuana. Assessments of the amounts of
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Chapter I Water Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
pollutants that could be safely treated at the treatment plants were initiated.
In Mexico, CNA provided guidance to the wastewater operating entities in the wastewater
pretreatment program implementation. State authorities will be in charge of following up the
pretreatment program.
•Wellhead Protection
The original phase of the Nogales wellhead protection project was completed in 1996. Three
wellhead protection areas were identified: Potrero Creek, Santa Cruz, and Valle Verde.
Potential sources of contamination were mapped and management strategies identified. A
safe drinking water bilingual curriculum for use in kindergarten through twelfth grade was
completed as were three bilingual public information pamphlets. The completed work will
be used as a basis for future phases.
The El Paso/Ciudad Juarez wellhead protection/groundwater pilot project continued during
1996. The Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (with EPA support), local
government and a team of local citizens inventoried wells and provided education and
assistance in implementing practices to protect the drinking water supply. The project is
scheduled to be completed in August 1997.
Watershed Planning and Management
•Rio Grande Alliance — The U.S. and the Texas Natural Resources Conservation Commission
continued to share information with Mexico regarding the Rio Grande Alliance and related projects.
Major accomplishments of the RGA in 1996 included hosting the first RGA meeting, establishing
and hosting the first RGA Coordinating Council meeting, and establishing the www.riogrande.org
website.
•Colorado and Rio Grande Estuaries — The U.S. had discussions with Mexico regarding studies
for the Colorado River. Resources were not available to the Water Workgroup in 1996 for
implementation activities hi the Rio Grande estuary.
•Ecosystems -- Mexico and the United States continue to work together at the federal and state level
hi relationship to watershed and ecosystem protection along the border.
•Information Management — Both countries have continued in the exchange and support of
information and technical development in relationship to border issues.
Mexico, through CNA and supported by the states, the Operator Workgroups, US EPA,
BDAN and COCEF, is developing the Program of Hydraulic and Sanitary Studies,
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Chapter I Water Workgroup 1996.Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
Projects, and Constructionfor Urban Locations along the Mexico/United States frontier
(PEPOHS). The goal is to produce a single document determining the material needs
for the hydraulic and wastewater infrastructure in this location.
Water Quality Monitoring
•El Paso /Cd. Juarez - Las Cruces Transboundary Aquifers — This continuing joint effort by the
governments of the U.S. and Mexico and the states of Texas and New Mexico is designed to identity
the region's transboundary aquifers, quantify the natural and induced chemical quality of each
aquifer, characterize and quantify the available supply of each aquifer, determine the direction of
groundwater flow and its relationship to the flow of the Rio Grande-Rio Bravo, and develop
Geographic Information System (GIS) coverages of the region. The work is being conducted by the
Texas Water Development Board, New Mexico State University - Water Resources Research
Institute (with support of EPA), Comision Nacional del Agua and the Comision Internacional de
Limites y Aguas (CILA). A bi-natiorial report is scheduled for release in 1997.
•Del Rio/Ciudad Acufia - Eagle Pass/Piedras Negras - Laredo/Nuevo Laredo Transboundary
Aquifers — This is a continuation of the El Paso/ Ciudad Juarez/Las Cruces joint effort to identify,
characterize and quantify the region's transboundary aquifers The work is being conducted by the
Texas Water Development Board (with the support of EPA), Comision Nacional del Agua and the
Comision Internacional de Limites y Aguas (CILA). A bi-national report is scheduled for release
in 1998.
• Ambos Nogales Groundwater — The proj ect consists of the construction and monitoring of wells
on each side of the border. The wells have been drilled and developed. IBWC arranged OSHA
training in April 1996 for the Mexican members of the sampling team and the first sampling on the
U.S. side occurred in July 1996. Sampling on both sides of the border is scheduled for April 1997.
Samples will be taken by a binational team and analyzed on a quarterly basis for a period of one year.
•Colorado-New River Toxicity Studies ~ The initial binational Colorado-New River surveys began
in 1995. In 1996, the U.S. continued to work with Mexico to complete the studies and begin
analyzing the data and preparing the reports.
•Rio Grande/Rio Bravo Toxic Substance Study: The field work for the second phase of the
Binational Rio Grande/Rio Bravo Toxic Substance Study was completed in December 1996. The
draft Phase 2 reports have been completed by both countries. The Phase 2 final report is anticipated
to be completed and released in July/August 1997.
Training
•Wastewater Operators Training — In Mexico, CNA will continue with the training programs for
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the certification of wastewater plant operators as well as for the operation and maintenance of
drinking water and sewerage systems.
•Pretreatment — The Water Environment Association of Texas, with support from EPA, began a
project to translate Pretreatment Program Guidance Manuals into Spanish. The University of Texas
at El Paso, with support from EPA, continued the project in 1996 to translate 6 EPA Wastewater
Guidance Manuals concerning pretreatment and treatment plant operation and safety.
•Water Supply Operators Training — The American Water Works Association, with support from
EPA, has developed training for water supply operators along the border to provide information on
the importance of source protection, treatment techniques and the importance of testing and quality
control, and methods to maintain the quality of the finished water within the distribution system in
a binational forum and to provide Spanish translation of training manuals. Two training sessions are
planned per year. 20-hour training courses were held in Piedras Negras, Mexico in February 1996,
and hi Monterrey, Mexico in November 1996.
Promoting Water Conservation - Development of a Water Culture
•Outreach for Water Conservation -- Mexico continues to promote public outreach on the efficient
and rational use of water. A workshop in Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas was opened to all personnel
of CNA, IMTA, COMAPA Nuevo Laredo and CILA/IBWC.
Public Participation
•Public Involvement— Mexico continued in its efforts on the creation of public forum committees
at state and local levels to involve the public on the decision-making process in hydraulic
infrastructure projects.
The BECC and the NADBank continue to facilitate public participation in development of
water and wastewater infrastructure projects. Agencies in the Water Work Group have
participated consistent with their financial and technical assistance programs.
Topic; Rio Grande Cities Facilities Planning
Background: The focus of this action is to plan the infrastructure for potable water, wastewater and
sewer along with the consolidation of the operating organizations in order for these services along
the border to be technically and financially self sustaining.
Current Achievements: The CNA has completed the master plans for the cities of Reynosa and
Matamoros, Tamaulipas, as well as initiated the similar plans for Piedras Negras and Ciudad Acufia,
Coahuila.
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Chapter I Water Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
Future Goals: Complete to master Plans to be presented to COCEF for certification.
Financing: CNA financed $950,000 pesos and the USEPA provided similar support in accordance
with COCEF.
Topic: Potable and Wastewater Management in Nogales
Background: This project consists of two parts which address drinking water and wastewater
treatment. The central theme for the use, treatment, and recharge of waters in Nogales, Sonora
(phase one) is to improve services and the infrastructure of the city to optimize the use of water with
the goal of reaching sustainable development and protecting public health and the environment.
Current Achievements: In 1996 Mexico initiated the construction of the Los Alisos aqueduct with
a 8 million pesos investment and the actualization of the Master Plan for drinking water, sewer and
wastewater treatment for the city of Nogales, Sonora.
Future Goals: During 1997 the construction of the aqueduct as well as holding tanks, pumping
station, connections to the aquifer and the rehabilitation of wells. CNA will invest approximately
53 million pesos.
Between the United States and Mexico, there are many shared components and investments in this
important project. The future achievements are:
- Rehabilitation of the collectors and sewer lines;
- Acquisition of cleaning equipment for drainage lines;
- Completion of the Master Plan for potable water, sewer and wastewater treatment for the city of
Nogales to be completed by CNA;
- Identificationand analysis of the alternative methods of treatment of residual water for the Nogales
area including the location and delineation of primary collectors;
- Characterization of the residual water from the collectors and the existing treatment plant;
- Characterization of the quality of the residual water which is necessary to determine pretreatment
requirements;
- Study of the sewer capacity/infiltration system of Nogales;
- Actualization of the areal photography for Nogales and surrounding areas;
- Rasing the drinking water and sewer lines for the city.
Topic; Wastewater Management in Mexicali
Background: Development of adequate treatment of the wastewater for Mexicali, Baja California
while improving the water quality of the Rio Nuevo. The objectives include the improvement to the
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Chapter I Water Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
existing wastewater treatment systems (Mexicali I), the establishment of a second system (Mexicali
II) and the implementation of an efficient pretreatment program.
Current Achievements: In conformation to Act 288 of CILA which addresses the possibility of the
participation of the United States in the costs of certain elements in improving the water quality of
the Rio Nuevo, Mexico has continued with the completion of fourteen actions that needed to be
addressed immediately which included rehabilitation, replacement, elongate and construct various
collectors and subcollectors, determine the need for rehabilitation of the pump stations and the
removal of solvents from the lagoons at Gonzalez Ortega, and construct the vertical diverter at the
Alma River.
Future Goals: Continue implementing the above mentioned activities as well as initiate the
Wastewater Treatment Plant Mexicali II.
Topic; Potable and Wastewater Management in Tijuana
Background: Develop adequate treatment for wastewater in the Tijuana, Baja California and reduce
the danger and risk to public health and the environment.
Current Achievements: In 1996 Mexico initiated the construction of the Parallel Systems and
received certificationfrom COCEF. Permission was granted to send, until the interceptor is finished,
treated water from the International Plant of Wastewater Treatment (PITAR) to a site for discharge
16 Km south of the border in Puntas Banderas. This is the same location of discharge for the effluent
of the wastewater treatment plant of San Antonio de Los Buenos. Rehabilitation of the PITAR
facility was also started.
The construction of the PITAR facility and the underground emitter in San Diego, California
continues and is expected to be completed in 1998.
Future Goals: initiate the works for the collection of wastewater in Tijuana and the transfer to
PITAR as well as finish the first phase of the development of this facility
Topic: Characterization of the Transboundary Aquifers in the Region of the
Cities of Juarez. El Paso, and Las Cruces along the U.S./Mexico Border
Background: The objective of this project is the exchange of information about the subterranean
water in the area of Juarez and El Paso. Collaborating agencies are CILA, CNA through GAS, JMAS
IBWC, New Mexico Water Resources Research Institute, TWDB and the USEPA.
Current Achievements: The exchange of information concerning subterranean waters in the area
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Chapter I Water Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
of Bolson del Hueco. Previously, between the various delegations, a report on compact disk was
created which addresses the characterizationof aquifers in the El Paso/Juarez and adjoining regions.
This report is currently under review by participating groups.
In general the report consists of data concerning underground aquifers and their hydrological
characteristics at the following locations:
Hueco-Tularosa
Sureste del Hueco
Aluvion del Rio Bravo
Future Goals: Finalize the revision after review and input from all parties and proceed with the
binational publication of this effort through CILA/IBWC.
Tnpio; Pilot Project El Paso/Ciudad Juarez Wellhead Protection
Background: This study addresses models of underground water flow and transport of solubles in
the area of El Paso/Ciudad Juarez. Involved in this project are CILA, CNA, JMAS, IBWC, El Paso
Water Utilities, USGS, Texas Water development Board (TWDB), and the New Mexico State
Engineer's Office.
Current Achievements: Information concerning the underground water sources has been exchanged
in order to produce the simulated models. These models analyze the flow of the waters on both sides
of the border and is the basis for the next step of analyzing the transport of solubles. As agreed
between all parties, the models will overlap and include international boundaries.
From the exchange of the data the following was produced:
Water table levels
Pumping tests
Characteristics of the wells
Description of the lithographic layers of rock
Quantities of extraction
Benefits
Various meetings have been held to exchange and present methodologies and technologies, for
example, the applicationof hydraulic parametric of the subsoils. The modeling of the El Paso/Ciudad
Juarez aquifer was agreed upon and is based on a defined conceptual hydrodynamic model.
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Future Goals: Continue in the elaboration of the water flow models, integrate the data, and publish
a corresponding binational report.
Topic: Monitoring Groundwater in Nogales. Sonora/Nogales. Arizona
Background: This study is to determine the presence of man-made contaminants in groundwater for
Nogales, Son./Nogales, Az.. From Mexico CILA and CNA through the Groundwater Agency (GAS),
and the Commission of Sewer and Drinking water for the State of Sonora, COAPAES are
participating in this project. From the U.S. IBWC and the Arizona Department of environmental
Quality are participating.
Current Status: To this date eight monitoring wells have been created and are located as follows:
Nogales, Sonora
NOW #2 (14.50 m deep) Industrial Zone
NOW #4 (6.85 m deep) Antigua Camino to Cananea
Nogales, Arizona
NOW #8 (18.07 m deep) ADEQ. #1
NOW #9 (9.14 m deep) ADEQ. #2
NOW #10 (14.93 m deep) Trichey Wash.
NOW #11 (13.25 m deep) Old Landfill
NOW #12 (9.29 m deep) Wingfield Area
NOW #13 (43.58 deep) Potrero creek
Soil samples were taken at various levels and tested for Volatile Organic Compounds and metals
during the excavation of the wells.
Future Goals: Mexico will continue with the creation of new wells until a total of five are reached.
At the same time, the multiple groups will continue with the sample testing three times a year until
each site has a total of four samples.
Financing: Mexico, through CNA, has participated with a total of $80,000,00 pesos.
TOPIC; Determination of the Presence of Toxic Substances in the Lower Colorado
and Rio Nuevo
Background: The primary objective of this study is to implement a water quality study in the
Colorado River and the Rio Nuevo to determine the magnitude of the impact of contamination of
toxic substances. This will be achieved through the toxicology analysis of the water, sediment, and
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fish tissue biological analysis including samples from three, different species.
Current Status: During the 1996 Mexicali Binational Meeting, an agreement was reached to
produce a single document of the findings. CNA, through the Agency of Water Sanitation and
Quality (GSCA) presented the first draft of this study.
Future Goals: USEPA is expected to present their first draft of study as well as commentaries t the
Mexican study. Once the two drafts are finalized, technical meetings will proceed in conjunction
with CNA/USEPA/USGS coordinated by CILA/IBWC. It is expected that the final report will be
ready for publication in 1997.
Topic; Rio Grande/Rio Bravo Toxic Substance Study
Background: The object of this study is to define the degree of impact, determine transient
variations and identify sources of toxic chemical substances present in the Rio Grande/Rio Bravo.
Current Achievements: At the 1996 Binational Meeting in El Paso it was agreed that a final report
would be created consisting of two volumes. The first would be the executive summary and the
second would contain the individual reports from each country. To date, CNA, through the GSCA,
provided their report to CILA while TNRCC has submitted their report to IBWC.
Current Status: USEPA has completed the executive document (Volume I) and the integration
of the technical document (Volume II).
Future Goals: The third phase of this study is expected to be completed in 1997.
Topic; Binational Conference on Water Quality Monitoring
Background: This conference was hosted by TNRCC and the USGS in the City of Nuevo Laredo,
Tamaulipas.
The primary objective of this presentation was to recognize and exchange technologies and
experiences concerning water, sediment and tissue samples. This course prepared CNA personnel
from central offices (11) as well as from their state agencies (18), personnel from IMTA (3),
Municipal Commission For Drinking and Waste water Nuevo Laredo (3), Technological Institute
Nuevo Laredo (1), and from various sections of the International Commission on Boundaries and
Water (13).
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The following topics were covered:
Field sample collection
Collection of water and sanitation
Complex sampling
Monitoring project planning
Toxicology testing
Biological sampling
Habitat
Underground waters
Current Achievements: the knowledge learned from this conference was applied through the
program of the National Water Quality Monitoring Net from CNA and in binational water quality
monitoring projects.
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AIR WORKGROUP
1996 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN ACCOMPLISHMENTS REPORT
Annex V to the 1983 La Paz agreement directs EPA and INE to assess the causes of and develop
solutions to air quality problems in border sister cities. In addition to the La Paz agreement
directives, the Clean Air Act directs EPA, in coordination with Mexican agencies, to monitor and
improve air quality along the border. Given the recent increases in population, vehicular traffic, and
industrial activity in many cities along the 2,000 mile border, the United States and Mexico seek to
analyze and address air quality problems.
In the California, Arizona, Baja California Norte, and Sonora area of the border, including the
Tijuana-SanDiego, Mexicali-Imperid Valley, ambos Nogales and Douglas-Agua Prieta air basins,
there is an immediate need to evaluate levels of targeted air pollutants.
CALIFORNIA-BAJA CALIFORNIA SUB-WORKGROUP PROJECTS
Project: Tijuana-San Diego/Mexicali-Imperial Valley Air Programs
Purpose: Continue development and operation of monitoring networks in Tijuana and Mexican' for
nitrogen oxides, ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, particulates (PM-10), lead, selected
airborne toxic compounds, and meteorological parameters (e.g., wind speed/wind direction). In
addition to the monitoring efforts, emissions inventory work will commence in these areas. These
efforts are intended to lay the foundation for an air quality management program with overall goals
of determining ambient air pollutant concentrations, apportioning sources and their relative impacts,
recommending cost effective control strategies, and measuring progress/compliance with the air
quality standards of each country.
Funding: In an ongoing attempt to foster state and local involvement, $600,000 in FY96 grant funds
have been provided to California Air Resources Board (GARB) and $500,000 in FY97 grant funds
will be provided to GARB. Funds include resources for a Border Coordinator position at the GARB.
See "Emissions Inventory Methodology Pilot Project" for a discussion of supplemental funds
targeted for emissions inventory development in Mexicali and Tijuana. Funds include resources for
a Border Coordinator position at the CARB. Regarding resources from Mexico, INE has requested
a loan of 13 million dollars for countrywide air projects of which a portion is designated for the
operation of the monitoring network starting in FY99 (EPA and CARB have committed their
assistance through FY99).
Partners: Primary U.S. partners are EPA, CARB, the San Diego Air Pollution Control District, and
the Imperial Valley Air Pollution Control District, and the Western Governors Association. Primary
Mexican partners are Institute Nacional de Ecologfa (INE), Secretariade Medio Ambiente, Recursos
Naturales y Pesca (SEMARNAP) in Mexico City and Baja California, and the Tijuana Technical
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Institute (ITT).
Description: The Tijuana-SanDiego and Mexicali-Imperial Valley proj ects represent a continuation
of efforts to operate the Tijuana air monitoring network, initiate monitoring in Mexicali, purchase
equipment to complete and Operate the Mexicali network, analyze samples, quality assure data, and
provide technical support. Emissions inventory work will be based on the recently developed
Mexican emissions inventory methodology (See "Emissions Inventory Methodology Pilot Project").
The methodology identifies the most appropriate emissions estimation methods by individual source
type for point area, motor vehicle, and natural sources.
Status: The California-BajaCalifornia Technical Sub-workgroup of the Binational Air Workgroup
has met regularly to discuss the projects and contractors are providing technical support in the
installation, operation and maintenance of the network as well as the development of an emissions
inventory.
Contacts: Mark Fuentes, GARB, 619-645-5233
OctaviO Alonso, SEMARNAP - Baja CA, 52-65-52-4987
Oralia Lopez, ITT - 52-6.6-21055 ext. 252
Gaspar Torres, Imperial APCD, 619-339-4606
Dr. Victor Hugo Paramo, INE - Ciudad de Mexico
Project: California-Baja California Intensive Air Quality Monitoring Study
Purpose: Undertake special monitoring study to provide the additional information required for the
development of ozone, particulate matter and carbon monoxide attainment plans in the California-
Baja California Border Region. In addition, the study will generate the data that will be used to
integrate the northern Mexico border region into the Southern California Ozone Study.
Funding: In an ongoing attempt to foster state and local involvement, $671,000 in FY97 grant funds
has been requested to support California Air Resources Board (CARS) implementation of the
project. A detailed breakout of costs is currently available along with a more detailed project
proposal. The total cost is at the same level as other similar field studies and in proportion to the
costs of larger field studies (e.g., El Paso-Juarez-Sunland Park Summer Ozone Study).
Partners: Primary U.S. partners are EPA, CARB, the San Diego Air Pollution Control District, and
the Imperial Valley Air Pollution Control District, and the Western Governors Association. Primary
Mexican partners are Institute Nacional de Ecologia (INE), Secretaria de Medio Ambiente, Recursos
Naturales y Pesca (SEMARNAP) in Mexico City and Baja California, and the Tijuana Technical
Institute (ITT).
Description: To verify and assess the emission inventories under development for Baja California,
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Chapter II Air Workoup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
CARD will undertake a meteorological and air quality study that will supplement the existing
networks in Tijuana and Mexicali. The first phase will provide an ambient hydrocarbon and
meteorological data set that will allow the use of source/receptor type mathematical models for
estimating uncertainties in the emissions inventory. The second phase will provide additional upper-
air meteorological measurements that will allow the area of Baja California to be integrated into the
Southern California Ozone Study. The primary objective of the Southern California Ozone Study
is to develop a meteorological and air quality data set that will be used to exercise a regional
photochemical model.
Status: The California-Baja California Technical Sub-workgroup of the Binational Air Workgroup
has met regularly to discuss the projects and contractors are providing technical support in the
installation, operation and maintenance of the network as well as the development of an emissions
inventory.
Contacts: Mark Fuentes, GARB, 619-645-5233; Octavio Alonso, SEMARNAP - Baja CA, 52-
65-52-4987; Gaspar Torres, Imperial APCD, 619-339-4606; Dr. Victor Hugo
Paramo, INE - Ciudad de Mexico
ARIZONA-SONORA AIR SUB-WORKGROUP PROJECTS
Project: Ambos Nogales Air Programs
Purpose: Based on the results of the particulate (PM-lO)-air toxics study, recommend cost
effective control strategies and continue base monitoring to measure progress/compliance with the
national air quality standards of each country.
Funding: In an ongoing attempt to foster state and local involvement, $ 175,000 in FY96 funds have
been allocated and $50,000 in EPA FY97 funds will be provided to support the efforts of the
Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ). These funds include support for an ADEQ
Border Air Coordinator.
Partners: Institute Nacional de Ecologia (INE) and Secretaria de Medio Ambiente, Recursos
Naturales y Pesca (SEMARNAP), EPA, ADEQ, the state of Sonora, and the city of Nogales, Sonora
Description: A total of six sites measuring PM-10, PM-2.5, and meteorological parameters, as well
as four air toxics sites measuring selected air toxics, operated on both sides of the border for one year.
All sites ran on a winter-intensive(l in 3-day cycle) sampling schedule from October 1994 through
March 1995, and subsequently returned to the regular (1 in 6-day cycle) sampling schedule. The
large-scale monitoring portion of the study has terminated, although one base site will continue
operating on each side of the border for ongoing measurement of PM-10, PM-2.5 and meteorological
parameters. Emissions inventory has been developed.
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Chapter I Air Workoup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
Status/Schedule: A draft final report will be prepared by March 1997 and will include exposure/ride
assessment, source attribution, and potential control strategies. A final report should be ready by
May 1997.
Contacts: Gerardo Monroy, ADEQ, (520) 628-6732
Cesar Catalan, INE - Sonora, 52-62-13-5229
Project: Agua Prieta-Douglas Air Programs
Purpose: Complete a particulate (PM-lO)-air toxics study with an overall goal of determining
ambient air pollutant concentrations, apportioning sources and their relative impacts, recommending
cost-effective control strategies, and measuring progress/compliance with the national air quality
standards of each country.
Funding: In an ongoing attempt to foster state and local involvement, $225,000 in F Y96 funds have
been allocated and $ 150,000 in EPA FY97 grant funds will be provided to support the efforts of the
Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ). These funds include support for a ADEQ
Border Air Coordinator.
Partners: Institute Nacional de Ecologfa (INE) and Secretaria de Medio Ambiente, Recursos
Naturales y Pesca (SEMARNAP), EPA, ADEQ, the state of Sonora, the city of Douglas, and the city
of AguaPrieta.
Description: A total of four sites measuring PM-10, selected air toxics, and meteorological
parameters will be sited on the both sides of the border.
Status/Schedule: An emissions inventory will be developed by September 1997 and sampling will
run from April 1997 through April 1998. Subsequent to the completion of these activities, a draft
final report will be prepared by June 1998 and will include exposure-risk assessment, source
attribution, and potential control strategies. A final report is scheduled for completion by August
1998.
Contacts: Gerardo Monroy, ADEQ, (520) 628-6732
Cesar Catalan, INE - Sonora, 52-62-13-5229
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Chapter I Air Workoup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
BORDERWIDE AIR PROJECTS
Project: Mexico Emissions Inventory Development Program
Purpose: Build the capacity in Mexico for the development of emissions inventories that can be
used by both countries. These emissions data will provide Mexico with a better understanding of its
own air pollution sources and thus form the basis for developing an emissions control program. They
will also enhance the U.S. air quality planning process.
Funding: A total of $500,000 in FY96 grant funds has been allocated and $700,000 in FY97 grant
funds will be awarded to the Western Governor's Association (WGA).
Partners: EPA, INE, PROFEPA, WGA, Border States and municipalities
Description: The follow-up body to the Grand Canyon Visibility Transport Commission and
Mexico have common needs for developing emissions inventory information. The GCVTC follow
up body is sponsoring projects to develop an emissions inventory for areas, including Mexico, that
potentially contribute to regional haze on the Colorado Plateau. Mexico is conducting a variety of
air quality planning efforts that will benefit from countrywide emission information.
Status/Schedule: The final implementationplan for the methodology has been developed. Training
course materials and inventory manuals are being prepared. Training was delivered in Juarez
(August 1996) and Tijuana (November 1996). Technical studies have been planned and will consist
of five parts: special studies and refinement of inventory methodology; methodology testing;
validation of emission estimates; emission factor applicability to Mexico; and uncertainty analysis.
Over the next two years, pilot implementation of the methodology is targeted for Mexicali and
Tijuana. The FY97 workplan will be finalized by December 1996.
Contacts: John Leary, WA (303) 623-9378
Victor Hugo Paramo, INE-Mexico City, 52-56-24-3451
Project: Expand Energy Opportunities
Purpose: The Binational Air Workgroup will support the development of a subgroup on Energy and
the Environment to review ongoing efforts and make recommendations on innovative ways to
promote energy efficiency and the increased use of renewable energy sources in the border region.
The subgroup will involve participation from a wide variety of governmental (e.g., DOE, INE,
PEMEX, CFE, state, local) and non-governmental entities (e.g., private sector, NGOs, academia).
Funding: A total of $150,000 in FY97 grant funds will be awarded to the Western Governor's
Association (WGA) to facilitate this effort.
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Chapter I Air Workoup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
Partners: EPA, INE, PROFEPA, WGA plus representatives from other federal, state and local
government institutions, NGOs, industry, and academia.
Status/Schedule: The subgroup will be named by the Binational Air Workgroup meeting scheduled
for late January/Early February 1997. Recommendations will be due back to the workgroup by
December 1998.
Contacts: John Leary, WA (303) 623-9378
Victor Hugo Paramo, INE-Mexico City, 52-56-24-3451
Project: Address Border Vehicle Congestion
Purpose: The Binational Air Workgroup will support the development of a subgroup on Border
Congestion to review ongoing efforts and make recommendations on innovative ways to reduce air
pollutionattributableto congestion at border crossings. The subgroup will involve participationfrom
a wide variety of governmental (e.g., DOT, INE, PEMEX, Customs, state, local) and non-
governmental entities (e.g., private sector, NGOs, academia).
Funding: A total of $100,000 in FY97 grant funds will be awarded to the Western Governor's
Association (WGA) to facilitate this effort.
Partners: EPA, INE, PROFEPA, WGA plus representatives from other federal, state and local
government institutions, NGOs, industry, and academia.
Status/Schedule: The subgroup will be named by the Binational Air Workgroup meeting scheduled
for late January/Early February 1997. Recommendations will be due back to the workgroup by
December 1998.
Contacts: John Leary, WA (303) 623-9378
Victor Hugo Paramo, INE-Mexico City, 52-56-24-3451
Project: U.S./Mexico Information Center on Air Pollution Centro de Information sobre
Contaminacion del Aire - CICA
Purpose: Develop and operate an information transfer center for the U.S.-Mexico border area as an
extension of the existing Control Technology Center (CTC). The center (CICA) provides Mexican
federal, state and local environmental officials and universities working along the U.S.-Mexico
border with access to pertinent information related to assessment of air pollutant emissions, ambient
monitoring, dispersion modeling, and control technologies and pollution prevention programs that
will aid in achievement of emission reductions.
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Chapter I Air Workoup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
Funding: $347,000 in FY95-96 contract funds have been expended; $350,000 in FY97 contract
funds have been allocated from OAR.
Partners: INE, EPA
Description/Status: The CICA capabilities include access to EPA technical expertise through a
bilingual (Spanish-English)hotline and world wide web home page; technical assistance and projects
on air-related problems along the border; Spanish-language versions of technical documents and air
quality models; maintenance and improvements to the U.S.-Mexico ambient air quality monitoring
clearinghouse (in conjunction and integrated with the CICA Home Page); and to answer technical
questions and provide information.
Contacts: Bob Blaszczak - EPA, OAQPS (919) 541 •*5432/b!aszczak,bob@epamail.epa.gov
Jaime Mendieta -EPA, OAQPS (919) 541-0547/mendieta.jaime@epamail.epa.gov
CICA Home Page-http://www.epa.gov/oar/oaqps/cica/
CICA Hotline - From Mexico Toll-Free (888) 877-5966
From all other locations (919) 541-1800 FAX> (919). 541-0242
Victor Hugo Paramo, INE-Mexico City, 52-56-24-3451
Project: Mexico's Air Pollution Training Prograni
Purpose: Build infrastructure and expertise in Mexico to deliver needed air quality management
training in an efficient and coordinated manner.
Funding: The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) has been awarded a cooperative agreement
for $290,000 (amount funded). (Project period and budget period 10/01/94 to 09/30/97). Regarding
resources from Mexico, Mexico has requested a loan of 13 million dollars to carry out all the
activities to improve air quality throughout the country during the next five years.
Partners: In the United States: EPA Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards (OAQPS), EPA
Regions 6 and 9, EPA Office of International Activities (OIA), and UTA, In Mexico: Institute
Nacional de Ecologia (INE), Procuradoria Federal de Proteccion al Ambiehte (PROFEPA),
Universidad Autonoma Metropolitana de Azcapotzalco.(UAM-Azc), and Institute Tecnologico de
Tijuana (ITT).
Description: The UTA is assisting INE and its designated institutions (I) to design, develop and
implement an air pollution training needs assessment; and (2) to establish Mexico's air pollution
training program. The first element will identify the current and future training needs of federal, state
and municipal air quality management staff in five cities along the border (Tijuana, Nogales, Ciudad
Juarez, Ciudad Acurla and Matamoros). The second element will identify and develop needed
infrastructureto efficiently prepare and deliver air quality management training in Mexico. Mexico's
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air pollution training program will be supported by 3 border regional training centers that will serve
as main sources for training developmentactivities, depositories for environmental training materials,
training sites and satellite downlink sites.
Status: The air pollution training needs assessment report and the training program blueprint
document are complete. A discussion of the two documents was held during the March 1996
Binational Meeting in El Paso, Texas. INE, ITT, UTA, and EPA inaugurated the First Regional
Environmental Center at the ITT in April 1996 with the delivery of the Control of Particulate course.
The second center at the Institute Tecnologico de Cd. Juarez was inaugurated in August 1996 and
the Emissions Inventory course was delivered as part of the inauguration activities. Prior to delivery,
both courses were translated, adapted, and pilot tested in Mexico City by the UAM-Azc and INE.
Finally, the training resources identification project was completed by UTA.
Schedule: INE, UTA and UAM will be meeting in December 1996 in Mexico City to prepare an
action plan for the completion of the project's implementation phase in support of the training
program blueprint. The third and last training center supported under this proj ect will be inaugurated
at the Instituto Tecnologico de Matamoros in 1997. Completion of a core curriculum of 5 training
courses will continue hi 1997.
Contacts: Lourdes Morales, EPA-OAQPS, (919) 541-4940
morales.lourdes@epamail.epa.gov
Victor Hugo Paramo, INE-Mexico City, 52-56-24-3451
NEW MEXICO/TEXAS - CHIHUAHUA
Project: Ciudad Juarez-El Paso-Sunland Park Air Quality Study
Purpose: Through Annex V of the La Paz agreement, the United States and Mexico designated the
El Paso, Sunland Park, and Ciudad Juarez area as a specific geographic area where both countries
would perform detailed analyses of air quality problems. The different kinds of analyses include
advanced monitoring, emissions inventory development, dispersion or urban airshed modeling,
leading to the identification of a binationally coordinated control strategy.
Funding: The EPA anticipates continued funding to State and local governments, and a non-
governmental organization, during FY97. The level of funding to each of the organizations is under
negotiation. Funding to the State of Texas will include support for a TNRCC Border Air
Coordinator position, operation of the Juarez air monitoring network, and new air monitoring sites
in El Paso, Texas, and Dona Ana County, New Mexico, as well as technical staff expenses.
Regarding resources from Mexico, Mexico has requested a loan of 13 million dollars to carry out all
the activities to improve air quality throughout the country during the next five years.
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Partners: Institute Nacional de Ecologia(INE), the State of Chihuahua, the City of Juarez, TNRCC,
City of El Paso, NMED, Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards (OAQPS), U.S. Department
of Energy, EOF, Southwest Center for Environmental Research and Policy (SCERP). The EPA is
consideringjoint activities with Los Alamos National Laboratories (Department of Energy) to assist
in the modeling of windfields for the air basin-
Description: The EPA conducted an intensive ozone study throughout the airshed (in all three cities
of the area) in the summer of 1996. Extensive sampling took place during the study. Currently,
laboratory analysis of the samples is taking place, the results of which will be outlined in a final
report in 1997. With local officials, the EPA is working to electronically link the operation of the
five-station monitoring network in Juarez for nitrogen oxides, ozone, carbon monoxide, particulate
(PM-10), and wind speed/wind direction and other meteorological parameters. In related projects,
the TNRCC and Mexico's INE are working to develop an industrial emissions inventory based on
data gathered during emissions testing. The TNRCC has also developed an adapted version the
EPA's MobileSa model to use as a tool to estimate mobile emission levels in Juarez.
Status: The EPA is providing the funding. The intensive ozone study was conducted; review and
interpretationof the data gathered is underway. Supplemental data collection and analysis continues.
Schedule: A complete report of the intensive study period will be complete in 1997. The EPA and
local officials are working to integrate the binational monitoring network during 1997.
U.S. Contacts:
Jim Yarbrough,, EPA-Region 6 (214) 665-7232
Matthew Witosky, EPA-Region 6 (214) 665-7214
Cecilia Williams, NMED Archie Clouse, TNRCC
Jesus Reynoso, City of El Paso
Pete Emerson, EOF
Project: Big Bend Air Quality
Purpose and Objectives: Determine the likely impact of pollution sources on visibility at Big Bend
National Park.
Funding: In an agreement with the National Park Service (NPS), the EPA has provided $95,770 in
funds from FY94 and $300,000 in funds for FY96. Additional funding may be available, based on
the outcome of the initial cost and feasibility study now underway by NPS. Regarding resources
from Mexico, Mexico has requested a loan of 13 million dollars to carry out all the activities to
improve air quality throughout the country during the next five years.
Partners: NPS, Institute Nacional de Ecologia (INE), Procuraduria Federal de Protection al
Ambiente (PROFEPA), Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC)
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Description: Big Bend National Park is a Class I area, where federal land managers and the EPA are
required to protect scenic vistas from the degradation of visibility. Visibility is the ability to see the
color, shape, contrast, and texture of a landscape or city skyline. While natural events such as
wildfire can impair visibility, often manmade air pollution is the major cause of decreased visibility.
In 1993, concerns were raised over the possible degradation of the air quality in Big Bend National
Park. The United States and Mexico formed an adhoc working group to exchange views and
information to determine if their is a discernable trend in visibility, and the probable causes of any
identifiable trends. The working group met regularly from 1993-1996. In May 1996, the two
countries reached agreement on a multi-year field study to determine source-type contribution.
Status/Schedule: NPS and Mexico's PROFEPA (Attorney General for the Environment) completed
an initial study in the summer of 1996 to determine the requirements of a comprehensive study
planned for summer and winter in 1998-1999.
Contacts: Miguel Flores, NFS-Denver, (303) 969-2072
Alfredo David Gidi, PROFEPA
Jim Yarbrough, EPA Region 6, (214) 665-7232
Project: The Joint Advisory Committee to the La Paz Air Work Group
Purpose: Appendix I to Annex V of the La Paz Agreement created a joint citizens advisory
committee to provide official recommendations from a public body to the La Paz Air Work Group.
Composed of ten members from each country, the group will promote widespread community
involvement in the implementation of innovative, cost-effective air quality solutions.
Funding: The Joint Advisory Committee receives no direct monetary support from either the U.S.
or Mexican federal governments. The EPA, pending the outcome of negotiations, will provide grant
funds to the TNRCC, NMED, and the Environmental Defense Fund to support activities of the JAC.
Partners: TNRCC, NMED, Environmental Defense Fund, Institute Nacional de Ecologia (INE),
ProcuradurfaFederal de Protection al Ambiente (PROFEPA), Texas Natural Resource Conservation
Commission (TNRCC)
Description: It is anticipated that the Joint Advisory Committee would work as a liaison among
federal agencies, state agencies, and the community to develop solutions to pernicious air quality
problems. For example, the JAC could consult with the relevant agencies to devise a strategy to ease
bridge queuing to reduce air emissions from idling vehicles, integrate air monitoring strategies within
the airshed, and implement economic incentive programs to quickly improve air quality.
Status/Schedule: The first meeting of the Joint Advisory Committee was held on November 12,
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Chapter I Air Workoup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
1996, in El Paso. The next meeting is expected to take place in February of 1997.
Contacts: Matthew Witosky, EPA Region 6, (214) 665-7214.
Victor Valenzuela, TNRCC Region 6 (El Paso) 915-778-9634
Dr. Victor Hugo Paramo, INE - Ciudad de Mexico
Project: Brownsville /Laredo Air Programs
Purpose and Objectives: Develop and operate monitoring station networks in Brownsville and
Laredo for nitrogen oxides, ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, particulate (PM-10), lead,
pesticides, and meteorological parameters (e.g., wind speed/wind direction). These efforts are
designed to acquire better baseline air quality information for these cities.
Funding: The EPA has awarded $50,000 in F Y96 funds to the Texas Natural Resource Conservation
Commission (TNRCC).
Partners: TNRCC
Description: Given the physical, demographic, vehicular traffic, and industrial characteristics of the
Brownsville-Matamorosand Laredo-Nuevo Laredo air basins, there is an immediate need to evaluate
levels of targeted air pollutants. Annex V to the 1983 La Paz agreement directs EPA and Instituto
Nacional de Ecologfa(INE) to assess the causes of and develop solutions to air quality problems in
border sister cities.
The EPA is sponsoring monitors in both communities. In Brownsville and Laredo, TNRCC operates
a monitoring device for polyaromatic hydrocarbons, ozone, carbon monoxide, volatile organic
compounds, lead, arsenic, and meteorological data. The EPA, TNRCC, and NMED will discuss the
addition of a monitor in another border city where little or no monitoring is currently taking place..
Current Status: Sites are in operation.
Schedule: Continued operation in 1997.
Contacts: Stuart Dattner, TNRCC
Matthew Witosky, EPA Region 6, (214) 665-7214
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HAZARDOUS AND SOLID WASTE WORKGROUP
1996 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN ACCOMPLISHMENTS REPORT
Project: Binational Field Sampling and Lab Capability Project
Status: This project has been postponed. In Baja California, the San Diego Department of
Environmental Health conducted a similar course, and in Sonora, the Regional Subworkgroup has
not yet indicated it as a priority. We are considering moving this project entirely to the Enforcement
Workgroup and discontinuing our involvement.
Project: Establish Regional Subgroups
Status: Regional subgroups, meeting jointly with the regional Enforcement subgroups, have been
established for California/Baj a California and Arizona/Sonora. The subgroups meet at least twice a
year, and have been dealing with numerous regional issues, such as enforcement cases, Customs
procedures for transborder movement of hazardous wastes, and training needs.
In early FY 1996, the first meeting of the Texas/Chihuahua subgroup was held at
the El Paso Zaragosa Customs facility. The focus of discussion were mutual
cooperation and exchange of information on hazardous materials/hazardous waste
issues. Issues addressed by the Texas/Chihuahua Subgroup included an
organizationalagreement, transporter compliance outreach, and waste shipment data
exchanges. Similar subgroups are being organized for the Texas/Coahuila and
Texas/Tamaulipasborder areas. Representation on the subgroups includes the state
environmental agencies, EPA Border Offices, U.S. Department of Transportation
(DOT), U.S. Customs, state Departments of Safety and Health, and EPA Regions
6 and 9. Representation from Mexico includes the PROFEPA Sub-delegates,
SEMARN AP State Environmental Sub-delegates, Institute of National Ecology
(INE) Sub-delegates, Mexican Customs, and Department of Transportation for
Mexico.
In September 1996, the Arizona/Sonoraregional subgroup held their first meeting.
The discussions focused on the process for the formal establishment of the
subgroup, functional organization, mutual cooperation, and exchangeof information
related to hazardous materials and hazardous waste issues. Active participation in
the formalized subgroup is expected to include representatives from the following:
ADEQ, AGO, EPA, US DOT, USCS from the U.S. and PROFEPA, INE, SIUE,
Aduanas, and SCT from Mexico. Additional agencies may be represented as
warranted.
The California/Baja California regional subgroup held its first meeting on February 22, 1996.
Participants included officials from Federal, State and local environmental and law enforcement
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Chapter I Hazardous & Solid Waste Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
agencies in California and Baja California. Topics discussed included: providing sampling and
analysis training for border inspectors; compatibility between U. S. and Mexican laboratory protocols;
revisions to the hazardous waste repatriation guidelines; and development of communication
networks and protocols between the represented agencies. A second subgroup meeting was held on
November 22/1996. Discussions included a laboratory personnel exchange initiated by the U.S.
Attorney's Office and the County of San Diego Department of Environmental Health, the progress
of joint enforcement cases, training needs and protocols for illegal hazardous waste shipments
intercepted at Customs facilities at the border.
Project: Technology Transfer - Hazardous Waste Training
Status: A Hazardous Waste Management Training course was developed by PRC under EPA
direction and with technical assistance from EPA staff, and delivered in Tijuana, Baja California in
late 1996 and Monterrey, Nuevo Leon in early 1997. The course has been well-received and will be
repeated in the coming year. Approximately 80 people have been trained in skills needed for site
assessment and remediation, health and safety issues, risk assessment, and other topics relevant to
the clean-up of existing hazardous waste sites. In addition, a conference on site remediation policy
and technologies was being put on for a large audience of Mexican regulators, industry and other
interested parties, on May 26-29 in Mexico City.
Project: Environmental Technology Initiative - San Diego-Tijuana Waste WiSe Project
Status: We have succeeded in helping to improve industry performance in terms of solid waste
generation at 27 factories along the border as part of the Border Waste Wi$e$e project. Other
achievements include: a waste characterization study of the Tijuana landfill; bilingual training
manuals for conducting solid waste reduction assessments at manufacturing facilities; solid waste
reduction manuals for the electronics and plastics injection sectors, currently in draft form; fact sheets
for a number of waste-reductionprojects that cut across industry sectors; the Border Waste Wi$e$e
world-wide web site, which contains all of the materials produced under this project; a final report
detailing obstacles and successes within the program, and giving recommendations to others aiming
to establish cross-border pollution prevention programs. This project has been extremely successful
and will serve as a very useful model for other groups working on pollution prevention in the border
region.
Project: San Diego-Tijuana Recycling Market Development Zone Initiative
Status: We have completed development of guidelines for the establishment of a Recycling Market
Development Zone for the city of Tijuana, to mirror that of the City of San Diego. This set of
guidelines includes information on current and past movement of recyclables across the border in this
region, as well as a summary of regulations governing trans-boundary movement of recyclable
materials. These guidelines will be presented to the City of Tijuana this spring.
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Chapter I Hazardous & Solid Waste Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
Project: City of Nogales Pollution Prevention Program
Status: The City of Nogales, with support from EPA, has instituted a program entitled
"Environmental Justice through Pollution Prevention" to provide technical assistance to industry,
institute a pollution prevention award program and provide outreach and education to the public. To
date, 3 pollution prevention workshops for local small businesses have taken place. ADEQ provides
support to the City of Nogales' EJYP2 Program through participation in the steering committee,
technical and general information exchange, and presentations at the pollution prevention workshops.
Project: Alco-Pacifico
Status: The Alco Pacifico waste site, located outside of Tijuana along the Mexican Border, is
currently being remediated. The $2 million fine imposed on M. Kirk and in escrow in the Los
Angeles County District Attorney's office has been released to Mexico for the clean up of the site.
Trucks are transporting all of the waste piles from the Alco Pacifico site to a landfill in Hermosillo,
Mexico. No more EPA assistance has been requested by Mexico.
Project: HAZTRAKS
Status: The Haztraks system continues to function and be unproved. Involvement by PROFEPA
and INE has expanded and Region 9 is playing a more substantive role in the use and modifications
of Haztraks. Several trainings have been given in U.S. and Mexican states resulting in expanded use
of the system; the user manual has been updated; discussions have been held to increase the quality
and quantity of documents entered into the system by Mexico; guidelines for data management
processing times have been developed; a Mexico-U.S. waste code correlation is underway; and
Region 9 is increasing its enforcement presence along the Border through local offices and within
EPA itself.
In addition, EPA provided guidance to the NAFTA Commission for Environmental Cooperation,
EPA Headquarters and Canadian and Mexican governments, facilitating efforts to develop waste
tracking and reporting systems patterned after Haztraks. EPA also completed procurement,
installation of computers, and training to support the Mexican component of the binational
hazardous waste tracking system. Mexico's Secretariat for Environment, Natural Resources, and
Fisheries (SEMARNAP) participates hi weekly exchanges of hazardous waste information with
EPA. This information exchange is a critical element for tracking transborder movement of
hazardous waste and for implementation of an effective U.S./Mexico compliance monitoring and
enforcement program.
Using Haztraks as a compliance monitoring and enforcement tool, EPA Region 6 has initiated a
number of RCRA enforcement cases since 1992. Four cases were settled hi FY1996, for penalties
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Chapter I Hazardous & Solid Waste Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
totaling over $147,000. These cases were filed against U.S. companies for violations of the U.S.
import regulations.
EPA personnel met with the Mexican communities of Nuevo Laredo, Monterrey, and Saltillo, and
with the City of Laredo, Texas, to bolster discussions on joint compliance and information sharing
efforts. The Region provided each City Health and Environmental Department with direct links
to the Haztraks transboundary waste tracking systems as well as training. These links provide
these communities the best information available on the transboundary movement of hazardous
waste (i.e., waste type, volume, source, destination). Additionally, it is a tool that can be used
in compliance monitoring efforts.
Project: Texas Border Solid Waste Compliance and Assessment of Illegal Landfills
Status: The Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission conducts its border municipal solid
waste management program with funding from EPA. In the past year, efforts focused on providing
technical assistance on border solid waste issues to a variety of entities, and conducting outreach to
other state and local entities on these issues in an effort to help realize the best solutions to these
problems. In order to determine the scope and magnitude of illegal dumping problems in the border
region, a survey was sent to all of Texas' border counties to assess illegal dumping impacts on county
governments.
This assessmentwas completed during FY 96, and some critical information was obtained which will
help shape appropriate, long-term solutions for the future. Importantly, although the border region
and Texas' colonias present region-specific challenges, many of the findings may be applicable to
other rural areas along the border which are struggling with illegal dumping problems. Staff also
completed most of the work on a funding resource guide for local governments needing financial
assistance to resolve their illegal dumping problems.
TNRCC staff have been discussing border solid waste issues with Mexican federal, state, and local
government representatives, in an effort to identify common problems which may benefit from
information exchanges and binational planning, and to gain more information regarding solid waste
activities in Mexico's border region which may impact or be of interest to Texas.
Project: Training for Customs Inspectors
Status: Grants to states and other institutions promote U.S. enforcement for proper management of
hazardous wastes by funding trainings of customs inspectors and enforcement personnel. In 1996,
Texas conducted 60 border area warehouse inspections, 96 inspections at international border
crossings, and 77 compliance outreach and training activities, to improve border area hazardous
waste compliance. New Mexico conducted 41 inspections at two international crossings. In
California, State and local environmental authorities conducted 172 truck stop events at U.S.
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Chapter I Hazardous & Solid Waste Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
Customs Ports of Entry along the California/Baja California border. Over 1263 vehicles were
inspected for illegal shipments of hazardous waste. As a result, at least 20 cases of suspected
improper handling of hazardous waste are under investigation. In Arizona, ADEQ participated in
a week-long multi-agency interdiction exercise at the Nogales Port of Entry which resulted in 96
inspections out of 1,303 cargo shipments, and another 2,503 border crossings deemed to be empty
loads.
Technical assistance to U.S. Customs officials has been provided by the Border States during Port
of Entry inspection operations. ADEQ has provided technical assistance to U.S. Customs through
participation in the study group established in conjunction with the Hazardous Cargo Carrier
Compliance Initiative (HCCCI) in the Port of Nogales and through requests for assistance on specific
cases or issues. Several trainings on hazardous waste identification and safety procedures were given
to Customs officials in Otay Mesa and Nogales in 1995 and 1996.
TNRCC, under an EPA grant, undertook compliance assistance outreach efforts in partnership with
U.S. Customs, U.S. Department of Transportation, PROFEPA, SEMARNAP Environmental Sub-
delegates, State Departments of Transportation, Public Safety, Health, and the Texas Workers'
Compensation Commission. A series of Maquiladora Hazardous Waste Shipment Training
Workshops were conducted in El Paso and Eagle Pass, Texas, and Cd. Juarez, Reynosa, Matamoros
and Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. Over 310 attendees representing 225 facilities participated in the
workshops. The training provided information on RCRA and Mexican generator/importer
regulations, prevention of common manifests problems, and encouraged pollution prevention.
Through this compliance outreach effort, 19 companies voluntarily conducted self-audits and self-
disclosed violations to EPA, pursuant to EPA's Audit Policy. The companies self-corrected, and
implemented procedures to prevent a recurrence. In exchange, penalties against these companies
were waived.
DTSC worked with the PROFEPA Delegation from Baja California to put on two workshops on
regulations and requirements of Mexico and California for importers and exporters of hazardous
waste across the Califbrnia/BajaCalifornia border. The workshops covered generator requirements,
manifesting, transporter requirements, Customs requirements and case studies from inspections
conducted at border crossings. Presentations were given by officials from DTSC, U.S. EPA, U.S.
Customs, U.S. DOT, County of San Diego DEH, County of Imperial DHS, PROFEPA, SECOFI,
Aduana, SCT and the Secretarfa de Salud. The workshops were held in June 1996 in San Diego and
Imperial County. They drew an audience of over 120 participants including personnel from
maquiladora plants, TSDF's, Customs brokers, transporters and others.
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Chapter I Hazardous & Solid Waste Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
Project: Vulnerability Atlas
Status: SEMARNAP is developing a "vulnerability atlas" for all of Mexico to determine the location
of sites best suited for the construction of treatment, storage and disposal facilities (TSDs) for
hazardous wastes. As of April 15, the portion covering the entire length of the U.S.-Mexico Border
had been completed. The atlas analyzes many factors, including hydrogeological and geological
conditions, demographic and economic characteristics.
Project: Environmental Auditing
Status: An environmental auditing workshop was held in Tijuana in 1995-6, under the leadership
of the Enforcement Workgroup, and in conjunction with PROFEPA. A number of presenters
discussed the Mexican auditing program and U.S. programs that support and promote pollution
prevention in industries.
Project: Technical Support to the Border Environmental Cooperation Commission (BECC)
Status: EPA reviewed two applications for municipal solid waste landfills in Mexico, submitted to
the BECC for certification, and provided recommendations to the BECC on these applications. The
proposals were for municipal solid waste landfills in Agua Prieta and Puerto Pefiasco, Sonora. In
this review process, EPA reviewed the applications from a policy perspective, coordinated the
technical review by relevant state agencies, and incorporated input from border-area non-
governmental organizations.
Project: Information Exchange
Status: EPA, INE and SEMARNAP continue to exchange information on the potential siting of new
facilities in the Border area; cases of illegal hazardous waste transportation or disposal; and other
issues of interest and concern to both countries.
Project: Repatriation Strategies
Status: The Hazardous and Solid Waste and Enforcement Workgroups are discussing revision of the
repatriation protocol in order to better reflect the needs of both countries in determining culpability
and bringing enforcement cases to court. This effort also serves to bring about better overall
coordinationon information exchange. The regional subgroups have played a significant role on this
issue.
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Chapter I hazardous & Solid Waste Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
Project: Control and Monitoring of Hazardous Waste Storage. Treatment and Disposal
Facilities
Status: INE will create a working group of technical experts, academics and government officials
from the US and Mexico to establish guidelines and criteria for appropriate technology, design,
construction and monitoring of hazardous waste facilities in Mexico.
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CONTINGENCY PLANNING AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE
WORKGROUP
1996 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN ACCOMPLISHMENTS REPORT
Project: Technical Assistance Workshops for Sister Cities
Status: Technical assistance workshops have been held in Calexico/Mexicali; McAllen/Reynosa;
and Eagle Pass/Piedras Negras. These workshops brought together appropriate representatives in
each of the sister cities to identify chemical emergency planning and response issues and work to
resolve those issues and to begin develop a joint sister city contingency plan.
Project: Inventory of Emergency Response Resources in Mexican Sister Cities
Status: Two studies were completed for the inventory of emergency response in the states of Baja
California and Chihuahua including information on various public and private groups that respond
to chemical emergencies in the following cities: Mexicali, Tijuana, Ensenada, Tecate, and Playas de
Rosarito of Baja California; and Juarez, Ojinaga, Praxedis G. Guerrero, El Porvenir, Guadalupe,
Samalayuca and Puerto Palomas of Chihuahua.
Project: Border Movement of Personnel and Equipment and Liability Issue
Status: At the Annual JRT meeting held in San Diego in March 1996, it was recommended that a
Workgroup composed of U.S. and Mexico representatives be convened at a border location to discuss
the barriers and identify potential solutions or recommendations for overcoming some of them. The
U.S. EPA Regional Office in Dallas, TX agreed to initiate and sponsor such a Workgroup, named
the U. S ./Mexico JRT Workgroup on Transboundary Mobilization of Personnel and Equipment. The
Workgroup convened its first meeting in July 1996 and held a total of four additional meetings. In
the initial meetings, the Workgroup brain stormed to identify all possible barriers to rapid border
crossing, and then identified four key barriers and four secondary barriers on which to focus their
attention. For each barrier, the Workgroup identified the factors that make it a barrier and then
provided recommendations for possible resolution. A report of these recommendations has been
developed and provided to the JRT.
Project: CAMEO Translation and Training
Status: The U.S. EPA and NOAA are currently continuing to work on completing the translation
of CAMEO into Spanish. Following completion of that translation, a strategy will be developed for
distributing and providing training on the CAMEO system to the sister cities.
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Chapter I Contingency Planning and Emergency Response Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan
Accomplishments Report
Project: Joint Contingency Plan (JCP)
Status: The U.S./Mexico JCP has been revised and finalized by the Joint Response Team
(JRT). The JRT is currently developing a process for having the new JCP signed by appropriate
high level officials in each country.
Project: U.S./Mexico Notification Procedures
Status: The U.S. National Response Center has established notification protocols for notifying
each country hi the event of a chemical accident in the border area. That notification system was
tested and evaluated at the JRT meeting in Veracruz May 14-15, 1997. Also, in April of 1997,
PROFEPA officials visited the U.S. National Response Center, CHEMTREC, and other response
installations to gain additional knowledge on establishing a national response center in Mexico.
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ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION RESOURCES
1996 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN ACCOMPLISHMENTS REPORT
The Environmental Information Resources (EIR) Workgroup's 1996 implementation plan focused
on four workgroup projects. These projects addressed the workgroup's Border XXI objectives of
establishing a unified GIS for the U.S.-Mexico border area, improving and increasing public access
to information and developing environmental indicators for the border region. All of the activities
of the EIR workgroup are multi-year, i.e. they began in 1996 and will continue or be completed in
1997.
Project: U.S- Mexico Aerial Photography and Mapping Initiative
1996 Accomplishments: Through the USGS funded and coordinated DOI High Priority Mapping
Program, the 1:40,000-scale Color-Infrared photography, 1:24,000-scale Digital Elevation Models,
Digital Raster Graphics (scanned image of a USGS topographical map), Public Land Survey System
and Boundary production were completed in 1996 for the entire U.S. portion of the border region.
In 1997, USGS has begun the development of Digital Orthophoto Quadrangle (digital image of an
aerial photograph in which displacements caused by the camera angles and the terrain have been
removed. USGS will also continue development of digital line graphs (spatial representation by
points, lines and areas of planimetric {roads, streams, etc} information).
SEMARNAP identified priority areas, and the Mexican InstitutoNacional de Estadistica, Geografia
e Informatica (INEGI) began the acquisition of color infrared (CIR) photography to complete
coverage of the Mexico border region. Acquisition of approximately 70,000 sq km at the 1:40,000-
scale and 40,000 sq km of CIR was started in 1996 and will be completed in 1997.
Binational cooperation between the USGS National Mapping Division and INEGI with the El
Paso/Ciudad Juarez pilot proj ect resulted in the development of processes for integrating digital data
between the two countries.
Project: Home Page Development
1996 Accomplishments: The U. S.-Mexico Border XXI Program Homepage has been available since
December 1996. The homepage development was a collaborative effort of the Environmental
Information Resources staff of EPA and INE. The homepage contains the US-Mexico Border XXI
Program Framework Document, Executive Summary, 1996 Implementation Plans, maps, and links
to border related homepages. The border team electronic mailbox is used for comments on the
homepage and/or public inquiry on the U.S.-Mexico Border XXI Program. Environmental
Information Resources staff in EPA Region 9-San Francisco monitors the border team electronic
mailbox and promptly forward the electronic mail message to the appropriate workgroup staff. The
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Chapter I Environmental Information Resources Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments
Report
interested parties are not only able to view the Border XXI documents, but can also download the
documents as a whole or only download the chapters they are interested in. Also, one can search the
documents by key words or use the "search maps" in the Border Maps section to search by Border
XXI Region or by sister city. These searches will search all the documents (i.e., Executive Summary,
Framework document, Implementation plans, and the Compendium).
The "Enviro-Links" section of the homepage links to border-related homepage within and out of the
USEPA environment. The links vary from Air Workgroup'sU.S.-Mexico Information Center on Air
Pollution Homepage to the U.S.-Mexico Border Waste Wise Homepage, an environmental initiative
led by the cities of San Diego and Tijuana with their other project partners.
Future additions to the homepage for 1997 will be the Border XXI documents in Spanish and
expansion of border-related homepage links. The Border Maps section will be expanded with
additional maps and the maps will be able to be downloaded. A new addition to the homepage will
be an "Environmental Progress" Section which will highlight Border XXI activities along the border
with photos, video and text.
Project: Information Centers
1996 Accomplishments:In 1996, INE set out establishing public Environmental Information And
Training Centers in four Mexican border cities for public access to hard-copy publications and to
information on workstations that would be connected to the Internet and SEMARNAP and EPA on-
line environmental services.
In 1996, INE coordinated with the Institutes Tecnologicos de Tijuana y Ciudad Juarez to establish
two Environmental Information and Training Centers in the headquarters of these institutions. The
Centers are developing training programs that reflect local environmental issues such as air quality,
environmental monitoring, pollution dispersion models, equipment calibration, etc.. They are also
incorporating aur quality issues into their class material. The Centers will also support and maintain
the monitoring equipment that were installed in the institutions.
Project: Environmental Indicators
1996 Accomplishments: The Border XXI Framework Document calls for the development of
environmental indicators which allow for effective assessment of both achievements and obstacles
to progress that result from the application of border environmental policies. Environmental
indicators will serve as a basis for analysis of implementation efforts, and as an important tool for
dissemination to the public of information on progress. In 1996, a plan of action and schedule for
first Environmental Indicators Report, to be published by December 1997, was agreed upon. The
first annual Environmental Indicators Report will be published in both English and Spanish, and will
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Chapter I Environmental Information Resources Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments
Report
be posted on the Internet on the U.S.-Mexico Border Homepage. Each of the nine Border XXI
Workgroups is providing border-wide and/or media-specific environmental indicators for the U.S.
and Mexico border areas to the Environmental Information Resources Workgroup. Although the
U.S. and Mexican members of the workgroups will attempt to generate as many binational indicators
as possible, some indicators for the U.S. or Mexico may be similar rather than identical to the other
country's indicators, and others may be unique to a particular country or geographic region but merit
inclusion nevertheless.
The expected audience for this report includes the national government of each country, border
communities, state and local agencies, tribal governments, concerned citizens and citizen groups, and
industry and business groups. A public comment and peer review period will be used to solicit
comments prior to completing the report.
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POLLUTION PREVENTION WORKGROUP
1996 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN ACCOMPLISHMENTS REPORT
Project: BilingualPollutionPreventionMamialfor Selected Industrial Sectors; Wood Finishing
Industry. Metal Finishing Industry. Electronics Industry and Textile Industry
This project began in 1994 and consisted of the development of four bilingual pollution prevention
manuals for use in the border area. The manuals have been completed for all the sectors. The
electronics manual was completed in May 1996 and the Textile manual was completed in March
1997. We continually receive requests for manuals from individuals, companies, the states and other
entities for use in workshops and conferences.
Project: Bilingual Pollution Prevention Technical Conferences
Conferences on pollution prevention in the Wood Finishing, Metal Finishing and Electronics
Industries have been held from 1994-1996 respectively. Funding has recently been received to
conduct the Bilingual Pollution Prevention in the Textile Industry Workshops. Dates and locations
are tentatively set for Spring 1998, in El Paso, TX and Brownsville, TX.
Project: Infrastructure Development Exchange with Mexico; Technology Transfer and
Capacity Building on Pollution Prevention
Training is provided for state governments and maquiladoraassociations in order to provide technical
assistance to Mexico as it develops its pollution prevention and clean technology programs. This
consists of meetings and workshops which include joint site assessment visits of industrial facilities
in Mexico; technical assistance in development of a pollution prevention element in PROFEPA's
environmental audit program; and exchange of active pollution prevention programs between the
states. TNRCC, INE, PROFEPA and the Mexican states have an ongoing exchange program of
materials and hands-on experiences between staff members engaged in pollution prevention delivery.
Even though this project is completed, the exchange of technical materials is an ongoing process.
Round table discussions will be planned for the next fiscal year.
Project: Pollution Prevention Curriculum Conference for Students and Graduates in
Engineering
This project began with a conference which was held in 1995 on the development of a pollution
prevention curriculum for students and graduates in engineering. A textbook by engineering and law
professors and other experts form the U.S., Mexico and Canada has been developed and is being
scheduled for classroom testing at several Texas universities. Inquiries are also being made about
the possibility of classroom tests in other states, Mexico and Canada.
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Chapter I Pollution Prevention Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
Project: Video Conference on Permanent Pollution Prevention Program Broadcast through
Monterrey Institute of Technology (ITESM)
A four-hour video broadcast was down linked at eight Mexican cities through the ITESM. The
Center for Environmental Quality has adapted the basic broadcast course for mid-sized and smaller
manufacturers. Also, the Center has obtained sponsorship from the Commission on Environmental
Cooperation to air the new pollution prevention satellite course in major Mexican cities starting in
May 1996. Seven satellite locations have been reached with an average of 250 participants.
Project: Solid Wastes Recycling Initiatives
TNRCC worked with state, municipal and city officials from Mexican bordering states and U.S.
border cities and presented four major recycling "Twin City" workshops to educators, local
government officials, private citizens and groups and maquiladora managers in the border cities.
Conferences were held April 1995; October 1995; February 1996; and the latest in Nuevo Laredo on
May 22-23, 1996. The last recycling conference was held in El Paso, TX on October 17 and 18,
1996.
Project: Technical Assistance to Mexican State Environmental Agencies
This project provided for continued capacity building efforts with Mexican state and federal
environmental agencies by providing training and technical assistance in the four Mexican states
bordering Texas. Several of the Mexican state environmental agencies are interested in adapting
TNRCC programs as they develop their environmental agendas. A possibility would be "Clean
Border" initiative modeled after the successful Clean Texas Initiative. Meetings between TNRCC
and officials from the States of Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas have been held
to share technology and information on the development of waste and recycling programs. In
addition to the Clean Coahuila program, the three other states have discussed strategies to develop
similar voluntary programs with elements of the Clean Texas 2000 program tailored to their specific
needs. In addition, two major training events were held which included classroom training, problem
solving and two industrial plant site visits for demonstration purposes. Other training events have
been held and more requested as a result of the previous successes.
Project: Pollution Prevention to Small Business Operations
This project consisted of a demonstration of a model spray booth for training operators in the auto
and paint shop industry. Operators in the El Paso-Ciudad Juarez communities are taught to use low
VOC paint spray systems and solvent recovery and recycling machines. Implementation of the
project through a local university in the Lower Rio Grande Valley is planned for 1998.
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Chapter I Pollution Prevention Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan Accomplishments Report
Project: Development of the Environmental Pollution Prevention Project (EP31 in Mexico
under the Agency for International Development
U.S. AID had developed a program in Mexico to assist industry in energy efficiency and pollution
prevention methods to conserve energy, reduce waste and conserve resources. A major training
conference was held in Reynosa, Mexico entitled "Benefitting from Pollution Prevention and Energy
Efficiency: Experiences of the Maquiladora Industry in Reynosa and Matamoros". The conference
showcased maquiladoras and industry's success in both saving the environment and resources
through implementation of the energy efficiency and pollution prevention methods.
Project: Technical Assistance to Mexican Environmental Agencies
This project is to provide training on pollution prevention to both state and federal agencies in Baja
California. The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) held a workshop in Tijuana, Baja
California on March 20, 1997 which presented an overview of California's pollution prevention
program and specific techniques for promoting pollution prevention among the wood furniture
manufacturing, painting, and metal finishing industries. Bilingual binders of the presentations were
distributed to all participants which included copies of the pollution prevention manuals developed
by the Pollution Prevention Workgroup for the wood finishing industry and the metal finishing
industry. The workshop was well attended by participants from local, state, and federal agencies
from Baja California as well as universities and provided an opportunity for officials from California
and Baja California to develop contacts for future pollution prevention partnerships.
Project: Industry Workshop on Pollution Prevention Techniques
Provided workshops to targeted California-BajaCalifornia border industries on pollution prevention
techniques. DTSC held a pollution prevention workshop for the Maquiladora Industry in San Diego,
California on May 15,1997 which focused on the electronics industry. Several of the speakers were
from industry and gave presentations on successful pollution prevention techniques that they had
adopted in their own plants. Bilingual binders of the presentations were distributed to all participants
which included the pollution prevention manual for the electronics industry developed by the
Pollution Prevention Workgroup.
Project: Arizona Partnership for Pollution Prevention (P3)
P3 is a voluntary, non-regulatory government-industry partnership to minimize hazardous waste. It
provides a means of networking and mutual assistance among the participants to improve
communications and cooperation between government and industry. Several meetings were held in
Arizona border communities to provide avenues for local industries and governments to participate
in the P3 program.
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Chapter I Pollution Prevention Workgroup 1996 Accomplishments Report
Project: Technology Transfer and Capacity Building on Pollution Prevention with PROFEPA
Joint partners site assessments and follow-up site visits are focused on determining opportunities to
implement pollution prevention and clean technology for Mexican industrial facilities. These have
resulted in reductions in wastes and air emissions and have also cumulatively saved facilities over
a million dollars through pollution prevention. Working with PROFEPA's state delegates, TNRCC
has conducted a total of 14 site assessment visits (SAV's) to maquiladoras in the bordering states of
Chihuahua, Coahuila, and Tamaulipas. A principle objective of these visits is to demonstrate to
industry and the government that pollution prevention strategies will cut waste, emissions, and water
usage, while saving money.
Project: Technology Transfer and Capacity Building on Pollution Prevention with PROFEPA.
In lieu of this project the partners have discussed establishing the Arizona/Mexico International
Green Organization. The development of the organization will bring Arizona and Mexico industries
together to share technologies that reduce waste and pollution and increase profits, worker safety and
environmental health. Its focus will be to promote pollution prevention and improve waste
management practices among maquiladoras hi the Arizona-Sonoraborder region through a voluntary,
non-regulatory government-industry partnership. Activities that the partnership will promote to
achieve these goals include networking opportunities; technological and information exchanges
through workshops, facility tours, and personnel exchanges; and a pollution prevention conference.
Project: San Diego-Tijuana Recycling Market Development Zone Initiative
This project's goal was to increase recycling and waste prevention within the commercial and
industrial sector along the border; and, create a binational recycling market development zone.
Guidelines have been developed for the establishment of a Recycling Market Development zone for
Tijuana to mirror that of San Diego. This set of guidelines includes information on current and past
movement of recyclables across the border in this region, as well as a border wide summary of
regulations governing trans-boundary movement of recyclable materials. This will be presented to
the city of Tijuana this spring.
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ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH WORKGROUP
1996 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN ACCOMPLISHMENTS REPORT
The Environmental Health Workgroup was established as part of the Border XXI Program
approximately one year ago. The Interagency Coordinating Committee (ICC) has been representing
U.S. interests, and SALUD is the Mexican counterpart. In terms of 1996 accomplishments, seven
initiatives were identified based on input from State agencies and Border XXI Outreach Meetings.
In August 1996, binational agreement was reached on the seven initiative areas and workgroups were
established with binational co-chairs. In December 1996, a meeting of Workgroup co-chairs was
held in El Paso to develop the research plans for each initiative. A meeting of the full ICC in Phoenix
in June 1997 resulted in finalization of research plans. For each initiative, anticipated
accomplishments and resources for 1997-98 are being finalized and will be available on the ICC
homepage (httpr/www.epa.gov/orsearth) in early fall. Copies may also be obtained from the
following address:
Office of the Associate Director for Health
National Health and Environmental
Effects Research Laboratory (MD-87)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
Because of the recent start-up of many of these projects, no detailed 1996 accomplishments are
offered at this tune. However, the accompanying 1997 Implementation Plan provides further
information on these initiatives and other on-going projects as well as points of contact. A detailed
accomplishments report will be available in the next edition of this document.
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COOPERATIVE ENFORCEMENT AND COMPLIANCE
WORKGROUP
1996 IMPLEMENTATION ACCOMPLISHMENT REPORT
Introduction
Effective enforcement of and compliance with the laws in the U.S.-Mexico border area are essential
to ensure realization of each country's environmental goals, and to prevent transboundary
environmental problems.
PROFEPA and EPA have been working and are jointly collaborating to strengthen their actions to
enforce and promote compliance with their respective environmental laws to resolve common
ecological problems. The enforcement activities in the border center on seven fundamental projects,
conceived in a biannual plan: 1) cooperative targeting; 2) enforcement results information-sharing;
3) training; 4) technical and legal consultations; 5) investigation of specific cases; 6) promotion of
interagency cooperation; 7) environmental auditing and voluntary compliance.
The Cooperative Enforcement and Compliance Work Group of the Border XXI Program was created
with the proposition that the government of each country would, in a cooperative manner, enforce
its own environmental laws within its respective legal framework, through the responsible
institutions, respecting sovereignty and using their own resources, supported by information provided
by the neighboring country.
As a regional strategy with the goal of coordinating and carrying out specific actions, the Work
Group initially formed two regional Subgroups for Chihuahua/Texas-New Mexico and Baja
California/California. In May, 1997, the Work Group formalized the integration of the
Sonora/Arizona Subgroup.
This Progress Report underscores those environmental activities with an enforcement focus which
the Binational Work Group has carried out in a cooperative manner. Under this framework, the
initial Subgroups have consolidated various actions tending to fortify law enforcement in the
common border between Mexico and the United States, bringing about work meetings in which
various proposals have been considered, ensuring strict follow up with results that benefit the regions;
in particular, those related to technical support, information-sharing, training, and transboundary
movement of hazardous wastes, including binational operations on international bridges.
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Chapter I Cooperative Enforcement and Compliance Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan
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Activities:
I. Cooperative Targeting
A) In Mexico
The programming and realization of inspections of sources subject to federal jurisdiction have
been fundamental for implementing this project. Despite the fluctuations in the Mexican
economy, PROFEPA has maintained a consistent pace in the pursuit of its central goal of
monitoring and enforcing compliance with the law, including activities beyond those which were
initially projected. These activities have impacted positively the trend toward regulatory
compliance on the part of industry.
+ Verification of compliance with the law in Mexico has been achieved through the programming
and carrying out of inspections at sustained levels, notwithstanding budgetary limitations and
the publicationof the new law of Administrative Procedures, which led to an increase in technical
administrative work. The inspection figures indicate that PROFEPA is complying with its
programmed goals, and an accelerated tendency toward regulatory compliance is observed, as
demonstrated by the results of the 12,347 inspection visits conducted between August of 1992
and December of 1996. From these results it can be deduced that, since its creation, PROFEPA
has been able to visit each of the businesses under its jurisdiction that operate in the northern
border area at least once. From January, 1996 to July of 1997,48% of the facilities in the region
were visited.
+ In the Industrial Source Inspection and Verification Program, from the creation of PROFEPA
until December, 1995, 9,024 inspection and verification visits were performed in the six northern
border states, which yielded 471 serious violations, resulting in 384 partial closings and 87 total
temporary closings. 6,751 visits discovered minor violations, and 1,802 visits yielded no
violations.
+ In 1996, PROFEPA complied with its established commitment to perform more than 3,000
inspection and verification visits in the border area, with the results extending to 3,323 visits,
resulting in 59 partial closings, .18 total closings, 2,545 facilities with minor violations, and 701
without violations.
+ From January to July, 1997 1,887 inspection and verification visits were performed in the border
area, resulting in the imposition of 43 partial closings and 17 total closings. Minor violations
were discovered at 1,506 facilities, and 321 were without violations.
4 As a result of this vigilance, a notable reduction in the serious violations in the maquiladora
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Chapter I Cooperative Enforcement and Compliance Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan
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industry has been observed, dropping from 8.32% in 1993 to 2.32% in 1996, implying a reduction
of 72% in the need to impose closures on industry. With respect to full compliance, the number
of facilities without violations has been seen to increase, from 12% in 1993 to 20% in 1996,
which implies a 43% increase in full regulatory compliance by the maquiladora industry in this
period. It is important to emphasize that the ongoing publication of new regulatory standards
postpones the precise evaluation of regulatory compliance.
PROFEPA established as an objective to perform more than 18,000 inspection and verification
visits in the northern border industry between 1996 and 2000. Up to July 1997 28% of this goal
had been realized. This goal is detailed in the corresponding part of each geographic chapter of
the Border XXI Program.
B) In the United States
In 1996, EPA, and state agencies conducted over 623 inspections at 423 major regulated
facilities in the border area. EPA, state environmental agencies, and the U.S. Department of
Justice (DOJ) brought 35 civil judicial and administrative enforcement actions against major
facilities hi the border area for violations of RCRA (hazardous waste law), the Clean Air Act,
Clean Water Act, and EPCRA (toxic release right-to-know law) assessing or collecting $1.2
million in penalties and negotiating Supplemental Environmental Projects (SEPs) valuing $1.4
million. EPA also brought 7 criminal enforcement cases in the border area in 1996.
EPA grants to state environmental agencies promoted U.S. enforcement for proper
management of hazardous wastes shipped across the border.
+ In 1996, Texas conducted 60 border area warehouse inspections, 96 inspections at
international border crossings, and 77 compliance outreach and teaming activities. New
Mexico conducted 41 inspections at two international crossings. In 1996, California state
and local environmental authorities conducted 172 truck stop events at U.S. Customs Ports
of Entry along the California/Raja California border, where over 1263 vehicles were
inspected for hazardous waste compliance, and, as a result, at least 20 cases of suspected
improper handling of hazardous waste are under investigation. In early 1997, Arizona
authorities initiated a border inspection program, inspecting 96 shipments and sampling
three, in six consecutive days.
EPA grants to Texas and New Mexico Attorneys General Offices support innovative
enforcement of state environmental, consumer fraud, land-use and nuisance laws against
developers of border "colonias" to remedy severe environmental health degradation and
promote environmental justice.
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Chapter I Cooperative Enforcement and Compliance Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan
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4 Texas and New Mexico have initiated more than 55 lawsuits against colonias developers
and obtained judgments in 31 cases, resulting in remediation of contamination, upgrading
of substandard environmental infrastructure, and preventing new inadequate developments.
+ EPA and DOJ, hi cooperation with the Texas Attorney General's Office, brought a civil
judicial action under the Safe Drinking Water Act and obtained a settlement with a colonia
developer to bring safe drinking water to the residents of Cuna del Valle colonia in El Paso,
hi the first federal action of its kind.
> EPA, the U.S. Department of Justice, FBI, Customs, and other agencies launched national
initiatives targeting smugglers of CFCs banned in the United States under the Montreal
Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. In Texas, "Operation Frio Texas" has
successfully targeted CFC smugglers who have transported banned refrigerants across the Rio
Grande and distribution networks in Texas. EPA brought four criminal actions in 1996
involving illegal importation of over 900 pounds of CFCs from Mexico into Texas.
C) Cooperative Targeting Efforts
Developing Tools to Identify Violators
4 HAZTRAKS, the binational Hazardous Waste Tracking System, developed by the binational
Hazardous Waste Work Group, has as an intention supporting Mexico's efforts, and permits
the U.S., to identify environmental violations for transboundary hazardous waste shipments.
+ EPA has initiated over a dozen enforcement cases for hazardous waste transport, manifest or
disposal violations, detected using HAZTRAKS. Eleven of these, representing 2,100 tons of
hazardous waste, have been settled for penalties totaling $279,000.
4 Two additional cases were settled in 1997 with an agreement on the part of the companies,
which committed to perform projects to prevent pollution by its maquiladora. About 30 new
cases detected using HAZTRAKS are under investigation.
4 PROFEPA is acquainted with the HAZTRAKS system, which might support the detection of
hazardous waste violations in Mexico.
4 PROFEPA, EPA, and state environmental agencies in the U.S. southern border are developing
and testing supplemental targeting tools using customs and industry data to identify likely
hazardous waste violators.
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Chapter I Cooperative Enforcement and Compliance Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan
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In the Binational Subgroups
Chihuahua/Texas-New Mexico
There have been significant advances in the sharing of information which could be useful for
Mexico and the United States, having identified interlocutors for dealing with local
environmental problems. Nonetheless, a greater effort is required in the immediate future for
interacting on a daily basis, with special interest in the international bridges and border-crossings.
In this project, some of the examples are:
+ In February, 1996, PROFEPA, SCT, Mexican Customs, EPA, TNRCC, DOT and the U.S.
Customs Services, carried out a binational inspection of toxic wastes in the international bridge
Ysleta, in Zaragosa.
4 The sharing of information on hazardous waste recycling, treatment, and disposal facilities,
authorized by EPA and SEMARNAP, respectively.
4 The sharing of information to detect violations in the return of used oil generated by the
maquiladora industry to the United States.
f Coordination and sharing of information between PROFEPA and EPA on the control and
vigilance by the customs services on the transportation in small quantities of empty drums
containing hazardous wastes or materials which enter Mexico illegally. The Mexican Customs
Service performed inspection operations to detect this type of drum, stopping their illegal entry,
and referring the matter to the TNRCC. These cases are under investigation.
4 PROFEPA and EPA have exchanged information regarding the U.S. parent firms of three
maquiladoras which stopped operation in Mexico, and a U.S. importing firm and its maquiladoia
subsidiary.
4 The sharing of information on the requirements of insurance policies and financial mechanisms
for transporters of hazardous wastes.
Baja California/California
In this Subgroup, relevant actions have been performed to build compliance monitoring capacity,
particularly regarding the installation of laboratory infrastructure in Mexico, specific programs
attending to the problem of hazardous waste generation, and cases of illegal import of wastes to
Mexico.
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Chapter I Cooperative Enforcement and Compliance Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan
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1) Mexicali Regional Laboratory
As apart of its strategy to support environmental regulatory compliance in Mexico, PROFEPA
is reinforcing the infrastructure for pollutant analysis with the construction of a Regional
Laboratory in the city of Mexicali, whose advances are as follows:
4 During 1997, the activities for conditioning the laboratory installations and equipment have been
intensified, having received two chromatography devices for analysis of volatile organic
compounds and pesticides, with integrated software for sample identificationusing bar codes; and
two atomic absorption devices for metals analysis, one of which was donated by Pacific
Treatment Analytical Service.
• Management of biologically infectious wastes
For compliance with NOM-087-ECOL/1995, an intensive campaign has been carried out for
orientation and dissemination of the regulation's contents, having held eighteen meetings with
representatives of the sectors involved. Seventy inspections have been performed on laboratories,
clinics and hospitals, actions which form part of the report on enforcement and compliance.
PROFEPA has intensified communication with SEMARNAP to facilitate processing of
authorizations for the management, transportation, treatment and disposal of this type of waste.
3) Inspection Program in the Mexicali Valley, Baja California
PROFEPA initiated a clean up program in the Mexicali Valley to collect used pesticide containers
(hazardous wastes), working in a concerted manner with aerial spraying service providers, which
resulted in an excellent response by this sector.
As a result of these actions, 124 pesticide container packs were sent to the firm "Confinamiento y
Tratamiento S.A. de C.V." in the state of Sonora, apportioning a sum of NP$ 46,068 to responsible
parties.
Presently the program is hi the process of being perfected for possible systematization to be applied
to the whole region, in order to avoid the inadequate management of this type of containers.
Considering the environmental impact caused by the practice of randomly disposing of these
containers in the open-air, a project called "Shared Responsibility in the Final Disposal of
Agrochemical Containers Generated in Agriculture" was presented to PROFEPA central authorities,
for the coordination and taking of shared responsibility among agrochemical formulators, mixers,
importers, and distributors along with aerial spraying service providers, for the collection of
containers and expired agrochemical materials generated in this activity.
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Chapter I Cooperative Enforcement and Compliance Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan
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4) Control of Biological Infectious Waste and Pesticides in California
On the U.S. side of the border, California authorities focused activities to improve compliance
with their respective regulations governing the disposal of medical or biologically infectious
wastes.
Cal-DTSC coordinated training and compliance information exchanges on medical wastes with
U.S. Customs, San Diego and Calexico county, and Arizona state officials.
In addition, Cal-DTSC and U.S. federal authorities launched at least three investigations involving
possible pesticide misuse, including a fungicide exposure incident, soil contamination at a sprayer's
facility, and possible misuse of pesticide-contaminated soils.
5) Joint Inspection Operation at Border Crossings
In February and March, 1997, PROFEPA inspectors joined Cal-DTSC inspectors to observe
hazardous waste transporter inspections conducted at the U.S. Customs Port of Entry hi Calexico.
II. Sharing Information on Enforcement Results
* With respect to the exchange of information regarding enforcement program results, PROFEPA
has been informing EPA regularly on the accomplishmentsattained. In January, 1997, PROFEPA
provided EPA a report for 1996, and last May PROFEPA provided to EPA a report on progress
for 1997. These reports included data for the period of August 1992 to December 1996.
4 PROFEPA is conducting legal follow up on 4,188 facilities which were inspected between
January of 1996 and July, at which violations were detected.
4 In May, 1997, EPA sent PROFEPA a report on enforcement actions in the U.S. southern border
for 1995 and 1996, including a statistical summary and a description of several specific cases.
+ PROFEPA and EPA have identified their respective enforcement and compliance indicators for
the border areas
In the Binational Subgroups
Chihuahua/Texas-New Mexico
4 EPA presented a study to estimate hazardous waste generation volumes for certain types of
maquiladoras which can be found in Ciudad Juarez, which is being reviewed for its possible
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Chapter I Cooperative Enforcement and Compliance Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan
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application.
III. Training
From 1992 to 1997 PROFEPA and EPA have collaborated in joint training actions, conducting in
a coordinatedmanner 16 training courses, in which 517 Mexican environmental inspectors have been
trained. These courses have dealt with themes regarding law enforcement, transboundary movement
of hazardous waste, multimedia inspections (including train-the-trainer efforts), and detection of
illegal CFC shipments (which for the most part has been directed toward customs officials of both
countries).
Regarding the five training courses carried out by PROFEPA and EPA in 1996, 79 Mexican
inspectors were trained in six border states, principally.
Transboundary Hazardous Waste Shipment Compliance Training for Customs and
Environmental Inspectors
+ In 1995, EPA and PROFEPA initiated a joint systematic training program for U.S. and
Mexican customs and environmental inspectors in Transboundary Hazardous Waste Shipment
Compliance Monitoring. In 1996, this cooperative effort continued, concentrating on
integrating into the courses personnel from the state environmental agencies of both countries.
t In this regard, PROFEPA and EPA have also focused cooperatively on revising the course
materials prepared by EPA's contractor. In April, 1997, the latest Spanish version of the
"Manual on Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Waste" was provided, updating
references to certain articles, regulations and laws that deal with the import/export of
hazardous waste and with the Mexican authorities involved in their enforcement.
+ In March, 1997, nine Mexican students participated hi an EPA-sponsored training for
hazardous waste ("RCRA") inspectors.
Training to Detect Possible CFC Smuggling
4 Although PROFEPA lacks the authority and legal basis to exercise inspections and compliance
monitoring with regards to chlorofluorocarbons, it is reviewing and updating the material that
EPA has developed for use in multiple workshops regarding these substances, directed principal^
at customs inspectors.
+ In 1996, EPA trained 233 inspectors from U.S. and Mexican customs, environmental and other
federal and state law enforcement agencies in Interdiction of Illegal CFC Shipments. 20
workshops were presented at seven border crossings and water ports (45 trainees were Mexican
environmental, customs and health inspectors; 188 were from U.S. agencies).
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Chapter I Cooperative Enforcement and Compliance Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan
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+ At EPA's request, PROFEPA invited personnel from state and municipal ecology departments
in the border states, as well as from customs, to attend the workshops on illegal importation
of CFCs which were conducted in 1996 and 1997 in various U.S. border crossings. Most
recently, in June, 1997, 11 Mexican and 45 U.S. environmental and customs inspectors
participated in presentations of this workshop at the customs facilities of Laredo, Hidalgo and
Brownsville, Texas. In 1997, EPA initiated the production of a video version of this course
to facilitate it presentation. -'
Principles of Environmental Enforcement Workshop
4 PROFEPA personnel received facilitator training and assisted EPA in presenting the Principles
of Environmental Enforcement and Compliance workshop in El Salvador in June, 1996. It is
contemplated that the same personnel assist in subsequent deliveries of this workshop in the
border area.
Field Investigations and Sampling
+ The San Diego County Environmental Health Department and PROFEPA cooperated in training
PROFEPA and Aduana personnel in Hazardous Waste Safety and Sampling. San Diego County
also arranged for two PROFEPA chemists to work in a private laboratory to receive training and
exchange information about U.S. and Mexican laboratory protocols.
+ PROFEPA and EPA, with cooperative assistance of the Western States Project and Southern
Environmental Enforcement Network, initiated development of a binational training course on
the conduct of field investigations and sampling. In July, 1997, PROFEPA provided comments
and observations to EPA with respect to the theme of the course, "Sampling Protocols", and
further course definition remains pending. Both agencies are exploring initial pilot deliveries of
this course for the beginning of 1998.
Pilot Course in Wastewater Discharge Inspections
+ EPA and Mexico's National Water Commission (CNA) initiated development of a binational
training course on inspections and sampling of direct and indirect water discharges. EPA and
CNA conducted a pilot course in September, 1997.
Environmental Crimes
4 TNRCC provided training to 3 PROFEPA officials in environmental crimes enforcement.
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Chapter I Cooperative Enforcement and Compliance Workgroup 1996 Implementation Plan
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+ EPA provided a grant to the California Environmental Protection Agency to develop a training
video presenting Environmental Crimes scenarios in the border area.
In the Binational Subgroups
Chihuahua/Texas-New Mexico:
In the area of training, the following actions were conducted:
• Attendance in training courses:
1. Protection of the Ozone-Layer and Illegal Importation of Chlorofiuorocarbons, 19-29 July,
1996, Otay Mesa, California.
2. Annual EPA Region 6 RCRA Hazardous Waste Inspector Training, March 3-6, 1997 in Hot
Springs, Arkansas.
3. Workshop on Environmental Law Enforcement, April 22 - 24,1997.
• Participation:
1. PROFEPA, SCT, EPA, TNRCC and DOT trained 180 Mexican operators in transportation
of hazardous waste. Seven courses were imparted from March to May 1996.
2. Workshop on Transboundary Hazardous Waste Movements for customs agents and
importers, July 9,1996.
3. Transboundary Hazardous Waste Compliance Monitoring for U.S. and Mexican customs and
environmental inspectors, July 19,1996.
4. Seminars on hazardous waste for industrial generators, July 23 - 24, 1996.
5. Workshop on Self-auditing and Self-disclosure Policy for the maquiladora industry,
September 30,1996.
In addition, support has been and continues to be provided to SCT in reproduction of audiovisual
material for training courses for federal and state inspectors.
Baja California/California
In this Subgroup, there has been a variety of training, as demonstrated by the following activities:
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1. Training Seminar for Sampling and Safe Management of Hazard Waste, May 2-4 and 9-10,
1996, imparted by the Environmental Health Department of San Diego, California.
2. Sampling Procedures and Safety for officials of Environmental Protection Departments and
Mexican Customs, May, 1996, imparted by the Department of Health of San Diego, CA.
3. Physical-chemical Analysis of Hazardous Wastes and Materials, May - October, 1996,
imparted by Pacific Treatment Analytical Services, Inc., San Diego, CA.
4. Managing Hazardous Chemical Materials, in June, August and September 1996, imparted by
Capt. Rene Salvador Resales and Ing. Rodolfo Castro, in Mexicali, B.C.
5, Emissions and Control of VCCs in Scrubbers, November 19-20, 1996 imparted by James
Morgester and Mary M. Boyer, in San Diego, CA.
6. Detection of Clandestine Shipments, March 1997, imparted by Carlos C. Bejar in Mexicali,
Tijuana, Tecate and Ensenada, B.C.
7. Use and Management of Agricultural Pesticides, March 25,1997, imparted by Sagar, S.S.A.
and PROFEPA, in San Luis Rio Colorado, Sonora.
8. Simulation on Ammonia Leaks, April 3, 1997, presented by Canacintra-PROFEPA in
Mexicali, B.C.
9. Simulation on Hazardous Chemical Substance Spills, April 12,1997, imparted by Fire Squad
H of Imperial County, California and Mexicali, B.C. at Calexico Customs.
10. Workshop on Export and Import of Hazardous Materials and Wastes in the Baja California
Border, April 18,1997, presented by the Regional Research Institute of the Californias, Cal-
EPA, SEMARNAP, PROFEPA, SCT, SSA, and Mexican Customs, in San Diego, California
IV. Technical and Legal Consultations
Under this project, three themes are highlighted which have been undergoing substantial
development. These are:
1. Policies Regarding Enforcement of Environmental Laws and Regulations
In July 1996, EPA and PROFEPA personnel participated in a workshop, coordinated with the
cooperative assistance of the Environmental Law Institute (a non-governmental organization), in San
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Diego, California, which dealt with consultations and analysis of hypothetical case studies for the
practical enforcement of the laws of both countries. It is importantto highlight that authorities of the
different levels of government of both countries participated were brought together in this workshop.
In March, 1997, PROFEPA provided to EPA a document descriptive of the industrial inspection
process, titled "Inspector Questionnaire-Guide for an Exhaustive Inspection Visit".
For its part, EPA provided to PROFEPA guides for carrying out inspections on multiples sources and
EPA policies for selecting the appropriate enforcement response to violations.
In 1996, PROFEPA consulted with EPA regarding U.S. law on public access to governmental
information.
2. Calculation of Economic Sanctions
PROFEPA and EPA exchanged information which they employ to determine the amount of penalty
applied to violators of the law. It should be noted that the application of sanctions means different
things among one or other institution. For example, while PROFEPA orders partial or total closures
on facilities when warranted, EPA does not consider this sanction within its penalty criteria.
3. Criminal Environmental Enforcement
PROFEPA has initiated discussions with representatives of Mexico's Procuraduria General de la
Republica, in which they have been analyzing the recent modifications to the General Law on
Ecological Equilibrium and Environmental Protection. These discussions may set the stage for
developing possible cooperative activities for the exchange of information regarding environmental
crimes in Mexico.
V. Investigation of Specific Cases
PROFEPA and EPA continue improving the mechanisms for sharing of information to support
cooperation hi the investigation of specific cases, even though conceptual differences in the
environmental legislation of both countries complicates the relationships among those responsible
for enforcement in one or the other country.
Sub-group Chihuahua/Texas-New Mexico
Case-by-case Cooperation
+ Information-sharing and cooperation in investigations of specific cases of U.S. companies and
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maquiladoras which violated U.S. and Mexican environmental laws.
4 Information-sharingand follow-up regarding the installation and operation of the recycling firm
Ford Environmental Services in Ciudad Juarez, and informational meeting with the Border
Environmental Cooperation Commission regarding its compliance with environmental
requirements.
+ PROFEPA raised the matter of the recycling of 50-tons of aluminum slag stored in a commercial
storage facility in Chihuahua. In response, TNRCC provided PROFEPA a list of U.S. slag
recyclers, so that the owner would contact the recyclers to arrange for commercial use of the
aluminum wastes.
Baja California/California
Case-by-case Cooperation
1) Sea-soil
PROFEPA has requested EPA's urgent intervention, first, to prevent continued introduction to
Mexico of the "soil amendment" Sea-soil, and second, that it conduct investigations into those
responsible for sending this product to Mexico, given that, according to PROFEPA's preliminary
investigations: It appears that it was an operation to easily and economically dispose of a waste
material, which could have enormous environmental repercussions on the soils where it has been
applied. This material, an agricultural soil contaminant, presumably was exported illegally to Mexico
in violation of its laws, since it seems that the proper tariff codes were not used and, for not
complying with the properties and characteristics offered, it creates the impression that it involves
an illegal and fraudulent transaction.
The introduction of Sea-Soil was initiated in 1990, with the participation of various commercial
enterprises of both countries, resulting in thousands of tons being piled and dispersed in the Tecate
ranches Los Bateques and/or la Rinconada, Rubio, Jacuin, Estada, Ramos and Hermanos Vejar.
U.S. federal and state authorities have been cooperating in the follow up of this case, and the matter
remains under investigation in the United States. At the same time, PROFEPA has informed EPA
that it is conducting legal follow up to determine liabilities and impose the corresponding sanctions.
2) Alco Pacifico of Mexico, S.A., in C.V.
Approximately 18,000 m3 of hazardous wastes, consisting of lead slag, lead oxides, acidified water,
and smelting ash, were abandoned by the subsidiary in Mexico of the company Alco Pacifico Co.
Ltd., accumulated in approximately 7.17 hectares of farming land at kilometer 32.5 on the Free
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Highway (Carretera Libre), Tijuana-Tecate, Mexico.
The government of Mexico received approximately $2 million (U.S.) from the Supreme Court of the
County of Los Angeles, which was collected as part of the plea bargain in criminal proceedings
against the company Quemetco, Inc., for violation of California state hazardous waste laws.
This quantity will be employed to cover the costs of transportation of the lead-contaminatedmaterial
from the Alco Pacifico de Mexico site, located near Tijuana, to a disposal site near Hermosillo,
Sonora.
The transport of the hazardous wastes began in January, 1997 to the company CITRAR, S.A. de
C.V., to which has been transported approximately 3,600 tons of waste.
3) Complaint Regarding Tire Dump in Ejido de Jacume, Tecate, Baja California
In response to complaints presented in April, 1996 by the Municipal President and the Subdirector
of Property of the City Council of Tecate, with respect to the dumping more than 10 years prior of
waste tires onto Mexican territory from the United States, at kilometer 60 of the Tecate-Mexicali
highway, in December, 1996, an operation repatriating more than 3,000 tires was carried out, in
which 12 Mexican inspectors participated on the part of the Mexican Enforcement Work Group, as
well as U.S. personnel — representatives of the FBI, EPA, the San Diego County Department of
Health. On the part of the U.S., this action was coordinated by its national Hazardous and Solid
Waste and Enforcement Work Groups, which arranged for final adequate disposition of the material
4) Protocol for Cooperation in Investigations
In March 1997, PROFEPA, EPA, and DOJ, initiated consultations to improve the binational
mechanism for cooperation in the investigation of specific cases.
VI. Promotion of Cooperation Among Institutions
This Work Group has realized great efforts to integrate and develop a border-wide network of
cooperation in environmental law enforcement, in which all of the agencies of the different levels of
government would participate, through the establishment of subgroups for each of the geographic
regions involved in the Border XXI program. The objective of these efforts is to enhance binational
multi-agency collaboration and identify the priorities for regional enforcement and compliance
cooperation in the border area. In September 1997, PROFEPA and EPA agreed to establish
subgroups for the regions Coahuila/Nuevo Leon/Texas and Tamaulipas/Texas, subject to the
availability of resources which would be assigned to PROFEPA and U.S. authorities.
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Chihuahua/Texas-New Mexico
4 This Subgroup was officially recognized in Mar. 1996.
4 Two informational meetings have been carried out with Mexican transporters on both countries'
requirements for transportation of hazardous wastes and materials.
4 Integration of the New Mexico Environment Department in the Subgroup, in May, 1996.
4 Coordination with the Secretariats of Communications and Transport (SCT), Treasury, and
Commerce (SECOFI) for use of identification signs and placards in shipments of hazardous
wastes and materials.
Baja California/California
This Subgroup is distinguished by the close cooperation between PROFEPA's Delegation in Baja
California and the San Diego County Environmental Health Department, cooperation which has
reflected the concern of both groups with the problem of inadequate management of hazardous
wastes.
Sonera/Arizona
During the binational meeting of the Cooperative Enforcement and Compliance Work Group in
Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico, in May 1997, the co-chairs of the Work Group officially
presented Sonora/Arizona Subgroup. For Mexico, the co-chair of the Subgroup is Lie. Jorge Ramon
Morachis Lopez, Delegate of PROFEPA in Sonora, and for the U.S., Mr. John Rothman of EPA's
Region 9 as the federal representative and Mr. Placido Dos Santos as the state representative for
Arizona.
VII. Environmental Auditing and Voluntary Compliance
1) Industry Outreach and Promotion
Supported by the dissemination of information to U.S. companies with maquiladora subsidiaries in
Mexico, in 1996 and 1997, eighteen maquiladoras have conducted environmental audits in
PROFEPA's Environmental Auditing and Voluntary Compliance Program, and thirty maquiladoras
have formalized their Plans of Action derived from audits already conducted.
In July, 1996, EPA sent letters to the U.S. parents of approximately 200 maquiladoras in Mexico,
encouraging them to analyze and explore participation in PROFEPA's environmental auditing and
voluntary compliance program.
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In March, 1997, PROFEPA and EPA gave presentations on their countries' respective voluntary
compliance programs at a conference on environmental auditing in El Paso, with over 100 industry
participants. EPA spoke on similar themes at a meeting of the El Paso Foreign Trade Association.
In May, 1997, in the Work Group meeting, the representatives of the Subprocuraduria for
Environmental Auditing proposed to continue with the promotion of environmental auditing in the
maquiladora sector, to define mechanisms for distributing the video once it is finalized, and to
stimulate the adoption by industry of standards that go further than the environmental legislation by
means of a Binational Promotion Program, which could include mutual recognition of the voluntary
governmental programs of each country, as well as analysis to explore possibilities of establishing
a Binational Recognition Program for those maquiladora industries and their corresponding parent
companies that have complied with the programs previously recognized. This proposal will be
discussed for possible inclusion in the 1998 Work Program.
In September 1997, EPA and PROFEPA hosted "Environmental Compliance in North America: A
Conference for Key U.S. and Mexican Industry Sectors" in Washington D.C. Participants included
executives of the automotive, electronics and chemical manufacturing sectors of both countries,
among others. PROFEPA discussed its Environmental Auditing program, and its Clean Industry
Certificate program which was introduced to recognize successful audit program participants in 1997.
EPA presented new Spanish-language translations of its Compliance Notebooks for the Electronics,
Metal Finishing, and Organic and Inorganic Chemicals Sectors. The conference included panel
discussions on the relationship between government enforcement and compliance programs and
private voluntary Environmental Management System initiatives, and industry and government
participants discussed ways to enhance and exceed compliance in the border area.
2) EPA's Voluntary Compliance Programs
Li six environmental compliance workshops held by EPA, PROFEPA, and TNRCC along the
Texas/Mexico border, EPA provided information to regulated industry on its new Voluntary Self-
Policing and Self-Disclosure Policy ("Audit Policy"). As a result, hi some of the first cases under
the policy nationwide, 19 facilities voluntarily discovered, disclosed, corrected, and implemented
procedures to prevent recurrence of violations related to imports of 172 tons of hazardous waste
from maquiladoras in 84 shipments. In exchange, penalties against these companies were waived.
Six additional border area self-audit/disclosure cases are under review.
EPA has initiated conversations with local U.S. authorities to analyze options for using EPA's
Supplemental Environmental Projects (SEP) policy to reduce air emissions in the El
Paso/Juarez/Sunland Park airshed.
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3) Video on Pollution Prevention
In coordination with PROFEPA's Assistant Federal Attorney for Environmental Auditing, in
September, 1097, EPA finalized production of the video "Environmental Auditing and Pollution
Prevention: Strategies for Voluntary Compliance in the Maquiladora Industry". The video includes
a focus on environmental auditing as a tool for assuring compliance and identifying pollution
prevention opportunities. PROFEPA and EPA will discuss possible uses of the video in their
compliance promotion efforts.
In the Subgroups:
Chihuahua/Texas-New Mexico
This Subgroup highlights the participation of U.S. parent companies of maquiladoras in Mexico in
efforts to promote environmental compliance, particularly regarding the management of hazardous
wastes.
+ Analysis by PROFEPA of the problem of maquiladoras which send hazardous waste to storage
facilities located in the United States, resulting in the Mexican manifest not identifying the final
disposal site.
+ In March, 1996, EPA sent letters to 70 U.S. parent corporations of 114 Chihuahua maquiladoras
identified by PROFEPA, communicating PROFEPA's concerns about their compliance with
Mexico's requirementto submit notices confirmingthe use of Ecological Guides which authorize
the export of hazardous wastes. In response to the letters sent by EPA, 80% of the maquiladoras
completely complied with PROFEPA's reporting requirements by presenting the notices of the
use of the Ecological Guides which had been omitted from 1992 to 1996.
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CHAPTER II
1997 IMPLEMENTATION PLANS
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NATURAL RESOURCES WORKGROUP
1997 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
Project Name: Training Course on Management Planning of Protected Areas in Mexico
Purpose: To provide participants with a general introduction and field experience on management
and strategic planning of protected natural areas.
Partners: National Park Service, Institute Nacional de Ecologia, ProFauna, Nature Conservancy
Description: There are two courses, each given once a year, on the management of protected areas
and the management of natural resources. They include formal classroom sessions and field trips to
protected areas in Mexico and the United States. One of the end products is a draft general
management plan. The courses are directed to administrators of protected areas in Mexico and others
working on natural resources management.
Contact: Howard Ness, NPS (505)646-7880; fax (505) 646-8083
Hector Ruiz Barranco, UCANP-INE (5)624-33-21, (5)624-33-24, FAX (5)624-35-89,
email: hlmiz@chajul.ine.gob.mx
Project: Exchange of Biological Data and Expansion of Biodiversity Information Networks
Purpose: To identify joint areas of interest, link the effort of the Biological Resources Division
(BRD) of USGS on the National Biological Information Infrastructure (NBII) with the development
of the biodiversity information system, and facilitate access to biodiversity data in biosphere reserves.
Partners: USGS Biological Research Department (BRD), Mexico Commission on the
Understanding and Use of Biodiversity (CONABIO).
Description and Update: The Smithsonian Institution (SI), BRD, and CONABIO are working to
increase access to information on Mexico's biodiversity by documenting and computerizing data on
collection from Mexico in the SI Museum of Natural History. Methods of electronic documentation
and georefeiencing of information from biological collections were successfully tested. BRD and
CONABIO will coordinate bilateral efforts to begin computerizing information on the flora and fauna
of biosphere reserves and other protected areas using protocols developed by Man and the Biosphere
(MAB) program. Other activities will also be initiated and information summarizing activities are
already available at the Internet address: http://www.nbs.gov/iibii/.
Contact: Larry Ludke, BRD, (573) 876-1808; FAX (576) 876-1855
Hesiquio Benites, CONABIO, (5) 554-43-32; FAX (5) 554-74-72
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Chapter II Natural Resources Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Project: Gap Analysis
Purpose: To develop a vegetation classification and GIS of the border areas from Ciudad Juarez to
Big Bend National Park to make biodiversity data available for conservation and development.
Partners: USGS (BRD), CONABIO, U.S. and Mexican universities
Description: Investigators from USGS and CONABIO are coordinating vegetation classification in
Mexico from available Thematic Mapper Satellite Imagery and groundtruthing for the section of the
Rio Grande from Ciudad Juarez to Big Bend National Park. A gap analysis database, already
developed for the Texas side of the border, is being developed for border areas in Mexico using the
ongoing vegetation classification, protected area information and biodiversity data.
Contact: Larry Ludke, BRD, (573) 876-1808; FAX (576) 876-1855
Hesiquio Benites, CONABIO, (5) 554-43-32; FAX (5) 554-74-72
Project: Lower Rio Grande Ecosystem Initiative
Purpose: To improve multi-sector user access to biological data and information about the ecosystem
and to assess the status, trends and threats to biological diversity and ecosystem integrity of the
Lower Rio Grande.
Partners: Midwest Science Center, BRD; National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service;
USGS; Biological Evaluation of Status and Trends (BEST), BRD; CONABIO
Description: In Big Bend National Park in the U.S. and Maderas del Carmen Protected Areas in
Mexico, joint monitoring of peregrine falcon populations is underway. In addition, the documents
that were compiled last year on biological resource literature and activities will be distributed this
year.
Contact: Larry Ludke, BRD, (573) 876-1808; FAX (576) 876-1855
Hesiquio Benites, CONABIO, (5) 554-43-32; FAX (5) 554-74-72
CeliaPigaron, UCANP/INE (5) 624-36-06. FAX (5) 624-35-89. email:
cipuero@chajul.ine.gov.mx
Project: Binational Fire Management Agreement
Purpose: To develop and implement a binational agreement for international fire management The
objective is to establish a mechanism for the U.S. Department of Interior and SEMARNAP to (1)
provide cooperative fire management along the international border, (2) address needs for technical
assistance, and (3) cooperate in the use of fire as a natural resource management tool.
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Chapter II Natural Resources Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Partners: DOI and SEMARNAP
Description: There will be formal negotiations to complete the binational agreement for wildland
fire management. This agreement will strengthen capacity to manage fires quickly and with the least
loss of natural and cultural resources.
Contact: Susan Lieberman, DOI, (202) 208-5160; FAX (202) 501 -63 81
Victor Sosa, Subsecretariat of Natural Resources, SEMARNAP.
Project: Upper San Pedro River Basin Binational Education/Training Project
Purpose: To share knowledge and scientific and cultural information with concerned parties to
enhance protection and the long-term sustainability of the Upper San Pedro River Basin.
Partners: BLM, NFS, University of Arizona, DOA/Agriculrural Research Service, Sonora
Department of Ecology, Centra Ecologico de Sonora, University of Sonora, and AGFD.
Description: The Upper San Pedro River Basin is a shared resource, with human and wildlife
communities depending on the limited water and interconnected resources, which are dependent on
the river. The Basin and its associated resources are a common concerns to the United States and
Mexico. A collaborative Ecosystem Program Team has been organized to define issues and to
develop an environmental education/training package for the Upper San Pedro River Basin.
Resource managers, technician, scientists, and academia are part of the team that will exchange
information between Mexico and the U.S.
Contact: Beau McClure, BLM (602) 650-1207; FAX (602) 650-0398
Guadalupe Morales Abril, IMADES, (62) 14-32-01, FAX (62)14-65-08
Project: The Restoration of Desert Vegetation in the Santa Cruz River
Purpose: To protect and restore ecosystem values for riparian habitats along the U.S.-Mexico border.
Partners: IMADES, FWS, NRCS, AGFD, NPS, Nature Conservancy
Description: The Santa Cruz River is considered one of the most important riparian corridors in
southern Arizona and Sonora, Mexico. This area is of extreme importance to neotropical migratory
birds, such as cuckoos, orioles sulphur-bellied flycatchers and the willow flycatcher. The narrow
riparian zone provides migratory stopovers, resting and nesting habitat for neotropical wildlife. This
year, the participants are identifying and establishing habitat restoration and conservation programs
along the Santa Cruz watershed.
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Chapter II Natural Resources Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Contact: Sam Spiller, FWS, (602) 640-2720; FAX (602) 640-2730
Martin Delgado, IMADES (62) 14-32-01, FAX: (62) 14-65-08
Project: National Aerial Photography Program
Purpose: To coordinate the collection of aerial photography every five years to include border states
of Mexico.
Partners: USGS and INEGI
Description: The original objective of this project was to update aerial photography maps of the 49
contiguous states every five years. In order to improve resource management programs and update
inventories of natural resources on an ecosystem scale, it was proposed to expand this aerial
photography mapping effort to include the northern states of Mexico. In that way, research and
resource projects along the border could be monitored, interpreted and analyzed more effectively.
Contact: Ken Osborn, USGS, (303) 202-4138
Magdalena Garcia Rend6n,Directorade OrdenamientoEcologico,INE (5) 624-33-76
and 624-33-77
Project: Arizona Fire Ecology Program and Border Area Fire Suppression
Purpose: To improve research, management and local community understanding of the important
role of fire in maintaining certain ecosystems; continue to jointly suppress fires along the Coronado
National Forest and the state of Sonora-Chihuahua border; and provide fire suppression training to
those located along the border.
Partners: USFS Coronado NF, Prescott NF, Rocky Mountain Research Station, University of
Arizona, University of Sonora, and SEMARNAP-Sonora.
Description: There is a binational fire brigade to respond to wildfires along the border between
Coronado National Forest hi the U.S. and the border states of Sonora and Chihuahua in Mexico.
However, there are only 4 trained teams to protect nine million hectares. Three more teams will be
created and established among the population on the Mexican side of the border (closer to the
possible wildfires).
There will be additional fire ecology (education and outreach) workshops in 2-3 locations within
Sonora. Planning meetings for these workshops will be held in August in Douglas, AZ and Agua
Prieta, Sonora.
Fire suppression training will be expanded to include training of other cooperating agencies,
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volunteer groups, the Mexican Army, county, ejido and community members, volunteers and
ranchers. In the past most of the training was aimed at SEMARNAP representatives and ejido and
community fire brigades.
Contact: Larry Allen, USFS, 505-670-4547, FAX (520) 670-4567
Project: Reintroduction of Gould's Turkey
Purpose: Continue the transfer of Gould's Turkey, an extirpated species in the U.S., from Chihuahua
to Arizona while assuring the maintenance of hereby population in Chihuahua
Partners: USFS Coronado NF, Arizona State Fish & Games, Wild Turkey Federation,
SEMARNAP-Chihuahua and Sonora.
Description: The Gould Turkey is a species that used to be found in Arizona, in the Coronado
National Forest. It disappeared from this area, but continued to live in the state of Chihuahua,
Mexico. Genetic research and monitoring will be carried out on the wild turkey populations to ensure
that the populations in Sonora and Chihuahua and the reintroduced population in Arizona maintains
itself.
Contact: Vicky Estrada-Bustillo, USFS, (505) 842-3424; FAX (505) 842-380
Pablo Navarro, Subdirector of Development, General Direction
of wildlife/IN (525)624-33-02, FAX (525) 624-3588,
email: pnavarro@chajul.ine.gob.nix
Project: Assessment. Inspection, and Training for Reduction of Forest Pests and Disease at the
Border
Purpose: Assess the potential risks that insects and diseases transported across the border may have
on forests on either side of the border. Increase inspection efforts to minimize these risks and
implement training efforts for foresters on either side of the border on the recognition of cross-border
forest insects and diseases.
Partners: SEMARNAP, PROFEPA, USFS, APHIS, U.S. Customs Service
Description: Due to the increased transfer of logs between the U.S. and Mexico, the number of forest
insects and diseases crossing the border has also increased. In some areas like Oregon and
Washington, diseases crossing the border has also increased. A risk assessment is already underway
to determine the potential effects on forests. What is also needed is an increase in the number of
inspectors and additional training of these inspectors to help them more effectively identify disease
of pest-infected logs. In addition, foresters along either side of the border need additional training
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Chapter II Natural Resources Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
to accurately recognize the insects and diseases as well as the visible early signs and symptoms on
the trees.
Contact: Boryz Tkacz, USFS 520-556-2073
Carlos Sandoval, Profepa, 5- 665-07-31, FAX (5)628-08-98, email:
csandoval@semarnap.gob.mx
Victor Sosa, Forestry Subsecretariat, SEMARNAP (5)-554-26-90,5-554-06-25, FAX
(5) 554-35-56
Project: Assessment of Forest Air Pollution Impact in Western and Eastern United States and
Central Mexico
Purpose: Improve the genetic quality of local species in S. California as result of monitoring of
ozone injury to native tree species and climatic variables at forest sites.
Partners: USDA-PSW, SEMARNAP, INIFAP, Pennsylvania State University.
Description and Update: Climatic conditions have decisive influence on forest response to ozone
injury and the cumulative effects of nitrogen and sulfur compounds. The study will standardize
procedures and methods, and begin simultaneous measurements of climate, pollution exposure and
tree response at sites with distinctly different climates in California, Pennsylvania, and Central
Mexico. Results will aid assessment of global climate change influences on forest ecosystem
response to photo chemical oxidant pollution.
Contact: Paul Miller, USFS (505) 842-34-24
Project: Practices for the Sustainable Use of Forests
Purpose: Develop "Best Management" practices handbook and provide training seminars on the
Implementation of "Best Management" practices in both the U.S. and Mexico.
Partners: USFS-R3, SEMARNAP, Ejido Basaseachi
Description: A draft of the handbook on Best Management Practices designed for field use by
technicians was completed and translated into Spanish this year. It will be published and distributed
widely. A workshop will follow to disseminate information learned in the project including the
completed handbook and initial results from the demonstration site, Ejido Basaseachic.
Contact: Doug Shaw, USFS, (505) 842-3424
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Chapter II Natural Resources Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Project: El Largo-Madera Ecosystem Management Practice
Purpose: Management of a land area on an ecosystem scale through community participation.
Partners: USFS-RMRS, SEMARNAP, INIFAP-Region Norte, Ejido Largo-Madera
Description: There will be completion of the digitizing process and the initiation of the analysis.
of this information to measure current forest health of the natural resources within the Ejido Largo
Madera.
Contact: Vicky Estrada-Bustillo, USFS (505) 842-3424, FAX 505-842-3801
Program: Emerging Program for the Management of 1857 National Constitution Park
Purpose: Develop activities to protect and conserve the natural resources in the fulfillment of
environmental policies, regulations, and norms established in the LGEEPA.
Partners: INE, local governments, academic institutions and state research and local organizations.
Description: Implementation of annual operational program to develop the following activities:
1. Protection and conservation: personnel will be hired for the park that will consist of supervision,
conservation and protection of natural resources, including the participation of the communities in
the protection of the natural resources;
2. Signs and information dissemination;
3. Equipment and rehabilitation of the existing infrastructure;
4. Coordination and update of the management plan.
Contact: Guillermo Ramirez Filippini. UCANP-INE (5) 624-33-17, FAX (624) 33-18.
Project: Sister Forests Program for Coronado National Forest (Arizona! and Sierras de Los
Aios National Forest Reserve. Buenos Aires and the Purica (Sonora).
Purpose: Long-term inter-disciplinary exchange of managers and resources to improve the
management and conservation capacity in the Sierra de Los Ajos National Forest Reserve, Buenos
Aires and La Purica to develop activities to protect and conserve the natural resources in the
fulfillment of environmental policies, regulations and norms established in the LGEEPA and the
framework of the Sister Forests Program.
Partners: INE, Reserve Directorate, USFS Coronado National Forest, University of Arizona,
Chif acahuaNational Monument, New Mexico FGD, local government, IMADES and other academic
institutions and state research and local organizations.
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Description: The following activities will be developed:
1. Protection of the resources that include oversight of the area, protection and control of forest fires,
and community participation;
2. Administration and basic operation: hiring personnel for the administration of financial, human,
and material resources;
3. Equipment and infrastructure: the minimum amount of infrastructure and equipment needed to
function;
4. Training in natural resources management, control and management of fire;
5. Exchange of information between the two reserves;
6. Protection of the Mexican Spotted Owl and other species of special status;
7. Workshop for the project presentation for the Mexican spotted owl;
8. Elaboration of the management plan
Contact: Guillermo Ramirez Filippini. UCANP-INE (5) 624-3317, FAX (624)-33-
18, email: gfilipin@chajul.ine.gob.mx
Jose Ma. Guerra Limon, Director of the Sierra de los Ajos National Forest
Reserve, (62) 13-52-61, FAX (62) 13-52-73
Larry Allen, USFS, (505) 842-3424
Project: Implementattm of Management Plan for the Alto Golfo de California and Colorado
River Delta Biosphere Reserve
Purpose and Objectives: Develop activities to protect and conserve the natural resources in the
fulfillmentof environmental policies, regulations and norms establishedin the LGEEPA 1995-2000
and the Program for Reserve Management, through the cooperation of federal, state, and municipal
government agencies, local population, academic institutions and nongovernmental organizations,
as well as maintain and increase collaboration with contiguous U.S. natural protected areas.
Partners: INE, Reserve Directorate together with other academic institutions.
Description: The 1997 annual operational plan includes:
- salaries for technical and administrative personnel
- office materials and equipment
- operational costs
- financing for the following studies:
a) zoning and information dissemination for the installment of signs and postings
and a pamphlet with reserve information;
b) revision and update of the status of the totoaba population (Totoaba
macdonaldi) in the Alto Golfo de California;
c) master ecotourism plan for the Biosphere Reserve;
d) study of the fisheries in the Biosphere Reserve.
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Contact: Celia Pigaron, UCANP/INE (5) 624-36-06, FAX (5) 624-35-89. email:
cipuero@chajul.ine.gov.mx
Juan Carlos Barrera, Reserve Director, (62) 14-32-01, FAX (62) 14-65-08,
email: barrera@cideson.mx
Project: Implementation of Management Plan for the El Pinacate and Gran Desierto de Altar
Biosphere Reserve.
Purpose and Objectives: Develop activities to protect and conserve the natural resources in the
fulfillment of environmental policies, regulations and norms established in the LGEEPA 1995-2000
and the Program for Reserve Management, through the cooperation of federal, state, and municipal
government agencies, local population, academic institutions and nongovernmental organization, as
well as maintain and increase collaboration with contiguous U.S. natural protected areas.
Partners: INE, Reserve Directorate together with other academic institutions.
Description: The 1997 annual operational plan includes:
- salaries for technical and administrative personnel
- office materials and equipment
- operational costs
- financing for the following studies:
a) zoning and information dissemination for the installment of signs and postings
and a pamphlet with reserve information;
b) non-metallic mineral extractive activities in the Biosphere Reserve (BR) ;
c) evaluation of the Bighorn sheep (ovis canadensis) population;
d) development of an ecotourism management plan in the BR.
Contact: Celia Pigaron, UCANP/INE (5) 624-36-06, FAX (5) 624-35-89. email:
eipuero@chajul.ine.gov.mx
Carlos Castillo, Reserve Director, (62) 14032001, FAX (14) 65-08, email:
castillo@cideson.mx
Project: Implementation of the Management Program for Santa Elena Canyon Flora and
Fauna Protection Area
Purpose and Objectives: Develop activities to protect and conserve the natural resources in the
fulfillment of environmental policies, regulations and norms established in the LGEEPA 1995-2000
and the Program for Management of Flora and Fauna Protection Areas, through the cooperation of
federal, state, and municipal government agencies, local population, academic institutions and
nongovernmental organizations, as well as maintain and increase collaboration with contiguous U.S.
natural protected areas.
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Chapter II Natural Resources Workgroup Implementation Plan
Partners: INE, Area Protection Directorate together with other academic institutions and
nongovernmental organizations.
Description: The 1997 annual operational plan includes:
- salaries for technical and administrative personnel
- office materials and equipment
- operational costs
- financing for the following studies:
a) zoning and information dissemination for the installment of signs and postings
and a pamphlet with reserve information;
b) study of livestock in the Flora and Fauna Protection Area.
Contact: Celia Pigaron, UCANP/INE (5) 624-36-06, FAX (5) 624-35-89. email:
cipuero@chajul.ine.gov.mx
Pablo Dominguez, Protection Area Director, (14) 14-00-67, FAX (13) 47-
75
Project: Implementation of the Management Program in the Maderas del Carmen Flora and
Fauna Protection Area
Purpose and Objectives: Develop activities to protect and conserve the natural resources in the
fulfillment of environmental policies, regulations and norms establishedin the LGEEPA 1995-2000
and the Program for Management of Flora and Fauna Protection Areas, through the cooperation of
federal, state, and municipal government agencies, local populations, academic institutions and
nongovernmental organizations, as well as maintain and increase collaboration with contiguous U.S.
natural protected areas.
Partners: INE, Area Protection Directorate together with other academic institutions and
nongovernmental organizations.
Description: The 1997 annual operational plan includes:
- salaries for technical and administrative personnel
- office materials and equipment
- operational costs
- financing for the following studies:
a) zoning and information dissemination for the installment of signs and postings
and a pamphlet with reserve information;
b) study of livestock in the Flora and Fauna Protection Area.
Contact: Celia Pigaron, UCANP/INE (5) 624-36-06, FAX (5) 624-35-89. email:
cipuero@chajul.ine.gov.mx
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Chapter II Natural Resources Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Julio Carrera, Protection Area Director, tel and fax (84) 10-57-14
Project: Community Participation Workshops in the Maderas del Carmen. Coah. And Santa
Elena Canyon Flora and Fauna Protection Areas (APFF).
Purpose and Objectives: Design and give workshops for community participation with local
populations of the Maderas del Carmen and Santa Elena Canyon APFFs, to encourage their
participation in the conservation and protection of the area.
Participants: INE, Directorate of Protection Areas together with other institutions, not yet defined.
Description: Through applied techniques for community participation, the project will study the
socioeconomicneeds of the populationand will propose strategies to meet those needs, in accordance
with the conservation objectives and sustainable use of the natural resources of the natural protected
area.
Contact: Celia Pigaron, UCANP/INE (5) 624-36-06, FAX (5) 624-35-89. email:
cipuero@chajul.ine.gov.mx
Julio Carrera, Protection Area Director, tel and fax (84) 10-57-14
Pablo Dominguez, Protection Area Director, (14) 14-00-67, FAX 13-47-
75
Project: Course-Workshop for the community participation of the Alto Golfo de California
and Colorado River Delta Biosphere Reserve
Purpose and Objectives: Design and give workshops for community participation with local
populations of the Alto Golfo de California and Colorado River Delta Biosphere Reserve, to
encourage their participation in the conservation and protection of the area.
Participants: INE, Directorate of Protection Areas together with other institutions, not yet defined.
Description: Through the applied techniques for community participation, the proj ect will study the
socioeconomic needs of the population and will propose strategies to meet those needs, hi accordance
with the conservation objectives and sustainable use of the natural resources of the natural protected
area.
Contact:
Celia Pigaron, UCANP/INE (5) 624-36-06, FAX (5) 624-35-89. email:
cipuero@chajul.ine.gov.mx
Juan Carlos Barrera, Reserve Director, (62) 14-32-01, FAX (62) 14-65-08,
email: barrera@cideson.mx
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Chapter II Natural Resource Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Project: Conservation and recovery of the Sonoran pronghorn Antelope (Antilocapra
americana).
Purpose and Objectives: Complete the ecological and demographic studies of the species; determine
the principle causes of diminishing population and establish short and long-term strategies to reverse
the causes; recover the pronghorn population until viable levels are attained and in the long-term to
restore ecological equilibrium in the region.
Partners: Coordination Unit of Natural Protected Areas/INE, General Directorate of Wildlife/INE,
SEDENA, CIBNOR, CIDESON, UACH, Conservation Units, Ford Motor Company, and possibly
the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Air Force, Arizona Game and Fish Department and New
Mexico Fish and Game Department
Description: Ensure the permanence of a minimum viable population of Sonoran pronghorn
(A.a.sonorensis) in the actual distribution area in the state of Sonora, define this area, maintain good
habitat conditions and understand continuity through land, air, and satellite photography, also
continue the general survey of the population and the preestablished education programs. The work
areas include: CabezaPrieta National Wildlife Refuge, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, and
the Pinacate and Gran Desierto Biosphere Reserve.
Initiate the reintroduction of the population of the subspecies A. a. mexicana in the historic
distribution areas, through the management of a transplanted population from Carrizozo, New
Mexico in the Colombia Valley, Coahuila, in 1996.
Implementthe formation of at least three groups of antelope subspecies^, a. mexicana for extensive
management. The management regions are: Janos-Ascencion-Casas Grandes, Tres Castillos,
Tosesihua, El Sueco and La Perla.
Contact: Jose Maria Reyes, Evaluation Director, General Directorate of
Wildlife/INE, (525) 624-33-12, FAX (525) 624-3588, email:
jmreyes@chajul.ine.gob.mx
Project: Conservation and recovery of the Black Bear (Ursus americanus)
Purpose and Objectives: Complete the ecological and demographic studies of the species in the
states of Chihuahua and Coahuila; determine the principle causes of migrations; recover the bear
population to reach viable levels and in the long term to attain ecological equilibrium in the region;
establish hunting programs in the Units of Conservation, Management, and Use of Wildlife (UMA).
Partners: Coordination Unit of Natural Protected Areas/INE, Directorate General of Wildlife/INE,
Conservation Units, National Association of Diversified Cattle ranchers (ANGADI), Profauna, A.C.,
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Chapter II Natural Resources Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Santa Elena Canyon and Maderas del Carmen APFF.
Description: Proceed in the demographic study of the populations located in the reserves of Big
Bend-Maderas del Carmen and Santa Elena Canyon. Study the migratory conditions along the
border. Establish the possibilities for hunting in some of the Units of Conservation, Management, and
Use of Wildlife (UMA) in the state of Coahuila. Establish the conditions for the creation and
consolidation of tranborder biological corridors.
Contact: Pablo Navarro, Subdirector of Development, General Directorate of
Wildlife/INE (525) 624-3302, FAX (525) 624-35-88, email:
pnavarro@chajul.ine.gob.mx
Pablo Dominguez, Director of the Santa Elena Canyon Flora and Faun
Protection Area, (14) 14-00-67, FAX (14) 13-47-75
Julio Carrera, Maderas Del Carmen Protection Area Director, tel and fax
(84) 10-57-14
Project: Conservation and recovery of the Desert Bighorn Sheep (Ovis canadensis)
Purpose and Objectives: Complete the ecological and demographic studies of the species in the
region; determine the principle causes of migrations, recover the undulate population to reach viable
levels and in the long term to attain ecological equilibrium in the region; continue with hunting
programs in the UMA.
Partners: Coordination Unit of Natural Protected Areas/INE, Directorate General of Wildlife/INE,
Conservation Units, National Association of Diversified Cattle ranchers (ANGADI), UAB C, UACH.
Description: Coordinate conservation actions, management, and hunting use for the subspecies O.
c. Cremnobates of their population within the Units of Conservation, Management, and Use (UMA)
registered in the border zone, mostly in the state of Sonora and protection actions in the El Pinacate
and Gran Desierto de Altar Biosphere Reserve.
Coordinate with the state and federal governments in the United States for the consideration of
protected status of the subspecies shared by the two countries.
Contact: Pablo Navarro, Subdirector of Development, General Directorate of
Wildlife/INE (525) 624-3302, FAX (525) 624-35-88, email:
pnavarro@chajul.ine.gob.mx
Carlos Castillo, Reserve Director, (62) 14032001, FAX (14) 65-08, email:
castillo@cideson.mx
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Chapter II Natural Resources Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Project: Conservation and recovery of Ironwood (Olneya teosota)
Purpose and Objectives: Complete the ecological and demographic studies of the species in the
states of Chihuahua and Coahuila; determine the principle causes of migrations; recover this plant
population to reach viable levels and in the long term to attain ecological equilibrium in the region;
establish programs of traditional small-scale, traditional use in the (UMA).
Partners: Coordination Unit of Natural Protected Areas/lNE, Directorate General of Wildlife/INE,
SEDESOL, INI
Description: Establish a program of population surveys and physioecological studies to determine
the rates of individual growth for the zone, and also the rates of population growth for the El Pinacate
and Gran Desierto de Altar Biosphere Reserve and the bordering areas and establish projects of
sustainable use for the communities and ejidos with commercial interests in the region.
Implementprograms for prospective suitable sites to establish sanctuaries for germplasm preservation
and for areas of use.
Establish environmental education programs and training for the local communities, to increase
community participation hi the conservation, management and sustainable use of the resources.
Contact: Carlos Lloren. Subdirector of Flora and Mushrooms, General Directorate
of Wildlife/INE (525) 624-33-13, FAX (525) 624-35-88, email:
cllorens@chajul.ine.gob.mm
Carlos Castillo, Reserve Director, (62) 14032001, FAX (14) 65-08, email:
castillo@cideson.mx
Project: Conservation and Use of Mesquite (Prosopis spp.)
Purpose and Objectives: Complete the ecological and demographic studies of the species in the
states of Chihuahua and Coahuila; determine the principle causes of migrations; recover this plant
population to reach viable levels and in the long term to attain ecological equilibrium in the region;
establish programs of traditional small-scale, traditional use in the (UMA).
Partners: Coordination Unit of Natural Protected Areas/INE, Directorate General of Wildlife/INE,
SEDESOL, INI
Description: Establish a program of population surveys and physioecological studies to determine
the rates of individual growth for the zone, and also the rates of population growth for the El Pinacate
and Gran Desierto de Altar Biosphere Reserve and the bordering areas and establish projects of
sustainable use for the communities and ejidos with commercial interests in the region.
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Chapter II Natural Resources Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Implementprograms for prospective suitable sites toestablish sanctuaries for germplasm preservation
and for areas of use.
Establish environmental education programs and training for the local communities, to increase
community participation in the conservation, management and sustainable use of the resources.
Contact: Carlos Lloren. Subdirector of Flora and Mushrooms, General Directorate
of Wildlife/INE (525) 624-33-13, FAX (525) 624-35-88, email:
cllorens@chajul.ine.gob.mrn
Carlos Castillo, Reserve Director, (62) 14032001, FAX (14) 65-08, email:
castillo@cideson.mx
Project: Rural Aquaculture
Purpose and Objectives: Continuation of the Rural Program of Aquaculture to improve the food
diets of the rural communities on the border, to generate work and income for the local
commercialization and industries.
Partners: General Management of Aquaculture, Subsecretary of Fishing, SEMARNAP.
Description: Repopulation of reservoirs, including rivers, stream and basins in the border by
breeding of species offish such as carp, tilapia, catfish, lobina, and trout, to benefit the population
by improving their diets, and generating jobs and income through commercialization of local
industries.
Investments for aquaculture projects in the State of Coahuila includes:
-Fattening of Catfish in cages: located in Ojo de Agua Rio Bravo, Allende;
-Fattening in a system of floating cages using white, monosex tilapia for reversion: located in Ojo
de Agua Rio Bravo, Allende;
-Fattening of Catfish in cages: located in El Gallo, Zaragoza.
In the state of Sonora;
-SSS.Union of Santa Clara: located in El Chamorro, 5 km south of the Gulf of Santa Clara, Mpio.
Of San Luis Colorado.
Contact: Mara A. Murillo Correa, General Management of Politics and Fishing
Promotion. 628-07-22. FAX 628-08-98
Project; Inspection of Transborder Movements of Rural Flora and Fauna
Purpose and Objectives: Inspection and vigilance in ports, airports and points of border entrances
to guarantee enforcementof the law and accords established in relation to the international commerce
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Chapter II Natural Resources Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
of flora and fauna, that is protected, threatened or subject to special regulation of its parts, products
and subproducts, in compliance with the Convention of International Commerce on Endangered
Species (CITES).
Its second goal is to strengthen the binational capacity for the law enforcement through specific
training projects.
Verification of transborder movements of local flora and fauna carried out in strict adherence to the
law, through eyewitness and document inspections in ports, airports and border crossings.
Verification that the transborder movements of forest products comply with the existing phytosanity
requirements.
Participants: For Mexico: Delegations of the PROFEPA in the states of Baja California, Sonora,
Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas; Subagency of Natural Resources.
For USA: State agencies responsible for law enforcement of local Flora and Fauna in California, New
Mexico, Arizona and Texas; United States Fish and Wildlife Service; Customs USA; Justice
Department.
Description: For both countries, there will senior level personnel in ports, airports and borders that
verify daily the transborder movements of local flora and fauna, in compliance with legislation and
norms of each country and the international convention.
Contact: PROFEPA Delegates in the states of Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua.
Coahuila, Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas.
Project: Inspection of Transborder Movement of Forest Product and Subproducts
Purpose and Objectives: Inspection and vigilance in ports, airports and points of border entrances
to guarantee enforcement of the phytosanity law and accords for the commerce and international
movement of forest products and subproducts.
Its second goal is to strengthen the binational capacity for law enforcement through specific training
programs.
To verify the transborder movements of forest products and subproducts that protect against potential
risks of transmission of plagues and diseases that could affect the forest resources of any of the two
countries.
Participants: For Mexico: Delegations of PROFEPA in the states of Baja California, Sonora,
Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas; Sub... of Natural Resources.
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Chapter II Natural Resources Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
For USA: State agencies with application of the law on material on forest health in California, New
Mexico, Arizona and Texas, department of Agriculture, Customs USA, Justice Department.
Description: Both countries will staff ports, airport, and borderchecks with high level personnel to
verify that transborder movements of forest products and subproducts that satisfy the requirements
to protect against the potential risks of plague and diseases that could affect the forest resources of
any two of the countries.
Contact: PROFEPA Delegates in the states of Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua. Coahuila,Nuevo
Leon and Tamaulipas.
Project: Inspection and Vigilance of Natural Protected Land and Coastal Areas
Purpose and Objectives: Inspections and vigilance in the natural protected areas incorporated in the
Program that are considered of binational interest, to guarantee compliance with laws, work plans and
conservation and recovery plans for habitats and species in the contiguous natural protected areas.
Its second goal is to strengthen the capacity in both countries for law enforcement through specific
training projects.
To support and sustain, through inspection and vigilance, the compliance of the conditions and
programs of both countries in the Border XXI framework for the conservation and operation of the
Natural Areas of binational interest.
Participants: For Mexico: Delegations of PROFEPA hi the states of Baja California, Sonora,
Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas; Sub... of Natural Resources.
For USA: State agencies with application of the law on material on forest health in California, New
Mexico, Arizona and Texas, U.S. National Parks Service, National Marine Fisheries Service (in
specific cases), Justice Department.
Description: In both countries, there will be specialized personnel for the inspection and vigilance
for the protection and use of natural resources that conform to the Natural Protected Areas. Measures
will be proposed and executed to meet the objective of ecological preservation that will be applied
to citizens, within the context of sustainable resource use.
Contact: PROFEPA Delegates in the states of Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua. Coahuila, Nuevo
Leon and Tamaulipas.
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Chapter II Natural Resources Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Project: Participation of PROFEPA in other specific projects to be determined for
administrative, scientific, and operation areas under the Border XXI framework program
Purpose and Objectives: To help and support, through inspection and vigilance, compliance with
agreed upon programs and project between both countries under the Border XXI framework program.
To fulfill actions of inspection and vigilance that relate to the development or execution of specific
projects agreed upon between the co-chairs of the natural resources workgoup co-chairs.
Participants: For Mexico: Delegates of PROFEPA in the states of Baja California, Sonora,
Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas according to their jurisdiction.
For U.S., state law enforcement agencies in California, New Mexico, Arizon, and Texas and federal
agencies responsible for the issues identified hi the projects.
Description: To participate in the activities and objectives of the projects.
Contact: Mexico - Profepa Delegates in the states of Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua,
Coahuila, Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas, depending the competent authority.
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WATER WORKGROUP
1997 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
INTRODUCTION:
The Border XXI Framework Document describes the issues and problems in the border area and the
long term goals of the Water Workgroup. Recognizing that all of the problems cannot be solved in
one year, this Implementation Plan has been prepared to address the problems in accordance with
those goals and the resources available for this year.
Water pollution is one of the principal environmental and public health problems facing the border
area. Adequate treatment of wastewater, proper discharge of the effluent, proper disposal of residuals
and training of operating personnel will reduce the existing risks to border ecosystems and the health
of border communities. Access to safe drinking water through adequate treatment and distribution
systems will reduce the risk of disease.
The Water Workgroup is dedicated to a binational implementation plan which recognizes that
coordinated actions are necessary although important parallel activities may be undertaken in each
country. The Implementation Plan will stress binational federally funded activities with
transboundary impact but will also include the parallel activities of State and local governments when
those activities have transboundary impacts.
The Water Workgroup will concentrate on the quality of water resources but will also recognize that
the Natural Resources Workgroup will have an interest in the quantity and the quality of the ground
and surface waters within its consideration for marine and aquatic resources. The two workgroups
have each agreed to include coordinating representatives at each others meetings.
Budgetary considerations dictate that the activities in this plan must be within the available annual
resources of each country. The Water Workgroup will work to leverage the federal resources of
Mexico and the United States with those of the States and other organizations such as the BECC and
the NADBank.
The implementation plan consists of four components. First, is a general description of how the
Water Workgroup plans to make progress towards its long term objectives. Second, information on
primary contacts for the Water Workgroup. Third, is a description of each of the projects scheduled
for implementation in 1997.
OBJECTIVES:
In the Border XXI Framework Document, the Water Workgroup identified objectives for the 1996 -
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Chapter II Water Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
2001 period in seven key areas. This section of the implementation plan describes how the
Workgroup's activities in 1997 will contribute to the attainment of these long term objectives for
each key area. If a project name is highlighted in bold print, a description of the project is included
later in this implementation plan.
Environmental Infrastructure Development
The Water Workgroup will make a major effort in the development of environmental infrastructure
in 1997.
•Several binational projects are planned for implementation in 1997, including: Interagency
Agreement between EPA Region 6 and the IBWC to Assist Mexico's Planning Process for
Wastewater Treatment Facilities, Nogales Potable Water and Wastewater, Mexicali
Wastewater, Tijuana International Wastewater Treatment, and Tijuana Wastewater
Improvement Project. EPA, working with NADBank and U.S. states, will identify additional
projects in the U.S. border area. Additional projects may be identified through the BECC process.
•EPA, SEMARNAP, IBWC, BECC and NADBank will work to integrate and streamline the
application, review, and approval procedures for infrastructure development.
•EPA will work with BECC to establish and implement the Project Development Assistance
Program to improve BECC's ability to provide technical assistance to border communities
developing water and wastewater infrastructure.
•EPA and CNA will work with NADBank to establish and initiate the Border Environment
Infrastructure Fund, (the Programade Cooperation para el Desarrollo Institucional, or PRODIN),
which will be used to make EPA grant funding available to border projects.
This fund will be utilized for the purpose of supporting operating entities in achieving the
effective and efficient operation of services, thereby creating a solid financial basis for
future infrastructure development.
•The Water Supply Comprehensive Performance Evaluation project will determine if major
infrastructure improvements are needed at water treatment plants in the U.S. using the Rio Grande
as a water source.
Pollution Prevention
The U.S. will continue to work with Mexico regarding control of industrial discharges into
wastewater collection systems hi 1997.
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Chapter II Water Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
• Wastewater characterization and pretreatment program development is an important element in the
Nogales Potable Water and Wastewater project and the Tijuana International Wastewater proj ect
•In Mexico, CNA will provide guidance to the wastewater operating entities in the wastewater
pretreatment program implementation. State authorities will be in charge of following up the
pretreatment program.
•The Pollution Prevention Workgroup and the Hazardous and Solid Waste Workgroup are planning
to expand their efforts to minimize discharges of pollutants from industries to wastewater collection
systems in 1997. The Water Workgroup will cooperate with these efforts.
Efforts to protect groundwater quality will also continue in 1997, specifically on the Nogales
Wellhead Protection proj ect and the Ciudad Juarez/ElPaso Wellhead Protection/GroundWater
Pilot Project.
Watershed Planning and Management
The Workgroup does not have the available resources for an integrated watershed planning and
management study. It will continue several activities in 1997 which are expected to lay the
foundation for more comprehensive future efforts.
•The U.S. through the Texas Natural Resources Conservation Commission, and Mexico through
CNA, will continue to share information regarding the creation of the Rio Grande Alliance and
related projects. Similar collaboration will be encouraged along the rest of the border.
•The U.S. will continue discussions with Mexico regarding studies for the Colorado River [and Rio
Grande estuaries. The U.S. proposes as a strategy taking the entire Rio Grande watershed into
account] estuary.
•The U.S. and Mexico will continue to be engaged with different state and federal agencies regarding
their ecosystem and watershed activities.
•The U.S. will continue to work with Mexico in sharing various information and database systems.
Water Quality Monitoring
Despite not having the resources available for monitoring all the waters in the border area, the Water
Workgroup will conduct a number of monitoring activities in 1997.
•Specificprojects include: Rio Grande/Rio Bravo Toxics Studies, Del Rio/ Ciudad Acuna - Eagle
Pass/Piedras Negras - Laredo/Nuevo Laredo Trans-boundary Aquifers, El Paso/Cd. Juarez
Trans-boundary Aquifers, Southwestern New Mexico Transboundary Aquifers, Naco Water
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Chapter II Water Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Quality Monitoring, AmbosNogalesGroundwater,Lower Colorado-New River Toxics Survey,
New River Toxics Model, and Lower Colorado-New River Data Synthesis.
•The Workgroup will discuss data collection and analysis protocols in 1997.
•The U.S. and Mexico will continue discussions on salinity and sediment in the Colorado River.
Training and Development
The Water Workgroup has several training and development activities for 1997:
•Specific projects include Water Supply Operator Training and Wastewater Operator Training
for Mexicali.
•In Mexico, CNA will continue with the training programs for the certification of wastewater plant
operators as well as for the operation and maintenance of drinking water and sewerage systems.
•The U.S. will provide a course concerning surface and underground water water monitoring, for the
purpose of standardizing sampling methodologies, and Spanish translations of several wastewater
and pretreatment related manuals.
Efficient Water Use
Mexico will continue to promote public outreach on the efficient and rational use of water.
Public Participation
The Water Workgroup will continue to promote public participation in 1997.
•Mexico will increase the creation of public forum committees at state and local levels to involve the
public on the decision-making process in hydraulic infrastructure projects.
•Public involvement will be an important component of projects seeking BECC certification (see
objective on environmental infrastructure development for a list of 1997 projects).
•The Rio Grande Alliance will facilitate community based partnerships in the Rio Grande/Rio Bravo
watershed.
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Chapter II Water Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
PROJECTS:
Project: Interagency Agreement between EPA Region 6 and the International Boundary and
Water Commission (IBWC) to assist Mexico's planning process for wastewater treatment
facilities.
Purpose: The goal is to obtain project certification from the Border Environment Cooperation
Commission (BECC).
Funding: EPA/IBWC Interagency Agreement, $10 Million, FY1995. Likewise, CNA participates
with appropriate resources.
Partners: IBWC, CILA/IBWC, EPA, CNA
Description: During F Y95, EPA Region 6 entered into a $ 1OM interagency agreement with the U. S.
Section of the International Boundary Water Commission (IBWC) for assisting Mexico in their
planning process for wastewateririfrastructure. The projects that are involved are in Reynosa, Piedras
Negras, and Ciudad Acuna.
The U.S. and Mexico have agreed on the tasks necessary to complete the planning. A schedule of
critical tasks has been developed. The planning work will be completed by the end of December of
this year. Project Certification is anticipated in March, 1998.
Relevant Border XXI Objectives: Develop and rehabilitate wastewater collection and treatment
infrastructure.
Contact: Oscar Cabra Jr., P.E. (214) 665-2718
Terri Kelley (214) 665-6797
Jaime Tinoco, CNA, (5) 229 8650
Luis Antonio Rascon, CILA, (16) 13 9942
Project: Border Environmental Cooperation Commission fBECO Project Development
Assistance Program (PDAP)
Purpose: The funds are for planning and design of high quality, feasible and affordable water supply
and wastewater projects in communities on both sides of the US/Mexico border.
Funding: $10 Million in FY 96
Partners: BECC, CNA, EPA
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Chapter II Water Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Description: EPA Regional and Headquarters staff have worked with the BECC staff and Executive
Committee to provide guidance relative to the draft procedure manual and the PDAP program. Grant
funds were obligated September 30,1996, but no funds have been committed or expended.
EPA and CNA will continue to assist BECC with reviews, advice and coordination assistance
necessary to bring PDAP to functional implementation.
Relevant Border XXI Objectives: Develop and rehabilitate wastewater collection and treatment
infrastructure.
Contact: Oscar Cabra Jr., P.E. (214) 665-2718
Terri Kelley (214) 665-6797
Javier Cabrera, COCEF, (16) 29 2395
Jaime Tinoco, CNA, (5) 229 8650
Project: North American DevelopmentBank rNADBankVBorderEnvironment Infrastructure
Fund
Purpose: To assist in the construction of drinking water and wastewater projects to the extent that
such funds, in combination with other funding sources, are needed to make projects affordable to
communities on both sides of the border.
Funding: The folio wing funds were awarded in April 1997: $90 M from the FY 96 Appropriation
and $80 M from the FY 97 Appropriation.
Partners: North American Development Bank
Description: The funds will make it possible to provide grants to offset a portion of a project's cost
and thus make water infrastructure affordable to many more communities.
Relevant Border XXI Objectives: Develop and rehabilitate drinking water and wastewater
collection and treatment infrastructure.
Contact: Oscar Cabra Jr., P.E. (214) 665-2718
Terri Kelley (214) 665-6797
Raul Rodriguez, BDAN, (210) 270 1440
Jame Tinoco Rubi, CNA, (5) 229 8650
Project: Water Supply Comprehensive Performance Evaluation (CPE^
Purpose: A CPE and Comprehensive Technical Assistance (CTA) project involves assessment and
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Chapter II Water Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
identifying needs, training, and minor unit process upgrades to maintain a multiple barrier approach
for surface water systems.
Funding: In FY97, $100,000 is budgeted. It is estimated that $300,000 may be requested in future
fiscal years.
Partners: The Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC)
Description: The TNRCC has conducted several CPEs on public water systems along the U.S. /
Mexico Border. Their conclusion based on the completed CPEs was that every surface water
treatment plant using water from the Rio Grande River will need a CPE.
A CPE is the evaluation phase of a two-step process designed to optimize existing surface water
treatment plants. The major goal of the CPE is to determine if significant improvements in treatment
performance can be achieved without major capital expenditures. A CPE involves several activities:
1) assessing unit processes, 2) identifying and prioritizingperformance-limitingfactors, 3) assessing
the applicability of a follow up CTA, and 4) reporting the results of the CPE.
The TNRCC will perform CPEs and limited CTAs at the most deficient water system plants along
the U.S./ Mexico border.
Relevant Border XXI Objectives: Develop and rehabilitate drinking water infrastructure
Contact: Jeff Catanzarita, EPA, (214)665-7137
Jack Shulze, TNRCC, 512-235-6020
Project: Trans-boundary Aquifers in Southwestern New Mexico
Purpose: This project is a continuation of an existingjoint effort by the governments of the United
States and Mexico to identify the region's transboundary aquifers, quantify the natural and induced
chemical quality of each aquifer, determine the direction of ground water flow, and develop
Geographic Information System coverages of the region.
Funding: In September 1994, EPA awarded $74,821 to New Mexico State University's Water
Resources Research Institute for the initial phase of this study. 1997 funding for the subsequent
phase of the New Mexico portion of the study is estimated to be $125,000. The project is scheduled
to be completed in eighteen (18) months.
Partners: New Mexico State University's Water Resources Research Institute (NMSU-WRRI) and
the Comision Internacional de Limites y Aguas (CILA).
Description: The first phase of the initiative focused on the transboundary aquifers in the El
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Chapter II Water Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Paso/Ciudad Juarez/Las Cruces area. The project area for the continuation of the effort will be
focused on the transboundary ground water resources in the Columbus, New Mexico and Puerto
Palomas, Chihuahua area.
These studies are in response to the ground water quality concerns referenced in the Integrated Border
Environmental Plan - Phase I, and the area's total dependence on ground water as a source of
drinking water.
EPA Region 6 border projects staff will finalize workplan negotiations upon receipt of the funding
application. This project is complementary to a SCERP funded project (#PP9611-19) that was
initiated during FY96 that is designed to develop a water quality plan for the area. The SCERP
project is scheduled to be completed within twelve months of receipt of funds.
The product of this proposal will also provide valuable supporting information for use in yet another
SCERP proposal (F Y98-W10) designed to model the Mimbres Aquifer. This SCERP proposal will
be submitted by New Mexico State University for implementation during FY98.
Relevant Border XXI Objectives: Watershedplanning and management. Systematically map and
characterize key transboundary groundwater basins.
Contact: Ken Williams, EPA, (214) 665-7129
Bobby Creel, NMSU, (505) 646-4337
Luis Antonio Rascon, CILA, (16) 13 9942
Project: Trans-boundary Aquifers in the El Paso/Ciudad Juarez/Las Cruces Area
*
Purpose: This project is a joint effort by the governments of the United States and Mexico to identify
the region's transboundary aquifers, quantify the natural and induced chemical quality of each
aquifer, determine the direction of ground water flow, and develop Geographic Information System
coverages of the region.
Funding: In August 1994, EPA awarded $50,000 to the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB)
for the Texas and Mexico portion of the study, but this amount could increase up to $3 80,000, for the
purpose of covering the region from Del Rio to Eagle Pass. Mexico will continue to participate with
funds for this project through CNA.
Partners: The TWDB and the Comisionlnternacionalde Limites y Aguas (CILA), CNA, JMAS,
EPA
Description: Phase I of the initiative focused on the transboundary aquifers in the El Paso/Ciudad
Juarez/Las Cruces area. The project area for the continuation of the effort will be focused on the
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transboundary ground water resources in the Columbus, New Mexico and Puerto Palomas,
Chihuahua area.
These studies are in response to the ground water quality concerns referenced in the IntegratedBorder
Environmental Plan - Phase I, Border XXI and the area's total dependence on ground water as a
source of drinking water.
Partners in the study will be the TWDB and the Comision Internacional de Limites y Aguas
(CILA).
A final draft report has been completed for the transboundary aquifers of the El Paso/Ciudad
Juarez/Las Cruces area. The TWDB has held meetings with the International Boundary and Water
Commission, CILA, Comision National Del Agua, and the Junta Municipal de Agua y
Saneamiento de Ciudad Juarez to discuss bi-national publication of the report. The Mexican
agencies would like the report to contain data only, allowing persons reading the report to draw
therr own conclusions. The TWDB has submitted the original bi-national draft report to U.S. EPA
for review, and after corrections are made this will serve as EPA's publication.
Relevant Border XXI Objectives: Watershed planning and management. Systematically map and
characterize key transboundary groundwater basins.
Contact: Ken Williams, EPA, (214) 665-7129
John Ashworth, Project Manager, TWDB, (512) 445-1433 March 27, 1997
Ruben Chavez, CNA/GAS, (5) 663 2217
Luis Antonio Rascdn, CILA, (16) 13 9942
Project Name: Environmental Partnership Effort Along the U.S./Mexico Border:
Ciudad Juarez/El Paso Wellhead Protection/Ground Water Pilot Project
Purpose: The purpose of this project is to implement the State of Texas' Wellhead Protection (WHP)
Program in all communities along the Texas border with Mexico. The project also provides technical
assistance to Ciudad Juarez's Junta Municipal de Agua y Saneamiento as they develop a WHP
program for the 200+ public drinking water wells in Ciudad Juarez. The project will result in an
added level of protection for the drinking water supply wells along the Texas side of the border and
will set a standard which future Mexican ground water protection efforts may use as a template.
Funding: F Y93 EPA funding in the amount of $ 150,000 was provided to the Texas Natural Resource
and Conservation Commission (TNRCC). Mexico will continue to participate with funds for this
projected through CNA. The project will be completed in August 1997.
Partners: Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission, Junta Municipal de Agua y
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Saneamientode Ciudad Juarez, Comision Nacional del Agua, Comision International de Limites y
Aguas, EPA Region 6, U.S. Section - International Boundary and Water Commission, the University
of Texas at El Paso, and the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program.
Description: The TNRCC is responsible for implementing the State's EPA approved WHP
program. This project funded the implementation of the State's program in all U.S.
communities along the Texas/Mexico border that rely on ground water as a source of drinking water.
The Commission also received funds to provide technical assistance and programmatic guidance to
Ciudad Ju&rez to aid in the development of a ground water protection program for that city's 200+
public water supply wells. The TNRCC also assists in providing technical assistance to 20 university
students and 10 senior citizen mentors in the EPA ArneriCorps ground water protection project.
On February 3, 1995, Ciudad Juarez completed the development of their WHP program and
presented it to a joint meeting of the IBWC, U.S. and Mexican Sections. Mexico's WHP pilot
program has been placed into a GIS database. Closeout of the assistance agreement will occur by
September 1997.
Information necessary for maintaining the ground water flow simulation models on both sides of
the border has been exchanged. The models are implemented by the corresponding parties, as in the
phase previous to the solution (chemical) transport modeling. By agreement between both parties,
the models will encompass an overlapping strip that includes the international boundary.
On the other hand, by mutual agreement, the procedures for the modeling of the Cd. Juarez-El Paso
aquifer have been defined as the same as the previous conceptual hydrodynamic model.
The development of flow models, their integration, and the publishing of the corresponding
binational report should continue.
Relevant Border XXI Objective: Pollution prevention
Contacts: Federal: Mike Vaughan, EPA, Assistance Funds Project Officer, (214) 665-7313
Ken Williams, EPA, Project Technical Advisor, (214) 665-7129
State: Brad Cross, TNRCC, (512) 239-4753
Mexico: Ruben Chavez, CNA/GAS, (5) 663 2217
Manuel de Jesus Diaz, CNA/Chihuahua, (14) 13 9894
Jose Mateos, JMAS, Ciudad Juarez, (16) 11 5422
Luis Antonio Rasc6n, CILA, (16) 13 9942
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Project: Trans-boundarv Aquifers in the Del Rio to Eagle Pass to Laredo Segment of the Rio
Grande Region
Purpose: To identify the region's transboundary aquifers, quantify the natural and induced
chemical quality of each aquifer, determine the direction of ground water flow, and develop
Geographic Information System coverages of the region.
Funding: In September 1996, EPA awarded $200,000 ($180,000 Recipient match) to the Texas
Water Development Board (TWDB) for the study.
Partners: The TWDB and the Comision Internacional de Limites y Aguas (CILA).
Description: This project is a continuation of an existing joint effort by the governments of the
United States and Mexico. Particular emphasis will be placed on the "twin cities" of Del
Rio/Ciudad Acuna, Eagle Pass/Piedras Negras, and Laredo/Nuevo Laredo. The first phase of the
initiative focused on the transboundary aquifers in the El Paso/Ciudad Juarez/Las Cruces area.
The project area for the continuation of the effort will be focused on the transboundary ground
water resources in the Columbus, New Mexico and Puerto Palomas, Chihuahua area.
These studies are hi response to the ground water quality concerns referenced in the Integrated
Border Environmental Plan - Phase I, Border XXI and the area's total dependence on ground water
as a source of drinking water.
This project began in November 1996 and a final report is expected to be completed by the end
of December 1997. A Quality Management Plan has been submitted to EPA and is pending review
and approval. Completion dates for major tasks depend upon the approval of the QMP and the
resolution of ongoing negotiations with Mexico concerning the binational aquifer report for the El
Paso area (phase I).
Future progress depends upon the approval of the QMP, and the resolution of ongoing negotiations
with Mexico concerning the binational transboundary report for the El Paso area (phase I).
Relevant Border XXI Objectives: Watershed planning and management. Systematically map and
characterize key transboundary groundwater basins.
Contact: Ken Williams, EPA, (214) 665-7129
John Ashworth, Project Manager, TWDB, (512) 445-1433 March 27,1997
Luis Antonio Rascon, CILA, (16) 13 9942
Project: Binational Water Supply Operators Training
Purpose: Conduct training for water supply operators along the border to provide information on the
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requirements of the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) in a binational forum and to provide Spanish
translation of training manuals.
Funding: EPA awarded $100,000 to the American Water Works Association (AWWA) in July
1995. An additional $50,000 was awarded in September 1996 for the Spanish translation portion of
the agreement.
Partners: The partners in the project are EPA Region 6 and the AWWA.
Description: Drinking water operators will be trained in the importance of source protection
(sanitary survey for surface supplies or wellhead protection for groundwater supplies), treatment
techniques and the importance of testing and quality control, and methods to maintain the quality of
the finished water within the distribution system. AWWA is modeling their training on the Texas
A&M Extension Services' (TEEX) water operator training courses. Spanish translation of the TEEX
training manuals will be accomplished for use in AWWA's courses.
The training portion under this grant is being provided in conjunction with the WEAT training
schedule. Two training sessions are planned per year. 20-hour training courses were held in Piedras
Negra, Mexico hi February 1996, and in Monterrey, Mexico in November 1996. The next course
is scheduled for June 1997. The Spanish translation is awaiting release of TEEX copyright
restrictions.
Relevant Border XXI Objectives: Training and development.
Contacts: Michael Vaughn, EPA, (214) 665-7313
Eduardo Garana, P.E., AWWA (512) 857-1881
Project: Rio Grande Alliance
Purpose: EPA support of enhanced coordination of water quality protection activities in the Rio
Grande watershed. The Rio Grande Alliance is a binational forum which supports collaboration
among the diverse participants in the Rio Grande Watershed dedicated to the protection,
improvement and conservation of natural resources and public health.
Funding: EPA Region 6 has provided a total of $525,000 to TNRCC with FY94 and FY95 funds.
Funding sources are EPA HQ Office of Water and Office of International Affairs, through CWA
Section 104(b)(3). The project is ongoing.
Partners: TNRCC, US and Mexican federal governments, and a coordinating council of nearly 40
entities in the US and Mexico.
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Description: The RGA is designed to pull together stakeholders and facilitate community-based
partnerships in the Rio Grande watershed, which comprises three US states, (TX, CO, NM) and five
Mexican states. These entities cover the entire Rio Grande watershed, not just the border area. The
development of a large coordinating council will incorporate many voices at the local, state, and
international levels, and will provide opportunities to share diverse viewpoints in a structured,
working environment. Through this process, the RGA intends to establish and address common
priorities regarding the environment and water quality in the Rio Grande watershed.
Relevant Border XXI Objective: Watershed planning and public participation. Establish binational
priorities and develop a long-term joint program in cooperation with state and local authorities.
Encourage cross-bordercommunicationat the federal, state and local government levels. This project
also addresses water quality issues beyond the scope of the immediate 100km border area, within a
watershed framework which transcends political boundaries.
Contacts: Karen Young, EPA Region 6, (214) 665-6679
Mike Bira, EPA Region 6, (214) 665-6668
Jaime Tinoco Rubi, CNA, (5) 229 8650
Project: Toxics Studies of the International Reach of the Rio Grande/Rio Bravo
Purpose: A binational multi-phase and multi-agency effort to characterize the extent of toxic
contamination of the Rio Grande/Rio Bravo and its tributaries.
Funding: EPA has provided $1,106,000 to the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission
(TNRCC) to coordinate and conduct water quality studies with Mexico on the Rio Grande. In F Y92
the Office of Water and the Region provided $280,000. In FY93 the Office of International
Activities and the Region provided $201,000. InFY94, FY95 and FY96, Regional Geographic
Initiative funds of $325,000, $200,000 and $100,000 were provided, respectively. The project is
ongoing.
Partners: U.S. agencies involved are: Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission, the Texas
Department of Health and the International Boundary and Water Commission, U.S. Section.
Mexican agencies involved are the National Water Commission of Mexico and the International
Boundary and Water Commission, Mexican Section.
Description: On November 13,1992, the U.S. and Mexican Sections of the International Boundary
and Water Commission (IB WC) approved Minute No. 289, titled "Observation of the Quality of the
Waters Along the United States-Mexico Border." This agreement resulted in the first phase of the
Rio Grande/Rio Bravo Toxics Substance Studies.
The original study was prompted by a widely held belief that the river was being contaminated by
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toxic substances originating from industrial and agricultural sources near the border. This concern
has intensified in recent years with the increasing number of industrial facilities within the border
region. Review of prior studies yielded limited information, while revealing some evidence of
contamination from toxic substances, failed to provide any environmental assessment.
Binational toxics sampling (Phase I) began in November 1992. A binational report was issued in
September 1994. In evaluating the Rio Grande, the U.S. and Mexico found that the river is not
heavily impacted by toxics. Follow-up (Phase II) toxics sampling began in May 1995, with a second
binational report to be released in May/June 1997.
A Phase III follow-up sampling and assessment is being proposed for the summer of 1997. The
follow-up sampling and assessment will be on sites that have ranked high in the Phase II report to
help identify areas where water pollution control is needed.
Relevant Border XXI Objectives: Water quality monitoring. Continue and expand programs for
monitoring the quality of surface waters.
Contact: Federal: Forrest John, EPA, 214-665-8368
StaterPatrick Roques, TNRCC, 512-239-4604.
Mexico: Ignacio Castillo, CNA/GSCA, (5) 595 4453
Luis Antonio Rascon, CILA, (16) 13 9942
Project: Naco Water Quality Monitoring
Purpose: The purpose of the project is to determine the quality of surface water and groundwater
in the area of Naco, Arizona.
Funding: EPA provided $30,000 in FY 96 funds to ADEQ.
Partners: EPA and ADEQ.
Description: The aquifer in the area is used as a public water supply and there is concern that the
water supply could become contaminated. Historically, inadequacies in the Naco, Sonora,
wastewater collection and treatment system have resulted in periodic cross-border flows of sewage.
Upgrades to the wastewater system are planned. Other sources of pollution could also pose a threat
to the quality of the surface and groundwater in the area. This project will help document potential
threats to water quality. The project complements monitoring being conducted by the International
City and County Management Associationin the Naco/AquaPrieta/Cananeaarea. ADEQ has signed
an agreement with the University of Sonora Biological Sciences and Health Division to implement
this project.
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Relevant Border XXI Objectives: Water quality monitoring.
Contacts: Evelyn Wachtel, EPA, (415) 744-1167
Mario Casteneda, ADEQ, (602) 207-4409
Ignacio Castillo, CNA/GSCAm (5) 595 4453
Project: Nogales Potable Water arid Wastewater
Purpose: The project consists of a potable water component and a wastewater component. The
purpose of the Integral Project for the Use of Potable Water, Treatment, and Recharge in Nogales,
Sonora, (first stage) is to improve the services and infrastructure of the city to optimize the use of
water; the objective is the sustainable development of the Nogales, Sonora, water supply to make the
most efficient use of water in accordance with all of the services that COAPAES provides. The
purpose of the wastewater component is to provide adequate wastewater treatment for the ambos
Nogales area to protect public health and the environment. Objectives include providing more
treatment capacity for Nogales, Sonora, and implementing an effective pretreatment program.
Funding: For the potable water project, the funding is to be determined using a combination of
funds from COAPAES-Nogales, state of Sonora, NADBank loans and the CNA, which will invest
an amount of approximately $53 million pesos this year. The government of Mexico is analyzing
the possibility of assisting with federal resources. For the wastewater component, EPA has
$36,058,414 available for this and other border wastewater projects in Arizona and California. For
this project, EPA is providing funds to (a) IBWC (U.S. and Mexican Sections) for contractor support
and project coordination; (b) Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) and Arizona
Department of Water Resources (ADWR) to provide technical assistance on the project; and c) city
of Nogales for an infiltration/inflowstudy and improvements. Improvement projects in the U.S. are
estimated to cost about $3.4 million (EPA share $2.1 million). Rehabilitationprojects in Mexico are
estimated to cost about $3.9 million (EPA share $2.1 million). Additional U.S. funding for this
project could come from EPA or BECC/NADBank funds in future years. In addition, EPA has
provided IBWC U.S. Section $200,000 for development of a pretreatment program.
Partners: For the potable water project, the partners are CNA, COAPAES-Nogales, and the state
of Sonora. For the waste water component, the primary U.S. partners are EPA, IBWC U.S. Section,
ADEQ, ADWR, Santa Cruz County and city of Nogales, Arizona; the primary Mexican partners are
IBWC Mexican Section, CNA, SIUE, and city of Nogales, Sonora.
Description: The potable water project has been conditionally certified by BECC. Thus, CNA will
support COAPAES with a comprehensive study that will allow the project to satisfy the remaining
requirements for complete certification, such as analyzing the priority elements to be realized. In this
first stage, only drinking water elements have been included. In future stages, wastewater elements
will be added, based on a facility planning effort.
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Regarding wastewater, the ambos Nogales area is currently served by the Nogales International
Wastewater Treatment Plant (IWTP). However, deficiencies in the system result in raw sewage
flowing across the border in the Nogales Wash and in adjacent washes. Also, Nogales, Sonora, is
utilizing its full capacity at the IWTP and additional capacity is needed. The project involves
planning, design, and construction of wastewater collection, conveyance, and treatment facilities.
This year we will continue or initiate the following activities.
Wastewater Facility Planning: U.S. and Mexico have agreed to jointly study the wastewater needs
and issues of ambos Nogales and identify possible solutions to provide additional treatment capacity.
The facility study will analyze the environmental, technical, and financial aspects of different
wastewater alternatives, closely coordinated with planning aspects of the potable water project.
Architectural and engineering consultants have been hired to prepare the study and facilitate public
information activities. Agreement was reached on the components of the facilities plan in October
1996. A technical consultantto the U.S. IBWC initiated work on their portion of the plan in March
1997. The wastewater facilities plan is scheduled to be completed in time for the project to be
certified by BECC in December 1997.
Wastewater Immediate-need Projects: Reduction of extraneous flows in the wastewater collection
systems of Nogales, Arizona and Nogales, Sonora is urgently needed. Immediate-need projects have
been initiated to rehabilitate the wastewater collection systems on both sides of the border. On the
U.S. side, an infiltration and inflow study and emergency repairs were conducted in the period from
August 1995 to October 1996. In Mexico, improvements were approved in January. Construction
of additional improvements to the existing wastewater collection system in Nogales, AZ, will begin
this summer and should be completed by December 1998. Rehabilitation projects for the Nogales,
Sonora, system are starting and are scheduled to be completed within two years.
WastewaterPretreatmentProgram: IBWC U.S. Section has procured a consultant to calculate the
maximum levels of toxic pollutants that can safely be treated at the IWTP (headworks analysis). The
sampling has been completed and analysis is underway. The headworks analysis report will be issued
in April 1997. IBWC will then allocate the allowable amounts to the two countries, which will
regulate users of the system to ensure compliance.
Relevant Border XXI Objectives: Develop infrastructure, pollution prevention, public
participation.
Contacts: Evelyn Wachtel, EPA Region 9, (415) 744-1167
Carlos Pena, USIBWC, (915) 534-6605
Mario Castaneda, ADEQ, (602) 207-4409
Hugh Holub, City of Nogales, Arizona, (602) 287-6571
Jaime Tinoco Rubi, CNA/CAF, (5) 229 8650
Miguel Angel Jurado, CNA/Noroeste (62) 13 0347
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Jose Arreola, COAPAES Nogales, (63) 12 3102
Luis Antonio Rascon, CILA (16) 13 9942
Project: Nogales Groundwater Monitoring
Purpose: The purpose is to determine the extent and possible origin of volatile organic compounds
(VOCs) in the transboundary aquifer under Nogales Wash in ambos Nogales, which could pose a
public health threat. Objectives include the construction of monitoring wells and implementation of
a quarterly monitoring program to quantify levels of VOCs and inorganics, assist in groundwater
contaminant source identification and control, and establish a baseline for VOCs and inorganics in
the transboundary aquifer.
Funding: EPA has provided $200,000 to IBWC U.S. Section and $65,000 to Arizona Department
of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) to implement this project. EPA is also funding two positions at
ADEQ in part to provide technical support on this project. Mexico, through the CNA, will continue
designating funds for this study.
Partners: ADEQ will be the lead for the U.S. and IBWC U.S. Section will also be a primary partner.
Mexican partners include IBWC Mexican Section, CNA, through its Gerenciade Aguas Subterranias
(GAS), and the COAPAES of Sonora.
Description: Past studies of groundwater quality in the Nogales, Arizona, area have indicated the
presence of VOCs and trihalomethanes in the transboundary aquifer under the Nogales Wash. The
problem seems to be on both sides of the border, but the problem has not been satisfactorily studied
on a binational level.
The project consists of the construction and monitoring of wells on each side of the border. The
wells have been drilled and developed. IBWC arranged OSHA training in April 1996 for the
Mexicanmembers of the sampling team and the first sampling on the U.S. side occurred in July 1996.
Sampling on both sides of the border is scheduled for April 1997. Samples will be taken by a
binational team and analyzed on a quarterly basis for a period of one year.
Relevant Border XXI Objective: Water quality monitoring.
Contacts: Evelyn Wachtel, EPA Region 9, (415) 744-1167
Sylvia Waggoner, USIBWC, (915) 534-6704
Mario Castaneda, ADEQ, (602) 207-4409
Ruben Chavez, CNA/GAS, (5) 663 2217
Miguel Angel Jurado, CNA/Noroeste, (62) 13 0347
Jos<§ Arreola, COAPAES Nogales, (63) 12 3102
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Project: Nogales Wellhead Projection
Purpose: The purpose is to employ wellhead protection strategies in a proactive effort to protect the
quality of the groundwaterin the transboundary aquifer under the ambos Nogales-Santa Cruz River
area. Objectives include enhancement of local voluntary involvement in the management of
groundwater quality, education of the public on groundwater quality, and measurement of direct
environmental and human health benefits for wellhead protection.
Funding: EPAprovided$195,078to SEAGO. EPA provided $40,000 in FY 96 funding to the City
of Nogales and $53,000 to Santa Cruz County. EPA is also funding a position at ADEQ in part to
provide technical support on this project.
Partners: Primary U.S. partners include SEAGO, ADEQ, Santa Cruz County, ADWR, ADHS,
IB WC private industry, community groups, and city of Nogales, Arizona. Extending the project into
Mexico could be discussed.
Description: This project is intended to protect the region's groundwater before it becomes
contaminated. The project focuses on the apparent, but often ignored, link between activities that
take place on the land near aquifer recharge areas around groundwaterwells and the quality of ground
water supplied by those wells. General elements of the project include defining the land area to be
protected, identifying and locating potential sources of contamination, managing the protection area,
and planning accordingly.
The original phase of the project, led by SEAGO, is completed. Three wellhead protection areas
were identified: Potrero Creek, Santa Cruz, and Valle Verde. Potential sources of contamination
were mapped and management strategies identified. A safe drinking water bilingual curriculum for
use in kindergarten through twelfth grade was completed as were three bilingual public information
pamphlets.
Two new efforts are being initiated, building on the original work. The City of Nogales, Arizona,
is implementingthe management strategies previously identified. Santa Cruz County is working to
expand the project into adjacent areas in the Santa Cruz River basin in the U.S. The project will be
completed in September 1997.
Relevant Border XXI Objective: Pollution prevention.
Contacts: Evelyn Wachtel, EPA Region 9, (415) 744-1167
Mario Castaneda, ADEQ, (602) 207-4409
Michele Kimpel, SEAGO, (602) 432-5301.
Ben Stepleton, Santa Cruz County, (520) 761-7800
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Project: Lower Colorado-New River Toxics Survey
Purpose: The principal objective of this study is to carry out a program of observation of water
quality levels The purpose is to determine the levels of toxic pollutants in the lower Colorado River
and in the New River in order to determine the magnitude of the impact of the pollution due to toxic
substances by means of analysis of the toxic compounds in the water, sediment and fish tissues, as
well as water toxicity tests through bio-assay of three species of fish. Mexico has requested
monitoring of the lower Colorado River due to concern about the quality of the water supply for
Mexicali and Tijuana. Interest in New River monitoring was elevated when Imperial County and a
coalition of environmental justice groups filed petitions under the Toxic Substances Control Act.
Funding: EPA has provided a total of $361,000 for this project: $240,000 to the United States
Geological Survey (USGS) to monitor for toxic pollutants in water and sediments; $72,000 to the
University of California at Davis (UCD) to measure aquatic toxicity and assist in data compilation;
and $49,000 to California Department of Fish and Game (DFG) for analysis of bioaccumulation in
fish tissue. Mexico, through the CNA, will continue supporting this study.
Partners: Primary U.S. partners include EPA, USGS, UCD, DFG, state of Arizona, and IBWC U.S.
Section. Mexican partners include IBWC Mexican Section and CNA, through its Gerencia de
Saneamiento y Calidad del Agua (GSCA).
Description: A binational program for monitoring toxic pollutants in the Colorado and New Rivers
has been developed. Three sites on each river were monitored during the first round. Five sites were
monitored on the Colorado River during the second round. The second round of sampling on the
New River has also been completed. Now, work is underway on the preparation of a binational
report describing the results of both rounds of sampling. EPA is expected to send the draft of the final
report to Mexico, as well as its comments on the Mexican draft. Once both drafts have been
exchanges, tecnical sessions including CNA/EPA/USGS, and being coordinated by CILA/IBWC,
will be held. Afterwards, the report will be integrated for publication at the end of 1997. The
binational report is scheduled to be drafted by June 1997.
Relevant Border XXI Objective: Water quality monitoring.
Contacts: Ed Liu, EPA Region 9, (415) 744-1934
Roy Schroeder, USGS, (619) 637-6824
Dr. Francisco Oyarbazal, CNA/Baja California, (65) 52 8682
Luis Antonio Rascon, CILA, (16) 13 9942
Yvette McKenna, IBWC (915) 534-6704
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Project: Lower Colorado-New River Data Synthesis
Purpose: The purpose is to develop a better understanding of the water quality of the Colorado and
New Rivers by compiling and synthesizing existing data.
Funding: EPA has provided $182,000 to the University of California at Davis (UCD) for this
project.
Partners: UCD.
Description: UCD is compiling existing data on the lower Colorado River and on the New River
and performing a series of reviews to synthesize the data and make it more understandable to the
public. UCD will prepare copies of their reviews in both English and Spanish. UCD is also
preparing a database of the existing data. The database will also be used for the data collected as part
of the Binational Colorado River-New River Toxics Survey project.
UCD is gathering the data and preparing the reviews and the database.
Relevant Border XXI Objectives: Water quality monitoring, public participation.
Contacts: Ed Liu, EPA Region 9, (415) 744-1934
Jim Quinn, UCD, (916) 752-8027
Ignacio Castillo, CNA/GSCA, (5) 595 44 53
Project: New River Toxics Model
Purpose: The purpose is to understand the fate of toxic organic pollutants in the New River.
Funding: EPA has provided $70,000 to the University of California at Davis (UCD) for this project
Partners: EPA and UCD.
Description: UCD has collected samples along the length of the New River and has developed a
model to predict the behavior of toxic organic pollutants in river sediments and water. A report will
be prepared in 1997.
Relevant Border XXI Objective: Water quality monitoring.
Contacts: Ed Liu, EPA Region 9, (415) 744-1934.
Ignacio Castillo, CNA/GSCA, (5) 595 44 53
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Project: Mexicali Wastewater
Purpose: The purpose is to provide adequate wastewater treatment for the city of Mexicali, Baja
California, and thereby improve the quality of the New River. Objectives include improvement of
the existing wastewater treatment system (Mexicali I), development of a second system (Mexicali
II), and implementation of an effective pretreatment program. Control of industrial and domestic
wastewater will result in considerable improvement in the quality of the New River where it crosses
the international boundary, reducing a serious existing public health threat.
Funding: EPA has $36,058,414 available for this and other border wastewater projects in Arizona
and California. For this project, EPA has provided funds to (a) IB WC (U.S. and Mexican Sections)
for contractor support and project coordination; and (b) the state of California (State Water Resources
Control Board (SWRCB) and Regional Water Quality Control Board, Colorado River Basin Region
(RWQCB 7) for technical assistance and water quality monitoring. Additional U.S. funding for this
project could come from EPA or BECC/NADBank in future years. Mexico, through the CNA and
the State of Baja California, will continue investing in this integrated project and is currently studying
the possibility of providing resources for improvements to the various components of sanitation in
Mexicali.
The total share of the two countries this year is more than 33.8 million pesos, of which Mexico will
provide 45%, and the United States, the remaining 55%.
The United States wjill be able to designate additional funds for these projects through EPA or
NADBank in the next few years.
Partners: Primary U.S. partners are EPA, IBWC U.S. Section, SWRCB, RWQCB 7, and Imperial
Irrigation District. Primary Mexican partners are IBWC Mexican Section, CNA, and state of Baja
California.
Description: Deficiencies in the existing Mexicali wastewater system result in the discharge of
considerable amounts of untreated or partially treated domestic and industrial wastewater to the New
River, and the Alamo River is also threatened. In November 1995, a binational agreement was signed
committing both governments to the preparation of a binational facility plan which will analyze the
technical, financial, and environmental aspects of the project alternatives available. The facility plan
will examine options for the long-term solution to the wastewater problem. In March 1997, Mexico
presented a revised master plan, responding to a workplan proposed by a technical consultant under
contract to the U.S. Section. The U.S. and Mexico must agree on what needs to be done to complete
the facilities plan and on who will do which tasks. The facilities plan is scheduled to be completed
in time for BECC certification in December 1997.
Eleven short-term projects, which are relatively inexpensive and certain to be part of the overall
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solution (quick fixes), have been identified. Construction of these immediate-need projects is well
underway and several discharges of raw wastewater to the New River have been eliminated or
significantly reduced. Construction of the immediate-needprojects will be completed in the summer
of 1997.
RWQCB 7 is monitoring the New River for conventional pollutants and metals to document
improvements in water quality associated with the project. Monitoring of the New River will help
document progress resulting from implementation of the Mexicali wastewater project.
Relevant Border XXI Objectives: Develop infrastructure, water quality monitoring, pollution
prevention.
Contacts: Doug Eberhardt, EPA Region 9, (415) 744-1280
Glenn Hansel, USIBWC, (915) 534-6605
Bart Christensen, SWRCB, (916) 227-4426
Ron Rodriguez, RWQCB 7, (619) 776-8944
Dr. Francisco Oyarbazal, CNA, 65 52 86 82
Gaston Loustanau, CESPM, 65 57 15 50
Jaime Tinoco Rubf, CNA/CAF, (5) 229 8650, -8651 or -8652
Dr. Francisco Oyarzabal, CNA/Baja California, (65) 52 8682
Luis Antonio Rascon, CILA, (16) 13 9942
Miguel Angel Gonzalez, CESPM, (65) 571550
Project: Wastewater Operator Training for Mexicali
Purpose: The purpose of this project is to develop and implement wastewater operator training
materials and programs specifically targeted for selected technologies in use in Mexicali.
Funding: EPA will provide $45,000 in FY 97 funds for this project.
Partners: The primary partners on this project are EPA , the National Environmental Training
Association, and Dr. Ken Kerri. Dr. Kerri will work with state and local officials in California and
Mexicali to implement the project.
Description: Dr. Kerri has developed a series of wastewater operator training manuals which are
widely used in the U.S. For this project, he will develop and implement operator training materials
and programs specifically targeted for selected technologies in use in Mexicali. The initial phase of
this project will focus on lift stations and wastewater collection systems.
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Relevant Border XXI Objectives: Training and Development
Contacts: Doug Eberhardt, EPA, (415) 744-1280
KenKerri, (916)278-6142
Miguel Angel Gonzalez, CESPM, (65) 57 1550
Project: Tijuana International Wastewater Treatment
Purpose: The purpose is to provide additional wastewater treatment capacity for the Tijuana, Baja
California, area, to reduce a serious existing threat to public health and the environment. Objectives
include constructionof the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant (IWTP), land outfall,
and ocean outfall and implementation of an effective pretreatment program.
Funding: EPA has received $239,400,000 for planning, design, and construction of the IWTP and
outfall facilities. The city of San Diego will pay a pro rata share (40% for the ocean outfall) for its
use of the outfall facilities. The state of California has contributed $5,300,000 for the outfall
facilities. Mexico will contribute funds to the IWTP in the amount it would have spent to construct
its own plant in Mexico. Mexico will provide a total of $40.55 million pesos which will be included
in the cost of constructionof the IWTP, as well as parallel works and the rehabilitation of the water
treatment plant, Planta de Tratamiento de San Antonio de los Buenos. Current estimates indicate
that sufficient funds are available to construct the advanced primary treatment plant, ocean outfall,
and canyon collectors, but funding is not sufficient for construction of the secondary treatment
facilities as currently designed.
Partners: Primary U.S. partners include IBWC, state of California (SWRCB), and city of San
Diego. Mexico is participating through IBWC, the state government of the State of Baja California
and the CNA.
Description: Raw sewage from Tijuana contaminates the Tijuana River and results in adverse
impacts to the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve and quarantine of U.S. beaches.
IBWC Minute No. 283 calls for the construction of the IWTP and outfall facilities to supplement
Tijuana's existing treatment plant. This construction, in conjunction with improvements in Tijuana's
collection system, will eliminate the dry-weather contamination of the river. Three types of
structures will be constructed: canyon collectors (to convey renegade sewage flows from canyons
which drain to the U.S. to the IWTP), the IWTP, and the outfall pipelines. MinuteNo. 283 also calls
for Mexico to develop and implement an effective pretreatment program. The city of San Diego has
been working with the city of Tijuana on program development.
The primary treatment phase of the IWTP has been constructed. The secondary treatment facilities
(activated sludge) and canyon collectors have been designed. The South Bay Land Outfall has been
constructed and constructionof the ocean outfall has begun. Wastewater samples have been collected
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at three locations in the Tij uana collection system. Supplemental environmental review is underway
to examine potentially less expensive alternatives to activated sludge for providing secondary
treatment. A draft of the analysis of alternative secondary treatment technologies will be released
in late 1997.
Construction of the ocean outfall is scheduled for completion in summer of 1998. Pending
completion of the outfall, the IWTP will be used to treat and store Tijuana wastewater during peak
periods for discharge to the San Diego collection system during off-peak hours. An equalization
basin will be constructed by November 1997 to provide additional storage capacity.
Relevant Border XXI Objectives: Develop infrastructure, public participation, pollution
prevention, water quality monitoring.
Contacts: Elizabeth Borowiec, EPA Region 9, (415) 744-1165
Bill Ruth, USIBWC, (915) 534-6676
Bart Christensen, SWRCB, (916) 227-4426
Ann Sasaki, City of San Diego, (619) 533-4211
Dr. Francisco Oyarzabal, CNA/Baja California, (65) 52 86 82
Ismael Geijalba, CESPT, (65) 52 86 82 or (66) 22 40 62
Luis Antonio Rascon, CILA, (16) 13 9942
Jaime Tinoco Rubi. CNA/CAF, (5) 229 8650, -8651 or 8652
Project: Tijuana Wastewater Improvement Project
Purpose: The purpose of this project is to provide additional protection for human health and the
environment by making improvements to the existing wastewater infrastructure in Tijuana.
Objectives include the construction of a pumping and conveyance system in parallel to the existing
system and improvements to the San Antonio de los Buenos treatment plant.
Funding: EPA plans to contribute $ 16 million for the parallel pumping and conveyance system. The
state of Baja California will contribute the remaining funding for this portion of the project. Funding
for the improvements to the San Antonio de los Buenos treatment plant could come from a
combination of grants from the Mexican federal and state governments and loans. Mexico will
provide a sum of approximately $23.75 million pesos for these works through the state government
of the State of Baja California and through the CNA.
Partners: Partners include EPA, CNA, IBWC, and the states of California and Baja California.
Description: Currently, Pumping Plant 1 in Tijuana pumps wastewater to a gravity canal which
conveys the wastewater to the San Antonio de los Buenos treatment plant. The project includes
construction of a parallel system to allow redundancy in the system. The parallel system could also
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be used to convey effluent from the international wastewater treatment plant during construction of
the ocean outfall. In addition, improvements will be made to the San Antonio de los Buenos
treatment plant. The project is scheduled to be presented to the BECC Board of Directors in June for
certification.
Relevant Border XXI Objectives: Develop infrastructure and public participation.
Contacts: Nancy Woo, EPA Region 9, 415-744-1164
Jaime Tinoco, CNA/CAF, (5) 229 8650, -8651 or 8652
Dr. Francisco Oyarzabal, CNA/Baja California, (65) 52 8682
Luis Antonio Rascon, CILA, (16) 13 9942
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1997 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
Given the recent increases in population, vehicular traffic, and industrial activity in the Tijuana-San
Diego, Mexicali-Imperial Valley, ambos Nogales and Douglas-Agua Prieta air basins, there is an
immediate need to evaluate levels of targeted air pollutants. Annex V to the 1983 La Paz agreement
directs EPA and INE to assess the causes of and develop solutions to air quality problems in border
sister cities. In addition to the La Paz agreement directives, the Clean Air Act directs EPA, in
coordination with Mexican agencies, to monitor and improve air quality along the border.
CALIFORNIA-BAJA CALIFORNIA SUB-WORKGROUP PROJECTS
Project: Tijuana-San Diego/Mexicali-Imperial Valley Air Programs
Purpose: Continue development and operation of monitoring networks in Tijuana and Mexicali for
nitrogen oxides, ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, particulates (PM-10), lead, selected
airborne toxic compounds, and meteorological parameters (e.g., wind speed/wind direction). In
addition to the monitoring efforts, emissions inventory work will commence in these areas. These
efforts are intended to lay the foundation for an air quality management program with overall goals
of determining ambient air pollutant concentrations, apportioning sources and their relative impacts,
recommending cost effective control strategies, and measuring progress/compliance with the air
quality standards of each country.
Funding: In an ongoing attempt to foster state and local involvement, $600,000 in FY96 grant funds
have been provided to California Air Resources Board (CARB) and $500,000 in FY97 grant funds
will be provided to CARB. Funds include resources for a Border Coordinator position at the CARB.
See "Emissions Inventory Methodology Pilot Project" for a discussion of supplemental funds
targeted for emissions inventory development in Mexicali and Tijuana. Funds include resources for
a Border Coordinator position at the CARB. Regarding resources from Mexico, INE has requested
a loan of 13 million dollars for countrywide air projects of which a portion is designated for the
operation of the monitoring network starting in FY99 (EPA and CARB have committed their
assistance through FY99).
Partners: Primary U.S. partners are EPA, CARB, the San Diego Air Pollution Control District, and
the Imperial Valley Air Pollution Control District, and the Western Governors Association. Primary
Mexican partners are InstitutoNacional de Ecologia(INE), Secretariade Medio Ambiente, Recursos
Naturales y Pesca (SEMARNAP) in Mexico City and Baja California, and the Tijuana Technical
Institute (ITT).
Description: The Tijuana-SanDiego and Mexicali-Imperial Valley proj ects represent a continuation
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of efforts to operate the Tijuana air monitoring network, initiate monitoring in Mexicali, purchase
equipment to complete and operate the Mexicali network, analyze samples, quality assure data, and
provide technical support. Emissions inventory work will be based on the recently developed
Mexican emissions inventory methodology (See "Emissions Inventory Methodology Pilot Proj ect").
The methodology identifies the most appropriate emissions estimation methods by individual source
type for point area, motor vehicle, and natural sources.
Status: The California-Baj a California Technical Sub-workgroup of the Binational Air Workgroup
has met regularly to discuss the projects and contractors are providing technical support in the
installation, operation and maintenance of the network as well as the development of an emissions
inventory.
Contacts: Mark Fuentes, CARB, 619-645-5233
Octavio Alonso, SEMARNAP - Baja CA, 52-65-52-4987
Oralia Lopez, ITT - 52-66-21055 ext. 252
Caspar Torres, Imperial APCD, 619-339-4606
Dr. Victor Hugo Paramo, INE - Ciudad de Mexico
Project: California-Baja California Intensive Air Quality Monitoring Study
Purpose: Undertake special monitoring study to provide the additional information required for the
development of ozone, paniculate matter and carbon monoxide attainment plans in the California-
Baj a California Border Region. In addition, the study will generate the data that will be used to
integrate the northern Mexico border region into the Southern California Ozone Study.
Funding: In an ongoing attempt to foster state and local involvement, $671,000 in F Y97 grant funds
has been requested to support California Air Resources Board (CARB) implementationof the project
A detailed breakout of costs is currently available along with a more detailed project proposal. The
total cost is at the same level as other similar field studies and in proportion to the costs of larger field
studies (e.g., El Paso-Juarez-Sunland Park Summer Ozone Study).
Partners: Primary U.S. partners are EPA, CARB, the San Diego Air Pollution Control District, and
the Imperial Valley Air Pollution Control District, and the Western Governors Association. Primary
Mexican partners are Institute Nacional de Ecologia(INE), Secretariade Medio Ambiente, Recursos
Naturales y Pesca (SEMARNAP) in Mexico City and Baja California, and the Tijuana Technical
Institute (ITT).
Description: To verify and assess the emission inventories under development for Baja California,
CARB, will undertake a meteorological and air quality study that will supplement the existing
networks in Tijuana and Mexicali. The first phase will provide an ambient hydrocarbon and
meteorological data set that will allow the use of source/receptor type mathematical models for
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estimating uncertainties in the emissions inventory. The second phase will provide additional upper-
air meteorological measurements that will allowthe area of Baja California to be integrated into the
Southern California Ozone Study. The primary objective of the Southern California Ozone Study
is to develop a meteorological and air quality data set that will be used to exercise a regional
photochemical model.
Status: The California-BajaCalifornia Technical Sub-workgroup of the Binational Air Workgroup
has met regularly to discuss the projects and contractors are providing technical support in the
installation, operation and maintenance of the network as well as the development of an emissions
inventory.
Contacts: Mark Fuentes, CARB, 619-645-5233;
Octavio Alonso, SEMARNAP - Baja CA, 52-65-52-4987;
Caspar Torres, Imperial APCD, 619-339-4606;
Dr. Victor Hugo Paramo, INE - Ciudad de Mexico
ARIZONA-SONORA AIR SUB-WORKGROUP PROJECTS
Project: Ambos Nogales Air Programs
Purpose: Based on the results of the particulate(PM-10)-airtoxics study, recommend cost effective
control strategies and continue base monitoring to measure progress/compliance with the national
air quality standards of each country.
Funding: In an ongoing attempt to foster state and local involvement, $ 175,000 in F Y96 funds have
been allocated and $50,000 in EPA FY97 funds will be provided to support the efforts of the Arizona
Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ). These funds include support for an ADEQ Border
Air Coordinator.
Partners: Institute Nacional de Ecologia (INE) and Secretaria de Medio Ambiente, Recursos
Naturales y Pesca (SEMARNAP), EPA, ADEQ, the state of Sonora, and the city of Nogales, Sonora
Description: A total of six sites measuring PM-10, PM-2.5, and meteorological parameters, as well
as four air toxics sites measuring selected air toxics, operated on both sides of the border for one year.
All sites ran on a winter-intensive(1 in 3-day cycle) sampling schedule from October 1994 through
March 1995, and subsequently returned to the regular (1 in 6-day cycle) sampling schedule. The
large-scale monitoring portion of the study has terminated, although one base site will continue
operating on each side of the border for ongoing measurementof PM-10, PM-2.5 and meteorological
parameters. Emissions inventory has been developed.
Status/Schedule: A draft final report will be prepared by March 1997 and will include exposure/risk
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assessment, source attribution, and potential control strategies. A final report should be ready by
May 1997.
Contacts: Gerardo Monroy, ADEQ, (520) 628-6732
Cesar Catalan, INE - Sonora, 52-62-13-5229
Project: Agua Prieta-Douglas Air Programs
Purpose: Complete a particulate (PM-lO)-air toxics study with an overall goal of determining
ambient air pollutant concentrations, apportioning sources and their relative impacts, recommending
cost-effective control strategies, and measuring progress/compliance with the national air quality
standards of each country.
Funding: In an ongoing attemptto foster state and local involvement, $225,000 in FY96 funds have
been allocated and $ 150,000 in EPA F Y97 grant funds will be provided to support the efforts of the
Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ). These funds include support for a ADEQ
Border Air Coordinator.
Partners: Instituto Nacional de Ecologia (INE) and Secretaria de Medio Ambiente, Recursos
Naturalesy Pesca (SEMARNAP),EPA, ADEQ, the state of Sonora, the city of Douglas, and the city
of AguaPrieta.
Description: A total of four sites measuring PM-10, selected air toxics, and meteorological
parameters will be sited on the both sides of the border.
Status/Schedule: An emissions inventory will be developed by September 1997 and sampling will
run from April 1997 through April 1998. Subsequent to the completion of these activities, a draft
final report will be prepared by June 1998 and will include exposure-risk assessment, source
attribution, and potential control strategies. A final report is scheduled for completion by August
1998.
Contacts: Gerardo Monroy, ADEQ, (520) 628-6732
Cesar Catalan, INE - Sonora, 52-62-13-5229
BORDER WIDE AIR PROJECTS
Project: Mexico Emissions Inventory Development Program
Purpose: Build the capacity in Mexico for the development of emissions inventories that can be
used by both countries. These emissions data will provide Mexico with a better understanding of its
own air pollution sources and thus form the basis for developing an emissions control program. They
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will also enhance the U.S. air quality planning process.
Funding: A total of $500,000 in FY96 grant funds has been allocated and $700,000 in FY97 grant
funds will be awarded to the Western Governor's Association (WGA).
Partners: EPA, INE, PROFEPA, WGA, Border States and municipalities
Description: The followup body to the Grand Canyon Visibility Transport Commission and Mexico
have common needs for developing emissions inventory information. The GCVTC follow up body
is sponsoring projects to develop an emissions inventory for areas, including Mexico, that potentially
contribute to regional haze on the Colorado Plateau. Mexico is conducting a variety of air quality
planning efforts that will benefit from countrywide emission information.
Status/Schedule: The final implementation plan for the methodology has been developed. Training
course materials and inventory manuals are being prepared. Training was delivered in Juarez (August
1996) and Tijuana (November 1996). Technical studies have been planned and will consist of five
parts: special studies and refinement of inventory methodology; methodology testing; validation of
emission estimates; emission factor applicability to Mexico; and uncertainty analysis. Over the next
two years, pilot implementation of the methodology is targeted for Mexicali and Tijuana. The F Y97
work plan will be finalized by December 1996.
Contacts: John Leary, WA (303) 623-9378
Victor Hugo Paramo, INE-Mexico City, 52-56-24-3451
Project: Expand Energy Opportunities
Purpose: The Binational Air Workgroup will support the development of a subgroup on Energy and
the Environment to review ongoing efforts and make recommendations on innovative ways to
promote energy efficiency and the increased use of renewable energy sources in the border region.
The subgroup will involve participation from a wide variety of governmental (e.g., DOE, INE,
PEMEX, CFE, state, local) and non-governmental entities (e.g., private sector, NGOs, academia).
Funding: A total of $150,000 in FY97 grant funds will be awarded to the Western Governor's
Association (WGA) to facilitate this effort.
Partners: EPA, INE, PROFEPA, WGA plus representatives from other federal, state and local
government institutions, NGOs, industry, and academia.
Status/Schedule: The subgroup will be named by the Binational Air Workgroup meeting scheduled
for late January/Early February 1997. Recommendations will be due back to the workgroup by
December 1998.
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Contacts: John Leary, WA (303) 623-9378
Victor Hugo Paramo, DvTE-Mexico City, 52-56-24-3451
Project: Address Border Vehicle Congestion
Purpose: The Binational Air Workgroup will support the development of a subgroup on Border
Congestion to review ongoing efforts and make recommendations on innovative ways to reduce air
pollution attributable to congestion at border crossings. The subgroup will involve participation from
a wide variety of governmental (e.g., DOT, INE, PEMEX, Customs, state, local) and
nongovernmental entities (e.g., private sector, NGOs, academia).
Funding: A total of $100,000 in FY97 grant funds will be awarded to the Western Governor's
Association (WGA) to facilitate this effort.
Partners: EPA, INE, PROFEPA, WGA plus representatives from other federal, state and local
government institutions, NGOs, industry, and academia.
Status/Schedule: The subgroup will be named by the Binational Air Workgroup meeting scheduled
for late January/Early February 1997. Recommendations will be due back to the workgroup by
December 1998.
Contacts: John Leary, WA (303) 623-9378
Victor Hugo Paramo, INE-Mexico City, 52-56-24-3451
Project: U.S./Mexico Information Center on Air Poilution Centro de Information sobre
Contamination del Aire - CICA
Purpose: Develop and operate an information transfer center for the U.S.-Mexico border area as an
extension of the existing Control Technology Center (CTC). The center (CICA) provides Mexican
federal, state and local environmental officials and universities working along the U.S.-Mexico
border with access to pertinent information related to assessment of air pollutant emissions, ambient
monitoring, dispersion modeling, and control technologies and pollution prevention programs that
will aid in achievement of emission reductions.
Funding: $347,000 in FY95-96 contract funds have been expended; $250,000 in FY97 contract
funds have been allocated from OAR.
Partners: INE, EPA
Description/Status: The CICA capabilities include access to EPA technical expertise through a
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bilingual (Spanish-English)hotline and world wide web home page; technical assistance and projects
on air-related problems along the border; Spanish-langu^e versions of technical documents and air
quality models; maintenance and improvements to the U.S.-Mexico ambient air quality monitoring
clearinghouse (in conjunction and integrated with the CICA Home Page); and to answer technical
questions and provide information.
Contacts: Bob Blaszczak - EPA, OAQPS (919) 541 -5432/blaszczak.bob@epamail.epa.gov
Jaime Mendieta-EPA, OAQPS (919) 541-0547/mendieta.jaime @epamail.epa. gov
CICA Home Page- http://www.epa.gov/oar/oaqps/cica/
CICA Hotline - From Mexico Toll-Free (888) 877-5966
From all other locations (919) 541-1800, FAX - (919) 541-0242
Victor Hugo Paramo, INE-Mexico City, 52-56-24-3451
Project: Mexico's Air Pollution Training Program
Purpose: Build infrastructure and expertise in Mexico to deliver needed air quality management
training in an efficient and coordinated manner.
Funding: The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) has been awarded a cooperative agreement
for $290,000 (amount funded). (Project period and budget period 10/01/94 to 09/30/97). Regarding
resources from Mexico, Mexico has requested a loan of 13 million dollars to carry out all the
activities to improve air quality throughout the country during the next five years.
Partners: In the United States: EPA Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards (OAQPS), EPA
Regions 6 and 9, EPA Office of International Activities (OIA), and UTA. In Mexico: Institute
Nacional de Ecologfa (INE), Procuradoria Federal de Protecci6n al Ambiente (PROFEPA),
Universidad Autonoma Metropolitana de Azcapotzalco (UAM-Azc), and Institute Tecnologico de
Tijuana (ITT).
Description: The UTA is assisting INE and its designated institutions (1) to design, develop and
implement an air pollution training needs assessment; and (2) to establish Mexico's air pollution
training program. The first element will identify the current and future training needs of federal, state
and municipal air quality management staff in five cities along the border (Tijuana, Nogales, Ciudad
Juarez, Ciudad Acufia and Matamoros). The second element will identify and develop needed
infrastructureto efficientlyprepare and deliver air quality management training in Mexico. Mexico's
air pollution training program will be supported by 3 border regional training centers that will serve
as main sources for training development activities, depositories for environmental training materials,
training sites and satellite downlink sites.
Status: The air pollution training needs assessment report and the training program blueprint
document are complete. A discussion of the two documents was held during the March 1996
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Binational Meeting in El Paso, Texas. INE, ITT, UTA, and EPA inaugurated the First Regional
Environmental Center at the ITT in April 1996 with the delivery of the Control of Particulate course.
The second center at the Instituto Tecnologico de Cd. Juarez was inaugurated in August 1996 and
the Emissions Inventory course was delivered as part of the inauguration activities. Prior to delivery,
both courses were translated, adapted, and pilot tested in Mexico City by the UAM-Azc and INE.
Finally, the training resources identification project was completed by UTA.
Schedule: INE, UTA and UAM will be meeting in December 1996 in Mexico City to prepare an
action plan for the completion of the project's implementation phase in support of the training
program blueprint. The third and last training center supported under this project will be inaugurated
at the Instituto Tecnologico de Matarnoros in 1997. Completion of a core curriculum of 5 training
courses will continue in 1997.
Contacts: Lourdes Morales, EPA-OAQPS, (919) 541-4940 morales.lourdes@epamail.epa.gov
Victor Hugo Paramo, INE-Mexico City, 52-56-24-3451
NEW MEXICO/TEXAS - CHIHUAHUA
Project: Ciudad Juarez-El Paso-Simland Park Air Quality Study
Purpose: Through Annex V of the La Paz agreement, the United States and Mexico designated the
El Paso, Sunland Park, and Ciudad Juarez area as a specific geographic area where both countries
would perform detailed analyses of air quality problems. The different kinds of analyses include
advanced monitoring, emissions inventory development, dispersion or urban airshed modeling,
leading to the identification of a bi-nationally coordinated control strategy.
Funding: The EPA anticipates continued funding to State and local governments, and a non-
governmental organization, during FY97. The level of funding to each of the organizations is under
negotiation. Funding to the State of Texas will include support for a TNRCC Border Air Coordinator
position, operation of the Juarez air monitoring network, and new air monitoring sites in El Paso,
Texas, and Dona Ana County, New Mexico, as well as technical staff expenses. Regarding
resources from Mexico, Mexico has requested a loan of 13 million dollars to carry out all the
activities to improve air quality throughout the country during the next five years.
Partners: Instituto Nacional de Ecologfa(INE), the State of Chihuahua, the City of Juarez, TNRCC,
City of El Paso, NMED, Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards (OAQPS), U.S. Department
of Energy, EOF, Southwest Center for Environmental Research and Policy (SCERP). The EPA is
considering joint activities with Los Alamos National Laboratories (Department of Energy) to assist
in the modeling of windfields for the air basin-
Description: The EPA will continue the analysis and data gathering began in the summer of 1996.
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Additional sampling will take place, and analysis of the data generating through the sampling and
field observationswill be completed and outlined in a final report in 1997. With local officials, the
EPA is working to electronically link the operation of the five-station monitoring network in Juarez
for nitrogen oxides, ozone, carbon monoxide, particulate (PM-10), and wind speed/wind direction
and other meteorologicalparameters. In related projects, the TNRCC and Mexico's INE are working
to develop an industrial emissions inventory. Upon completion in 1997 or early 1998, the inventory
will be adapted for possible use in air quality modeling analyses, such as the Urban Airshed Model.
The TNRCC has also developed an adapted version the EPA's MobileSa model to use as a tool to
estimate mobile emission levels in Juarez.
Status: The EPA is providing the funding. The intensive ozone study was conducted; review and
interpretationof the data gathered is underway. Supplemental data collection and analysis continues
Schedule: A complete report of the intensive study period will be complete in 1997. The EPA and
local officials are working to integrate the binational monitoring network during 1997.
Contacts: Jim Yarbrough,, EPA-Region 6 (214) 665-7232
Matthew Witosky, EPA-Region 6 (214) 665-7214
Cecilia Williams, NMED
Archie Clouse, TNRCC
Jesus Reynoso, City of El Paso
Pete Emerson, EDF
Project: Big Bend Air Quality
Purpose: Determine the likely impact of pollution sources on visibility at Big Bend National Park.
Funding: In an agreement with the National Park Service (NFS), the EPA has provided $95,770 in
funds from FY94 and $300,000 in funds for FY96. Additional funding may be available, based on
the outcome of the initial cost and feasibility study now underway by NPS. Regarding resources
from Mexico, Mexico has requested a loan of 13 million dollars to carry out all the activities to
improve air quality throughout the country during the next five years.
Partners: NPS, Institute Nacional de Ecologia (INE), Procuraduria Federal de Protection al
Ambiente (PROFEPA), Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC)
Description: Big Bend National Park is a Class I area, where federal land managers and the EPA are
required to protect scenic vistas from the degradation of visibility. Visibility is the ability to see the
color, shape, contrast, and texture of a landscape or city skyline. While natural events such as
wildfire can impair visibility, often manmade air pollution is the major cause of decreased visibility.
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Chapter II Air Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
In 1993, concerns were raised over the possible degradation of the air quality in Big Bend National
Park. The United States and Mexico formed an adhoc working group to exchange views and
information to determine if their is a discernable trend in visibility, and the probable causes of any
identifiable trends. The working group met regularly from 1993-1996. In May 1996, the two
countries reached agreement on a multi-year field study to determine source-type contribution.
Status/Schedule: NFS and Mexico's PROFEPA (Attorney General for the Environment) completed
an initial study in the summer of 1996 to determine the requirements of a comprehensive study
planned for summer and winter in 1998-1999.
Contacts: Miguel Flores, NFS-Denver, (303) 969-2072
Alfredo David Gidi, PROFEPA
Jim Yarbrough, EPA Region 6, (214) 665-7232
Project: The Joint Advisory Committee to the La Paz Air Work Group
Purpose: Appendix I to Annex V of the La Paz Agreement created a joint citizens advisory
committee to provide official recommendations from a public body to the La Paz Air Work Group.
Composed of ten members from each country, the group will promote widespread community
involvement in the implementation of innovative, cost-effective air quality solutions.
Funding: The Joint Advisory Committee receives no direct monetary support from either the U.S.
or Mexican federal governments. The EPA, pending the outcome of negotiations, will provide grant
funds to the TNRCC, NMED, and the Environmental Defense Fund to support activities of the JAC.
Partners: TNRCC, NMED, Environmental Defense Fund, Instituto Nacional de Ecologia (INE),
ProcuraduriaFederal de Proteccidnal Ambiente (PROFEPA), Texas Natural Resource Conservation
Commission (TNRCC)
Description: It is anticipated that the Joint Advisory Committee would work as a liaison among
federal agencies, state agencies, and the community to develop solutions to pernicious air quality
problems. For example, the JAC could consult with the relevant agencies to devise a strategy to ease
bridge queuing to reduce air emissions from idling vehicles, integrate air monitoring strategies within
the airshed, and implement economic incentive programs to quickly improve air quality.
Status/Schedule: Meetings are to be held quarterly. The first meeting of the Joint Advisory
Committee was held on November 12,1996, in El Paso. The next meeting is expected to take place
in February of 1997.
Contacts: Matthew Witosky, EPA Region 6, (214) 665-7214.
Victor Valenzuela, TNRCC Region 6 (El Paso) 915-778-9634
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Chapter II Air Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Dr. Victor Hugo Paramo, INE - Ciudad de Mexico
Project: Brownsville /Laredo Air Programs
Purpose: Develop and operate monitoring station networks in Brownsville and Laredo for nitrogen
oxides, ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, particulate (PM-10), lead, pesticides, and
meteorological parameters (e.g., wind speed/wind direction). These efforts are designed to acquire
better baseline air quality information for these cities.
Funding: The EPA has awarded $50,000 in F Y96 funds to the Texas Natural Resource Conservation
Commission (TNRCC).
Partners: TNRCC
Description: Given the physical, demographic, vehicular traffic, and industrial characteristics of the
Brownsville-Matamorosand Laredo-Nuevo Laredo air basins, there is an immediate need to evaluate
levels of targeted air pollutants. Annex V to the 1983 La Paz agreement directs EPA and Institute
Nacionalde Ecologia(INE)to assess the causes of and develop solutions to air quality problems in
border sister cities.
The EPA is sponsoring monitors in both communities. In Brownsville and Laredo, TNRCC operates
a monitoring device for polyaromatic hydrocarbons, ozone, carbon monoxide, volatile organic
compounds, lead, arsenic, and meteorological data. The EPA, TNRCC, and NMED will discuss the
addition of a monitor in another border city where little or no monitoring is currently taking place.
Current Status: Sites are in operation.
Schedule: Continued operation hi 1997.
Contacts: Stuart Dattner, TNRCC
Matthew Witosky, EPA Region 6, (214) 665-7214
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HAZARDOUS AND SOLID WASTE WORKGROUP
1997 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
Project: Hazardous Waste Tracking System (HAZTRAKS^
Funding: EPA has allocated $350,000 for HAZTRAKS system development, data entry and related
work.
Partners: EPA, INE, PROFEPA, TNRCC, NMED, ADEQ, Cal DTSC
Description:
• Improve binational monitoring of hazardous waste movements and improve enforcement
capabilities for detecting import/export violations.
• Continue with advanced programming system improvements to expand the capability for universal
data transportability, advance reporting tools, and facilitate further data input and information
exchanges.
• Expand system's database to include INE's recent changes to Mexico's waste shipment export
document, the Aviso de Retorno.
• Develop waste code dictionary to correlate hazardous waste codes between the U.S. and Mexico
enhancing cradle to grave tracking. Haztraks dictionary will also include Texas, California, and
U.S. DOT hazardous waste codes.
• Continue monthly electronic exchange of waste shipment information with INE.
• Provide data management training to SEMARNAP Environmental Delegados.
• Provide enforcement training and targeting, in coordination with the Enforcement Workgroup
and the Western States Project, to state and PROFEPA inspectors.
Contact: Joe Schultes, Bonnie Romo - EPA Region 6;
Heidi Hall, Marc Mowrey - EPA Region 9;
Hugh Harleston, Luis Wolf - INE.
Project: Implementation of Hazardous and Solid Waste/Enforcement Subworkgroups
Funding: EPA will continue to support this work with grant funds of $20,000 to the Western States
Project.
Partners: EPA, INE, SEMARNAP, PROFEPA, Cal DTSC, ADEQ, TNRCC, NMED, Other
Agencies
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Chapter II Hazardous and Solid Waste Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Description: In conjunction with the Enforcement Workgroup, the Hazardous and Solid Waste
Workgroup has established regional subgroups for the California/Baja California, Arizona/ Sonora
and Texas/New Mexico/Chihuahua areas. We will continue to support and play an active role in
these meetings, and support the establishment of other regional workgroups.
Contact: Heidi Hall, Chris Reiner, John Rothman - EPA Region 9;
Bonnie Romo, Efren Ordonez - EPA Region 6;
Luis Wolf, Lenka Ruiz - INE.
Project: Vulnerability Atlas Outreach and Presentation to Public; Assistance to Mexico
Funding: EPA estimates supporting public outreach on this effort with $10,000.
Partners: INE, EPA
Description: Mexico is creating a vulnerability atlas for the entire length of the U.S.-Mexico
Border. This will consist of an ecological, demographic and economic analysis of areas in the Border
zone, with an eye towards determining most appropriate sites for the management, treatment, storage
and/or disposal of hazardous wastes. We have agreed to assist with public outreach to present the
final analysis.
Contact: Luis Wolf - INE
Chris Reiner, Heidi Hall - EPA Region 9
Project: California Dept. of Toxic Substances Control TCA DTSO Border Program
Funding: EPA has provided DISC with $448,151 in grant funds and DTSC has provided an
additional 25% match for a total sum of $597,535 to support this work.
Partners: EPA, Ca DTSC, County of San Diego Department of Environmental Health
Description: Fund Border Coordinator position in the CA DTSC to support the implementation of
the Border 21 Plan in California. Fund several specific border projects through the Coordinator,
including: tracking of transboundary shipments of hazardous waste through manifest and notification
information; conducting surveillance and enforcement of shipments of hazardous waste that cross the
California/Baja California border at the U.S. Customs Ports of Entry; and providing technical
assistance including binational workshops on compliance and pollution prevention for U.S. and
Mexico border industries and government officials.
Contact: Heidi Hall - EPA Region 9
Pamela LePen - DTSC
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Chapter II Hazardous and Solid Waste Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Project: Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADECM; Hazardous Waste Border
Activities
Funding: EPA has provided ADEQ with $245,000 in grant funds to support this work.
Partners: EPA, ADEQ
Description: Provide funds for hazardous waste activities specific to the Border Plan in Arizona,
including: internal and external liaison for hazardous waste issues on the Arizona/Sonora border;
principal participationin the Arizona/SonoraHazardousand Solid Waste and Enforcement Subgroup;
development and implementation of pollution prevention/waste minimization outreach activities for
industries in the border region, including the maquiladora industry; technical assistance to other
federal, state and local agencies and/or non-governmental organizations; provide compliance
assistance workshops to U.S. and Mexico border industries and government officials, to improve their
understanding of hazardous waste import/export regulations; participation in multi-agency task
forces and/or study groups which address hazardous waste issues in the border area.
Contact: Chris Reiner - EPA Region 9
Placido Dos Santos - ADEQ
Project: TNRCC and NMED Border Waste Management Activities
Funding: 1) EPA has provided $100,000 in grant funds to TNRCC for compliance outreach and
enforcement, and $50,000 to NMED for these activities. 2) EPA has provided a $211,000 grant to
TNRCC for Border waste management activities (for 1995-1997).
Partners: EPA, TNRCC, Texas Department of Safety (TOPS), Texas Department of Health (TDK),
NMED, U.S. Customs, U.S. DOT, PROFEPA, INE, Aduana, the Maquiladora Association, Texas
Border county governments, border regional planning agencies (COGs), SEMARNAP, SEDESOL,
state delegados.
Description: 1) Provide training and compliance assistance workshops to U.S. and Mexico border
industry to increase their understanding of the regulations go verningtransboundary hazardous waste
shipments. Continue to monitor and conduct port of entry inspections, inspections of warehouses,
transporter yards, and those involved with managing imports and exports of hazardous waste through
the border. 2) Develop effective strategies to eliminate illegal dumping of solid waste in the
Texas/Mexico border region of Texas by facilitating voluntary compliance with current regulations
and identifying the most viable means of assuring the availability of convenient, affordable solid
waste services. Develop pilot programs to demonstrate model solid waste management systems for
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Chapter II Hazardous and Solid Waste Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
border communities and rural counties. Facilitate binational information sharing and develop
improved networks for information exchange and coordination among key state and federal solid
waste officials on both sides of the border.
Contact: Bonnie Romo, Willie Kelly, Joseph Schultes - EPA Region 6
Marc Mowrey - EPA Region 9
Steve Niemeyer, Linda Haynie - TNRCC
Daniel Fernandez - NMED
Project: Training for Customs' Inspectors
Funding: This work will be supported by funds granted last year by EPA to the Western States
Project.
Partners: EPA, INE, PROFEPA, TNRCC, Cal DTSC, ADEQ, NMED, U.S. Customs, U.S. DOT
Description: Facilitate information sharing and increase capability of U.S. Customs and Aduana
personnel to detect illegal shipments of hazardous waste at border crossings. EPA will continue to
provide TNRCC, Ca DTSC, ADEQ and NMED, with funding and technical assistance in support
of training courses.
Contact: Bonnie Romo - EPA Region 6
Heidi Hall - EPA Region 9
Project: Sampling And Analysis Training
Funding: This work will be supported by funds granted last year by EPA to the Western States
Project.
Partners: EPA, INE, PROFEPA, TNRCC, Cal DTSC, ADEQ, NMED, U.S. Customs, U.S. DOT
Description: In coordination with the Enforcement Workgroup, the Hazardous and Solid Waste
Workgroup will continue to pursue training in hazardous waste sampling and analysis for inspectors
in Mexico.
Contact: Heidi Hall, Chris Reiner - EPA Region 9
Project: Hazardous Waste Management Training Course & Manual
Funding: EPA will support this effort with $15,000.
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Chapter II Hazardous and Solid Waste Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Partners: EPA, SEMARNAP, Mexican State Agencies, PRC
Description: EPA, under contract with PRC, and input from SEMARNAP, developed a hazardous
waste management course and manual to be given to regulators and policy makers from Mexico in
FY96 and FY97. This year we will extend the course to other interested cities and invite other
instructors drawn from U.S. and Mexico agencies.
Contact: Heidi Hall - EPA Region 9
Project: Border Industry P2 Pilot
Funding: This program is in development and funding needs for its implementation are not yet
known. As the program is defined, EPA will provide funds to support it.
Partners: EPA, INE, PROFEPA, Border States
Description: Support for multi-media industry pollution prevention pilot project for targeted
industrial areas or entire Border. This project is cosponsored by Enforcement and Pollution
Prevention, and will involve the Water and Air Workgroups.
Contact: Chris Reiner, Heidi Hall - EPA Region 9
Joy Tibuni, Bonnie Romo - EPA Region 6
Project: San Diego Solid Waste Projects: Analysis of Cross-Border Movement of Recvclables:
Solid Waste Minimization Sector Manuals/Border Waste WiSe Web Site
Funding: EPA has provided $ 10,000 in grant funds to the City of San Diego to support this project
Partners: EPA, SEDESOL, City of San Diego, City of Tijuana
Description: Finalize analysis of cross-border movement of recyclables to support San Diego-
Tijuana Recycling Market Development Zone project. Finalize and translate waste reduction
manuals for electronics and plastics sectors for maquiladoras, based on information from the Border
Waste Wi$e$e project. Continue development and upkeep of Border Waste Wi$e$e web site.
Contact: Chris Reiner - EPA Region 9
Project: Activities to meet U.S./Mexico Consultative Mechanism for the Establishment of New
Sites and for Existing Sites
Funding: None.
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Chapter II Hazardous and Solid Waste Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Partners: EPA, INE, PROFEPA, Border States
Description: Continue to exchange information, on a quarterly basis, on waste facilities located on
both sides of the border area in accordance with the agreed upon binational document.
Contact: Bonnie Romo, Joe Schultes - EPA Region 6
Heidi Hall, Chris Reiner - EPA Region 9
Luis Wolf, Lenka Ruiz - INE
Project: Repatriation Guidelines
Funding: None.
Partners: EPA, INE, PROFEPA, U.S. Customs, Aduana, Border States
Description: ImplementRepatriationGuidelhiesforillegallyimportedorexportedhazardouswaste
Contact: Luis Wolf, Lenka Ruiz - INE
John Rothman, Heidi Hall - EPA Region 9
Efren Ordonez, Bonnie Romo - EPA Region 6
Project: Border 21 Grant Management
Funding: EPA's Office of International Activities will provide $40,000 to each grantee through the
Border 21 grants program. The number of grantees to be managed by the Hazardous and Solid Waste
Workgroup is not yet known.
Partners: EPA, U.S. Border States and Grantees
Description: EPA will manage various Border 21 grants to entities along the U.S.-Mexico Border,
awarded for a implementation of specific activities benefitting the border environment and
communities.
Contact: Chris Reiner, Heidi Hall - EPA Region 9
Bonnie Romo - EPA Region 6
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Chapter II Hazardous and Solid Waste Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Project: Training for Truck Drivers Crossing Border with Hazardous Wastes
Funding: Not yet identified.
Partners: INE, PROFEPA, DOT
Description: Provide training for truck drivers carrying hazardous waste loads across the U.S.-
Mexico Border.
Contact:
Luis Wolf-INE
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CONTINGENCY PLANNING AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE
WORKGROUP
1997 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
Project: Technical Assistance Workshops for Sister Cities
Purpose: To support the sister cities in the development of their contingency plans and to discuss
the plans and joint responses to chemical emergencies of the sister cities.
Funding: This will be accomplished with the participation of federal, state and local authorities in
US and Mexico.
Participants: Federal, state, and local authorities in US and Mexico with the responsibility for
responding to chemical emergencies.
Description: Technical assistance workshops for sister cities have taken place in Mexicali/Calexico;
Reynosa/McAllen; and Piedras Negras/Eagle Pass. These workshops were conducted by the
International City and County Management Association under a cooperative agreement with EPA.
The objectives of these workshops was to identify problems in the development of contingency plans
for chemical emergency response and to work to resolve those problems and develop a joint sister
city contingency plan. For 1997, the focus will be on sister cities issues relating to the completion
of their plans. In 1996, a workgroup was formed that included a part of Texas and all Tamaulipas,
in which a document was obtained that identifies the existing problems with the transborder crossing
of personnel and equipment hi this region and also proposes certain actions to break these barriers.
In 1997, this document can serve as a basis for other regions that also need to address the
impediments to mutual planning and response between both sister cities. Meetings will be scheduled
for groupings of sister cities to address issues which have been identified through the mutual process
of developing each sister city plan.
Relevant Border XXI Objectives: #1, 5, 8, and 13.
Contacts: Fendol Chiles (214) 665-2283 fax (214) 665-7447
Email: chiles.fendol@epamail.epa.gov
Kathleen Shimmin (415)744-2216 fax (415)744-1796
Email: shimmin.kathleen@epamail.epa.gov
Project: Inventory of Resources for Emergency Attention in Mexican Sister Cities.
Purpose: Gather information for each of the remaining sister cities in Mexico with regards to
organizations, personnel, equipment, etc. related to contingency planning and emergency response.
Funding: PROFEPA
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Chapter II Contingency Planning and Emergency Response Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Participants: PROFEPA and Mexican sister cities.
Description: Development of an inventory of resources for response to emergencies for each sister
city in Mexico. That will allow current evaluation of states and will provide information during an
emergency. In 1996, inventories were developed for sister cities hi the states of Baja California and
Chihuahua. The inventories will be continued for the rest of the cities in Mexico
(Sonora, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon, and Tamaulipas). As standard practice, these inventories exist in
all US sister cities.
Relevant Border XXI Objectives: #1,2, and 5.
Contacts: Eduardo Jimenez Lopez (525) 666-9450 (525) 666-9452
Kim Jennings (202)260-5046 (202)260-7906
Email: jennings.kim@epamail.epa.gov
Project: Training and Translation of CAMEO
Purpose: Translate CAMEO into Spanish and identify a strategy for the distribution and training of
CAMEO in the sister cities.
Funding: EPA
Participants: PROFEPA and EPA
Description: The CAMEO system can manage information dealing with hazardous substances,
industries, emergency response groups, maps, etc. This will aid in the identification of the chemical
risks in the sister cities and, on occasion, will support in the process of making decisions in an
emergency situation. This system has been developed for Windows and will be translated into
Spanish. A pilot project will be carried out in various sister cities to test its utility.
Relevant Border XXI Objectives: #1, 5, and 13.
Contacts: Sherry Fielding (202)260-6174 (202)260-7906
Email: fielding.sherry@epamail.epa.gov
Fendol Chiles (214)665-2283 fax (214)665-7447
Email: chiles.fendol@epamail.epa.gov
Project: Joint Contingency Plan (JCP)
Purpose: Formalize the US/Mexico JCP, which will serve as the basis for coordination at the federal
and state levels.
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Chapter II Contingency Planning and Emergency Response Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Funding: This project will be accomplished through the contributions of all the participants.
Participants: Joint Response Team (JRT) and the 14 pairs of sister cities.
Description: The final version of the JCP was revised by the JRT. It is being prepared for signature
by the management of SEMARNAP and EPA. This plan will be used for the development of local
plans by the fourteen sister cities.
Relevant Border XXI Objectives: #1.
Contacts: Sherry Fielding (202)260-6174 (202)260-7906
Email: fielding.sherry@epamail.epa.gov
Eduardo Jimenez Lopez (525) 666-9450 (525) 666-9452
Project: Exercise the Joint Contingency Plan (JCP)
Purpose: Conduct communication simulations of the JCP to test the functioning, detect problems
in the sequence of notification, and involve and inform the appropriate participants.
Funding: This project will be supported by all the US and Mexican participants.
Participants: The Joint Response Team (federal, state, and the local participation of the 14 pairs of
sister cities).
Description: A pair of sister cities will be chosen, and then the appropriate groups and individuals
will convene to determine the scenario and date for the simulation. A schedule for 4 simulation will
be developed by September 1997. One of these will be a full scale exercise, while the others will
focus primarily on the communications between the federal levels, state, and locals.
Relevant Border XXI Objectives: #1
Contacts: Sherry Fielding (202)260-6174 fax (202)260-7906
Email: fieldmg.sherry@epamail.epa.gov
Eduardo Jimenez Lopez (525)666-9450 fax (525) 666-9452
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Chapter II Contingency Planning and Emergency Response 1997 Implementation Plan
Project: Follow up on Recommendations of the Transboundary Mobilization of Personnel and
Equipment Workgroup
Purpose: To examine the recommendations of the workgroup and ensure attention to areas relating
to liability are appropriately referred.
Funding: This project will be supported by all the US and Mexican participants.
Participants: Federal, state, and the local participation of the 14 pairs of sister cities.
Description: Formation of the U.S./Mexico JRT Workgroup on Transboundary Mobilization of
Personnel and Equipment was a work plan item in 1996/1997. The Workgroup convened its first
meeting in July 1996 and held a total of four additional meetings. In the initial meetings, the
Workgroup brain stormed to identify all possible barriers to rapid border crossing, and then identified
four key barriers and four secondary barriers on which to focus their attention. For each barrier, the
Workgroup identified the factors that make it a barrier and then provided recommendations for
possible resolution. For 1997/1998, these recommendations will be studied and appropriate measures
taken, ensuring involvement at the local level.
Contacts: Sherry Fielding (202)260-6174 fax(202)260-7906
Email: fielding.sherry@epamail.epa.gov
Eduardo Jimenez Lopez (525)666-9450 (525)666-9452
Project: US/Mexico Notification Procedures
Purpose: Develop rapid and effective procedures for environmental emergencies and create the
Centro de Orientacion para Atencion de Emergencias Ambientales en Mexico (Mexican National
Response Center)
Funding: This center will be funded by PROFEPA
Participants: PROFEPA, EPA, and National Response Center (US)
Description: The US NRC is sending the notification for chemical accidents that occur along the US
border area to the Mexican cochair of the JRT. Otherwise, the incidents happen in the Mexican
border area have been reported to the US cochair. Mexico is establishing the Center for Emergencies
to facilitate the rapid notification to all the appropriate authorities along the US/Mexico border. To
help with this effort, the EPA arranged for a delegation from PROFEPA to visit the US NRC,
CHEMTREC, and other facilities. EPA is also exploring options for training of Mexican officials
at the NRC.
Relevant Border XXI Objectives: #1,2, and 6.
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Chapter II Contingency Planning and Emergency Response Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Contacts: Kim Jennings(202)260-5046 (202)260-7906 Email: jennings.kim@epamail.epa.g
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ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION RESOURCES
1997 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
PROJECTS:
Project: Annual Environmental Indicators Report
Purpose: Environmental indicators, as measures of environmental quality, serve as a fundamental
tool for determining whether environmental policy addresses the most urgent environmental issues.
They can also provide clear and comprehensive information to the public on the status of the
environment in the U.S.-Mexico border area.
Funding: $40,000
Partners: SEMARNAP/EPA.
Description: Environmental indicators are measures of environmental quality that can be used to
assess status and trends in the environment's ability to support human and ecological health (i.e.,
number of species at risk of extinction, percentage of population served by drinking water systems
exceeding lead action levels). This binational indicators report also will include performance
indicators, which are measures of whether programs are meeting their intended goals (i.e., number
of children tested for blood lead levels, number of inspections conducted).
The first annual Environmental Indicators Report will be published in December 1997, in both
English and Spanish, and will be posted on the Internet on the U.S.-Mexico Border Homepage. EPA
Region 9 has assigned one person full-time to coordinate all aspects of the Environmental Indicators
Report. This person reports directly to the U.S. co-chair of the Environmental Information Resources
Workgroup, and coordinates closely with his Mexican counterpart.
Each of the nine Border XXI Workgroups is providing border-wide and/or media-specific
environmental indicators for the U.S. and Mexico border areas to the Environmental Information
Resources Workgroup. Although the U.S. and Mexican members of the workgroups are attempting
to generate as many binational indicators as possible, some indicators for the U.S. or Mexico may be
similar rather than identical to the other country's indicators, and others may be unique to a particular
country or geographic region but merit inclusion nevertheless.
The expected audience for this report includes the national government of each country, border
communities, state and local agencies, tribal governments, concerned citizens and citizen groups, and
industry and business groups. A public comment and peer review period will be used to solicit
comments prior to completing the report.
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Chapter II Environmental Information Resources Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Relevant Border XXI Objective: This addresses the long-term goal of developing environmental
indicators for the border region.
Contact: Adrian Fernandez 52-5-624-3456/58.
Darrin Swartz-Larson (415) 744-1638 (Swartz-Larson.Darrin@epamail.epa.gov).
Project: Border XXT Program Homepage Development
Purpose: To create an effective mechanism of sharing information, EPA and SEMARNAP will
continue development of the U.S.-Mexico Border XXI home page.
Funding: $20,000.
Partners: EPA/SEMARNAP.
Description: The U.S.- Mexico Border XXI Program Homepage
(http://www.epa.gov/usmexicoborder>vas published in December 1996 with the U.S. Mexico Border
XXI documents (executive summary, Border XXI framework, 1996 Implementation Plans), Border
Maps, Compendium of Border Related Projects receiving EPA funding and/or involving EPA
participation,and links to other border-relatedenvironmental sites. These sections and documents will
continue to be maintained and updated as necessary in 1997.
In 1997 the U.S.-Mexico Border XXI Program Homepage will be bilingual with the addition of the
Border XXI documents in Spanish. Additional documents for 1997, will be the 1997 Implementation
Plans, environmental indicators, and the Summary Comment to Response Report. The Homepage
will also contain an environmental progress section to demonstrate the Border XXI workgroups
progress on improving the Border environment and a Calendar of Border related events, meetings,
public forums, etc. sponsored by Border XXI workgroup participates. To assist first time visitors to
the Homepage a help section will be created to guide visitors through Border XXI Program documents
and related information.
Relevant Border XXI Objective: This addresses the long-term goal of improving and increasing
public access to information.
Contact:
Carmen Maso (415) 744-1750 (e-mail: maso.carmen@epamail.epa.gov).
Project: Environmental Education Cooperative Agreements
Purpose: Promote environmental education opportunities in border communities through the
mechanism of two cooperative agreements.
Funding: Funding for Fiscal year 1997 and beyond is now being planned. EPA anticipates the
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Chapter II Environmental Information Resources Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
availability of approximately $140,000 in total the two combined cooperative agreements for fiscal
year 1997.
Partners: EPA, Non governmental organizations in Arizona and California
Description: EPA anticipates funding one cooperative agreement for the State of Arizona, and one
cooperative agreement for the State of California.
State of Arizona: The anticipated cooperative agreement grantee would assist Arizona border
communities in the development of an Environmental Education (EE) Action Plan to further focus
and refine Border XXI efforts in the environmental education area. Information gathered would be
synthesized and distilled into Environmental Education Community Action Plans. The
Environmental Education Community Action Plans would form a foundation document that would
act as a catalyst for EE development along the border for these communities. As part of the
Environmental Education Community Action Plan, the cooperative agreement grantee would identify
the key issues for environmental educators along the border region, have the ability to prioritize these
issues, and develop a comprehensive strategy to address the series environmental education needs of
the border region.
Proj ect would include networking with the individuals in the region that have direct responsibility for
environmental education. The key individuals to include in the process would be K-12 teachers, K-12
administrators, community college and university instructors, and representatives from the many
public agencies and private organizations that are currently active in providing environmental
education in both formal and non-formal settings in the region. The geography of the region dictates
that a series of four EE Forums for the Arizona-Sonora border region.
State of California: The anticipated cooperative agreement grantee for the State of California is
refining their proposed project plan for submission to EPA. Their project will be directed at
addressing the environmental education needs for the San Diego-Tijuana border region.
Relevant Border XXI Objective: These cooperative agreements will address the long-term goal of
improving environmental education efforts for the U.S./Mexico border area.
Contact: Dave Fege (619) 235-4769 (fege.dave@epamail.epa.gov) - San Diego
Project: Environmental Information Project (Green Pages)
Purpose: This project will address the commitment defined by Border XXI for public access to
environmental information. It will provide one-stop shopping for border-related environmental
information. It will serve as a learning resource tool and will provide a platform so that gaps in
environmental information can be identified.
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Chapter II Environmental Information Resources Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Funding: $260,000
Partners: EPA/SEMARNAP
Description: Printed and electronic information (webpage) in both English and Spanish will be
contained in a directory and inventory of environmental information. The directory will serve as a
"who is who" for the border area. Examples of data that will be in the inventory include, air quality
monitoring data, HAZTRAKS, environmental indicators, water quality data, and pollution release &
transfer registers. Outreach will be conducted to identify users of the information and solicate their
input and needs.
Relevant Border XXI Objectives: This project will address the long term goal of improving and
increasing public access to information.
Contact: Marie Martel (415)744-1639 (martel.marie@epamail.epa.gov) - San Francisco
Dave Fege (619) 235-4769 (fege.dave@epamail.epa.gov) - San Diego
Rolando Rios 52-5-624-3454
Project: Format and Serve the Directory of US/Mexico Border Data as an Internet Accessible
Database
Purpose: Through a 1996 project funded by the FGDC, four binational workshops and surveys were
conducted to inventory existing, needed, and desired data in the border region. The resulting directory
and database would be one of the first information resources to be served bilingually on the Internet.
This project would make information about data sets available to a wider audience along the border
and throughout the two countries. More importantly, it would provide a means for updating,
maintaining, and delivering the inventory bilingually. Converting the current database to a searchable
format will result in quantum improvements in its value and versatility.
Funding: Funding for fiscal year 1997 is $30,000.
Partners: New Mexico Resource Geographic Information System (RGIS) Program, Texas General
Land Office, Monterrey Tech (ITESM), Border XXI Environmental Information Resources
Workgroup, Survey Respondents throughout EPA Regions 6 and 9 and Mexico border states.
Description: One of EDAC's roles is to serve as a clearinghouse for GIS and other geospatial data.
It is the home of the RGIS Clearinghouse and New Mexico's Earth Science Information Center (ESIC)
office. The RGIS Clearinghouse will be an NSDI-compliant node through funds provided by
FGDC's Competitive Cooperative Agreements Program. The New Mexico State Legislature is
funding EDAC to maintain the RGIS Program and Clearinghouse for state GIS data.
Through its clearinghouse responsibilities, EDAC proposes to make the FGDC workshop inventory
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Chapter II Environmental Information Resources Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
available on the Internet (currently it is only available on diskette, or as a hard copy document). The
directory, which now resides in a Word Perfect 6.1 (table) format at ED AC will be converted to a
bilingual, searchable database in html format. The data currently in the directory represent responses
to the questionnaire distributed at the binational workshops between January and May, 1996; as well
as from those distributed to key organizations, particularly in the Texas and New Mexico sectors. The
responses do not represent metadata, but rather serve as pointers to who holds data of particular types.
The categories of data include Boundaries, Cartographic, Demographic, Environmental,
Infrastructure, Land Use/Land Cover, Public Health, Socioeconomic Transportation, and many others
from both sides of the border.
Relevant Border XXI Objective: This addresses the long-term goal of improving and increasing
public access to information, particularly GIS data.
Contacts: Amelia Budge, Earth Data Analysis Center, University of New Mexico,
Albuquerque New Mexico 87131-6031; tel 505-277-3622 ext. 231;
fax 505-277-3614; abudge@spock.unm.edu
David Parrish, EPA Region 6 214/665-8352
(e-mail: parrish.david@epamail.epa.gov).
Project: Information Centers
Purpose: Improve and increase public access to information through the establishment of
information and training centers in Mexico.
Funding: To be determined.
Partners: EPA/SEMARNAP.
Description: Establish public Environmental Information and Training Centers in Matamoros,
Tamaulipas and Nogales, Sonora. The Centers will develop training programs for the public that
reflect local environmental issues. Center patrons will also be able to review hard-copy publications
and access information on workstations that will be connected to the Internet and SEMARNAP and
EPA on-line environmental services.
Relevant Border XXI Objective: This addresses the long-term goal of improving and increasing
public access to information.
Contact: Adrian Fernandez 52-5-624-3456/58.
Project: Texas/Mexico Borderlands Data and Information Center
Purpose: The objective of this project is to continue to build a Texas/Mexico Borderlands
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Chapter II Environmental Information Resources Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Information Center (BIG) to provide natural resources and demographic data for both sides of the
Border. The BIG will inventory the spatial data and GIS infrastructure in the Texas/Mexico border
region, describe the data according to federal standards, and facilitate access to the data through an
Internet catalog or node located at the (BIG). The BIG will coordinate closely with Border XXI
Program and other on-going programs to build upon current initiatives and avoid redundancy.
Funding: Funding for fiscal year 1997 is $65,000.
Partners: Partners include the TNRIS Task Force (consisting of 17 state agencies and the Office of
the Governor) and the Texas GIS Planning Council. Guidance for the BIG is provided by the GIS
Planning Council's Border Subcommittee.
Description: This project will continue the work begun under the current EPA grant (funded in 1994
and 1995) to operate the Texas/Mexico Borderlands Information Center to facilitate access to data
from both sides of the Texas/Mexico border. The requested funding will be used to continue the
employment for an additional year of the current BIC staff person, to purchase additional data, and
to finance on-site visits to data providers in the Border region.
The project will focus on continuing to inventory, describe, and make publicly available, spatial data
and to collect information about GIS infrastructure (actual GIS installations) along both sides of the
Texas/Mexico Borderlands. To accomplish this inventory BIC staff has developed a contact list of
over 400 potential data providers, and initial contact with these data providers has already been made
through the quarterly BIC Newsletter. BIC staff is currently developing metadata reporting tools for
collecting the data. The inventory forms will be carefully tested among various data providers prior
to general dissemination. This pilot phase will be completed by March 1, and the primary phase of
the inventory will be conducted over the next several months. The Inventory tool will be provided
over the Internet, by E- mail, and by more conventional means such as by diskette and paper form.
Extensive telephone assistance will be provided.
Project deliverables will be a database containing metadata describing border-region geospatial data
files and GIS infrastructure. The database will have the following features: it will be compliant with
federal data standards; it will be searchable in various ways (topic, key word, geographic area, etc.);
and data will be linked to GIS coverages to perform spatial, temporal and thematic gap analysis, etc..
Relevant Border XXI Objective: This addresses the long-term goal of improving and increasing
public access to information, particularly GIS data.
Contact: Charles Palmer, TNRIS/BIC 512/463-8402
David Parrish 214/665-8352 (e-mail: parrish.david@epamail.epa.gov).
Project: U.S.-Mexico Aerial Photography and Mapping Initiative
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Chapter II Environmental Information Resources 1997 Implementation Plan
Purpose: As part of Environmental Information Resource Workgroup there is a formal binational
initiative to acquire aerial photography and create new and revised maps hi the U.S.-Mexico border
region.
Funding: DOI high-priority funding in 1997 has initiated the production of digital orthophotography
quadrangles. SEMARNAP and INEGI funding sources are to be determined.
Partners: DOI/USGS, SEMARNAP, INEGI.
Description: Current and consistent binational geospatial data is not available and is required to
develop effective and appropriate strategies for addressing Border XXI program issues. Aerial
photography and digital mapping are being produced for a variety of applications such as: pollution
detection and monitoring, soils classification, urban and rural planning, geologic mapping, watershed
management, and water quality analysis.
Based on the requirements of SEM ARN AP, Institute Nacional de Estadistica, Geografia e Informatica
(INEGI) will continue to acquire color infrared and black and white photography in priority areas to
complete coverages of the Mexico border region. In 1997, approximately 70,000 square kilometers
of the Mexico border area will have digital data flown at the 1:40.000 scale and 40,000 square
kilometers at the 1:75,000 scale.
Relevant Border XXI Objective: This addresses the long-term goal of establishing a unified GIS
for the U.S.-Mexico border area.
Contact:
Mr. Ken Osborn (303) 202-4138 (e-mail: kjosborn@usgs.gov).
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Chapter II Pollution Prevention Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
POLLUTION PREVENTION WORKGROUP
1997 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
Project
Pollution Prevention
Outreach for
Maquiladoras (OIA)
Bilingual Pollution
Prevention Conference
for the Textile Industry
(OIA)
Pollution Prevention in
Industrial Facilities in
Mexico and Texas: An
INFORM Initiative
Involving Local
Community
Collaboration
(Border XXI)
Pollution Prevention to
small business
operations
Arizona Partnership for
Pollution Prevention
(P3)
Description
This project will provide for a series of
three roundtable meetings to discuss the
progress of pollution prevention initiatives
in the U.S./Mexico border region. The
goal is to create more awareness of
potential pollution prevention possibilities
and to enhance the application of P2
principles and techniques in the border
region.
To encourage the use of pollution
prevention information, specifically the
Bilingual Pollution Prevention in the
Textile Industry Manual.
The border region of Brownsville, TX with
Matamoros, Mexico are working with
INFORM to 1. Obtain detailed and
comprehensible information on pollution
prevention programs and progress within
industrial facilities in the region and 2. To
learn how to track ongoing improvement.
A major demonstration and training session
was held early 1996 and extensive
compliance assistance visits (CAV) were
made to local paint and auto shops.
Meetings and planning sessions are being
held currently for implementation of the
project through a local university in the
Lower Rio Grande Valley in early 1998.
P3 is a voluntary, non-regulatory
government-industry partnership to
minimize hazardous waste. It provides a
means of networking and mutual assistance
among the participants to improve
communications and cooperation between
government and industry. Various
maquiladoras in the Sonora area have
requested to participate.
Partners
EPA,TNRCC,
UNIVERSITY OF
TEXAS,MEXICAN
UNIVERSITY,MA
QUILADORA
ASSOC,MEXICAN
REPRESENTATIV
ES
U.S./Mexico
Pollution
Prevention
Workgroup: EPA,
TNRCC,ADEQ,N
MED,CDTSC,INE
INFORM,
Education
Foundation of
America, TNRCC
EPA,TNRCC,PRO
FEPA
EPA, ADEQ,
PROFEPA,
participating
industry and
maquiladoras
associations
Projected
Dates and
Funding
1997-1999
$50,000.00
1997-1998
$50,000.00
1997-1998
$40,000.00
1996-1998
$26,000.00
1996-ongoing
project
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Chapter II Pollution Prevention Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
POLLUTION PREVENTION WORKGROUP
1997 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
Technology transfer and
capacity building on
pollution prevention
with PROFEPA.
Working with PROFEPA's state delegates,
the TNRCC has conducted a total of 14 site
assessment visits (SAV) to maquiladoras in
the bordering states of Chihuahua,
Coahuila, and Tamaulipas. Although
project is completed, it is anticipated that
for the next fiscal year, TNRCC and
PROFEPA will conduct another five
SAV's due to the remarkable results
obtained.
TNRCC, EPA,
PROFEPA
1996-1998
$107,674.00
Technology transfer and
capacity building on
pollution prevention
with PROFEPA.
Maquiladora site assistance visits are
envisioned. In lieu of this project, the
partners have discussed establishing the
Arizona/Mexico international Green
Organization. This will include technical
transfer by partnering U.S. and Mexico
facilities and site visits.
EPA, ADEQ,
PROFEPA-Sonora
SIUE and
Maquiladora
Association
pending funding
Border XXI Pollution
Prevention -
Services and Initiatives
Available
Informational booklet listing all services
and initiatives available to industry and the
public regarding pollution prevention and
where assistance/information may be
obtained.
INE.TNRCC, EPA
pending funding
TRI/PRTR
(Toxic Release
Inventory/ Mexican
Pollutant Release and
Transfer Register)
Mexico has completed their PRTR for 15
industry sectors. This information will be
useful as a data source for a binational set
of indicators. Currently, the U.S. and
Mexico will be translating the PRTR
manual for the Cellulose Industry for a
bilingual manual which can be distributed
along the U.S./Mexico border.
INE, EPA
1997-1998
$15,000.00
Technical assistance to
Mexican state
environmental agencies
(P2)
To continue capacity building efforts with
Mexican state and federal environmental
agencies by providing training and
technical assistance in the four Mexican
states bordering Texas. Several of the
Mexican state environmental agencies are
interested in adapting TNRCC programs as
they develop their environmental agendas.
A possibility would be "Clean Border"
Initiative modeled after the successful
Clean Texas initiative.
EPA,TNRCC,SEM
ARNAP,
Departamentos de
Ecologia de:
Chihuahua,
Coahuila
Tamaulipas
1995-1997
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Chapter II Pollution Prevention Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plans
POLLUTION PREVENTION WORKGROUP
1997 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
Technical Assistance to
Mexican environmental
agencies (P2)
Provide training on pollution prevention
principals and technology exchange for
state and federal agencies in Baja
California.
Cal-EPA-DTSC,
Dept. De Ecologia
de Baja California,
EPA, SDSU-IRSC
1997
Industry Workshop on
pollution prevention
techniques (P2)
Provide workshops to California-Baja
California border industries on pollution
prevention techniques in specific sectors.
Cal-EPA-DTSC,
EPA, PROFEPA,
SDSU-IRSC
1997
Environmental
Technology Initiative-
San Diego-Tijuana
WasteWiSe Project
Aims to reduce manufacturers' generation
of solid waste, by helping them identify
waste reduction opportunities, which will
in turn help them to realize cost savings.
Includes on-site assessments, and creation
of sector-specific manuals for waste
reduction.
EPA, Cal-EPA, the
cities of San Diego
and Tijuana, San
Diego State
University and
Universidad
Autonoma de Baja
California
1995-1997
San Diego-Tijuana
Recycling Market
Development Zone
Initiative
Increase recycling and waste prevention
within the commercial and industrial sector
along the border, create a binational
recycling market development zone.
EPA, San Diego,
Tijuana, Cal-
EPA/IWMB, San
Diego State
University, UABC
1996-1997
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ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH WORKGROUP
1997 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
OVERVIEW:
In the accompanying text and tables, descriptions are provided of environmental health projects
involving ICC partnerships that are ongoing (Table 1), and/or identified as binational initiatives that
have started or are to be started in 1997 (Table 2). Contacts for these projects are provided. The
specific objectives listed in the Border XXIFrame-work Document (Chapter 3) that are supported by
each of these undertakings are also indicated in each table. Those objectives are as follows:
1. Improve the capacity of state, tribal and local health and environmental agencies to assess the
relationship between human health and environmental exposures by conducting surveillance,
monitoring and research.
2. Improve the capacity of state, tribal and local health and environmental agencies to deliver
environmental health intervention, prevention and educational services.
3. Increase the opportunities for stakeholders on the border (e.g., individuals, communities,
institutions/organizations, and occupational groups) to participate in environmental health
initiatives.
4. Improve training opportunities for environmental and health personnel.
5. Improve public awareness and understanding of environmental exposure conditions and health
problems by providing information and educational opportunities.
It is anticipated that the results of the projects will have binational, BORDER WIDE benefit. In
several instances, full project implementation will be preceded by pilot (feasibility) activities to aid
subsequent project design. Stakeholder input will be sought during the planning and implementation
of these initiatives.
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Chapter II Environmental Health Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Table 1: Border XXI Ongoing Environmental Health Projects Involving ICC Partnerships
Activity
Lower Rio
Grande Valley
Transboundary
Air Pollution
Project
National Human
Exposure
Assessment
Survey
(NHEXAS)
Border Project
Environmental
Health Survey of
the Texas-
Mexico Border
Environmental
Epidemiologic
Survey of Lead
Exposure of
Children in
Tijuana, Baja
California,
Mexico
Evaluation of the
Hispanic
HANES
Database
Partners
TNRCC,
EPA/ORD
University of
Arizona,
EPA/ORD
TDH, CDC,
EPA/ORD
Univ. of Calif, at
Irvine,
EPA/ORD, CDC,
El Colegio de la
Frontera Norte,
A.C. (COLEF),
SALUD
EPA/ORD
Purpose
Ascertain the contribution of transboundary
air pollution to air quality in the Lower Rio
Grande Valley.
Establish the distribution of exposure to key
environmental pollutants in communities
along the Arizona-Mexico border.
Assess environmental health conditions at
distinct areas along the Texas-Mexico border.
Determine the extent and distribution of lead
exposure among children in Tijuana, Baja
California, Mexico. Enhance public health
programs and technical infrastructure for
monitoring and prevention of childhood lead
poisoning in Tijuana, Baja California.
Evaluate database for usefulness as reference
(comparison) database for current and future
environmental health studies involving
Hispanic populations.
Environmental
Health
Objective
Addressed1
1
1,2
1,2,3
1,2,4,5
1
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Chapter II Environmental Health Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Table 1: Border XXI Ongoing Environmental Health Projects Involving ICC Partnerships
Activity
Community-
based
Epidemiology
Projects
Neural Tube
Defect (NTD)
Project
Support of
Workshops and
Conferences
Partners
AZDept.of
Health, National
Board of Lupus
Foundation; NM
Border Health
Office;
Physicians for
Social
Responsibility,
Univ. of Texas-
Houston/School
of Public Health
at El Paso; CDC;
EPA/ORD
TDH, CDC,
EPA/ORD
CDC, EPA/ORD
Purpose
Epidemiologic investigation of community
identified health concerns. Specific
objectives are to (a) determine if lupus in
Nogales, Arizona is associated with exposure
to environmental contaminants; (b)
characterize well water quality in Dona Ana
County, New Mexico and identify possible
health effects related to exposure to
environmental contaminants in well water;
and © study the association between acute
respiratory morbidity in children and air
quality in El Paso, Texas and Sunland Park,
New Mexico.
Implement a case-control study on risk
factors for neural tube defect (NTD)
occurrence. Examine feasibility of carrying
out environmental epidemiologic studies of
NTD in Mexico border communities.
Provide support for binational environmental
health meetings and workshops.
Environmental
Health
Objective
Addressed1
1,2,3,5
1,2
3,4,5
1 Objective Addressed refers to the environmental health objectives described in the Border XXI
Framework Document. See cover page of this section.
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Chapter II Environmental Health Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
PROJECTS:
Project: Lower Rio Grande Valley Transboundary Air Pollution Project (1996-98)
Purpose: Ascertain the contribution of transboundary air pollution to air quality in the Lower Rio
Grande Valley
Partners: Texas Natural Resources Conservation Commission (TNRCC), U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency/Office of Research and Development (EPA/ORD)
Description: This study will obtain air quality data and meteorological data to assess the extent of
transboundary transport of air pollutants. This will be accomplished by the strategic placement of the
monitoring stations and application of back-trajectory models utilizing the data gathered. Data
gathered will be used as input into the models for tracking the movement of air masses as well as
evaluating associations between pollutant concentrations and wind directions and speeds. A long-
term goal of the study will be to provide the state of Texas with background data against which future
changes in air pollutant levels in the community can be assessed. In addition, the study will provide
a cost-effective monitoring and modeling approach for use by Texas and others to address airborne
pollutant transport in other border communities. These data will provide a baseline for identification
of air pollutants that may pose a potential health risk. Data collection was completed in March 1997.
Contacts: Federal: Stephen Hern, EPA, (702) 798-2594
Shaibal Mukerjee, EPA, (919) 541-1865
TNRCC: Tony Franco, (210) 425-6098
Project: National Human Exposure Assessment Survey (NHEXAS^ Border Project (1996-99^
Purpose: Establish the distribution of exposure to key environmental pollutants in communities
along the Arizona-Mexico border
Partners: University of Arizona, EPA/ORD
Description: The proposed project will build upon the existing National Human Exposure
Assessment Survey (NHEXAS) Project awarded to the state of Arizona to characterize actual
environmental exposures experienced by Arizona residents. It takes advantage of resources and
groundwork already expended as part of the NHEXAS program. Additional sampling of Arizona
border communities will be added to the Arizona NHEXAS Project. The project will over-sample
to provide a basis for comparing exposure between communities along the border and the state's
general population. This project will establish vital reference data for ongoing and future border
studies. Funded Fall 1996.
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Chapter II Environmental Health Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Contacts: Federal: Gary Robertson, EPA, (702) 798-2215
University of Arizona: Mike Liebowitz, (520) 626-6379
Mary Kay O'Rourke, (520) 626-6835 . ,
Project: Environmental Health Survey of the Texas-Mexico Border (1996-98)
Purpose: Assess environmental health conditions at distinct areas along the Texas-Mexico border
Partners: Texas Department of Health (TDK), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),
EPA/ORD
Description: The Environmental Health Survey of the Texas-Mexico border is designed to assess
the relationship of environmental exposure to various risks/diseases including pesticide poisoning,
lead poisoning, asthma, cancer, gastrointestinal diseases, and hepatitis. About 2,100 household
surveys will be conducted to collect data on household structure, general sanitation, health conditions,
and potential sources of exposure to environmental contaminants (e.g., source of drinking water,
waste disposal practices, fish consumption, sources of lead exposure, and use of pesticides). The
survey will be used to develop a baseline from which to reduce the incidence of environmentally-
related disease along the border through environmental health education and other public health
interventions.
Contacts: Federal: Rossanne Philen, CDC, (770) 488-7350
Harold Zenick, EPA, (919) 541-2238
TDK: RJ. Dutton, (512) 458-7541
Project: Environmental Epidemiologic Survey of Lead Exposure of Children in Tijuana. Baja
California. Mexico (1996-98)
Purpose: Determine the extent and distribution of lead exposure among children in Tijuana, Baja
California, Mexico. Enhance public health programs and technical infrastructure for monitoring and
prevention of childhood lead poisoning in Tijuana, Baja California.
Partners: University of California at Irvine (UCI), EPA/ORD; El Colegio de la FronteraNorte, A.C.
(COLEF), SALUD
Description: A geographical age-stratified epidemiological study of blood lead concentration, lead
use, and socioeconomicand demographic factors will be conducted for 1,600 Tijuana children, ages
1 to 6 years old. The study will evaluate associations between blood lead concentration in children
and potential sources of lead exposure at the neighborhood, household, and individual level. As part
of this project, a CDC-certified blood lead testing laboratory will be established in Tijuana. The
findings of this study will expand current knowledge of lead exposure during childhood development
by studying a population with high and varied potential exposure sources. Information derived from
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Chapter II Environmental Health Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
this study will be used to establish public health priorities and plan public health programs for lead
surveillance and control in Tijuana.
Contacts: Federal: David Otto, EPA, (919) 541-0479
UCI: Jonathon Ericson, (714) 824-7261
Project: Evaluation of the Hispanic HANES Database (1995-97)
Purpose: Evaluate database for usefulness as reference (comparison) database for current and future
environmental health studies involving Hispanic populations
Partners: EPA/ORD
Description: As part of the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES) series,
Hispanic HANES sampled 12,000 Hispanics (including 7,500 in the southwestern U.S.) from 1982-
84. In addition to extensive health questionnaires and physical examinations, biological fluids were
collected and analyzed for various markers including some pesticides and metals. This database is
being resurrected and undergoing documentation to determine the extent to which the environmental
markers data can serve as a point of reference (comparison) for measurements in border populations
being studied or that may be studied.
Contacts: Denise Lewis, EPA, (919) 966-6385
Rebecca Calderon, EPA, (919) 966-0617
Project: FDA Market Basket Survey (completed 1995)
Purpose: Provide database on levels of nutrients, pesticides, and metals in diet including sampling
of community-specific items in three border cities
Partners: Food and Drug Administration (FDA); EPA/ORD
Description: As part of their continuing national survey of food contamination in the U.S., FDA
dedicated a Total Diet Study to the border region. Food was collected in three communities
(Brownsville, TX; Nogales, AZ; and San Diego, CA). The 261-item food market basket was
supplemented by the collection of 30 to 40 additional food items that are typically consumed by
border residents. These samples were analyzed for pesticides and metals.
Contact: EPA: Maurice Berry, (513) 569-7284
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Chapter II Environmental Health Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Project: Community-based Epidemiology Projects (1996-98)
Purpose: Epidemiologic investigation of community identified health concerns. Specific objectives
are to (a) determine if lupus in Nogales, Arizona is associated with exposure to environmental
contaminants; (b) characterize well water quality in Dona Ana County, New Mexico and identify
possible health effects related to exposure to environmental contaminants in well water; and © study
the association between acute respiratory morbidity in children and air quality in El Paso, Texas and
Sunland Park, New Mexico.
Partners: Arizona Department of Health, National Board of the Lupus Foundation; New Mexico
Border Health Office (NM BHO); Physicians for Social Responsibility (PSR), University of Texas-
Houston/School of Public Health at El Paso (UTH/SPH-E1 Paso); CDC; EPA/ORD
Description: The study of lupus in Nogales will be a case-control study. Environmental sampling
data has been reviewed to determine/selectcontaminants of concern (i.e., volatile organics, pesticides,
inorganics). Identificationof cases will be verified by physician diagnosis and laboratory tests. The
final protocol is under review.
The study of well water in Dona Ana County involves testing water from 120 private wells for
contaminants (heavy metals, coliphages, fecal coliforms, volatile organic compounds, pesticides
(organophosphates and acid herbicides), nutrients, anions, and cations). A health survey will be
conducted in households with elevated levels of contaminants in wells. Survey results will be
communicated to health-care providers (physicians, clinicians, and promotoras), farm workers, and
community residents.
The El Paso/Sunland Park respiratory morbidity study is a retrospective time series examination of
the associationbetween air quality and acute respiratory health problems in children ages 1 to 18 years
old for a two-year period. Study subjects will be identified from hospital emergency room records.
Air quality data (CO, NO2, O3, particulate matter, and SO2) have been collected on both sides of the
U.S.-Mexico border as part of an air monitoring project.
Contacts: Federal: Lina Balluz, CDC, (770) 488-7350
Rebecca Hart, CDC, (770) 488-7350
Rossanne Philen, CDC, (770) 488-7350
Harold Zenick, EPA, (919) 541-2283
NM BHO: Kitty Richards, (505) 646-7966
PSR: Beatriz Vera, (915) 543-3223
UTH/SPH - El Paso: James Vanderslice, (915) 747-8514
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Chapter II Environmental Health Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Project: Neural Tube Defect (NTD^ Project (1995-open)
Purpose: Implement a case-control study on risk factors for neural tube defect (NTD) occurrence.
Examine feasibility of carrying out environmental epidemiology studies of NTD in Mexico border
communities
Partners: TDK, CDC, EPA/ORD
Description: The Texas Department of Health initiated a three-year case-control study of risk factors
for neural tube defects in 14 counties along the Texas-Mexico border: Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr,
Webb, Zapata, Maverick, Kinney,Val Verde, Terrell, Brewster, Presidio, Jeff Davis, Hudspeth, and
El Paso. Case mothers are identified through surveillance in the 14-county study area. The case-
control protocol includes a general questionnaire, laboratory tests of biological samples, and a food
frequency questionnaire. This study is being supported by CDC and EPA and is the third component
of a project that includes neural tube defect surveillance and a vitamin supplement program that was
initiated earlier.
A second component of this project is funding, through the Pan American Health Organization
(PAHO), of small pilot projects in environmental epidemiology of NTDs. This activity is a follow-
up to a recently completed binational workshop, during which high priority areas for PAHO's
environmental epidemiology grants program were identified.
Contacts: Federal: Sherry Selevan, EPA, (202) 260-2604
Joseph Mulinaire, CDC, (770) 488-7190
TDK: Kate Hendrix, (512) 458-7328
Project: Support of Workshops and Conferences
Purpose: Provide support for binational environmental health meetings and workshops
Partners: EPA/ORD, CDC
Description: Support is provided for major meetings and workshops that convene environmental
health and public health specialists to exchange information, set priorities, and plan collaborative
activities, for example, the U.S.-Mexico Border Health Conference.
Contact: EPA: Hal Zenick, (919) 541-2283
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Chapter II Environmental Health Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Table 2: Border XXI Environmental Health Initiatives Involving ICC Partnerships
Activity
The International
Toxicology and
Poison Center
Development
Program
Pesticide
Exposure and
Adverse Health
Effects in Young
Children Along
the U.S.-Mexico
Border
Advanced
Training in
Environmental
Health:
Developing
Human
Resources to
Support Border
21
Partners
SALUD, ECO/
PAHO/WHO
EPA/ORD, PHS,
TDK, CDHS,
NMDH, ADH,
SALUD
SALUD, PHS,
EPA/ORD,
PAHO, Border
States
Objective/Purpose
Develop Toxicology Centers in the main
border cities that will provide information
on emergency services and orientation to
the community and conduct monitoring and
health surveillance of poisonings.
Develop and implement an approach to
examine the cumulative risks in children
from persistent exposure to pesticides via
multiple sources and pathways. First year
obtain exposure data (pesticide usage) in
border region. Started 1/97.
Strengthen professionals and institutions in
the areas of environmental and clinical
toxicology, occupational health,
epidemiology, toxic substances and risk
assessment.
Environmental
Health
Objective
Addressed1
2,3,4,5
1,2,3,4,5
2,4,5
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Table 2: Border XXI Environmental Health Initiatives Involving ICC Partnerships
Activity
U.S.-Mexico
Border 21
Initiative for
Pediatric Lead
Exposure
Identification
and Risk
Reduction
Border Health
Alert and
Disease
Outbreak
Information
Exchange Using
a Guide to
Environmental
and Health
Organizations
and Internet
Bulletin Board
Partners
Texas Dept. of
Health, New
Mexico Dept. of
Health, Arizona
Dept. of Health,
California Dept.
of Health, EPA,
CDC, PAHO,
Mexico Border
States (Baja
California,
Sonora, Nuevo
Leon,
Tamaulipas,
Coahuila,
Chihuahua),
Mexican Federal
Agencies
New Mexico
Dept. of Health;
New Mexico
Environment
Dept.; California
Dept. of Health
Services;
Arizona Dept. of
Health; Texas
Dept. of Health;
Centers for
Disease Control;
PAHO; El Paso
Field Office,
EPA/ORD;
SALUD
Objective/Purpose
Document and reduce the prevalence of
childhood lead poisoning in the border
region through better source
characterization, risk communication, and
reduction of exposure and integrated risk
assessment/risk management.
1. Establish/maintain a directory of border
environmental and health organizations.
2. Enhance exchange of information among
environmental and health agencies
regarding health alerts or disease outbreaks.
3. Improve capabilities for electronic
communication between U.S. and Mexican
health and environmental agencies.
Environmental
Health
Objective
Addressed1
1,2,4,5
2,3,4,5
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Chapter II Environmental Health Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Table 2: Border XXI Environmental Health Initiatives Involving ICC Partnerships
Activity
Partners
Obj ective/Purpose
Environmental
Health
Objective
Addressed1
Assessment of
prevalence and
methods of
prevention of
anencephaly and
spina bifida in
border region
CDC, EPA/ORD,
SALUD
1. Identify and summarize existing data on
the prevalence of NTDs among
Mexican/Mexican-American populations
along the U.S.-Mexico border and selected
regions within Mexico.
2. Design and undertake projects (e.g.,
small case-control studies) that can be used
as models for developing etiologic studies
large enough to study a variety of
exposures—both common and rare.
3. Collaborate with Mexican agencies
involved in promoting the fortification of
flour and cereal grain products by
evaluating folate levels among community
populations before and after fortification is
implemented.
1,2,3,5
U.S.-Mexico
Border
Geographic
Information
System (GIS) for
Environmental
Health
CDHS, ADHS,
NMDOH,
NMED, TDK,
Univ. of Texas
School of Public
Health,
EPA/ORD, CDC,
NIEHS, HRSA,
SALUD,
Mexican Border
States
1. Identify/inventory border-related
environmental and epidemiological data in
each U.S. and Mexican state and
coordinate with existing projects using GIS
data.
2. Establish a GIS which links the
occurrence of environmentally sensitive
disease conditions (sentinel health events),
demographic factors, and the location of
potential environmental hazards and known
pollution.
3. Enable standardized and consistent bi-
national and interstate exchange of health,
environmental, and demographic data.
1,2,3,4,5
1 Objective Addressed refers to the environmental health objectives described in the Border XXI
Frame-work Document. See cover page of this section.
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Chapter II Environmental Health Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Project: The International Toxicology and Poison Center Development Program
Purpose: This proposal aims to develop and strengthen toxicology centers in the main border cities
to provide information on emergency services, an orientation to the community, and conduct
monitoring and health surveillance of poisonings
Partners: SALUD, ECO/PAHO/WHO, CSPI-West Texas Regional Poison Center
Description: The specific elements of the project include:
•Advanced training for senior Mexican clinical toxicologists in short stays in centers of excellence
in the U.S. or Canada;
•Identifying or developing, and providing basic, low-cost bibliographic resources for the multiple
Mexican institutions involved in poison control and disaster response;
•Providing advice on strengthening programs for community and physician information services and
24-hour response capabilities;
•Assisting Mexican institutions in the development of a basic package of low-cost antidotes for
emergency treatment, including a distribution mechanism. This model could subsequently be
exported to other parts of Latin America and the Caribbean;
•Promoting the use of poison control data collection in a standardized format and using these data for
surveillance of chemical hazards.
Contacts: U.S. Co-chair: Anna Maria Osorio, CDHS (510) 540-2115
Mexico Co-chair: Rosalba Rojas, SALUD 011-525-584-6745
Project: Pesticide Exposure and Adverse Health Effects in Young Children Along the U.S.
Mexico Border
Purpose: To develop and implement an approach to examine the cumulative risks in children from
persistent exposure to pesticides via multiple sources and pathways
Partners: EPA/ORD, PHS, CDC, TDK, CDHS, ADH, NMDH, SALUD
Description: For many border communities, a major concern is the risks from persistent, often year-
round, exposure to pesticides. This issue is complicated by the fact that these exposures are to
multiple pesticides from a variety of sources (land use, residential practices, etc.) via many pathways
(food, water, dust, etc.) so that the cumulative impact is unknown. Of special concern are children
since their behaviors (pica, playing in the dirt, etc.) and developmental vulnerability may substantial^
increase the risk. No standardized protocol exists to study this issue.
This project will be conducted in three phases. The first phase will include a review of existing data
and methods. All U.S. states along the U.S.-Mexico border will be included in this review. The
second phase includes initial screening of the pediatric population for evidence of pesticide exposure.
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Chapter II Environmental Health Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
The third phase will include more detailed follow-up of "high exposure" individuals and an
epidemiologic study, the design of which will be determined by the results of phases one and two and
specific disease outcomes (prevalence rates) and their hypothesized temporal relationship to
exposures.
Contact: U.S. Co-chair: H. Zenick, EPA, (919) 541-2283
Mexico Co-chair: A. Quan, SALUD, 011-525-584-6745
Project: Advanced Training in Environmental Health! Developing Human Resources to
Support Border XXI
Purpose: To strengthen environmental health capabilities of professionals and institutions in the
areas of environmental and clinical toxicology, epidemiology, occupational health and risk
assessment. Approaches include training graduate students and promoting binational faculty
exchanges and border sabbaticals.
Partners: SALUD (General Directorate of EnvironmentalHealth, National Institute of Public Health,
International Affairs), CDC, EPA/ORD, University of Texas in El Paso, PAHO
Description: This project will provide scholarships for students at border institutions to receive
graduate training at academic institutions in either the U.S. or Mexico. The project will also support
binational faculty exchanges and provide funding for border sabbaticals for faculty at U.S. and
Mexican institutions to engage in environmental health projects along the U.S.-Mexico border. The
unique feature of this initiative will be linking universities with the priority monitoring and
surveillance projects of the Interagency Coordinating Committee.
Contact: Sherry Baron, PAHO, 011-52-72-71-1092
Project: U.S.-Mexico Border XXI Initiative for Pediatric Lead Exposure Identification and
Risk Reduction
Purpose: To document and reduce the prevalence of childhood lead poisoning in the border region
through better source characterization,risk communication, and reduction of exposure and integrated
risk assessment/risk management.
Partners: TDK, NMDH, ADH, CDH, EPA, CDC, PAHO, Mexican states along the border (Baja
California, Sonora, Nuevo Leon, Tamaulipas, Coahuila, Chihuahua), and Mexican Federal Agencies
Description:
•Historical Data and Information Inventory: During the first phases of this initiative, the partners will
identify childhood lead surveillance activities and studies that have occurred previously in the border
region. Types of exposure and availability of field personnel with appropriate educational materials
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Chapter II Environmental Health Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
will be inventoried. Cost and availability of screening techniques for products containing lead, blood
lead screening, and methods for reducing lead exposure will be evaluated.
•Data Integration and Information Outreach: Information on the prevalence of childhood lead
poisoning and sources of lead exposure: The Lead Workgroup will assess the current status of lead
screening programs in each of the U.S. and Mexican states, the amount of community education that
is targeted to the border population and whether there needs to be additional efforts to screen children
who are seen in clinics along the border. It is expected that it will be necessary to increase the number
of children screened, and followed, as appropriate. In addition, it will be desirable to provide
educational materials to parents that emphasize ways to reduce lead exposure in the future.
Contact: U.S. Co-chair: Winona Victery, (415) 744-1021
Mexico Co-chair: TBN
Project: Border Health Alert and Disease Outbreak Information Exchange Using a Guide to
Environmental and Health Organizations and Internet Bulletin Board
Purpose:
•Establish and maintain a directory of border environmental and health organizations to facilitate
information exchange.
•Enhance communication efforts among environmental and health agency contact people regarding
health alerts or disease outbreaks including detailed information on the nature of disease outbreak
and/or health alert.
•Establish bulletin board capabilities, via the Internet, for public and private access to information
regarding disease outbreak and/or health alert for "official" release to the public.
•Assist the Secretariatde Salud and other Mexican government agencies in setting up e-mail accounts
and interim fax accounts to enhance emergency communications between U.S. border states and
Mexico border states.
Funding: Funding will be needed to provide technical assistance in maintaining an environmental
and health organization and resources directory and developing a bulletin board for the Internet.
Partners: NMDH, New Mexico Environment Department, CDHS, ADH, TDK, CDC, PAHO,
EPA/El Paso Field Office, FDA, SALUD
Description: Various environmental and health agencies along the border are already in the process
of developing portions of an environmental health directory for their respective states. The idea of
this project is to combine and enhance existing directories of agency contact people into a prime U.S.-
Mexico directory to environmental and health organizations and key contact people. This directory
will be updated quarterly.
Next, the directory will be used to establish an Internet address book for the U.S. border states and
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Chapter II Environmental Health Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
a fax networking system for the Mexico border states to alert contact people within environmental and
health agencies and organizationsto health problems and disease outbreaks. Finally, if a public health
alert is necessary or a disease outbreak established, information will be placed on a public bulletin
board or home page via the Internet to alert public and private entities, with complete background
information and numbers to call for reporting of new cases and questions.
Contact: U.S. Co-chair: Ken Smith, NMDE, (505) 526-3891
Mexico Co-chair: TEN
Project: Neural Tube Defect flVTD^ Assessment Along the U.S.-Mexico Border
Purpose: To document and reduce the prevalence of NTD on the Mexican side of the border and
elsewhere in Mexico through case-control and epidemiological studies and the fortification of flour
and grain food products
Partners: PHS/CDC, EPA/ORD, SALUD
Description: In the first phase, available surveillance data on NTD from U.S.-Mexico border states,
border "sister cities," and data from elsewhere in Mexico will be collected to estimate the prevalence
of NTD. "Capture-recapture"data collection techniques will be used in one or two border states such
as Chihuahua or Sonora. In the second phase, the conduct of a case-control etiologic study will be
explored in Tamaulipas. In the third phase, baseline folate intake along the U.S.-Mexico border will
be assessed using the most recent Mexico National Nutrition Survey. Community-based projects will
be undertaken to educate reproductive-age women about good dietary habits and the protective effects
of high intake folates. Blood folate levels will also be monitored in women of child-bearing age.
Project: U.S.-Mexico Border Geographic Information System for Environmental Health
Purpose:
•Identify and inventory border-related environmental and epidemiological data in each U.S. and
Mexican state and coordinate with existing proj ects using Geographic Information System (GIS) data
•Establish a GIS which links the occurrence of environmentally sensitive disease conditions (sentinel
health events), demographic factors, and the location of potential environmental hazards and known
pollution.
•Enable standardized and consistent binational and interstate exchange of health, environmental, and
demographic data.
•In the course of developing this system, identify weaknesses and biases in existing databases and
recommend steps to remedy the problems.
Funding: The California Department of Health Services, Environmental Health Investigations
Branch, has received funding from NIEHS to begin establishing a GIS in San Diego and Imperial
Counties, California. Additional funding would be needed to support activities in the other three U.S.
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Chapter II Environmental Health Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
border states, to support additional California effort to provide technical assistance to the other states,
and to assure integration of the borderwide database. We would assist at least two interested Mexican
border states in planning and costing out a GIS in those states. Preliminary support has been provided
by New Mexico and Texas to begin environmental data collection and GIS activities.
Partners: CDHS, ADH, NMDH, New Mexico Environment Department, TDH, University of Texas
School of Public Health, EPA, CDC, NIEHS, HRSA, SALUD, Mexican Border States
Description: There are a number of efforts on the borderto integrate information about air pollution,
point source emissions, ground and surface water pollution, and the location of hazardous waste sites.
The location of these potential environmental sources of contamination, along with their attribute data,
such as types and levels of pollutants, can be used for identifying potential environmental hazards and
for planning environmental health services.
While substantial environmental data have been incorporated into existing GIS, very little health data
have been merged to allow for planning public health services, for evaluating access to health
services, and for exploring links between exposures and disease. To identify sites of environmental
contamination that may be causing health problems, the spatial distribution of incident cases of
environmentally sensitive diseases (e.g., childhood asthma, hepatitis A, infant diarrheal mortality,
childhood lead poisoning, birth defects) could be compared to the spatial distributions of the
population and of environmental contaminants.
The work to be carried out in the proposed first phase of the GIS effort would be to focus on the issues
of water supply, water quality, sanitation, and enteric disease. During the initial stages, base maps,
databases on drinking water sources and sanitation, and databases with demographic "denominators"
and enteric disease incidence would be assembled in a standardized format. All these data sets must
be acquired, "cleaned," and prepared for use in a GIS system. At the end of two years, a
demonstration assessment could be made of the relation between specific enteric diseases and such
factors as per capita water consumption, water quality, and age and type of both drinking water
distribution and sanitation systems.
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Chapter II Environmental Health Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Mexican colleagues would be involved in the planning of north-of-the-border activities and would
be assisted in preparing a proposal when they were ready for an application south of the border.
Ongoing coordination of the U.S. and Mexican efforts would be facilitated by monthly phone
conferences and a yearly in-person meeting to be held before the annual Border Health Association
meeting.
Contact: U.S. Co-chair: Raymond Neutra, CDHS (510) 450-2400
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COOPERATIVE ENFORCEMENT AND COMPLIANCE
WORKGROUP
1997 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
The U.S. Co-Chair of the Cooperative Enforcement workgroup is Michael Alushin, Director of the
EPA International Enforcement and Compliance Division. The U.S. staff contact is Lawrence
Sperling (telephone: 202/564-7141; fax: 202/564-0073; address: USEPA (MC-2254-A), 401 M St.
SW, Washington, DC 20460).
The Mexican Co-Chair is Carlos SilvaMurillo, Director General of Industrial Technical Assistance,
of the Office of the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Procuraduria Federal de
Proteccion al Ambiente, or PROFEPA). The Mexican staff contact is Victor Ruben Valle Morales
(telephone: 525/294-5720; fax: 525/589-4398; address: PROFEPA, Deputy Attorney for Industrial
Verification, 1 BlvdPipilaNo. 1, Tecamachalco,Nacaulpande Juarez, Estado de Mexico, CP 53950).
Project: Cooperative Targeting
Border XXI Objectives: Continue efforts to achieve compliance with environmental requirements
hi the border area. Establish and enhance networks of cooperation among the various state, local and
federal agencies on both sides of the border involved hi environmental enforcement and compliance.
Promote the evolution of mechanisms to enhance the evaluation of compliance with environmental
law.
Funding: PROFEPA estimates that a budget of $7.5 million (USD) is required for the operation of
the inspection programs in the northern border states, between 1996 and 2000..
$40,000 of EPA FY96 funds were committed for FY 96 - 97 contract support in developing and
exploring cooperative targeting methodologies. See also: Promotion of Interagency Cooperation.
Partners: EPA, PROFEPA, state and local environmental agencies, DOJ, U.S. and Mexican Customs
Services
Description: EPA and PROFEPA will address problems in which they may coordinate their
activities within their frames of competence. The cooperative activities may be directed, for example,
at specific problems identified hi the industrial sector. To achieve the above, EPA and PROFEPA
will target efforts that will include:
1. The sharing of information held by one country which may assist the other in detecting
noncompliance with the latter's environmental regulations.
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Chapter II Cooperative Enforcement and Compliance .Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
2. The planning, programming and realization of activities necessary to assure compliance
with the laws of the respective countries.
3. When the country where the source of contamination is located considers it appropriate,
it may request from the other technical support, such as information and equipment, which the
other will provide as feasible.
Project: Enforcement Results Information-Sharing
Border XXI Objective: Develop similar systems of reporting regarding compliance and
enforcement, in accordance with the legal framework of each party. Promote the evolution of
mechanisms to enhance the evaluation of compliance with environmental law.
Funding: The cost of this activity is distributed among the other projects which implicate exchange
of information and development of reporting formats regarding compliance and enforcement. This
effort will be accomplished with EPA and PROFEPA staff time, with support of state environmental
agencies through EPA grants. See Promotion of Interagency Cooperation.
Partners: EPA, PROFEPA, state and local environmental agencies, DOJ.
Description: EPA and PROFEPA will conduct an annual exchange regarding enforcement activities
in the border zone, for which it will be necessary to define the type of information and the format in
which it will be presented.
To complement this, EPA and PROFEPA will consider, in specific cases, sharing information
regarding the nature and severity of the violations detected and the sanctions imposed. It will be
necessary to define the criteria needed to determine the specific cases.
Project: Training
Border XXI Objectives: Continue efforts to achieve compliance with environmental requirements
in the border area, particularly through institutionalized national training programs. Establish and
enhance networks of cooperation among the various state, local, and federal agencies on both sides
of the border involved in environmental enforcement and compliance.
Funding: EPA has committed $90,000 of FY96 funds and $20,000 of FY97 funds for contract
support, plus support from states and regional environmental enforcement associations funded by EPA
through grants and cooperative agreements (see "Promotion of Interagency Cooperation). In the area
of hazardous waste enforcement, the Enforcement Work Group will work jointly with the Hazardous
Waste Work to organize specific courses or workshops. The approximate cost to Mexico for carrying
out this activity is calculated to be $100,000 USD between 1996 and 2000.
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Chapter II Cooperative Enforcement and Compliance Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Partners: EPA, PROFEPA, regional environmental enforcement associations, state and local
environmental agencies, U.S. and Mexican Customs, DOT, DOJ, SCT, CNA, CICOPLAFEST, Cal-
DTSC, San Diego County Environmental Health Department, ADEQ, NMED, TNRCC..
Description:
A. Transboundary Hazardous Waste Shipment Compliance Training for Customs and
Environmental Inspectors
EPA and PROFEPA will continue to work together to deliver this course at the primary
customs facilities established along the U.S./Mexico border. Goals will include involving
inspectors on both sides of the border as instructors, and promoting cooperative interaction
among customs and environmental inspectors from both countries.
Time frame: Provide courses in a systematic manner.
B. Training to Detect Possible CFC Smuggling
EPA and PROFEPA will develop and deliver courses for environmental inspectors and
customs agents of both countries to detect possible illegal shipments of CFCs.
Time frame: Provide courses in a systematic manner.
C. Multimedia Inspector Training
EPA, PROFEPA will continue training inspectors with participation of instructors from
PROFEPA, and the next courses will include water quality inspection information.
Time frame: Provide courses in a systematic manner, by September 1997
D. Principles of Environmental Enforcement Workshop
EPA and PROFEPA will explore additional presentations of this workshop in one or more
border states of northern Mexico, integrating previous participants as workshop facilitators.
Time frame: Provide courses in a systematic manner, by October, 1997.
E. Field Investigations and Sampling
In cooperation with the Hazardous Waste Workgroup, EPA and PROFEPA will explore the
development of workshops or courses in the conduct of field investigation and taking of
samples.
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Chapter II Cooperative Enforcement and Compliance 1997 Implementation Plan
Time Frame: Initiate pilot training by December 31,1997.
Project: Technical and Legal Consultations
Border XXI Objectives: Continue efforts to achieve compliance with environmental requirements
in the border area. Establish and enhance networks of cooperation among the various agencies
involved in environmental enforcement and compliance. Develop similar systems of reporting
regarding enforcement and compliance, within the legal framework of each party. Promote evolution
of mechanisms to enhance evaluation of compliance with environmental law. Promote pollution
prevention as a mechanism for solving compliance problems.
Funding: EPA and PROFEPA relying primarily on in-house personnel, supplemented by $55,000
in funding pursuant to a cooperative agreement. State and regional environmental enforcement
association participation to be assisted through EPA grants. See "Promotion of Interagency
Cooperation". PROFEPA estimates its cost for this activity to be $300,000 USD.
Partners: EPA, PROFEPA, DOJ, state environmental agencies and regional environmental
enforcement associations.
Description:
A. Policies regarding enforcement of the environmental laws and regulations
EPA and PROFEPA will hold a follow up conference for technical and legal enforcement
personnel of the Mexican and U.S. governments considering legal and technical aspects
involved in enforcing their environmental laws and regulations.
Time frame: By October, 1997.
B. Calculation of Economic Sanctions
EPA and PROFEPA exchanged information used to determine the amount of sanctions for
infractions of the law. EPA and PROFEPA will initiate consultations regarding
methodologies of both countries in calculating economic sanctions in enforcement cases,
taking into account the benefit to the violator of non-compliance.
Time frame: Consultations to conclude before December 31, 1997.
C. Criminal Environmental Enforcement
EPA and PROFEPA will continue consultations regarding criminal environmental law
enforcement.
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Chapter II Cooperative Enforcement and Compliance Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
Time frame: Ongoing.
Project: Case-Specific Investigations
Border XXI Objectives: Continue efforts to achieve compliance with environmental requirements
in the border area. Establish and enhance networks of cooperation among the various agencies
involved in environmental enforcement and compliance; promote the establishment of subgroups for
each geographic region, to enhance multi-agency binational cooperation and identify priorities for
regional enforcement cooperation; promote the participation of the representatives of the different
competent agencies, through the coordinators of the border subgroups, to explore solutions to specific
environmental problems.
Funding: EPA and PROFEPA relying on in-house personnel. State and local agency participation
to be assisted through EPA grants. See "Promotion of Interagency Cooperation". PROFEPA
estimates the cost for the operation of this project to be $62,500 USD, between 1996 and 2000.
Partners: EPA, PROFEPA, DOJ, state and local environmental agencies, United States Attorneys,
U.S. and Mexican Customs.
Description:
A. Case-by-case Cooperation
EPA and PROFEPA will continue to cooperate in specific enforcement cases, including the
participation of the existing regional subgroups.
Time frame: Ongoing
B. Protocol for Cooperation in Investigations
In cooperation with the Hazardous Waste Workgroup, EPA and PROFEPA will explore the
possibility of establishing a protocol for cooperation in the development of evidence for
enforcement cases of each country, including exchange of information, sampling and analysis,
and provision of legal testimony to give basis to legal proceedings.
Time frame: EPA and PROFEPA have begun to identify issues to be addressed and process for
negotiating.
Project: Promotion of Interagencv Cooperation
Border XXI Objectives: Continue efforts to achieve compliance with environmental requirements
in the border area. Establish and enhance networks of cooperation among the various agencies
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Chapter II Cooperative Enforcement and Compliance 1997 Implementation Plan
involved in environmental enforcement and compliance; promote the establishment of subgroups for
each geographic region, to enhance multi-agency binational cooperation and identify priorities for
regional enforcement cooperation; promote the participation of the representatives of the different
competent agencies, through the coordinators of the border subgroups, to explore solutions to specific
environmental problems.
Funding: EPA provided $325,000 in FY 96 and $295,000 in FY 97 funds in direct grants to state
agencies and $20,000 in FY 96 and $20,000 in FY 97 in cooperative agreement funding to regional
environmental enforcement associations to support border area enforcement activities. PROFEPA
estimates that the approximate cost of this project will be $37,500 USD, between 1996 and 2000.
Partners: EPA, PROFEPA, CNA, DOJ, U.S. and Mexican Customs, DOT, SCT, U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service, state and local environmental and public health agencies, state Attorneys General.
Description: EPA and PROFEPA will work to improve the coordinationamong the state and federal
agencies on both sides of the border involved in enforcement of environmental legislation, in
accordance with the attributes which have been conferred to them and their resources. To facilitate
these efforts, EPA and PROFEPA have established regional subgroups for Texas/New
Mexico/Chihuahua,California/BajaCalifornia,andtherecentlyrecognizedArizona/Sonorasubgroup,
and will analyze the possibility of creating of additional subgroups, in accordance with the
availability of human and financial resources. The Mexican and U.S. Sections of IBWC and the
National Water Commission (CNA) will be invited to participate in the Cooperative Enforcement
Strategy Workgroup's efforts. The workgroup will work with the Hazardous Waste Workgroup to
improve field coordination of customs officials of both countries, and will develop multi agency task
forces to ensure compliance with the regulations regarding transboundary shipments.
Project: Environmental Auditing and Voluntary Compliance
Border XXI Objectives: Encourage voluntary compliance by industry, through strategies such as
environmental auditing and the use of clean technologies and less-contaminating raw materials, as a
complement to a strong program of law enforcement. Promote pollution prevention as a mechanism
for solving compliance problems. Promote public participation within the legal framework of each
party..
Funding: $85,000 in EPA FY96 funds and $20,000 in FY 97 for contract support. PROFEPA
estimates that the approximate cost of this program would be $ 100,000 USD, between 1996 and 2000.
Partners: EPA, PROFEPA, state and local environmental agencies, regional environmental
enforcement networks, industry trade associations.
Description:
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Chapter II Cooperative Enforcement and Compliance Workgroup 1997 Implementation Plan
A. Industry Outreach/Promotion
EPA and PROFEPA will continue the efforts initiated in 1994 to provide information to U.S.
parent corporations of Mexican industries regarding, and stimulate their participation in,
PROFEPA's environmental auditing program. EPA and PROFEPA will expand their
coordinated efforts to promote voluntary compliance in industrial sectors, including by means
of environmental auditing and the adoption of pollution prevention practices and technologies
as solutions to problems of compliance. Such efforts will include industry seminars and
workshops to promote environmental auditing.
Time frame: Ongoing. EPA sent letters to 31 U.S. parent corporations of maquiladoras
encouraging participation in PROFEPA's voluntary environmental audit program in May
1995, and sent a second round of letters to 200 additional U.S. parent corporations in July
1996. At PROFEPA's request, EPA also sent letters to 70 parent corporations of
maquiladoras located in Chihuahua in March 1996, encouraging voluntary compliance with
Mexico's regulations governing transboundary shipments of hazardous waste.
B. Production of Video on Pollution Prevention and Compliance
In coordination with the Pollution Prevention Work Group, EPA will complete in 1997
production of video, "Environmental Auditing and Pollution Prevention: Strategies for
Voluntary Compliance in the Maquiladora Industry". The video will include a focus on
environmental auditing as a tool to assure compliance and identify pollution prevention
opportunities. EPA and PROFEPA will discuss possible uses of the video in compliance
promotion efforts.
Time frame: Final revisions and distribution of video in 1997 subject to allocation of
adequate resources.
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DIRECTORY OF CONTACTS
National Coordinators
U.S.
William A Nitze
Assistant Administrator
Office of International Activities
U.S.EPA
1300 Pennsylvania Ave., NW
Washington, DC 20004
phone: (202) 564-6600
fax: (202) 564-2407
Contact:
Pam Teel
phone:
fax:
e-mail:
(202) 564-6424
(202) 565-2412
teel.pam@epamail.epa.gov
Mexico
Jose Luis Samaniego Leyva
Coordinador de Asuntos Internacionales
SEMARNAP
Periferico Sur 4209, Fracc. Jardines en la Montana
14210, Tlalpan, DF
phone: (525) 628-0650
fax: (525) 628-0653
Contacts:
Abraham Nehmad or Javier Warman
phone: (525) 628-0652
fax: (525) 628-0653
U.S. EPA Environmental Attache Office - U.S. Embassy, Paseo de la Reforma 305, 0655 Mexico, D.F.
Contact: Karen Danart - phone: (525) 209-9100, ext. 3595, fax: (525) 208-6541
BORDER XXI WORKGROUP CO-CHAIRS AND CONTACTS
Natural Resources Workgroup
U.S.
Co-chair:
Susan Lieberman
Department of the Interior
MIB 4429
1849 C Street NW
Washington, DC 20240
phone: (202) 208-5160
Mexico
Co-chair:
Javier de la Masa
Coordinador de Areas Naturales Protegidas
INE-SEMARNAP
Ave. Revolution 1425
Colonia Tlacopac, San Angel
Delegacion Alvaro Obregon
Mexico, DF CP 01040
phone: (525) 624-3334
Contacts:
Celia Pigueron or Pia Gallina
INE-SEMARNAP
phone: (525) 624-3338
Ave. Revolucionl425
Colonia Tlacopac, San Angel
Delegacion Alvaro Obregon
Mexico, DF CP 01040
phone: (525) 624-3336, or -3338
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Directory of Contacts
Water Workgroup
U.S.
Co-chair:
William Hathaway
Director, Water Quality Protection Division
U.S.EPA - Region 6 (6-WQ)
1445 Ross Avenue, Suite 1200
Dallas, TX 75202-2733
Contacts:
Oscar Cabra
U.S.EPA - Region 6 (6-WQ)
1445 Ross Avenue, Suite 1200
Dallas, TX 75202-2733
phone: (214) 665-2718
fax: (214) 665-2191
e-mail: cabra.oscar@epamail.epa.gov
Doug Eberhardt (U.S. EPA Region 9)
phone: (415) 744-1280
e-mail: eberhardt.doug@epamail.epa.gov
Mexico
Co-chair:
Ing. Prospero Ortega
Subdirector General de Construccidn
CNA
Insurgentes Sur No. 2140, ler piso
Colonia Ermita, San Angel
Mexico, DF CP 01070
phone: (525) 661-6060 or 237-4074
fax: (525) 237-4132
Contact:
Ing. Jaime Tinoco Rubi
Coordinador de Asuntos Fronterizos
CNA
Insurgentes Sur 1806
Mezzanine
Colonia Florida
Mexico, DF CP 01030
phone: (525) 229-8650, -8651, or -8652
fax: (525) 229-8353
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Directory of Contacts
Environmental Health Workgroup
U.S.
Co-chairs:
Hal Zenick
U.S. EPA (87)
National Health and Environmental Effects
Research Laboratory
Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
phone: (919) 541-2283
fax: (919) 541-4201
Richard Walling.
Director, Office of the Americas and the Middle
East
Office of International and Refugee Health
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Room 18-75, Parklawn Building
Rockville, MD 20857
phone: (301) 443-4010
fax: (301) 443-6288
e-mail: rwalluig@osophs.ssw.dhhs.gov
Contacts:
David Otto, Ph.D.
National Health and Environmental Effects
Research Laboratory
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (MD-87)
Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
phone: (919) 541-0479
fax: (919) 541-4201
e-mail: anderson@herl45.herl.epa.gov
Liam O' Fallen
Office of International and Refugee Health
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Rockville, MD 20857
phone: (301) 443-4010
fax: (301) 443-4549
Mexico
Co-chairs:
Dr. Gustavo Olaiz Fernandez
Director General de Salud Ambiental
Secretaria de Salud
San Luis Potosi No. 192, Piso 4
Colonia Roma
Mexico, DF CP 06700
phone: (525) 584-6529 or -6745
fax: (525) 584-5260
Adrian Fernandez Bremauntz
Director General de Gestion e Information
Ambiental
INE-SEMARNAP
Ave. Revolution 1425
Colonia Tlacopac, San Angel
Delegation Alvaro Obregon
Mexico, DF CP 01040
phone: (525)624-3456
fax: (525) 624-3584
Contact:
Dr. Rosalba Rojas
Secretaria de Salud
San Luis Potosi No. 192, Piso 4
Colonia Roma,
Mexico, DF CP 06700
phone: (525) 584-6160
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Directory of Contacts
Air Workgroup
U.S.
Co-chair:
David Howekamp
Division Director
Air Division
U.S. EPA- Region 9 (A-l)
75 Hawthorne Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
Contacts:
Gerardo Rios
U.S. EPA- Region 9 (A-l)
75 Hawthorne Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
phone: (415) 744-1283
fax: (415) 744-1072
e-mail: rios.gerardo@epamail.epa.gov
Mathew Witosky
U.S. EPA -Region 6 (6-WQ)
1445 Ross Avenue, Suite 1200
Dallas, TX 75202-2733
phone: (214) 665-8015
e-mail: witosky.mathew@epmail.epa.gov
Mexico
Co-chair:
Adrian Fernandez Bremauntz
Director General de Gestion e Informacion
Ambiental
INE-SEMARNAP
Ave. Revolucion 1425
Colonia Tlacopac, San Angel
Delegacion Alvaro Obreg6n
Mexico, DF CP 01040
phone: (525) 624-3456
fax: (525) 624-3584
Contact:
Dr. Victor Hugo Paramo
Director de Administracion de la Calidad del Aire
INE-SEMARNAP
Ave. Revolucion 1425
Colonia Tlacopac, San Angel
Delegacion Alvaro Obregon
Mexico, DF CP 01040
phone: (525) 624-3450 or-3451
fax: (525) 624-3584 or -3469
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Directory of Contacts
Hazardous and Solid Waste Workgroup
U.S.
Co-chair:
Jeff Scott
Deputy Division Director
Waste Management Division
U.S. EPA- Region 9 (H-2)
75 Hawthorne Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
Contacts:
Heidi Hall
U.S. EPA- Region 9 (H-2)
75 Hawthorne Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
phone: (415) 744-1284
fax: (415) 744-1072
e-mail: hall.heidi@epamail.epa.gov
Bonnie Romo
U.S. EPA -Region 6 (6-WQ)
1445 Ross Avenue, Suite 1200
Dallas, TX 75202-2733
phone: (214) 665-8323
fax: (214) 665-7446
e-mail: romo.bonnie@epamail.epa.gov
Mexico
Co-chair:
Jorge Sanchez Gomez
Director General Materiales, Residues y
Actividades Riesgosas
INE-SEMARNAP
Ave. Revolucion 1425, Nivel 12
Colonia Campestre, San Angel
Delegacio Alvaro Obregon
Mexico, DF CP 01040
Contact:
Ing. Luis Wolf
INE
Ave. Revolucion 1425, Nivel 12
Colonia Campestre, San Angel
Delegacion Alvaro Obregon
Mexico, DF CP 01040
phone: (525) 624-3423
fax: (525) 624-3586
e-mail: rtn@0488crtn.net.mx
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Directory of Contacts
Contingency Planning and Emergency Response Workgroup
U.S.
Co-chair:
Jim Makris
U.S. EPA (5101)
401 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20460
phone: (202) 260-8600
fax: (202) 260-7906
e-mail: makris.jim@epamail.epa.gov
Contacts:
Kim Jennings
U.S. EPA (5101)
401 M Street, SW
Washington, D.C. 20460
phone: (202) 260-5046
fax: (202) 260-7906
e-mail: jennings.kim@epamail.epa.gov
Fendol Chiles (EPA Region 6)
phone: (214) 665-2283
Kathleen Shimmin (EPA Region 9)
phone: (415) 744-2216
Mexico
Co-chair:
Eduardo Jimenez Lopez
Director General de Planeacion y Coordination
Procuraduria Federal de Proteccion al Ambiente
Periferico Sur 5000, Piso4
Colonia Insurgentes Cuicuilco
Mexico, DF CP 04530
phone: (525) 528-5482, or -5483
fax: (525) 666-9452
Contact:
Jaime E. Garcfa Sepiilveda
Director of Clasificaciqn de Zonas de Riesgo
Ambiental
Procuraduria Federal de Proteccion al Ambiente
Periferico Sur 5000, Piso 4
Colonia Insurgentes Cuccilco
Mexico, DF CP 04530
phone: (525) 666-9450
fax: (525) 666-9452
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Directory of Contacts
Environmental Information Resources Workgroup
U.S.
Co-chair:
Nora McGee
U.S. EPA - Region 9 (P-l)
75 Hawthorne Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
e-mail: mcgee.nora@epamail.epa.gov
Contacts:
Carmen Maso
U.S. EPA - Region 9 (P-5-2)
75 Hawthorne Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
phone: (415) 744-1750
fax: (415) 744-1474
e-mail: maso.carmen@epamail.epa.gov
David Parrish (EPA Region 6)
phone: (214) 665-8352
e-mail: parrish.david@epamail.epa.gov
Mexico
Co-chair
Adrian Fernandez Bremauntz
Director General de Gestion e Informacidn
Ambiental
INE-SEMARNAP
Ave. Revolucion 1425
Colonia Tlacopac, San Angel
Delegacion Alvaro Obregon
Mexico, DF CP 01040
phone: (525) 624-3456
fax: (525) 624-3584
Contact:
Rolando Rlos Aguilar
Director de Informacion Ambiental
INE-SEMARNAP
Ave. Revolucion 1425
Colonia Tlacopac, San Angel
Delegacion Alvaro Obregon
Mexico, DF CP 01040
phone: (525) 624-3454
Pollution Prevention Workgroup
Co-chairs:
Sam Coleman
Director, Compliance Assurance
and Enforcement Division
U.S.EPA - Region 6 (6-EN)
1445 Ross Avenue, Suite 1200
Dallas, TX 75202-2733
Contacts:
Joy Tibuni
U.S.EPA - Region 6 (6EN-XP)
1445 Ross Avenue, Suite 1200
Dallas, TX 75202-2733
phone: (214) 665-8036
Chris Reiner (EPA Region 9)
phone: (415) 744-2096
e-mail: reuier.chris@epamail.epa.gov
Mexico
Co-chair:
Adrian Fernandez Bremauntz
Director General de Gestion e Informacion
Ambiental
INE-SEMARNAP
Ave. Revolucion 1425
Colonia Tlacopac, San Angel
Delegacion Alvaro Obregon
Mexico, DF CP 01040
phone: (525) 624-3456
fax: (525) 624-3584
Contact:
Luis Sanchez Catano
INE-SEMARNAP
Ave. Revolucion 1425
Colonia Tlacopac, San Angel
Delegacion Alvaro Obreg6n
Mexico, DF CP 01040
phone: (525) 624-3570
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Directory of Contacts
Cooperative Enforcement and Compliance Workgroup
ILS.
Co-chair:
Michael Alushin
Director of the EPA International Enforcement and
Compliance Division
U.S.EPA (MC-2254-A)
401 M Street SW
Washington, DC 20460
Contacts:
Lawrence Sperling
U.S.EPA (MC-2254-A)
401 M Street SW
Washington, DC 20460
phone: (202) 564-7141
fax: (202) 564-0073
Efren Ordonez (EPA Region 6)
phone: (214) 665-2181
e-mail: ordonez.efren@epamail.epa.gov
John Rothman (EPA Region 9)
phone: (415) 744-1353
e-mail: rothman.john@epamail.epa.gov
Mexico
Co-chair:
Carlos Silva Murillo
Director General de Asistencia Tecnica e Industrial
Procuradurfa Federal de Proteccidn al Ambiente
Subprocuraduria de Verificacidn Normativa
Blvd Pipila No. 1,
Tecamachalco Nacaulpan
Mexico, CP 53950
Contact:
Victor Valle
Procuradurfa Federal de Proteccion al Ambiente
Subprocuraduria de Verificacion Normativa
Blvd Pipila No. 1,
Tecamachalco Nacaulpan
Mexico, CP 53950
phone: (525) 294-5720
fax: (525) 589-4398
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Directory of Contacts
REGIONAL CONTACTS FOR THE UNITED STATES
EPA Regional Offices
Gina Weber
U.S.-Mexico Border Coordinator
U.S.EPA Region 6 (6-XA)
1445 Ross Avenue, Suite 1200
Dallas, TX 75202-2733
phone: (214) 665-2200
fax: (214) 665-6490
e-mail: weber.gina@epamail.epa.gov
Wendy Laird-Benner
U.S.-Mexico Border Coordinator
U.S.EPA Region 9 (RA)
75 Hawthorne Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
phone: (415)744-1168
fax: (415) 744-1072
e-mail: laird-benner. wendy@epamail. epa. gov
EPA Border Offices
Marvin Waters
Director
El Paso U.S-Mexico Border Liaison Office
EPA Region 6
4050 Rio Bravo, Suite 100
El Paso, TX 79902
phone: (915) 533-7273 or (800) 334-0741
Lorena Lopez
Director
San Diego U.S-Mexico Border Liaison Office
EPA Region 9
610 West Ash Street
Suite 703
San Diego, CA 92101
phone: (619) 235-4768 or (800) 334-0741
fax: (619)235-4771
e-mail: lopez.lorena@epamail.epa.gov
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GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS
Acuerdo de Cooperacion Ambiental del Norte (see NAAEC)
Arizona Department of Environmental Quality
Arizona Department of Health Services
Arizona Department of Water Resources
Arizona Game and Fish Department
U.S. Agency for International Development
Agriculture Pest Health Inspection Service
Arizona State University
Agency for Toxic Substance and Disease Registry
Banco para el Desarollo de America del Norte (see NADBank)
Bulletin Board System
Border Environment Cooperation Commission (see COCEF)
Border Health Office
Bureau of Land Management
Best Management Practices
Bureau of Reclamation
Biological Resources Division of USGS
California Department of Toxic Substances Control
Computer aided Management of Emergency Operations
California Air Resources Board
Comision de Cooperacion Ambiental de America del Norte
(see CEC)
Comite Consultivo Publico Conjunto de la CCA (see JPAC)
Centers for Disease Control
California Department of Fish and Game
California Department of Health Services
Comision Estatal de Aguas y Saneamiento de Coahuila
(Coahuila State Commission for Water and Sanitation)
Commission for Environmental Cooperation (see CCA)
Council on Environmental Quality
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and
Liability Act Information System
Centre Ecologico de Sonora (Sonora Ecological Center)
Comite Estatal de Servicios Publicos de Mexicali (State
Committee for Public Services of Mexicali)
Chlorofluorocarbons
Cooperative Fisheries Program
U.S.-Mexico Information Center on Air Pollution
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Glossary Of Abbreviations
Plaguicidas, Fertilizantes y Subtancias Toxicas
(Interagency Commission for Control of Pesticides,
Fertilizers and Toxic Substances)
CICTUS Centre de Investigaciones Cientificas y Tecnologicas (Center
for Scientific and Technological Research)
CIDESON Centro de Investigation y Desarollo de Sonora (Sonora Center
for Research and Development)
CIESIN Consortium for International Earth Sciences Information
Network
CILA Comision Internacional de Limites y Aguas (see IBWC)
CITES Convention on International Trade for Endangered Species
CLAM Comite Local para Ayuda Mutua (Local Committee for Mutual
Assistance)
CNA Comision Nacional de Agua (National Water Commission)
CO Carbon monoxide
CO APES Comision de Agua Potable y Alcantarillado del Estado de
Sonora (Sonora State Commission for Drinking Water and
Sewers)
COCEF Comision de Cooperacion Ecologico Fronterizo (see BECC)
COLEF El Colegio de la Frontera Norte (College of the Northern
Border)
CONABIO Comision Nacional para el Conocimiento y Uso de la
Biodiversidad (National Commission for Knowledge and Use
of Biodiversity)
CONACYT Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnologia (National Advisory
Council for Science and Technology)
COSAE Comision de Servicios de Agua del Estado de Baja California
(Water Utilities Commission for the State of Baja California)
CWS Canadian Wildlife Service
DEM Digital elevation model
DFG Department of Fish and Game (California)
DGPS Differential Geographic Positioning System
DIAAPROY Diseno, Asesoria, y Administracion de Proyectos, S.A. de C.V.
(Project Design, Assistance, and Management, Inc.)
DLG Digital line graph
DOC U.S. Department of Commerce
DOD U.S. Department of Defense
DOE U.S. Department of Energy
DOI U.S. Department of Interior
DOJ U.S. Department of Justice
DOQ Digital ortho-quadrangles
DOS U.S. Department of State
179
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Glossary Of Abbreviations
DOT U.S. Department of Transportation
DRGs Digital raster graphics
DUMAC Ducks Unlimited de Mexico, A.C.
EDF Environmental Defense Fund
EJ Environmental Justice
EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
EPA/OW U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Office of Water
EPA R6 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Region 6
EPA R9 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Region 9
EPCCHED El Paso City and County Health and Environment Department
EPOMEX Programa de Ecologia, Pesca, y Oceanografia del Golfo de
Mexico (Gulf of Mexico Program for Ecology, Fisheries, and
Oceanography)
FCC U.S. Field Coordinating Committee (DOI)
FDA Food and Drug Administration
FONSI Finding of No Significant Impact
FWS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
FY Fiscal Year
GCD Grupo Coordinador Estatal del Proyecto de Descentralizacion
(State Coordinating Group for the Decentralization Project)
GGA Grupo de Gestion Ambiental Estatal (State Environmental
Management Group)
GIS Geographical Information Systems
GNEB Good Neighbor Environmental Board
GPS Global Positioning System
HAZTRAKS Hazardous Waste Tracking System
HHS U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
HMMD County of San Diego - Hazardous Materials Management
Division
HRSA Health Resources and Services Administration
HUD U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
IB Institute de Biologia, UNAM (Biology Institute, UNAM)
IBEP Integrated Border Environmental Plan, Integrated
Environmental Plan for the U.S.-Mexico Border Area, First
Stage (1992-94) (see PIAF)
IBWC International Boundary and Water Commission (see CILA)
ICC Interagency Coordinating Committee
ICMA International City/County Management Association
IID Imperial Irrigation District
IMADES Institute del Medio Ambiente y el Desarollo Sustentable del
Estado de Sonora (State of Sonora Institute for the
Environment and Sustainable Development) -
180
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Glossary Of Abbreviations
formed through
CES
IMSS
the joining of CIDESON and
Institute Mexicano del Seguro Social (Mexican Institute for
Social Security)
INAH Institute Nacional de Antropologia e Historia (National
Institute for Anthropology and History Inc. Incorporated (see
S.A. de C.V.)
INE Institute Nacional de Ecologia (National Institute for Ecology)
INEGI Institute Nacional de Estadistica, Geografia, e Informatica
(National Institute for Statistics, Geography, and Information)
INIFAP Institute Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales, Agricola y
Pecuaria (National Institute for Investigations of Forests,
Agriculture and Livestock)
INP Institute Nacional de Pesca (National Institute of Fisheries)
ISO 14000 International Standards Organization 14000 (14000 is a series
of standards on environmental management)
ISSSTE Institute de Seguridad Social y Servicios para los Trabajadores
del Estado (Institute for Social Security & Services for State
Workers)
ITESM Institute Tecnologico de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey
(Technology Institute of Superior Studies of Monterrey)
IWMB Integrated Waste Management Board
IWRC Iowa Waste Reduction Center
IWTP International Wastewater Treatment Plant
JCP Joint Contingency Plan
JMAS Junta Municipal de Alcantarillado y Saneamiento de Ciudad
Juarez (Sewer and Sanitation Municipal Authority for
Ciudad
Juarez)
JPAC Joint Public Advisory Committee for the CEC (see CCPC)
JRT Joint Response Team
LEPC Local Emergency Planning Committee
LIDAR Light, intensity, distancing, and ranging
LOI Letter of intent
LPs Liters per second
MEXUS MOU on fisheries investigation between Mexico and the U.S.
for the Gulf of Mexico and the Pacific Ocean
MMS U.S. Minerals Mines Service
MOU Memorandum of Understanding
NAAEC North American Agreement on Environmental Cooperation (see
ACAAN)
NAAQS National Ambient Air Quality Standards
181
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Glossary Of Abbreviations
NADBank North American Development Bank (see BAND AN)
NAFTA North American Free Trade Agreement (see TLC)
NAS National Audubon Society
NASQAN National Stream Quality Accounting Network
NAWCC North American Waterfowl Conservation Commission
NAWQAP National Water Quality Assessment Program
NBEP Northern Border Environmental Program (see PAFN)
NBII National Biological Information Infrastructure
NGO Nongovernmental organization
NIEHS National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
NIH National Institute of Health
NIWTP Nogales International Wastewater Treatment Plant
NJDEP New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
NMBHO New Mexico Border Health Office
NMDFG New Mexico Department of Fish and Game
NMDOH New Mexico Department of Health
NMED New Mexico Environment Department
NMFS National Marine Fisheries Service
NM-GIC New Mexico Geographic Information Council
NMSU New Mexico State University
NOAA U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NOS U.S. National Ocean Service
NOx Oxides of Nitrogen
NPS National Park Service
NRCS U.S. Department of Agriculture - Natural Resources
Conservation Service
NTDs Neural tube defects
NWR National Wildlife Refuge
O3 Ozone
OCRM Ocean and Coastal Resource Management
ONG Organizaciones no Gubernamentales (see NGO)
OPS Organizacion Panamericana para la Salud (see PAHO)
OWM Office of Wastewater Management
P2 Pollution Prevention/Prevencion de la Contaminacion
PAFN Programa Ambiental de la Frontera Norte (see NBEP)
PAH Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon
PAHO Pan American Health Organization (see OPS)
Pb Lead
PCS Permit and Compliance System
PEMEX Petroleos Mexicanos (Mexican Petroleum Company)
PHS Public Health Service
PM-10 Particulate matter (size = less than 10 microns)
182
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Glossary Of Abbreviations
PND Plan Nacional de Desarollo (Mexico's National Development
Plan)
PROFAUNA Asociacion para la Proteccion de la Fauna, A.C. (Association
for the Protection of Wildlife)
PROFEPA Procuraduria Federal de Proteccion al Ambiente (Federal
Attorney General for Environmental Protection)
PRTR Pollution Release and Transfer Registry
PSU Pennsylvania State University
QA/QC Quality Assurance/Quality Control
RMRS Rocky Mountain Research Station
RTP Research Triangle Park ^
RWQCB Regional Water Quality Control Board
S.A. de C.V. Sociedad Anonima de Capital Variable(see Inc.)
SAGAR Secretaria de Agricultura, Ganaderia, y Desarollo Rural
(Mexican Secretariat for Agriculture, Cattle, and Rural
Development)
SAHOPE Secretaria de Asentamientos Humanos y Obras Publicas del
Estado (Baja California State Secretariat for Human Housing
and Public Works)
SARH Secretaria de Agricultura y Recursos Hidraulicos (Mexican
Secretariat for Agriculture and Hydraulic Resources)
SCT Secretaria de Comunicaciones y Transportes (Mexican
Secretariat of Communication and Transportation)
SCERP Southwest Center for Environmental Research and Policy
SE Secretariat of Energy
SDSU San Diego State University
SEAGO Southeastern Arizona Governments Organization
SEDESOL Secretaria de Desarollo Social (Mexico's Secretary for Social .
Development)
SEDUE Secretaria de Desarollo Urbano y Ecologia (Mexican Secretary
for Urban Development and Ecology)
SEMARNAP Secretaria de Medio Ambiente Recursos Naturales y Pesca
(Mexico's Secretary for the Environment, Natural Resources,
and Fisheries)
SFFS Subsecretaria Forestal y de la Fauna Silvestre (Subsecretariat
for Forestry and Wildlife)
SIP State Implementation Plan
SIUE Secretaria de Infraestructura Urbana y Ecologia, Sonora
(Secretary for Urban Infrastructure and Ecology, Sonora)
SO2 Sulfur dioxide
SRE Secretaria de Relaciones Exteriores - (Mexico's Secretariat for
External Affairs)
183
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