Summary of the Meeting of the
National Environmental Justice
Advisory Council
A Federal Advisory Committee
Washington, D.f.
July 25-26, 1995
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CONTENTS
Section Page
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ES-1
1.0 INTRODUCTION 1
2.0 OPENING REMARKS 2
2.1 ORIENTATION OF NEW MEMBERS 3
2.2 REMARKS OF THE NEJAC CHAIRMAN 4
2.3 INTRODUCTION OF NEJAC MEMBERS 4
2.4 GENERAL HOUSEKEEPING . 5
2.5 REMARKS OF THE EPA ADMINISTRATOR 6
3.0 STATUS OF EJ ACTIVITIES IN EPA OFFICES 8
3.1 OFFICE OF ENFORCEMENT AND COMPLIANCE ASSURANCE 8
3.2 OFFICE OF PREVENTION, PESTICIDES, AND TOXIC SUBSTANCES .... 10
3.3 OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT 12
3.4 OFFICE OF GENERAL COUNSEL 13
3.5 OFFICE OF AIR AND RADIATION 14
3.6 OFFICE OF SOLID WASTE AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE 15
3.7 OFFICE OF WATER 17
4.0 PRESENTATIONS 17
4.1 PRESENTATIONS ON J.ULY 25, 1995 . 17
4.1.1 Implementation of Executive Order 12898, EJ Guidance for the
National Environmental Policy Act, and Other Issues 17
4.1.2 Using EJ to Address the Crisis in the Urban Environment:
Brownfields Initiative Trips - 19
4.1.3 New Legal Guidelines for the NEJAC 21
4.1.4 Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 . . . 22
4.1.5 Community-Based Environmental Protection 24
4.2 PRESENTATIONS ON JULY 26, 1995 25
4.2.1 Demonstration of the LandView II Satellite Mapping System 25
4.2.2 Information Resources Management Strategic Plan 26
5.0 STATUS OF EJ ACTIVITIES IN EPA REGIONS 27
5.1 REGION 1 27
5.2 REGION 2 27
5.3 REGION 3 27
5.4 REGION 4 27
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CONTENTS (continued)
Section Page
5.5 REGION 5 '. 28
5.6 REGION 6 29
5.7 REGION 7 30
5.8 REGION 8 31
5.9 REGION 9 31
5.10 REGION 1.0 32
5.11 GENERAL COMMENTS ON PRESENTATIONS OF REGIONAL EJ
COORDINATORS 33
6.0 EXECUTIVE ORDER ACTIVITIES 34
6.1 EPA'S ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE STRATEGY AND
IMPLEMENTATION PLAN 34
6.2 . STATUS OF THE INTERAGENCY WORKING GROUP ON
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE 35
7.0 STATUS OF THE OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE 36
8.0 SUBCOMMITTEES OF THE NEJAC : 37
8.1 ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF SUBCOMMITTEES 37
8.1.1 Health and Research Subcommittee 37
8.1.2 Enforcement Subcommittee . 38
8.1.3 Waste and Facility Siting Subcommittee 38
8.1.4 Public Participation and Accountability Subcommittee 38
8.2 FUTURE FOCUS OF SUBCOMMITTEES 39
9.0 SUMMARY OF PUBLIC COMMENTS 40
9.1 COMMENTS PRESENTED ON JULY 25, 1995 40
9.1.1 Robin Boland, Environmental Careers Organization 40
9.1.2 Michael Hancock, Farm Workers Justice Fund 40
9.1.3 Susan Hagler, HHS Migrant Health Program 41
9.1.4 Mr. Jerome Smith, Blacks in Government 41
9.2 COMMENTS PRESENTED ON JULY 26, 1995 . . . ; 42
9.2.1 Lorraine Granado, Colorado Peoples'Environmental and Economic
Network 42
9.2.2 Steve Hufford, OIRM ....'.• 43
9.2.3 Fran Dubrowski, D.C. Coalition for Environmental Justice 43
9.2.4 Percy Pollard, Environmental Careers Organization 44
9.2.5 Lois Berlingeri, Puerto Rico Senate Health Committee . 44
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CONTENTS (continued)
Section Page
10.0 FOLLOW-UP ACTIVITIES . . 45
«
10.1 ACTION ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING . 45
10.2 POSSIBLE LOCATIONS AND DATES FOR THE NEXT NEJAC
MEETING ! 45
Appendices
A. LIST OF THE MEMBERS OF THE NEJAC FOR 1995-1996
B. LIST OF PARTICIPANTS AT THE MEETING OF THE NEJAC, JULY 25 AND 26, 1995
C. HANDOUTS DISTRIBUTED DURING THE PUBLIC COMMENT PERIODS
in
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MEETING SUMMARY
of the
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
of the
NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE ADVISORY COUNCIL
JULY 25-26, 1995
WASHINGTON, D.C.
MEETING SUMMARY ACCEPTED BY:
Clarice E. Gaylord
Designated Federal Official
Richard Moore
Chairperson
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The National Environmental Justice Advisory Council (NEJAC) is a federal advisory committee that
was established by charter on September 30, 1993, to provide independent advice, consultation, and
recommendations to the Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on
matters related to environmental justice (EJ). As a federal advisory committee, NEJAC is bound by
all requirements under the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA) of October 6, 1972. NEJAC
has 25 members and one designated federal officer (DFO) and comprises a parent council and four
subcommittees, each formed to deal with specific topics and each having a DFO. In addition,
NEJAC has established a Protocol Committee whose members are the NEJAC Chairman and the
chairperson of each subcommittee.
To date, NEJAC has held five meetings. Public transcripts and summary reports of the proceedings
of the first four meetings are maintained in EPA's Office of Environmental Justice (OEJ) and are
available to the public upon request. This executive summary provides highlights of the NEJAC's
fifth meeting, held on July 25 and 26, 1995 in Arlington, Virginia.
Approximately 170 people attended the fifth meeting, including 18 members and two delegates sent
by members who were unable to attend. During the two-day meeting, the various topics discussed in
this summary were covered.
Opening Remarks
Before the meeting opened, Dr. Clarice Gaylord, Director, OEJ, conducted orientation of new
members, during which she showed a videotape that explained the purpose of federal advisory .
committees and how they are formed. Dr. Gaylord also explained that steps have been initiated to
extend NEJAC's charter, which expires in September 1995. Dr. Gaylord also defined EJ as "the fair
treatment and meaningful involvement of all people, regardless of race, ethnicity, culture, income, or
education level, with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental
laws, regulations, and policies." EJ is a relatively new issue, first introduced to EPA in 1990, she
said, and NEJAC was formed to ensure that EPA receives a balanced point of view from all
concerned parties.
Mr. Richard Moore, Chairman of NEJAC, then offered opening remarks. He commended NEJAC
members for continuing to move forward on issues, while acknowledging differences of opinion
among members. The Chairman stated that the political climate, restructuring of affirmative action
programs, and changing social policies acutely affect low-income populations and people of color.
Ms. Carol Browner, Administrator of EPA, also made opening remarks. Ms. Browner observed that
NEJAC's work had greatly helped EPA and stated that Congress was scheduled to address an
appropriations bill that proposed: (1) a 34-percent reduction across the board in funding for EPA;
(2) 17 separate provisions that restrict EPA's activities; (3) a reduction of approximately 50.percent in
funding for EPA's Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance (OECA); (4) the elimination of
certain programs; and (5) "add-ons," or line items that require EPA to spend certain money on certain
programs, although those programs are not the ones for which EPA requested funding. Ms. Browner
then discussed the relocation of OEJ from the Office of Administration and Resource Management
(OARM) to OECA. She concluded her remarks by stating that the EJ small grants program has been
expanded and that a new program has been initiated for community and university partnership grants.
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In response to several questions, Ms. Browner stated that riders to legislation have been used before,
although to a lesser extent than they are being used in the current appropriations bill; OECA and OEJ
are funded from two separate "pots" of money, and reductions in OECA's funding will not affect
OEJ; and compliance with regulatory reform proposed by Senator Dole and in several House bills
will cost regulatory agencies about $1.3 billion annually. That, coupled with proposed budget cuts,
will severely limit agencies' ability to set standards or make timely decisions, she stated.
The agenda included several presentations on the status of the EJ activities of various EPA offices,
which are summarized below.
Mr. Steve Herman, Assistant Administrator (AA) of OECA, stated that OECA is attempting to ensure
"equal opportunity enforcement." In the past, he said, EPA has received complaints about its failure
to enforce equally in all communities. He stated that, with the relocation of OEJ, OEJ and OECA
will enhance each other's efforts, adding that he looks forward to receiving comments and suggestions
from NEJAC members. NEJAC members then expressed concern about the strength of enforcement
at the regional level, and a request was made that OECA generate enforcement cases in minority and
low-income communities as evidence of OECA's commitment to EJ.
Dr. Lynn Goldman, AA of the Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances (OPPTS)^
then discussed the activities of OPPTS. The office determines acceptable levels of pesticides on foods
and is examining the unique risks children face because their diets are different from those of adults,
she said. Preliminary studies have indicated that regional and ethnic differences affect dietary risk,
she pointed out. Dr. Goldman identified protection of farm workers as another serious issue. Dr.
Goldman also stated that exposure to lead in homes and workplaces also is an issue of concern to
OPPTS. In the United States, she noted, residents of poor minority communities bear the greatest
burden of exposure.
During discussions following Ms. Goldman's presentation, OPPTS was asked to work with the
Bureau of Indian Affairs to address issues related to lead in the homes of Native Americans. Concern
also was raised about the certification and training process for lead abatement. Recently, the number
of required training hours was reduced, the main object of concern in this area. Another concern was
whether OPPTS was addressing the issue of cumulative risk. Ms. Goldman responded that OPPTS
typically reviews cumulative exposure in terms of the areas for which OPPTS has responsibility.
In his presentation, Dr. Robert Huggett, AA of the Office of Research and Development (ORD),
stated that the goal of ORD's research relative to EJ is to improve the scientific basis for informed
decision making and to provide information that can be used to identify, verify, and set priorities
among risks. ORD conducts in-house, intramural research and funds outside research. Dr. Huggett
stated that ORD has been involved in a study of the effects of Native American cooking practices, a
pilot project to assess exposure of populations living along the border of the U.S. and Mexico, and an
investigation of the use of geographic information systems (GIS) in population studies.
During NEJAC members' subsequent comments, ORD was commended for its work and was asked to
ensure that peer review panels accurately reflect the communities they serve and to integrate
"community-driven research" into its research and methodology. ORD also was asked to work with
the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) to address health risk issues.
Mr. Jon Cannon, Office of General Counsel (OGC), then reviewed the activities of OGC, which he
said has received some 23 petitions for redress under the Title VI program, with 12 cases under
investigation. OGC has a general obligation to provide legal advice to EPA and to ensure that EJ
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concerns are reflected properly in rulemaking. The office currently is participating in an agency-wide
review of affirmative action programs.
After Mr. Cannon's presentation, NEJAC members stated that innovative legal approaches should be
taken to bring justice to communities adversely affected by contamination; EPA's practice of
exempting itself from the requirements of the NEPA opens huge loopholes with respect to economic
considerations; and OGC should distinguish its requirements to act under Title VI from its authority
to act.
Ms. Mary Nichols, A A of the Office of Air and Radiation (OAR) discussed the role of OAR and the
possible use of the Clean Air Act (CAA) as a tool for achieving EJ, since it allows EPA to consider
health-based standards, siting of facilities, and effects on communities. OAR views activities from the
perspective of decreasing air pollution in the communities most affected, she said, and is working to
(1) improve methods of characterizing those communities most affected by pollutants, (2) expand
outreach and communication efforts, and (3) support and enhance regional EJ activities.
Highlights of the discussions following Ms. Nichols' presentation included statements about open-
market trading of emissions credits and the lack of information provided to communities about those
programs. Concern was expressed about the potential unintended negative effects of such programs.
Mr. Tim Fields, Deputy AA of the Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response (OSWER), then
discussed OSWER's efforts to address EJ issues. He stated that OSWER has examined issues related
to the Brownfields Initiative, human health, community involvement, and facility siting, and has
provided training for community representatives on becoming involved in EJ issues. The OSWER
action agenda for EJ contains more than 78 recommendations and more than 200 action items, he
said. Discussion that followed the presentation on OSWER focused on OSWER's ability to encourage
the regions to consider environmental justice in the permitting process and to ensure that Agency for
Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) spends its funds on the activities that are of greatest
importance to communities.
Ms. Dana Minerva, Deputy AA for the Office of Water (OW), began her presentation by noting that
the U.S. House of Representatives is considering legislation that prohibits OW from implementing
certain components of the Clean Water Act (CWA). She explained, that under the legislation, EPA
would be prohibited from using federal funds to take enforcement action on storm-water violations, a
circumstance that would affect urban areas significantly. Ms. Minerva reported that OW is revising
methodologies used by states to evaluate the rates of consumption by communities that rely on fish for
subsistence. She also cited a water quality initiative in the Great Lakes, wastewater grants for
communities located in areas near the border with Mexico, and funding to address sanitation issues in
Alaskan native villages. After the presentation, NEJAC members expressed concern about
earmarking the funds to address issues in Alaska, with no resulting direct benefit to Alaskan native
villages.
Presentations
Summarized below are presentations on various topics related to environmental justice that were made
throughout the proceedings.
Ms. Kathleen McGinty, Director, White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), discussed
ongoing initiatives, including EPA's work to develop a model for addressing EJ issues at Superfund
sites; CEQ's report to the President outlining specific action items to be undertaken by federal
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agencies to address EJ; and CEQ's work on a guidance document addressing the implications of
NEPA with respect to EJ and Executive Order 12898.
Following Ms. McGinty's presentation, NEJAC members expressed concern about (1) the effect of
guidance under NEPA on ongoing federal agency initiatives; (2) the White House's commitment to
and leadership on EJ issues; and (3) a lack of understanding of what constitutes an EJ issue,
evidenced by some individuals' attempts to "mesh" affirmative action with EJ.
Mr. Charles Lee, Waste and Facility Siting Subcommittee Chairman, and Mr. Tim Fields, Deputy
AA of OSWER, reported the results of recent public dialogue sessions held around the country on
urban revitalization and issues related to the Brownfields Initiative, mentioning also that EPA will
announce the award of 50 Brownfields Initiative grants for 1995 and 1996. The subcommittee will
develop a report on the issues raised during the public dialogues and will request that the information
be archived at Clark Atlanta University.
Mr. Hale Hawbecker of EPA's OGC took the floor to summarize requirements that govern NEJAC as
a federal advisory committee, including: balanced membership; timely public notice of meetings;
written notes of meetings, available to the public; opportunity for public comment during meetings;
attendance at all meetings by a DFO; and availability of all draft reports and working papers to the
public. In answer to a question, Mr. Hawbecker explained that there are restrictions against lobbying
by NEJAC as a body; however, he added, members are not prohibited from personal lobbying.
Mr. Rodney Cash, EPA Office of Civil Rights, discussed pertinent aspects of Title VI of the Civil
Rights Act of 1964. Mentioning that the number of Title VI cases has increased since the Executive
Order was issued, Mr. Cash stated that Congress enacted Title VI to ensure that no discrimination
would exist under programs funded by the federal government. After the Supreme Court's ruling that
Title VI applied only to intentional discrimination, the "disparate effects" standard was adopted to
address unintentional discrimination. Discussion prompted by Mr. Hawbecker's presentation focused
on concerns about the ability of the Office of Civil Rights to cover the whole nation with a small
staff, the lack of staff in <:he regional offices, and the number of complaints in regions 4^and 6.
Mr. Edward Hartley, EPA Office of Information and Resource Management (OIRM), discussed
community-based environmental protection, stating that the goal of the effort is to bring about a
fundamental change in the way that governments protect the environment. EPA will be providing
assistance. EPA's challenge, he said, will be to reach the 80 percent of communities in which it will
not be involved directly. Comments of NEJAC members that followed included a commendation of
EPA for retaining leadership in some areas and a suggestion that EPA secure the services of neutral
facilitators to make community meetings more equitable.
Mr. Peter Gattuso, OSWER, demonstrated the LandView II Satellite Mapping System. He explained
that LandView II, a joint project of EPA, the Bureau of the Census, and the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, is a system used to facilitate public access to environmental and
demographic data. Copies of LandView II are available from the Bureau of the Census.
Mr. Rick Martin of EPA's Office of Information Resources Management (OIRM), discussed that
office's Information Resources Management (IRM) program. He said the IRM program focuses on
(1) public access to information and flexibility to meet users' needs, (2) easy data retrieval through
the Internet, and (3) reduction of the reporting burden borne by industry.
Status of EJ Activities in EPA Regions
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Mr. James Younger stated that Region 1 has implemented a policy that governs methods of
addressing EJ in everyday work. Region 1 has mapped communities in New England by race and
income, positioning itself to implement a place-based approach to addressing issues related to urban
ecosystems, he reported, but EPA has not yet achieved diversity in decision-making positions.
Ms. Melva Hayden stated that staff in Region 2 are committed to community-based environmental
protection and mentioned specifically that, in Puerto Rico, comprehensive monitoring is in place and
a special initiative coordinator recently was hired. Region 2 will host an EJ roundtable in August.
No presentation was made for Region 3.
Ms. Vivian Malone-Jones, Director of the Region 4 OEJ, stated that a proposed reorganization would
relocate the region's OEJ under the auspices of the new regional Office of Accountability and
Enforcement, providing OEJ with greater resources. Each division in Region 4 has an EJ
coordinator, and the region has devised a guidance document for integrating EJ into all programs.
The region is emphasizing public participation and putreach activities, she said. Region 4 has
awarded several grants and established an interagency work group to address EJ issues.
Ms. Margaret Millard stated that Region 5 is focusing on geographic initiatives in southeast Chicago,
northwest Indiana, southeast Michigan, east St. Louis, and Cleveland. The initiatives address such
issues as solid waste, groundwater, air monitoring, targeted enforcement, and Title VI. Ms. Millard
discussed a public dialogue session on the Brownfields Initiative, held in Detroit on June 9, 1995,
during which illegal dumping was discussed, and stated that lead contamination and abatement are
major issues in the region.
Ms. Lynda Carroll of Region 6 was unable to attend the meeting but submitted a written statement
describing activities in the region, including work related to border issues; planning for an EJ forum
in Albuquerque, New Mexico; and the denial of approval for a uranium enrichment facility that
would have been located adjacent to African-American communities. Discussion that followed the
statement focused on historical, complaints about problems in the region.
Ms. Connie Thigpen noted that Region 7 established a regional EJ work group in 1993 and since has
awarded 24 pollution prevention grants. The region will host its first EJ summit in September 1995.
Mr. Mel McCottry stated that Region 8 is emphasizing community involvement and has awarded
more than 50 percent of its grants to Native Americans and tribal organizations. The regional EJ
work group has emphasized multimedia EJ issues, and its efforts have resulted in a reinvestment of
resources and more extensive community outreach, he said.
Ms. Lori Lewis described the four themes of Region 9's approach to EJ: identification of high-risk
communities and pursuit of problem resolution in those areas; emphasis on public participation and
increased opportunities for communities to participate in decision-making processes; the building of
relationships and partnerships to address EJ issues, which is a priority of the Regional Administrator;
and increased awareness of EJ issues. Ms. Lewis also urged NEJAC to consider the unique issues of
native Hawaiians in its future discussions.
Finally, Ms. Joyce Kelly described Region 10's workshops to teach community groups how to apply
for grants, as well as efforts to build partnerships with tribal governments in Native American
communities in which mortality rates are high. She stated that a primary goal in the region is the
education of EPA employees on EJ issues and that the region plans a community forum on
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environmental injustice. She also noted a lack of cultural diversity in key decision-making positions in
the region and urged NEJAC to attempt to influence decision-making processes at the regional level.
Discussions of NEJAC members during and after the regional presentations, centered on the lack of
cultural diversity in key EPA decision-making positions and on the relocation of OEJ.
Executive Order Activities
NEJAC members discussed EPA's activities related to implementation of Executive Order 12898 and
received reports on the status of the Interagency Working Group on Environmental Justice_(IWG.).
Ms. Kathy Aterno summarized EPA's obligation to comply with Executive Order 12898 and stated
that the Domestic Policy Council recently issued a letter establishing deadlines for federal agencies to
report their progress in meeting those requirements. NEJAC members agreed to assist EPA in
establishing priorities among the issues included in EPA's draft implementation plan. Ms. Aterno
also summarized the status of the IWG, noting that its Policy and Coordination Subcommittee had
recommended that the IWG task forces on public participation and implementation be dissolved and
that the IWG task force on enforcement and compliance continue its work.
Status of the Office of Environmental Justice
Reviewing the status of OEJ, Dr. Gaylord said that OEJ has developed a tracking system for action
items and recommendations that will be provided to NEJAC members. She also referred members to
the environmental justice annual report for 1994, which describes OEJ's activities.
Subcommittees of NEJAC
The four subcommittees of NEJAC reported on their activities.
Dr. Robert Bullard reported that the Health and Research Subcommittee has made recommendations
to (1) change the way efforts under the Research Act are carried out, (2) change policy regarding the
design of requests for proposals, (3) define community-driven research, (4) develop an assessment
tool for cumulative risk, and (5) develop research protocols that use an interagency model. He added
that the interagency task force on health and research is seeking guidance from the NEJAC
subcommittee on developing and implementing a comprehensive health and research plan.
Reporting on the Enforcement Subcommittee, Mr. Arthur Ray stated that the many issues affecting
Indian tribes and Native Americans are not being addressed. He noted that NEJAC members could
provide help in those areas. Mr. Ray reported further that the subcommittee has reviewed planning
documents and work plans provided by OECA staff and has prepared recommendations about items to
include in future work plans.
The report on the activities of the Waste and Facility Siting Subcommittee was combined with Mr.
Lee's presentation, "Using Environmental Justice to Address the Crisis in the Urban Environment:
Brownfields Initiative Trips." The subcommittee is developing a report on the issues raised at the
public dialogues held in Boston, Philadelphia, Detroit, Oakland, and Atlanta.
Ms. Beverly Wright reviewed the actions of the Public Participation and Accountability
Subcommittee, stating that its goal is to develop a model public participation process for use by all
agencies. The subcommittee assisted the IWG in conducting a public meeting at Clark Atlanta
University on the Executive Order; the meeting was broadcast by satellite downlink.
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Ms. Wright's remarks completed the subcommittee presentations, and the members then discussed the
future focus of NEJAC subcommittees. After discussion of needs and resources, a motion was made
to continue the four existing subcommittees and to add two, one to address issues of concern to
Native Americans and the other to address international border issues. The motion was seconded and
carried unanimously.
Public Comments
During the two public comment periods, nine individuals made statements. The topics of the
comments included efforts by the Environmental Careers Organization to encourage young people to
pursue environmental careers; dissatisfaction with EPA's policies to protect farm workers from health
threats; the Migrant Health Program of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS); and
efforts by the organization Blacks in Government to ensure community involvement in decisiort-
making processes. Comments also were made about efforts by the Colorado People's Environmental
and Economic Network to correct environmental injustices in communities in the Denver area; EPA's
Government Information Locator Service, an initiative to improve the public's access to government
information; and efforts by the D.C. Coalition for Environmental Justice to bring together
stakeholders who have various interests in a common pursuit of EJ. A written statement was read
requesting that NEJAC investigate the possibility of using speaker telephones or satellite downlinks to
provide greater public access to NEJAC meetings. Finally, the executive director of the Health
Committee of the Senate of Puerto Rico commented about the severity of environmental and health
problems in Puerto Rico.
The meeting ended with a discussion of action items for the next meeting and a discussion of possible
dates and logistics for the next NEJAC meeting. OEJ, with advice from NEJAC's Protocol
Committee, will determine the date and location of NEJAC's next meeting.
Action Items
During the meeting, NEJAC members adopted the following major action items and
recommendations:
• OEJ will solicit from members comment on the draft implementation plan.
• OEJ will develop and distribute a status report on action items.
• NEJAC will establish new subcommittees on issues of concern to Native Americans and
international issues.
• The NEJAC Enforcement Subcommittee will complete and distribute a report outlining
recommendations for enforcement.
• NEJAC will review staffing decisions and strategies to assess efforts to achieve cultural
diversity within EPA.
• NEJAC will examine ways to work with Blacks in Government in an effort to devise
innovative ways to conduct outreach efforts.
• The NEJAC Enforcement Subcommittee will provide comment on the proposed rules
governing open-market trading of emissions credits.
• NEJAC recommends a coordinated effort with the advisory council of HHS to consider
environmental occupational health issues of migrant workers.
• NEJAC recommends a meeting with the Region 6 Regional Administrator to discuss ongoing
EJ problems in the region.
• NEJAC recommends that the IWG develop a strategy to address urban revitalization.
• NEJAC recommends that the CEQ submit periodic progress reports.
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
The National Environmental Justice Advisory Council (NEJAC) is a federal advisory committee that
was established by charter on September 30, 1993 to provide independent advice, consultation, and
recommendations to the Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on
matters related to environmental justice. As a federal advisory committee, NEJAC is bound by all
requirements of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA) of October 6, 1972. Those
requirements include:
• NEJAC members must be selected and appointed by EPA
• Members must attend and participate fully in NEJAC meetings
• Meetings must be open to the public, except for specific exemptions
• All meetings must be advertised in the Federal Register
• Public participation must be allowed for at meetings
• The public must have access to meeting materials
• Meeting minutes must be kept and made available to the public
• A designated federal official (DFO) must attend all NEJAC meetings
• NEJAC must provide independent judgment, not influenced by special interest groups
NEJAC has 25 members and one DFO and comprises a parent council and four subcommittees. Each
subcommittee, formed to deal with specific topics and facilitate the conduct of NEJAC business, has a
DFO and is bound by requirements of the FACA. Subcommittees present their findings to the
NEJAC for review and cannot make independent recommendations to EPA., In addition, the NEJAC
has established a Protocol Committee whose members are the Chairman of NEJAC and the
chairperson of each subcommittee. Table 1 presents a list of NEJAC members.
To date, NEJAC has held five meetings: in Washington, D.C., May 1994; in Albuquerque, New
Mexico, August 3 through 5, 1994; in Herndon, Virginia, October 25 through 27, 1994; in Atlanta,
Georgia, January 17 and 18, 1995; and in Arlington, Virginia, July 25 and 26, 1995. Transcripts and
summary reports of the proceedings of the first four meetings are maintained in EPA's Office of
Environmental Justice (OEJ) and are available to the public upon request.
This report summarizes the proceedings of the fifth meeting of the NEJAC, which was attended by
approximately 170 people; 18 of the 25 members of NEJAC attended the meeting and two sent
representatives.
This report contains 10 sections, including this introduction. Section 2.0, Opening Remarks, contains
summaries of the orientation of new members, opening remarks presented by the Chairman of the
NEJAC and the EPA Administrator, and introductory remarks provided by the members of the
council. Section 3.0, Status of Environmental Justice Activities in EPA Program Offices, contains
summaries of reports by representatives of key EPA program offices. Section 4.0, Presentations,
contains summaries of presentations on various topics, including a report by the Director of the White
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TABLE 1
LIST OF NEJAC MEMBERS (1995 THROUGH 1996)
Designated Federal Official:
Dr. Clarice Gaylord, Director,
Office of Environmental Justice
Mr. John Borum
Mr. Walter Bresette
Dr. Robert Bullard
Dr. Mary English
Ms. Deeohn Ferris
Ms. Jean Gamache
Ms. Dolores Herrera
Mr. Lawrence Hurst
Ms. Hazel Johnson
Dr. Richard Lazarus
Mr. Charles Lee
Mr. Charles McDermott
General Members
Chairman:
Mr. Richard Moore
Mr. John O'Leary
Mr. Michael Pierle
Mr. Arthur Ray
Hon. Salomon Rondon-Tollens
Ms. Peggy Saika
Dr. Jean Sindab
Ms. Gail Small
Mr. Hay wood Turrentine
Mr. Baldemar Velasquez
Ms. Velma Veloria
Ms. Nathalie Walker
Dr. Beverly Wright
House Council on Environmental Quality and a report on recent public dialogue sessions on the
Brownfields Initiative. Section 5.0, Status of Environmental Justice Activities in EPA Regions,
summarizes the presentations by EPA regional environmental justice coordinators. Section 6.0,
Executive Order Activities, contains summaries of discussions about the status of the Interagency
Working Group on Environmental Justice (IWG) and EPA's implementation plan for its strategy on
environmental justice. Section 7.0, Status of the Office of Environmental Justice, reviews activities
of OEJ and provides a discussion about activities conducted as follow-up to the fourth meeting of the
NEJAC. Section 8.0, Subcommittees of the NEJAC, reports on the activities of the subcommittees
and discusses the future focus of the subcommittees. Section 9.0, Summary of Public Comment,
contains summaries of public comments provided Tuesday, July 25, 1995 and Wednesday, July 26,
1995 and the discussions prompted by specific comments. Section 10.0, Wrap-Up, summarizes
discussions of action items and logistics for the sixth .meeting of the NEJAC.
In addition, this report contains three appendices, Appendix A contains a list of NEJAC members
with their affiliations. Appendix B contains a list of the names and addresses of the participants at the
fifth NEJAC meeting. Appendix C contains copies of the information distributed during the public
comment periods.
2.0 OPENING REMARKS
This section summarizes the orientation of new members of the NEJAC, the remarks of the NEJAC
Chairman, the introductory remarks by members, and opening remarks of the EPA Administrator.
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2.1 ORIENTATION OF NEW MEMBERS
Before convening the meeting, Dr. Gaylord provided orientation to new members. She opened the
session with a videotape that explained the purpose of federal advisory committees and described how
they are formed. The video also presented information about FACA, which governs the activities of
federal advisory committees. FACA requires that:
• Committee deliberations be accessible to the public
• The President submit to Congress detailed reports of committee deliberations
• . A committee management officer or designated federal official (DFO) be established
for each federal advisory committee or subcommittee
• Committee meetings be open to the public (legal counsel must review decisions to
have closed meetings before such decisions are made final)
After the presentation of the videotape, Dr. Gaylord welcomed the NEJAC members. The new
members of the NEJAC attending the orientation were: Ms. Gina Ashe (on behalf of Mr. John
Borum), Dr. Mary English, Mr. Lawrence Hurst, Mr. Arthur Ray, Hon. Salomon Rondon-Tollens,
and Mr. Haywood Turrentine.
Dr. Gaylord provided a brief history of environmental justice, noting that environmental justice is a
relatively new issue, first introduced to EPA in 1990. She explained that NEJAC was formed to
ensure that EPA would receive a balanced point of view from a variety of concerned parties,
including community groups, industry, academia, and local and tribal governments. She then
explained the structure of NEJAC, stating first that the DFO must be present at every NEJAC
meeting. She explained that NEJAC has four subcommittees: the Health and Research
Subcommittee; the Enforcement Subcommittee; the Waste and Facility Siting Subcommittee; and the
Public Participation and Accountability Subcommittee. Each subcommittee must have balanced
representation, as well as a DFO who attends each meeting of the subcommittee. Each member of
the NEJAC must serve on a subcommittee. Recommendations of the subcommittees must be
approved by the NEJAC. She then stated that the charter of the current NEJAC expires in September
1995 because FACA limits the charter of a federal advisory committee to only two years. Dr.
Gaylord noted that OEJ has initiated steps to extend the charter of ,the NEJAC. Dr. Gaylord further
explained that all meetings must be advertised in the Federal Register.
Dr. Gaylord then discussed the roles and functions of various NEJAC members. The role of the
DFO is to call council and subcommittee meetings, approve meeting agendas, attend all meetings,
ensure conformity with bylaws and regulations, and review meeting notes for accuracy. The role of
the council chairperson is to preside over council meetings, keep members focused on the agenda,
determine when to end discussion, and certify meeting minutes. The role of council members is to
attend meetings, participate actively in those meetings, assist in carrying out the objectives of the
council, and abide by operating procedures established in the council's bylaws. Dr. Gaylord
explained that missing two consecutive meetings without a good explanation may be grounds for
dismissal; however, members are allowed one proxy vote. Dr. Gaylord also explained that there are
two categories of members: (1) volunteers and (2) temporary paid members. Temporary paid
members are considered "special government employees."
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A discussion of environmental justice and Executive Order 12898 followed. Dr. Gaylord stated that
environmental justice is the "fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of
race, ethnicity, culture, income, or education level, with respect to the development, implementation,
and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies." In discussing the Executive
Order, Dr. Gaylord explained that environmental justice is not an issue for EPA only, but for all
federal agencies. Accordingly, the Interagency Working Group (IWG) on Environmental Justice,
headed by the EPA Administrator, has been established to ensure that federal agencies examine their
practices and programs to ensure that such activities do not result in the imposition of a
disproportionate share of environmental burdens on minority communities and low-income
communities.
2.2 REMARKS OF THE NEJAC CHAIRMAN
Mr. Richard Moore, NEJAC Chairman, opened the session by urging the council members to
remember that the struggle for environmental justice continues. He added that environment is a
matter of where people work, live, and play. Mr. Moore noted that, although the process often has
been difficult, the real issues always have focused on the people directly affected by injustices. He
praised the NEJAC members for taking the responsibility to continue to move forward on issues,
while acknowledging differences of opinion among members. He noted that the diversity of the
members has benefitted the dialogue. The Chairman stated further that the current political climate,
the restructuring of affirmative action programs, and changing social policies acutely affect low-
income populations and people of color. He specifically pointed to the recent passage of California
Proposition 187 (which limits such government services as education, medical care, and welfare to
citizens of the United States) as a step backward for people of color and a setback affecting progress
made over many years. He urged NEJAC members to stand firm in their commitment to
environmental justice.
Mr. Moore noted recent successes, including the conferences hosted by the Business and
Environmental Network and Clark Atlanta University. The Chairman mentioned that the Superfund
Summit on Environmental Justice will be held in Albuquerque, New Mexico on August 9 through 11,
1995. The summit, he added, is the fruit of a partnership among EPA Region 6, the city of San Jose,
New Mexico, and local community groups.
2.3 INTRODUCTION OF NEJAC MEMBERS
The Chairman welcomed new and veteran NEJAC members. The Chairman noted that Ms. Delta
Pereira, OEJ, would translate for Hon. Rondon-Tollens, whose primarily language is Spanish. New
members introduced themselves first, followed by the others. In addition to describing.themselves,
several members offered suggestions for the NEJAC:
• Mr. Arthur Ray urged the council not to adjourn without taking action.
• Mr. Lawrence Hurst stressed building partnerships.
• Ms. Deeohn Ferris urged the council to identify strong recommendations for the EPA.
• Dr. Robert Bullard stated that the NEJAC should focus on issues related to
implementation, including building partnerships.
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• Mr. Charles McDermott stated that NEJAC should adopt an agenda that is oriented to
action.
Dr. Gay lord and Ms. Kathleen Aterno, Deputy Assistant Administrator for EPA's Office of
Administration and Resource Management (OARM), conveyed thanks to the NEJAC for its work
during its first two years of existence. Both pledged to continue working with the council to
implement EPA's strategy during the coming year.
The Chairman recognized those members who were not present. In addition to Ms. Gail Small and
Ms. Velma Veloria, he stated that Ms. Peggy Saika could not attend the meeting because of
scheduling problems. He read a letter from Dr. Jean Sindab, who was unable to attend because of
health reasons. The Chairman requested that a get-well letter be sent to Dr. Sindab. Table 2
presents a list of members who attended the meeting or sent an alternative. The table also identifies
those members who did not attend.
2.4 GENERAL HOUSEKEEPING
Dr. Gay lord explained that the meeting was open to the public, a stenographer was recording the
proceedings, and others were taking notes of the proceedings. Dr. Gaylord asked that members state
their names before making comments and requested that members of the public desiring to make
comments during the public comment period complete comment cards. Dr. Gaylord stated that all
council members would be given expense reimbursement forms for expenses associated with the
TABLE 2
LIST OF NEJAC MEMBERS WHO ATTENDED MEETING
JULY 25 AND 26, 1995
Dr. Clarice Gaylord, DFO
Ms. Gina Ashe
(representing Mr. John Borum)
Dr. Robert Bullard
Dr. Mary R. English
Ms. Deeohn Ferris*
Ms. Delores Herrera
Mr. Lawrence Hurst
Ms. Hazel Johnson
Dr. Richard Lazarus
Mr. Charles Lee
Mr. Charles McDermott
Mr. Richard Moore, Chairman
Mr. John O'Leary
Mr. Michael Pierle
Mr. Arthur Ray
Hon. Salomon Rondon-Tollens
Ms. Cindy Thomas
(representing Ms. Jean Gamache)
Mr. Hay wood Turrentine
Mr. Baldemar Velasquez
Ms. Nathalie Walker
Dr. Beverly Wright**
LIST OF MEMBERS WHO DID NOT ATTEND
Mr. Walter Bresette
Ms. Peggy Saika
Dr. Jean Sindab
Ms. Gail Small
Ms. Velma Veloria
**
Attended on July 25, 1995 only
Attended on July 26, 1995 only
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meeting. She further stated that the EPA's 1994 Annual Report on Environmental Justice, as well as
other documents, was included in the briefing books and information packets distributed at the
registration desk. Last, all participants were asked to return their name badges to the registration
desk after the meeting so that they could be recycled.
2.5 REMARKS OF THE EPA ADMINISTRATOR
Ms. Carole Browner, EPA Administrator, thanked all NEJAC members for their efforts and
welcomed the new members. She stated that NEJAC's work had helped EPA greatly but
acknowledged that problems still exist, with many challenges remaining.
Ms. Browner stated that Congress was scheduled to address the appropriations bill on July 26, 1995.
She stated that the bill proposes: (1) a 34-percent reduction across the board in funding for EPA; (2)
17 separate provisions that restrict EPA's activities; (3) a budget reduction of approximately 50
percent for the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance (OECA); (4) the elimination of
certain programs; and (5) the earmarking of "add-on" or line-item spending that requires EPA to fund
certain programs, although those programs may not be the ones for which EPA had requested funds.
She stated that President Clinton said he will veto the appropriations bill if it represents a rollback of
environmental protection. The President has stated further that he will veto all such bills in the
future, she added. Ms. Browner explained that Congressional Democrats were negotiating a
regulations reform bill and that she might have to leave the NEJAC meeting early because of an
engagement to speak to Democratic senators about responsible versus irresponsible environmental
reform.
Ms. Browner noted that although the add-ons appear to increase EPA funding by more than $3.3
million, EPA would have no control over how the money will be spent. She stated that the add-ons
essentially function as both a floor and a ceiling on spending. For example, she explained, since
5300,000 has been allocated for NEJAC, EPA must spend at least $300,000 but no more than that
amount.
Ms. Browner then announced that OEJ will be moved from OARM to OECA. She explained that,
after much discussion about where OEJ should be reassigned, a decision was made to place OEJ
under the auspices of OECA. Ms. Browner stated that, under the new structure, OEJ would report
directly to the AA for Enforcement and Compliance Assurance in an arrangement that is similar .to
that for EPA's Office of Indian Affairs. She repeated that all comments received had been taken into
consideration before the final decision was made. (See Sections 3.1 and 7.0 that follow for additional
discussion about the relocation of OEJ.)
The Administrator also expressed concern about a growing effort to constrain the flow of information,
particularly to community groups. She explained that the Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) and the
Community Right-to-Know programs particularly are under attack, as Congress attempts to limit
additions to the TRI and restrict the dissemination of information.
Following her remarks, Ms. Browner responded to questions from NEJAC members. Those
questions and comments are summarized below, along with Ms. Browner's responses.
Dr. Wright asked when the vote on the appropriations bill will occur. Ms. Browner responded that
the bill would be debated on the House floor on Wednesday, July 26 or Thursday, July 27. Senate
action is not anticipated until late August or early September, she added.
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Dr. English asked whether the constitutionality of legislative riders'to the bill is being investigated.
Ms. Browner stated that riders have been used before, although not to the extent they are being used
in this case. Any subsequent appropriations bill will override the underlying statute that authorizes a
program, she added.
Mr. Ray expressed concern that a proposed 50-percent cut in enforcement funding could have serious
implications for OEJ. Ms. Browner responded that reductions in funding within OECA do not affect
OEJ's resources, explaining that OECA and OEJ are funded from two separate "pots" of money.
Mr. Lazarus noted that the appropriations issue seems more problematic than regulatory reform
because, during the appropriations process, something must get passed. He asked whether EPA has
identified any votes among key Senators. Ms. Browner responded that congressional budget
committees decide how funding is allocated. When allocations were made, the subcommittee to
which EPA is assigned took a major cut; all but one other subcommittee took modest cuts or received
increases. She cited two underlying problems. First, the President and Republican leadership have
different approaches to timing the balancing of the budget. Second, during formulation of the budget,
an underlying decision determines how allocations will be made. A decision was made that funding
cuts should come from outlays -- that is, expenses generally paid for in a short period of time.
Within the subcommittee, EPA will bear the burden^of cuts because the other agencies don't have
many outlays. EPA is talking with Senators on the Budget Committee to see what can be done to
secure relief.
Ms. Herrera stated that congressional representatives have asked to visit local communities during the
Superfund meeting in Albuquerque. She asked whether it is too late to speak with them about the
appropriations bill. Ms. Browner stated that federal law prohibits her from suggesting that people
speak with members of Congress or to lobby on certain issues.
Mr. Lazarus asked, "What is worse -- appropriations or regulatory reform?" Ms. Browner explained
that compliance with regulatory reform as proposed by Senator Dole and in several House bills will
cost the large regulatory agencies SI.3 billion per year. The proposed changes, coupled with cuts in
funding, essentially limits agencies' ability to set standards or make timely decisions, she stated. Ms.
Browner stated that many efforts to implement controversial regulatory reform have reemerged within
appropriations, where the attempt is less visible to the public.
Mr. Lee noted that it is important for people to know that people are going to fight for what they
believe in and for what is right. Ms. Browner responded that the American people know the job is
not done, and that is why EPA will prevail. A key issue is the debate over Superfund, she continued,
noting that, generally, EPA is appropriated $1.5 billion for Superfund; the appropriation comes from
a trust that is funded by taxes on oil and chemical companies. Ms. Browner stated that Congress is
proposing to fund Superfund out of the general treasury, although there are monies in the trust fund.
In addition, a reduction of $0.5 billion, which will force EPA to decrease the number and pace of
cleanups, is proposed. Proposals also are under consideration that essentially would eliminate the
"polluter pays" element of Superfund. That action would not solve any problems, but, rather, would
result in different types of litigation, said Ms. Browner, The appropriations bill states that Superfund
ceases to exist if the legislation reauthorizing the program is not passed by December 31, 1995.
Dr. Bullard asked to what extent the IWG is still active, now that federal agencies have submitted
their environmental justice strategies. Are federal agencies pursuing environmental justice issues, he
asked. Ms. Browner stated that environmental justice is still a high priority for a majority of federal
agencies. There is a desire to continue working within the interagency structure, she noted.
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However, she continued, right now and through October 31, 1995, their energies are being focused
on retaining resources. Ms. Browner added that there has been no discussion of directly cutting
funding for environmental justice, although the Republicans do not consider environmental justice an
important issue, nor do they believe that federal agencies should be working on the issue. She
reported that federal agencies must complete and submit their implementation plans by April 1996.
There are people in each agency and within the Domestic Policy Council who are committed to
environmental justice. Further, environmental justice remains a high priority for the President, she
said.
Ms. Walker asked what happened to the environmental justice strategies from the time that they were
in draft form to the time that they were submitted to the President. She noted that several provisions
containing important language had been removed. Ms. Aterno responded that agencies subjected the
draft strategies to internal review for concurrence. However, during the reviews, issues were raised
about certain language, she continued. Rather than include the contested language in the final
documents, several agencies decided to address those issues during implementation of the strategies.
Ms. Aterno assured Ms. Walker that the omission of certain language does not indicate that the issues
involved have been forgotten, and she encouraged the members to contact the agencies directly and
discuss their concerns.
Ms. Browner concluded her remarks by stating that the program for small grants for environmental
justice efforts has been expanded and that a new program of community and university partnership
grants has been initiated.
3.0 STATUS OF EJ ACTIVITIES IN EPA OFFICES
This section summarizes presentations made by representatives of various EPA offices. The
presentations discussed the ongoing and planned environmental justice activities of those offices.
3.1 OFFICE OF ENFORCEMENT AND COMPLIANCE ASSURANCE
Mr. Steve Herman, Assistant Administrator (AA) for OECA, presented information about the
environmental justice activities of OECA. He opened by saying that he and members of his staff are
excited about the Administrator's decision to relocate OEJ under the auspices of OECA. Mr. Herman
said that he is proud of the work that has been accomplished in the two and one-half years he has
been AA, although most of the work is still unfinished. He stated that OECA is working to ensure an
equal opportunity enforcement program. He said that, in the past, EPA has received complaints
about its failure to enforce regulations equally in all communities, and he hopes that, with the OEJ
relocation, OEJ and OECA will enhance one another.
Mr. Herman stated that he intends to discuss agency wide environmental justice issues with Dr.
Gaylord and the staff of OEJ. He added that he would like to discuss with NEJAC members any
ideas and suggestions concerning how EPA addresses environmental justice, including addressing any
concerns related to the placement of OEJ in OECA. He mentioned that environmental justice is a
complex issue that affects all offices within the Agency and that OECA is seeking to integrate
environmental justice into Agency programs, policies, and activities. Finally, Mr. Herman stated that
he was looking forward to receiving observations, suggestions, and criticism from NEJAC members.
Questions and comments from NEJAC members followed Mr. Herman's remarks.
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Mr. Ray commented that the Enforcement Subcommittee intends to complete a report that summarizes
its recommendations to OECA. He expressed an interest in OECA generating enforcement cases that
involve issues of concern to minority or low-income communities as evidence of OECA's
commitment to addressing environmental justice. He observed that the Agency seems to be moving
from "enforcement" to "compliance," although in some cases, hard enforcement is needed.
Mr. Herman agreed that some matters require "old-fashioned" enforcement, and noted that there have
been increasing numbers of "old-line" enforcement cases in the last two years. He also stated that the
key to a successful enforcement program is to strike a balance between enforcement and compliance.
The challenge, he added, is to conduct an effective risk-based program and attack the problems a
facility may pose from an integrated, multimedia perspective. Mr. Ray urged the AA to strengthen
enforcement at the regional level. Mr. Herman agreed that the program cannot work without the
commitment and cooperation of EPA's regional offices.
Mr. Turrentine asked what happens to funds from the fines that result from enforcement cases. Mr.
Herman responded that more than $1.5 billion were collected last year, of which $748 million in
injunctions were collected from companies and used as a form of relief. Mr. Herman noted that by
law, any monies collected from fines must go into the U.S. Treasury. He explained that the law
prevents EPA from pursuing companies to fund itself or from becoming an appropriator of money.
Mr. Herman noted that EPA can use supplemental environmental projects (SEP) policy, when
appropriate, to obtain an amount of money larger than otherwise possible to fund an environmentally
beneficial project. He explained that policy governing the SEP program requires a close link between
projects and violations at a facility. He added that the EPA budget would not benefit from increasing
penalties and fines.
Ms. Ashe expressed concern that the placement of OEJ in OECA might discourage partnerships with
industry. She asked whether anyone had considered how such partnerships might be encouraged.
Mr. Herman responded that OECA is a balanced program and an appropriate location for OEJ.
Citing a vigorous and effective traditional enforcement program balanced with creative compliance
measures, Mr. Herman spoke about OECA's new environmental leadership program. The program
focuses on 12 companies that were found to be leaders in the area of environmental compliance, he
stated. OECA is identifying the factors that make those companies successful, so that information can
be shared with others. In addition, Mr. Herman noted that OECA plans to establish small business
technical assistance centers to help smaller firms solve compliance problems. Ms. Ashe stated that
she was more concerned about companies that were not represented at the proceedings than those that
were present. Mr. Herman replied that "this is a two-way street" and companies must come forward
to show they are interested in participating in partnerships and make it clear that they want to be
responsible.
Dr. Bullard stated that Mr. Herman's opening remarks referred to efforts taken in response to
allegations of unequal enforcement efforts in low-income communities. He noted that the statement
should be corrected to include minority communities. Dr. Bullard also inquired about the extent to
which OECA plans to: (1) pursue equal protection for all communities, (2) use Title VI of the Civil
Rights Act of 1964 in the enforcement effort, (3) target enforcement in areas that historically have
been subjected to racial discrimination, and (4) implement the National Environmental Policy Act
(NEPA) consistently in all communities. Dr. Bullard asked whether OECA had made any effort to
develop a strategy for working with the regions and the Department of Justice (DOJ) to achieve a
cohesive enforcement effort. Mr. Herman responded that he would prefer to address those issues and
questions at the next NEJAC meeting, after discussing them with OEJ and members of the NEJAC.
He stated further that OECA's primary task under the reorganization is to update the data
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management system to improve coordination with the regions. Finally, Mr. Herman stated that,
because of the reorganization, OECA is now better suited to work with OEJ.
Mr. McDermott echoed Mr. Herman's earlier comment about industry "meeting halfway" and stated
that the Business Network for Environmental Justice has more than 100 members and is working to
find ways in which government, industry groups, and communities can work together. There have
been changes in attitudes over the past two years, he noted. Mr. Herman responded that it is
important to not stereotype all companies and industries as uncooperative polluters.
Ms. Herrera expressed concern that the location of OEJ in OECA seemed "suicidal" and speculated
whether environmental justice would become a "line item" that will be eradicated in the future. Mr.
Herman responded that no one can give assurance about what will or will not happen in the future.
Congress, he pointed out, already has eliminated several programs and currently is proposing a 50-
percent to 57-percent reduction in funds for EPA's enforcement programs. However, he explained,
the decision to relocate OEJ in OECA was made before budget cuts were proposed, and the Agency
hopes that the restrictive legislative riders will be removed from the appropriations bill.
Ms. Thomas commented that tribal people do not view environmental justice as simply a racial or
low-income issue, but also as a trust issue. Mr. Herman responded that EPA is working to include
tribal representatives in the dialogue about the enforcement program.
3.2 OFFICE OF PREVENTION, PESTICIDES, AND TOXIC SUBSTANCES
Dr. Lynn Goldman, AA for the Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances (OPPTS),
presented information related to OPPTS and environmental justice. Dr. Goldman stated that OPPTS
takes environmental justice issues seriously, pointing to OPPTS programs to determine acceptable
levels of pesticide residue on foods. In particular, she continued, OPPTS is examining the unique
risks to children because their diets are different from those of adults. In addition, she noted that
preliminary studies indicate that regional and ethnic variations affect dietary risk. Unfortunately, she
continued, ethnic data are limited primarily to those on blacks and whites, and OPPTS would like to
have available data on other ethnic groups. Dr. Goldman cited the example of assessments made of
pesticides used on greens as evidence of a case in which OPPTS has set a standard based on risks to a
portion of the population.
Dr. Goldman said that protection of farm workers is also a serious issue. She acknowledged that
although the Pesticides Worker Protection Rule was established in 1992, its implementation has been
a struggle. Dr. Goldman said OPPTS must obtain more response from farm workers and ensure that
their voice is heard. OPPTS plans to hold hearings to encourage dialogue with communities on a
local level,'rather than attempting to address all issues from Washington. Dr. Goldman also stated
that OPPTS is under pressure from Congress, in response to urging from farmers and state
agricultural departments, to change how EPA plans to implement the rule.
Dr. Goldman described the activities of various offices within OPPTS. She explained that the
responsibilities of Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics (OPPT) cover not only the environment,
but also the workplace. OPPT is the only office in the federal government that has available test
results and data on the adverse effects of chemicals, said Dr. Goldman. She noted that OPPT would
like all information, such as Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) data and toxicology data, to be released in
a form that is readily available to the public.
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Dr. Goldman then addressed the issue of lead, stating that exposure to lead is a core environmental
justice issue for OPPTS. She noted that, unlike most countries in which the general population is
exposed to lead, in the U.S., residents of poor minority communities and workers bear the burden of
exposure. OPPT's greatest challenge in communities is to remove lead from housing before children
are exposed. OPPTS provides education, tools, infrastructure, and training on issues related to lead
and lead abatement and is working with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to rid
housing of lead, while simultaneously providing jobs. She added that geographic information system
(GIS) tools are being developed to identify neighborhoods in which various issues are of concern.
Dr. Goldman also mentioned the existence of EJ community partnership pilot projects to assist
communities in identifying priority concerns and addressing issues. Questions and comments from
council members followed Dr. Goldman's presentation.
Ms. Thomas stated that OPPTS should work with the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) to deal with
issues related to lead in the homes of Native Americans. Dr. Goldman concurred.
Ms. Johnson pointed out that lead pipes are a concern because water runs through many deteriorating
lead pipes. People ultimately drink the water, thereby becoming exposed to health hazards. Ms.
Dana Minerva, Deputy A A for the Office of Water (OW) responded, stating that OW has been
criticized for basing the rule governing lead in drinking water on testing done in water plants rather
than in homes. She announced that OW is addressing the issue through drinking-water rules and now
requires testing at the tap for lead in communities. Ms. Johnson added that lead is an issue not only
for homes, but also for businesses. Dr. Goldman has said she plans to raise that issue in discussions
with her interagency task force, noted Ms. Johnson.
Mr. Turrentine stated that the certification process for training for lead abatement is an EJ issue. He
explained that much of the training is directed to residents of public housing; yet, the minimum
number of training hours has been reduced from 30 to 40 hours to 8 to 12 hours. He is concerned
that there has been tajk of further reduction in the required number of hours of training and cautioned
that any certification should address who will be conducting the lead abatement work and determine
whether the workers are trained adequately in preventing exposure.
Ms. Goldman responded that OPPTS wants to ensure that workers are trained properly; yet, OPPTS
does not want to raise the standards so high that certain jobs become unavailable to members of the
community. Mr. Turrentine commented that, if some prerequisite training, such as construction
experience, is required, many people in a community will not qualify because they essentially have
been "shut out" of the construction industry. He urged OPPTS to ensure that lead abatement training
includes training in basic skills to ensure worker protection.
Ms. Johnson commented that contractors contribute to problems because they do not provide safety
guidelines and protective clothing. She also stated that her organization, People for Community
Recovery, trains people in the community by actually going into homes and providing training.
Mr. Lee interjected that the discussion earlier in the morning about protection of farm workers should
not be forgotten. Mr. Lee also expressed concern about cumulative risks and asked whether OPPTS
was addressing that issue. Dr. Goldman responded that OPPTS typically looks at cumulative
exposure in terms of the areas for which OPPTS has responsibility. For example, OPPTS is trying to
devise ways to address issues related to water that span several programs. Some chemicals are
related to each other and react similarly. Dr. Goldman said that OPPTS considers those chemicals a
"family," rather than addressing them one at a time. Much heavy science is involved in analyzing
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cumulative risks, she said, and it is not an easy process. OPPTS would be willing to make a separate
presentation on issues affecting farm workers, she added.
3.3 OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
Dr. Robert Huggett, AA for the Office of Research and Development (ORD) presented information
about activities of ORD related to environmental justice issues. He stated that ORD is undergoing
changes in how it sets priorities for research and establishes funding for projects. The goal of ORD's
research in the area of environmental justice is to improve the scientific basis for informed decision
making and to provide information that can be used to identify, verify, and set priorities among risks.
He explained that ORD is committed to incorporating principles of environmental justice into the
planning and conduct of research. He noted that ORD conducts in-house research, performed in
more than 12 laboratories by a staff of more than 2,000 people. In addition, Dr. Huggett noted,
more than half of ORD's budget is used for outside research. With some research (such as
cumulative risk studies, research on exposure, and research in pollution prevention), it is difficult to
delineate environmental justice issues from issues that affect communities at large, Dr. Huggett stated.
Dr. Huggett pointed out that ORD (1) sponsors NEJAC's Health and Research Subcommittee; (2)
funds multidisciplinary policy and research activities conducted by Clark Atlanta University; (3)
supports research conducted by Southern Louisiana University in Baton Rouge; (4) funds research
conducted by the Center for Environmental Management in El Paso, Texas; and (5) will sponsor a
symposium on urban environmental justice issues to be held in October 1995 in Baltimore, Maryland.
Dr. Huggett added that, under a joint effort with the National Institute of Medicine, ORD has been
involved in a study of the effects of Native American cooking practices on the concentration of
mercury in various species of fish. ORD also is involved in a pilot project to assess environmental
health issues in the border area of the United States and Mexico. A study is underway to determine
the possibility of using GIS to investigate the correlation of the proximity of certain population groups
to industries reporting to the TRI. ORD also is working in partnership with other agencies, he stated,
to devise a research protocol for the management of risks.
Comments from NEJAC members followed the presentation. The comments are summarized below.
Dr. Bullard commended ORD for its work on the projects mentioned and then made the following
comments. He noted that projects should become programs and ORD should be careful not to isolate
projects as "environmental justice projects," when those projects in fact may not be environmental
justice projects. He added that members of peer review panels should reflect the communities they
are intended to serve. Dr. Bullard stated that ORD should ensure that it actually is assessing
cumulative risks and support existing research agendas to develop protocols for assessing health
effects and prevention and elimination of risk. Dr. Huggett responded that funding for issues related
to environmental justice recently has been expanded, as has funding for peer review panels. He
added that ORD is willing to receive comment from the NEJAC Health and Research Subcommittee
on the selection of areas for further research.
Mr. McDermott commented that pollution prevention, along with analysis of cumulative risks, has
been the subject of recent discussions of the Health and Research Subcommittee. He stressed the
importance of the integration of community-driven research into ORD's research methodology. He
asked whether Dr. Huggett could comment on those issues. Dr. Huggett responded that ORD is
attempting to address cumulative risk, as are other federal agencies. He pointed to research in the
area of dioxin assessment as an effort to address cumulative risk. He echoed Dr. Goldman's
comments about addressing chemicals in "family" groups. As more is learned about biochemistry,
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more can be done to develop cumulative risk assessments, he stated. Dr. Huggett reported that ORD
has assigned ORD's National Risk Management Laboratory to investigate how to manage risks in
pollution prevention. As part of its initiative on community-based environmental protection, ORD is
developing a plan to incorporate science into dialogues and partnerships with communities. Dr.
Huggett added that the term "risk" means different things to different people, and that issue must be
resolved. . .
Ms. Ferris asked whether ORD interacts with the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR) to address exposure issues. She stated that community members have questioned how
ATSDR is fulfilling its mission for communities affected by exposure at Superfund sites. Dr. Huggett
responded that ORD uses information from ATSDR, the Centers for Disease Control, and other
agencies, but he cannot address how ATSDR establishes priorities. ORD will work more closely with
other agencies in the future, he added. Ms. Ferris suggested that EPA provide leadership to ATSDR
in dealing with issues related to health risks.
Dr. Huggett added that he would be willing to discuss these issues at another meeting of the NEJAC.
He invited the members of the NEJAC to contact him if they had any other questions.
3.4 OFFICE OF GENERAL COUNSEL
Mr. Jon Cannon, Office of General Counsel (OGC), presented information about the environmental
justice activities of OGC. Mr. Cannon stated that he had only been "on the job" for about three
weeks but he would provide highlights of ongoing activities in his office. He explained that, under
the Title VI program, OGC has received 23 petitions for redress; 12 cases are currently under active
investigation. OGC has a general obligation to provide legal advice to EPA and to ensure that
concerns related to environmental justice are reflected properly in rulemaking, he noted. The office
also responds to special legal cases. For example, Mr. Cannon explained, OGC provided advice
during Supreme Court deliberations on affirmative action in government contracts. OGC also is
participating in a governmentwide review of affirmative action programs.
After Mr. Cannon's presentation, comments were taken from NEJAC members. The comments are
summarized below.
Mr. Ray stated that more innovative legal approaches are needed to bring justice to communities
adversely affected by contamination. Mr. Cannon pointed out that a recent decision of the EPA
Environmental Appeals Board on a case involving Chemical Waste Management of Indiana,
concerning issues related to permitting under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA),
did not allow consideration of economic disparities. However, the decision did state that public
participation is an important component of the permitting process and that facilities and agencies
should ensure full public participation in that process, he commented. He indicated that the citation
number of the case is RCRA Appeal Nos. 95-2 and 95-3.
Ms. Ferris asked whether that case was one of those in which EPA exempted itself from the
requirements of NEPA. She stated that EPA's exemption of itself from NEPA opens huge loopholes
with respect to economic considerations. Mr. Cannon stated that he was not able to respond at the
time, but he pledged to review the issue.
Dr. Lazarus stated that the success of the Agency's efforts to address Title VI issues should not be
judged until it takes action on the petitions. He acknowledged that the court case could be viewed as
positive; however, some language in the decision is not at all positive with respect to issues of
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concern to NEJAC. Dr. Lazarus also asked when standards and definitions of environmental justice
would be issued, because EPA's inability to establish final standards and definitions of environmental.
justice has prevented EPA from implementing many of the programs that concern NEJAC. Finally,
he urged OGC to distinguish between its requirements to act from what it is authorized to do under
Title VI. Ms. Aterno responded that the draft standards were scheduled to be distributed for review
by federal agencies in early August. Mr. Cannon agreed that the Appeals Board decision is somewhat
vague, but stated that he hopes OGC can take advantage of that circumstance and formulate a
position.
Mr. O'Leary requested that copies of the court decision be distributed to NEJAC members before the
end of the day. He commented that it is important to note the jurisdictional basis for the court's
decision because it is an important one that should be analyzed in terms of its implications for
environmental justice.
3.5 OFFICE OF AIR AND RADIATION
Ms. Mary Nichols, AA for the Office of Air and Radiation (OAR), presented an overview of
environmental justice activities in OAR. Ms. Nichols mentioned that OAR is responsible for
implementing the provisions of the Clean Air Act (CAA). She stated that, at this time the air
program is not as vulnerable to congressional actions as some other programs because the statute was
reauthorized in 1990. The reauthorization granted new tools, imposed challenging deadlines, and
established mandatory responsibilities, she said. The CAA could be used as a tool for obtaining
environmental justice because the act allows EPA to examine health-based standards, sitings of
facilities, and effects en communities. Ms. Nichols stated that OAR considers its mission to be the
reduction of air pollution in communities -- particularly in urban communities.
Ms. Nichols then presented highlights of OAR program activities and distributed a handout to
supplement her verbal presentation. She noted that OAR is working on: (1) improving the
assessment methodology to characterize those communities most affected by pollutants, (2) expanding
outreach and communication efforts, and (3) supporting and enhancing environmental justice activities
in the regions, through EPA Headquarters. She said OAR also is involved in cooperative monitoring
of border issues, including participation in a joint air pollution control district for the El Paso, Texas -
Cuidad Juarez, Mexico metropolitan area. Ms. Nichols singled out for emphasis the relationships
OAR has fostered with four universities. She explained that, through that program, OAR is able to
extend career opportunities.
Ms. Nichols mentioned her personal involvement in preparing for and responding to congressional
hearings on the CAA. She commented that the largest single area of activity that has been targeted
by Congress includes the air toxics technology program and voluntary programs to encourage energy
efficiency — activities of concern to low-income populations and communities of color. She added
that Congress also is targeting highway legislation that provides the single source of funds used to
address air pollution in communities exposed to high levels of air pollution.
Comments from NEJAC members followed the presentation. The comments are summarized below.
Mr. Ray commented that several articles had been written about open-market trading programs, but
EPA has not made any effective efforts to explain the impacts of those programs on poor or urban
communities. He added that many Americans resent vehicle emissions testing programs, and he
urged EPA to explain how such programs benefit air quality. Ms. Nichols responded that although
trading programs can be designed to account for local effects, some do not. For example, she cited
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the Acid Rain Program, authorized under the CAA of 1990; no attention was paid to local effects,
and the program did not provide for public comment, she said. One feature of the trading program
allows credits for reductions made above that mandated by law. Those credits in turn can be sold to
other people who need them for temporary compliance, she noted. Ms. Nichols invited public
comment on recently proposed rules that require notification of releases of toxic substances.
Ms. Thomas encouraged EPA to form partnerships with the BIA, the Department of Housing and
Urban Development (HUD), and the Indian Health Service (IHS), because there have been alarming
increases in cases of tuberculosis in Alaska. Ms. Nichols commented that OAR is focusing research
on the issue of the quality of indoor air, but pointed out that, beyond its duty to educate the public,
OAR has no legal authority in the area. Currently, she said, OAR is receiving tremendous pressure
not to spend any money in the area. In addition, outside interests, such as the tobacco industry, are
exerting pressure in an effort to affect the kinds of information EPA distributes, she said. Ms.
Nichols explained that the tobacco industry has tried to block publication of a report on environmental
tobacco smoke and actually filed a lawsuit to prevent OAR from publishing the report. The lawsuit
was not successful, she noted. Ms. Nichols added that she would follow-up on Ms. Thomas's
suggestion to form partnerships to address indoor air issues in Alaska.
Ms. Ferris made a comment to follow up on a previous comment about market incentives and trading
of emissions credits. She stated that, during a previous NEJAC meeting, the question was raised
whether EPA was conducting research on the effects of trading of emissions credits on communities
of color, particularly those in urban areas. Ms. Ferris did not recall receiving an answer to that
question. Ms. Nichols mentioned that, although many trading programs are underway or have been
completed, most efforts are more theoretical than practical. She added that as the Reclaim Program is
expanded, OAR is requiring that long-term research and on-going assessments of effects be
implemented.
Ms. Ferris added that studies published recently in medical journals have reported high mortality rates
and rates of particulate exposures and have stated that these and other conditions have been
underestimated in the past. The real concern related to market incentives and trading, she stated, is
that emissions credit programs may create "air Superfunds," particularly if the programs have no
checks and balances. Ms. Nichols agreed on the importance of examining new programs to assess
potential unintended consequences. She noted that efforts to reduce particulates have produced
extremely fine particulates that are getting past existing pollution controls. She stated that some
issues related to technology may require reassessment.
3.6 OFFICE OF SOLID WASTE AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE
Mr. Tim Fields, Deputy AA for the Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response (OSWER), and
Mr. Lee, Chairman of the NEJAC Waste and Facility Siting Subcommittee, served as co-presenters.
Mr. Lee thanked the OSWER staff for their partnership with and support for the NEJAC Waste and
Facility Siting Subcommittee. Mr. Lee mentioned that OSWER had invited him to an unveiling of
OSWER's environmental justice action agenda, one of four documents that provide a catalog of
OSWER's environmental justice activities. He noted that an effort to develop an officewide strategy
was started by Mr. Elliot Laws, AA for OSWER, and is part of a living process. Mr. Lee thanked
Mr. Fields for his support and turned the microphone over to him.
Mr. Fields thanked Mr. Lee and the Waste and Facility Siting Subcommittee for assisting OSWER in
addressing issues of environmental justice. He noted that, as a result of Mr. Lee's recommendations,
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OSWER has established a team to address environmental justice in OSWER's programs ~ RCRA,
Superfund, underground storage tanks, and emergency preparedness. OSWER is interested in
Identifying better ways to address concerns related to environmental justice and has formed a true
partnership with NEJAC, he said. He then described OSWER's efforts.
Mr. Fields stated that OSWER has (1) addressed issues related to the Brownfields Initiative1, health
concerns, issues of community involvement, and facility siting issues; (2) provided training for
community representatives on increasing citizen involvement in environmental justice issues; and (3)
distributed the OSWER action agenda for environmental justice to more than 950 people affiliated
with indigenous population groups, including all federally recognized Native American tribes. Mr.
Fields explained that OSWER's action agenda sets forth more than 78 recommendations and more
than 200 action items that address environmental justice in its programs. For OSWER, environmental
justice is not simply a "side issue," he stressed. Mr. Fields added that all 10 regions have submitted
implementation plans for addressing environmental justice issues and the recommendations in
OSWER's action agenda. A steering committee will oversee implementation of the recommendations,
he said.
Mr. Lee discussed the contributions the subcommittee has made to OSWER. He cited the
development of a document containing responses to comments raised by the Waste and Facility Siting
Subcommittee and the general public. The executive summary of that document, which resembles a
catalog or report card, was a direct result of a comment made during the public comment period of
the public meeting on environmental justice in January 1995.
Although Mr. Lee noted that he would discuss the recent public dialogue sessions on urban
revitalization and the Brownft^lds Initiative at another point in the meeting, he mentioned that one key
issue is the relocation of communities affected by contamination. Mr. Lee thanked OSWER for
initiating a process within OSWER to develop a policy related to relocation. Mr. Lee also mentioned
that tools, such as the LandView II used in mapping selected sites, are now available to assist in
conducting environmental justice studies.
Comments from NEJAC members followed and are summarized below.
Mr. O'Leary stated that no office in government has done more to comply with the letter and intent
of Executive Order 12898 than OSWER. He then referred to page 19 of the RCRA action agenda,
specifically to the portion thai discusses integrating environmental justice into the permitting process.
Referring to the recent EPA Appeals Board decision in the Chemical Waste Management case, Mr.
O'Leary asked what effect the board's decision has on OSWER's ability to encourage the regions to
consider environmental justice during the permitting process. Mr. Field responded that OSWER is
examining the process by which grants are awarded and is attempting to link the permitting process to
the grants process. OSWER also is considering the inclusion in the statute governing permitting
issues, language that cites considerations of environmental justice. Such language would be included
in amendments proposed for RCRA.
Ms. Herrera echoed Ms. Ferris' earlier concern about how ATSDR establishes priorities. Mr. Fields
responded that ATSDR recognizes a need to review the way health assessments are conducted. He
noted that OSWER is attempting to work with ATSDR to ensure that funds are spent on activities that
1 EPA's Brownfields Economic Redevelopment Initiative is an organized commitment to help
communities revitalize idled or under-used industrial and commercial facilities where
redevelopment is complicated by potential environmental contamination.
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are of the greatest importance to communities. A research coordination council has been formed to
look at ways to better coordinate research among agencies. Mr. Fields added that he agrees that EPA
should exercise greater leadership to ensure that the concerns of communities are considered in the
design, performance, and follow-up of health assessments.
3.7 OFFICE OF WATER
Ms. Dana Minerva, Deputy AA for OW, spoke about work OW is conducting in the area of
environmental justice. She reported that OW will be releasing information to the public about
advisories related to the consumption of fish. Other efforts are underway to protect people from
eating contaminated fish. For example, OW is revising methodologies used by states to address the
rates of consumption by communities that rely on fish for subsistence. She stated that the effort,
however, would be stopped under the proposed legislation. In addition, she reported that the office
(1) initiated a Great Lakes water quality initiative to consider cumulative effects of toxins, the first
study of its kind in the nation; (2) provided $100 million in wastewater grants for communities
located near border areas; and (3) budgeted $15 million for 1996 to address sanitation in Alaskan
native villages. Ms. Minerva commented that EPA's American Indian Environmental Office also
receives financial and staff support from OW.
Comments from NEJAC members followed and are summarized below.
Ms. Thomas expressed concern that, although.EPA has earmarked funds to address sanitation issues
in Alaska, that money does not necessarily benefit Alaskan native villages directly. Although EPA
has put funding into its Indian program, she continued, tribes do not have access to the funds and do
not have influence on the ways those monies are spent. She asked Ms. Minerva to pass her concerns
to Mr. Bob Perciasepe, AA for OW.
4.0 PRESENTATIONS
This section contains summaries of presentations on various topics related to environmental justice
that were made throughout the meeting on July 25 and 26, 1995. The presentations are summarized
in the subsections below.
N
4.1 PRESENTATIONS ON JULY 25, 1995
4.1.1 Implementation of Executive Order 12898, EJ Guidance for the National Environmental
Policy Act, and Other Issues
Ms. Kathleen McGinty, Director of the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ),
presented information about the implementation of the Executive Order at the national level. Ms.
McGinty began her presentation by noting that tremendous progress has been made. She explained
that EPA is working to develop a model for addressing environmental justice issues at Superfund
sites; the Department of Transportation (DOT) and HUD are working together, as a result of the
environmental justice public meeting in January 1995. Each agency now has its own strategy to deal
with issues of environmental justice, which reflects an effort to venture into new territory. It is
difficult for a political entity to tackle a new issue like environmental justice because the terrain is
uncertain, she said.
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Ms. McGinty reported that CEQ forwarded a report to the President, pursuant to Executive Order
12898, outlining concrete and specific action items to be undertaken by federal agencies to address
issues of environmental justice. The CEQ will issue guidance on the implications of NEPA with
respect to environmental justice and the Executive Order. People finally are making the effort to
grasp the issue of disparate effects and cumulative health risks, Ms. McGinty stated. Despite 25
years of environmental progress in our country, problems still exist, she added, pointing to the recent
incident in which people in Wisconsin died from drinking dirty, contaminated water. Ms. McGinty
stressed that the vitality that exists in communities, such as efforts by individuals to "seize and take
back" their communities, is at the heart of everything that is being done to reinvent government. It is
important to understand these issues, to understand that the strength, vitality, and energy of
communities have had their effect on the President and will have an effect upon government in the
future.
Ms. McGinty echoed earlier comments in which Administrator Browner decried proposed cuts to
environmental programs as simply an effort to "disempower" people by simply not letting
communities know about the kinds of contamination that exist in their communities. She pointed to
the TRI as an example of the types of tools targeted for elimination. Empowerment is the future and
hope of vital democracy in our country, and the CEQ is committed to working to confront the heart
of environmental justice issues, she said.
The comments of NEJAC members that followed Ms. McGinty's presentation are summarized below.
Dr. Bullard was pleased about the CEQ's guidance on integration of environmental justice and NEPA.
He stated that, while waiting for guidance, some agencies have been allowed to do nothing, while
others have pursued initiatives to address environmental justice. Dr. Bullard then questioned to what
extent ongoing initiatives would be affected by the new guidance. Ms. McGinty responded that
agencies that have not made progress on environmental justice issues are in the minority; most have
taken action. She added that rhe new guidance will reflect the lessons learned by agencies that have
taken the lead in addressing environmental justice.
Mr. Lee questioned the White House's commitment to environmental justice and stated that there are
indications that some people are not willing to stand up for what is right. He stated further that some
individuals have attempted to equate affirmative action with environmental justice, an effort that stems
from a lack of understanding of what constitutes environmental justice issues. Mr. Lee commented
that, if the current administration does not show real leadership and commitment to environmental
justice, there is no reason for us to expect much progress. He asked what kind of leadership the
White House is providing in the area of environmental justice. Until now, he said, the CEQ has
"danced around issues."
Ms. McGinty acknowledged that CEQ has failed to articulate the environmental justice components of
its existing work. However, she cited work that does promote consideration of environmental justice:
the Brownfields Initiative and Project EXCEL-Excellence in Leadership. Shortly, communities will
be able to apply for sustainable development grants, she reported. Regarding the CEQ guidance or
the lack of leadership, Ms. McGinty stated that, for a long time, there was no White House presence
in CEQ. The guidance document on environmental justice and NEPA was the council's first
undertaking after that issue had been addressed, she added.
Mr. Moore commented that the question of affirmative action versus environmental justice will not be
taken lightly by the community. Environmental justice groups are hot "special interest" groups, he
explained, because environmental justice deals with life-threatening issues. Someone must stand up
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for the right thing, Mr. Moore said, and the White House should be aware that those who do not will
not be supported.
Mr. Hurst stated that the process of bringing business people to the decision-making table is a real
issue. He noted that representatives of the Business Network for Environmental Justice recently met
with members of the White House staff to discuss ways to increase knowledge about environmental
justice. The organization plans to extend that effort to EPA's enforcement offices, as well as DOJ,
Mr. Hurst added. One issue that remains outstanding is how to define environmental justice,
particularly within a business context. Mr. Hurst stated that the White House could provide help in
this area. Ms. McGinty agreed, noting that companies that have tried to understand (if not by
definition then by practice) what environmental justice means, have found greater receptivity in
communities. She stated that CEQ has tried to share those examples of success with other businesses.
For example, DOT held a conference in the Midwest at which success stories were shared, and many
business people adopted the concepts that were discussed, she explained. In addition, Ms. McGinty
said Secretary Brown has worked with the President's Council on Sustainable Development on
environmental justice issues. The council is attempting to work a full social agenda into the agenda
of the sustainable development council, she said.
Mr. McDermott mentioned that many people are frustrated with the lack of progress of the Superfund
reauthorization proposal. He explained that frustration comes because various environmental justice
initiatives, such as job training and job creation, were woven into the bill and now are stalled.
Similarly, cleanup projects at Department of Defense (DoD) and DOE facilities probably will be cut
back, Mr. McDermott stated. He asked whether there was opportunity to implement through
Presidential executive action some of the ideas proposed under Superfund reauthorization. Ms.
McGinty commented that CEQ is now working administratively to implement as many of those ideas
as it can. In the event that action is not taken on Superfund legislation, the CEQ will implement
certain initiatives administratively, she explained. There also is an opportunity to work on
environmental justice activities under RCRA, she pointed out.
Dr. Bullard commented that many fears and anxieties of communities could be allayed if
communication with communities were improved. He suggested that formal communication channels
be set up and lines of communication kept open to ensure that people are informed of what the CEQ
is doing. He asked Ms. McGinty to publish reports on the progress of the CEQ. Ms. McGinty
responded that those are good suggestions worth pursuing, adding that the chains of communication
should be kept open and ways found to avoid any legal "buzz saws" in that area.
Mr. Ray commented that the action taken by the administration in forming the. CEQ and tackling this
difficult issue is a good example of the kind of leadership the council has sought. Mr. Ray
commented that environmental justice is an issue that would not have been on the agenda were it not
for the President's Executive Order. Comments made during the meeting about where this issue is
headed are encouraging, he added.
4.1.2 Using EJ to Address the Crisis in the Urban Environment: Brownfields Initiative Trips
Mr. Lee and Mr. Fields presented information about this topic. Mr. Lee reported on the results of
recent public dialogue sessions held around the country on urban revitalization and issues related to
the Brownfields Initiative. He explained that at its meeting in January 1995, NEJAC decided that its
Waste and Facility Siting Subcommittee should conduct public dialogues on the Brownfields issues.
At about the same time, he added, EPA announced that it would award 50,Brownfields Initiative
grants for 1995 and 1996.
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Mr. Lee requested that NEJAC adopt a resolution that urges federal agencies to develop strategies to
address urban revitalization and Brownfields. He stated that the Brownfields Initiative, as envisioned,
is not a product of environmental justice communities. When the Brownfields "train" left the station.
he said, it left a lot of people behind. The term "Brownfields" is something that some people in some
communities have never heard. The environmental and ecological issues that the Brownfields
Initiative deals with are very important, he added.
Mr. Lee discussed the public dialogues in Boston, Massachusetts; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Detroit,
Michigan; Oakland, California; and Atlanta, Georgia, held in conjunction with EPA regions and in
partnership with local communities. Using Detroit as an example, Mr. Lee explained that, given the
poor physical condition of the city, one has to wonder why situations like the 1992 Los Angeles riots
did not happen sooner. What type of message are we sending by failing to address urban issues, he
asked. Mr. Lee noted that the subcommittee is beginning to develop a report on the issues raised
during the public dialogues sessions. The importance of those issues in developing a cohesive
environmental justice strategy still confronts us. Mr. Lee noted that the subcommittee will ask that
the information be archived. He suggested the Environmental Justice Resources Center at Clark
Atlanta University as a logical location for such an archive.
Mr. Lee continued, stating that public policy too often is geared toward making it easy for the
developer. In the minds of many people, the Brownfields redevelopment initiative is nothing more
than a smokescreen, he added. Pointing to Philadelphia, he stated that another critical issue is the
importance of informed public participation. He noted that EPA, in response to complaints from
communities, developed a process for public participation during the grant-making process.
Mr. Lee stated further that reinventing government should be discussed from the perspective of where
that process begins. The issue of urban revitalization must be discussed in the context of racism and
patterns of housing segregation that have led to the issues, he said. Revitalization should occur in
ways that are healthy and helpful, not in ways that simply allow some people to "gentrify" entire
neighborhoods. He added that removing liability restrictions does not necessarily mean that
revitalization will follow. "Buying and Selling Brownfields for Fun and Profit," a conference to be
held during the summer of 1995, is testament to some business community's perspective on the
Brownfields issue, he said.
Mr. Fields then discussed OSWER's perspective on the issues. He stated that OSWER became
involved in the topic of Brownfields in June 1994, after the U.S. Conference of Mayors determined
that abandoned contaminated property was the number one environmental concern. He stated that
OSWER staff began visiting cities such as Pittsburgh where vast tracts of abandoned wastelands lie in
the vicinity of communities of color. Urban revitalization is not about cleaning up property, he said,
but about restoring communities. Mr. Fields however, acknowledged that OSWER's first initiative
was undertaken without adequate involvement of communities. He reported that reforms implemented
since then have reflected learning and insight with respect to involving communities and considering
community concerns. For example, Mr. Fields said he now understands the resistance of some
communities to the development of new businesses that government thinks are acceptable but the
community believes are inappropriate.
Mr. Fields stated that the report of the Waste and Facility Siting Subcommittee should help OSWER
further define issues and develop solutions. Things that make sense to government may not make
sense at all to communities, Mr. Fields noted, adding that government must listen to the communities.
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OSWER is proceeding with its plan to implement 50 Brownfields projects by mid-1996. He noted
that 25,000 sites have been removed from the inventory of Superfund sites and all are candidates for
redevelopment. He added that OSWER is issuing new cleanup policies for redevelopment properties.
Many agencies other than EPA, such as HUD, the Department of Labor, and HHS, must play major
roles in restoring communities, Mr. Fields added.
Comments and questions that followed the presentation are summarized below.
Dr. Gaylord asked for clarification of Mr. Lee's proposed resolution. Mr Lee admitted that he had
not drafted language yet but would be willing to prepare the resolution for later discussion. He added
that he has realized from his work on the Brownfields dialogues that there appears to be confusion
about what environmental justice really can be. He urged NEJAC to speak to the fact that
environmental justice and urban crisis are a serious issue. He added that environmental justice
involves many issues, and the question of how to devise an environmental justice urban strategy
remains.
Dr. English asked whether OSWER has a working definition of "community," with respect to
Brownfields. Mr. Fields commented that there is no working definition, although different definitions
have been used by various segments of the community. He added that the definition varies from
region to region and state to state. For example, Dallas bases its definition on how a particular
community "stacks up," compared with the rest of the state, he said.
Ms. Herrera cautioned OSWER to work with local communities, including city planners, local
academia, and the people who "live, work, and play" in the community. With respect to jobs, Ms.
Herrera urged the inclusion of managerial jobs, not menial labor jobs. Mr. Fields agreed and
explained that in each of OSWER's pilot project awards, there will be a training component for the
local community, so that residents can benefit from cleanup projects and redevelopment of property.
Ms. Herrera added that the capacity of community-based organizations should be such that they can
work with local educational institutions, to develop training partnerships.
Mr. Turrentine asked Mr. Fields whether he was aware of the problems that have been encountered
with a similar project in Cleveland in which newly trained workers did not have "iron-clad" access to
the job market. He asked EPA to consider requiring training contractors to provide some assurance
that jobs will be available after training has been completed. Mr. Turrentine stated that people's
frustration can turn to anger when they continue to be passed over for jobs, even after they have been
trained. Mr. Fields agreed. He announced that, regarding the situation in Cleveland, Congressman
Stokes hosted a meeting to discuss partnerships that will ensure that people being trained at Cuyahoga
Community College have access to jobs. Mr. Fields said we must look not only at job training, but
also at job creation, the job market, and career development. There is an opportunity to be
innovative, added Mr. Fields.
Ms. Johnson stated that the People for Community Recovery group has been very successful in
Chicago in generating jobs for people undergoing training. She added that she would be very
interested in sharing information with others.
4.1.3 New Legal Guidelines for the NEJAC
Mr. Hale Hawbecker, OGC, presented information about new legal guidelines governing NEJAC.
Mr. Hawbecker distributed a handout to supplement his presentation. He began by discussing the
requirements to which NEJAC is subject under FACA as a federal advisory committee. Those
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requirements include: a balanced membership; timely public notice of meetings (15 days before the
meeting); written notes of meetings available to the public; opportunity for public comment during
meetings; attendance at all meetings by a DFO; and the availability of all draft reports and working
papers to the public. He noted that meetings of working groups, such as those held informally during
lunch, are exempt from the requirements of FACA. However, such meetings are not to be used to
formulate recommendations to EPA.
Mr. Hawbecker explained that, under-FACA, there is a limit on the travel expenses EPA may pay.
He stressed that EPA cannot reimburse people for invitational travel if they simply attend meetings.
However, he added, EPA can pay expenses for those who serve in an advisory capacity or otherwise
participate directly in meetings. Mr. Hawbecker also noted that FACA stipulates that the EPA
Administrator can remove members at the Administrator's discretion.
Mr. Hawbecker discussed several anti-lobby ing issues. He explained that there are restrictions
against grassroots lobbying but there are no prohibitions against individual members lobbying in a
personal capacity. Mr. Hawbecker stated that EPA cannot instruct or encourage such lobbying, nor
can NEJAC develop a strategy for lobbying government agencies. He noted that if NEJAC members
are reimbursed for attendance at a NEJAC meeting, they should not contact Congress or do any
lobbying on the days they perform their duties as NEJAC members.
Regarding potential conflicts of interest, Mr. Hawbecker stated that NEJAC members are not
government employees and, therefore, are not subject to restrictions pertaining to conflict of interest
that are imposed on government employees. However, if a personal conflict of interest exists, he
said, NEJAC members should refrain from participating in those discussions that might be pertinent
to that conflict. Finally, an individual cannot serve as a committee member if that individual is
required to register as a foreign agent.
Comments and questions from NEJAC members that followed the presentation are summarized
below.
Dr. Gay lord asked about NEJAC members making public comments. She asked whether this practice
constituted a conflict of interest. Mr. Hawbecker responded that the practice is not illegal. Although
he noted that members have adequate time to discuss issues at the table, he said that making public
comments before the NEJAC is a personal decision that members must make.
Dr. Lazarus explained that, recently, when NEJAC wanted to provide advice to Congress, it sent its
recommendations to the EPA Administrator. He asked whether it was appropriate for NEJAC
members, as individuals or under the auspices of organizations to which they are affiliated, to send
correspondence to EPA about proposed legislation. Mr. Hawbecker responded that it is perfectly
correct to send recommendations to the EPA Administrator. He added however, that NEJAC should
create its own stationary for that purpose.
4.1.4 Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964
Mr. Rodney Cash, Office of Civil Rights (OCR), discussed pertinent aspects of Title VI of the Civil
Rights Act of 1964. Mr. Cash used a handout to supplement his presentation, and began by saying
that, since the Executive Order was issued, an increasing number of Title VI complaints have been
filed. He explained that OCR, which is located in the Office of the Administrator, consists of two
units: the affirmative employment/special emphasis unit and the discriminatory complaints/external
compliance unit. There are no OCR personnel in the regions. From 1989 to 1994, there was one
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person on the compliance staff; since then, staff have been added, including an attorney and attorney
advisors, to respond to the number of complaints being received. Today, Mr. Cash reported, OCR
employs 17 full-time non-support-staff members.
Mr. Cash stated that Congress enacted Title VI to ensure than no discrimination would exist under
programs funded by the federal government. However, he explained, Title VI does not cover issues
related to sexual discrimination or socioeconomic status. As an example of the leverage available
under Title VI, Mr. Cash explained that during the school desegregation movement in the late 1960s,
the Supreme Court ruled that Title VI applied only to intentional discrimination. However, federal
agencies like EPA adopted a "disparate effects" standard to prohibit unintentional discrimination.
Mr. Cash then reviewed the Title VI complaint process, which begins with the filing of a written
complaint with any EPA office, which forwards the complaint to OCR. Complaints are accepted if
the identities of the person and institution are listed and a description of the violation is provided that
is sufficient to ascertain (1) what entity is receiving the federal funds, (2) whose rights have been
violated, and (3) the specific rights that have been violated. The process can be lengthy, he noted,
especially in cases in which several parties and many issues are involved.
Mr. Cash reported that the first Title VI complaints related to environmental justice were filed in
September 1993. To date, OCR has received.23 complaints: 12 have been accepted for
investigation, 10 are under reviewed as candidates for investigation, and 1 has been dismissed. Most
complaints are from Regions 4 and 6, and most respondents are states.
Mr. Cash stated that there are limitations to Title VI as an environmental justice enforcement tool. In
addition, there are requirements governing jurisdiction and timeliness. There are also limits on the
types of remedies offered. For example, he noted that compensatory damages are not included. Mr.
Cash commented that OCR is working with the DOJ and HUD to promote compliance and hasten
processing of complaints.
Questions, comments, and responses that followed the presentation are summarized below.
Dr. Lazarus commented that, although federal agencies could terminate funding as an ultimate -
sanction, they generally use interim remedies instead. He asked whether the choice of remedies
would be expanded and whether EPA had determined whether a state can violate Title VI by
enforcing its programs unequally. Mr. Cash answered that no conclusions have been reached about
those issues.
Dr. Bullard inquired about the ability of OCR to cover the entire nation with such a small staff. He
asked to what extent the regions are taking any initiative to allocate local staff. Dr Bullard suggested
the regions review region-specific issues for Title VI claims, rathej than expecting Headquarters to
guide the effort. Mr. Cash agreed, saying the idea is worth pursuing. He stated that OCR has been
communicating with regional environmental justice coordinators, particularly in regions 4 and 6.
Dr. Bullard countered that the significant interaction with regions 4 and 6 is not surprising because
the demographics for those two regions show substantially large concentrations of minority and low-
income communities living in states in which many civil rights violations have been alleged. He
urged that the regional offices follow the lead of Headquarters in responding to Title VI complaints.
Mr. Cash responded that EPA has made the decision to "speak with one voice," in its response to
complaints received.
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Dr. English stated that it would be helpful to know about the cumulative effects of discrimination not
only with respect to environmental issues, but also on housing and transportation issues. What are
the cumulative effects of different federally funded activities that lead to patterns of discrimination,
she asked, and does EPA interact with other agencies to look for patterns across, agencies. Mr. Cash
answered that procedures are not yet that sophisticated. However, EPA is sharing information about
complaints with other agencies, he added.
Mr. Ray asked whether OCR has developed a theory about what might constitute a continuing
violation, or a time frame within which violations must occur to be considered continuing. Mr. Cash
responded that no definition of a continuing violation exists. However, if a series of similar
violations occurs, that series could be viewed as a continuing violation. He noted that claimants must
submit petitions within 180 days for actions against private industry and within 45 days for actions
against federal agencies.
Ms. Thomas recommended that the issue of cumulative risk should be advanced as an issue for the
Interagency Working Group. Ms. Aterno responded that IWG's task force on enforcement and
compliance has initiated efforts to examine those issues as they affect all agencies. She added that
EPA has been working with HUD and other federal agencies to share information and not "reinvent
the wheel."
Ms. Johnson asked whether the IWG is examining issues in Chicago, because the southeast side faces
a broad range of issues. Ms. Aterno responded that the IWG is not considering Chicago specifically;
rather, it is considering overall policy and strategy issues.
Dr. Lazarus commented that the Title VI program appears to be exclusively a program in which EPA
reacts to complaints, rather than proactively conducting research and initiating action. He suggested
that EPA broaden its response to civil rights issues. Mr. Cash responded that upcoming meetings
with state officials are designed to achieve that purpose.
4.1.5 Community-Based Environmental Protection
Mr. Edward Hanley, EPA Office of Information and Resource Management (OIRM), discussed the
concept of community-based environmental protection. Mr. Hanley used overhead transparencies to
supplement his verbal presentation. He explained that the goal of community-based environmental
protection is to bring about a fundamental change in the way that governments protect the
environment. The concept is place-based, comprehensive, and locally directed and involves the idea
that every place is a "place," he said. Mr. Hanley stated that EPA has a responsibility to provide
communities with information that allows them to see the connection between their local community
and the larger town, city, or state in which they live. In a presentation to a group of federal officials,
Ms. Browner endorsed this concept, he added.
Mr. Hanley stated that EPA estimates it will be involved directly in about 20 percent of places; EPA
will take a lead role in 10 percent of the communities and provide assistance to another 10 percent.
EPA's challenge, he said, will be to reach the other 80 percent.
Mr. Hanley commented that EPA intends to pursue community-based environmental protection and be
very active as a leader, partner, enabler, and facilitator. He announced that EPA has allocated
resources to the effort, reporting that, in 1995, EPA has assigned a minimum of 10 percent of full-
time EPA employees to community-based environmental protection; that number is expected to
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increase to 20 percent in 1996. Mr. Hanley concluded his presentation by stating that plans will be
discussed at an upcoming meeting of regional Administrators.
Comments that followed Mr. Hanley's presentation are summarized below.
Dr English commented that it is good to know of EPA's plans to retain a leadership role in some
areas. There can be a tendency to get "tipped" too far into a response mode, rather than a leadership
mode, she said. Mr. Hanley responded that EPA is working to make data accessible to communities
through such vehicles as the Internet. The key is to put data into the hands of the people, he said.
Mr. Lee commented that this approach to environmental protection represents a fundamental shift
from looking at environmental protection as something merely to be regulated to a view of the
environment as the foundation of life. The whole community-based issue should be "married" to
other initiatives, he observed. Mr. Hanley agreed, adding that EPA is trying to be supportive of the
natural process by examining how communities manage their environments.
Dr. Bullard asked how funding will be allocated to the regions. Where will the money come from to
fund the initiatives, he inquired. Mr. Hanley answered that the details have not been worked out yet,
but EPA will take money from nonproductive oversight activities.
Mr. Hurst commented that EPA can provide leadership to help broaden the base of organizations and
bring all stakeholders to the decision-making table. Mr. Hanley responded that sometimes the best
assistance can be to provide funding for a local meeting hall. EPA brings status to meetings, by
virtue of "who we are." The authority the agency has must be used sparingly and appropriately, he
added. Mr. Hurst suggested that bringing in neutral facilitators would help mitigate any negative
images. Mr. Hanley acknowledged the point as well made.
4.2 PRESENTATIONS ON JULY 26, 1995
4.2.1 Demonstration of the LandView II Satellite Mapping System
Mr. Peter Gattuso, OSWER, conducted a demonstration of the LandView II Satellite Mapping
System. LandView II, a fairly recent development, is really not a satellite system, he pointed out. but
rather, it is a CD-ROM publication. LandView II simplifies access to environmental and
demographic data by providing the information in a ready-to-use format and which does not require
the user to be a computer expert.
Mr. Gattuso explained that LandView II is a joint project of EPA, the Bureau of the Census, and the
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. LandView II contains information on sites and
facilities regulated by EPA and a geographic mapping database of the entire country, he said. The
system also contains information from the 1990 Census of Population and Housing. All the
components are integrated in a software package and distributed as a set of 10 CDs, each providing
information on a particular area of the country.
Mr. Gattuso demonstrated the software for NEJAC members and others present at the meeting. He
explained the various icons and symbols used in the system and showed that the program can display
information about TRI sites, wastewater discharges, and Superfund sites, among other things.
Information such as details of road and rail networks, numbers of families and households, median
household income, number of persons by race, and number of homeowners and renters also can be
obtained through LandView II. Mr. Gattuso noted that LandView II is not limited to EPA and census
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data; users can add their own information through a common d-Base file format. Mr. Gattuso added
that the system works on any IBM-compatible hardware system, from old 286 systems to new
Pentium-driven systems.
Mr. Gattuso commented that LandView II is not a GIS system; GIS users generally must have more
training and more powerful hardware to operate GIS systems. In contrast, he noted, LandView II
was developed as a tool for ordinary citizens to use.
After answering specific questions about his demonstration, Mr. Gattuso explained that copies of
LandView II can be obtained from the Bureau of the Census. The CDs are $95 each, and the entire
set is priced at $795. EPA has distributed approximately 200 copies, free of charge, to the regions,
agencies that participate in the IWG, and other federal agencies, he said.
4.2.2 Information Resources Management Strategic Plan
Mr. Rick Martin, OIRM, discussed EPA's efforts to analyze data resources and how those resources
can be used in such programs as environmental justice and on the Internet. He explained that the
Agency's new Information Resources Management (IRM) program represents the first time in EPA's
history that senior management and political leadership have been charged with managing information
as a corporate resource. He added that the IRM program is in a unique position to be a catalyst for
bringing technical professionals, ecosystem managers, and the public together with "technology, Mr.
Martin observed. He added that it is anticipated that the data systems will undergo changes in the
near future, as regulatory reporting requirements change. EPA, he said, will work to reinvent and
streamline the systems.
Mr. Martin reported that one focus of the program is to foster public access and allow people
flexibility in using information. A public access group is working to identify data gaps, put
information on the Internet, and ensure direct access to the IRM database so the public can download
information, he noted. Mr. Martin added that the program also addresses data acquisition. Within
the next year or so, he explained, users will be able to download directly from the Internet. Putting
information on the Internet gives the public easy access to the most recent data, Mr. Martin stated.
Mr. Martin commented that the IRM executive steering committee also is examining ways to reduce
significantly the reporting burdens borne by industry. Simplifying the requirements will make the
data more easily understandable to the public, he said.
Questions, comments, and responses following Mr. Martin's presentation are summarized below.
Ms. Walker asked whether EPA consults with community members when creating data management
systems to ensure that those systems are valuable and usable. Mr. Martin stated that the steering
committee had not done so; however, the program offices are the principal owners of the systems and
they are urged to do so. EPA has had success during the pilot test of use of the Internet as a two-way
communication vehicle. EPA receives about 700,000 e-mail messages per month from all over the
country.
Ms. Walker suggested that Mr. Martin contact Terry Williams in EPA's American Indian
Environmental Office, because Mr. Williams is attempting to .assist tribal people by bringing in new
technologies. Mr. Martin agreed to contact Mr. Williams and commented that an representative of
the OW had made a similar suggestion in a recent meeting of the executive steering committee.
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5.0 STATUS OF EJ ACTIVITIES IN EPA REGIONS
EPA regional environmental justice coordinators gave presentations on the status of activities in their
respective regions over the two-day meeting. The presentations are summarized'below.
5.1 REGION 1
Mr. James Younger, Region 1, presented information about EPA Region 1. He thanked NEJAC for
the opportunity to speak and stated that regional environmental justice coordinators often are forgotten
partners, even though they are on the front lines, implementing change. Mr. Younger commented
that Region 1 implemented a policy that governs methodologies of addressing environmental justice in
everyday work. He stated that Region 1 also has mapped communities in New England by race and
income and is well positioned to address a place-based approach to issues related to urban ecosystems.
He urged EPA to recognize the community's ability to make decisions and let communities define the
kind of ecosystems protection they want. EPA then should team with communities to address the
protection of urban ecosystems, he said.
EPA has made a great deal of progress, but must make a fundamental change in how it does business,
said Mr. Younger. Additional training, as well as continual leadership and commitment, is necessary.
Mr. Younger noted that EPA still has not achieved diversity in decision-making positions that affect
the quality of life.
5.2 REGION 2
Ms. Melva Hayden, Region 2, presented information about Region 2. She echoed Mr. Younger's
sentiments about not forgetting the regional perspective when it comes to implementing strategy. The
Region 2 Administrator is committed to environmental justice, said Ms. Hayden who reports directly
to the Regional Administrator. Ms. Hayden added that Region 2 is committed to community-based
environmental protection and is interested particularly in Puerto Rico, where comprehensive
monitoring is in place and a special initiative coordinator was recently hired.
Ms. Hayden noted that Region 2 will host an environmental justice roundtable on August 30, 1995.
Region 2, she said, is seeking advice on implementing environmental justice in the region. A
consistent policy that defines factors .in environmental justice is needed, she added. In response to
earlier discussion of Title VI, Ms. Hayden mentioned that she worked on a complaint filed in Region
2 and is involved closely in the process. She noted that through close coordination, she is able to
encourage resolution. 'Ms. Hayden distributed an update report on environmental justice activities in
Region 2.
5.3 REGION 3
No presentation was made for Region 3.
5.4 REGION 4
Ms. Vivian Malone-Jones, Region 4, presented information about EJ activities in Region 4. She
reported that, since Region 4 established its environmental justice office in 1993, an environmental
scientist and other staff have joined the office. She stated that the proposed reorganization will
relocate the region's OEJ under the auspices of the new regional Office of Accountability and
Enforcement, resulting in an EJ office with greater resources, she said. Currently, each division in
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Region 4 has an environmental justice coordinator, she said, noting that one coordinator has that
responsibility full time, while other division coordinators have collateral duties.
Ms. Malone-Jones stated that Region 4 has devised a plan, or guidance document, for integrating
environmental justice into all programs. Other activities include holding a meeting in May 1994 to
discuss its plan with community groups and establishing a GIS system to track issues related to
environmental justice. She commented that the printouts are available to the public.
In response to complaints from communities, Ms. Malone-Jones stated that the region is emphasizing
its public participation and outreach programs. Each regional community relations coordinator has
received training in outreach and public participation. In addition, she said the Region 4
Administrator has been meeting with community groups; division directors also have been meeting
regularly with community groups to receive and share information.
Ms. MalonerJones added that Region 4 is awarding a grant under the Partners in Protection Program.
She explained that the grant is expected to be awarded to a community organization or a historically
black college or university to conduct outreach work related to enforcement. Region 4 has awarded
several grants to the city of Atlanta for comparative risk projects. A grant was awarded to Jackson
State University to study the environmental justice components of the comparative risk study. Ms.
Malone Jones commented that the state of Mississippi was required to work in close cooperation with
Jackson State University on that project. Grants also have been awarded to Clark Atlanta University,
Florida A&M University, Alabama A&M University, and the Teachers Institute at Clark Atlanta
University.
Ms. Malone-Jones noted that Region 4 also has established an'interagency work group to address
environmental justice issues. Federal agencies required by Executive Order 12898 to develop
strategies on environmental justice are included in the work group. She concluded the region has
been attempting to integrate environmental justice into the way it conducts business, recognizing that
much remains to be done.
5.5 REGION 5
Ms. Margaret Millard, Region 5, presented information about environmental justice activities in that
region. Ms. Millard began her presentation by stating that she was selected as the Region 5
environmental justice coordinator in May 1995. Ms. Millard, who has worked for EPA for nine
years, formerly served as the RCRA environmental justice coordinator. She has significant
experience in dealing with Native American issues.
Ms. Millard distributed a report that summarizes the major environmental justice projects in Region
5. She stated that Region 5 is focusing on addressing environmental justice "hot spots," as well as
incorporating environmental justice into everyday work practices. The "hot spots" are also referred
to as geographic initiatives. There are five geographic initiatives in Region 5: southeast Chicago;
northwest Indiana; southeast Michigan; east St. Louis; and Cleveland. Ms. Millard explained that
within each initiative, Region 5 is examining many different issues. For example, in southeast
Chicago, solid waste, groundwater, air monitoring, targeted enforcement, and compliance are among
the issues that Region 5 is examining. Ms. Millard cited another instance where, in response to
complaints from an active community group, Region 5 initiated a Title VI analysis of incinerators on
the southeast side of Chicago. Contaminated property that has been abandoned and lead are other
issues of concern in the area.
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Ms. Millard also mentioned that a public dialogue session on urban revitalization and the Brownfields
Initiative was held in Detroit on June 9, 1995; at the session, the problem of illegal dumping was
discussed. In east St. Louis, lead contamination and abatement are major issues, as well as sewer and
air pollution issues. In Cleveland, the Brownfields Initiative is a prominent issue; Ms. Millard noted
that there is a Brownfields pilot project underway in Cleveland.
Ms. Millard stated that other activities underway in Region 5 include (1) working in partnership with
communities to develop community-oriented environmental justice strategies; (2) use of GIS to
identify the areas in the Region that have the highest pollution rates, along with populations of color
or low-income populations; (3) working with other agencies, such as Ohio EPA, HUD, and local
governments in Ohio to conduct lead removal programs in public housing and to resolve issues related
to permitting; and (4) developing a pilot risk analysis of three hazardous waste treatment, storage, and
disposal facilities.
Another main focus area in Region 5 is incorporating environmental justice into all decision-making
processes, Ms. Millard continued. Cases may exist in which there are no severe pollution problems,
but under which, environmental justice issues still are present. For example, in a pesticide case in the
region, elevated levels of pesticides were found in the blood of local residents living in an African-
American and Puerto Rican community. Evacuation of the area was necessary, and EPA faced issues
related to public housing assistance for those evacuated. Cultural, language, and economic factors
affected the effort. EPA negotiated with landlords so that rents would not be increased because
improvements to property were made by EPA to correct the health risks present. Ms. Millard
commented that the Region should develop methodologies for dealing with such issues.
Region 5 also has been conducting training and awareness workshops for its Superfund and RCRA
offices and for the Office of Regional Counsel (ORC). Monthly brownbag seminars have been held,
and community activists have been invited to participate.
\
Finally, Ms. Millard discussed a teacher's institute that Region 5 hosted at Chicago State University.
Ms. Millard showed a videotape of the event in which teachers were shown learning about ecological
issues. EPA has been invited to host similar institutes for teachers and students at six Chicago
schools.
Ms. Walker commended Region 5 and recommended more "listening sessions" in other regions.
EPA should go into communities more often to discuss with community members ways to address
issues. She observed that there is too much top-down decision making.
5.6 REGION 6
Ms. Lynda Carroll, Region 6, was unable to attend the meeting. Ms. Carroll had prepared a written
statement that was read by Mr. Robert Knox, OEJ.
Ms. Carroll's statement mentioned a recent restructuring that resulted in the relocation of the
environmental justice coordinator to the Region's Office of External Affairs. She noted that the
coordinator was moved closer to the Regional Administrator's office in response to the
recommendations of community organizations.
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Ms. Carroll's statement indicated that Region 6 activities include:
• Addressing issues related to areas nears the border of the United States and Mexico,
with Ms. Carroll stating her anticipation that the new program director, selected
during the reorganization and permanently located in El Paso, Texas, will improve
relationships among Mexico, the states, EPA, and residents
• Planning an environmental justice forum in Albuquerque, New Mexico, which will
offer stakeholders an opportunity to learn more about various points of view, the
Superfund program, and the role of citizens in the hazardous waste cleanup process
• Denial of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission of a proposed uranium enrichment
facility
Specifically, the region recommended that environmental justice be given full consideration as an
issue in the area in the vicinity of the facility, which would be located adjacent to African-American
communities. Also mentioned was EPA's requirement to comment on environmental justice issues
related to responsibilities under Section 309 of the Clean Air Act, in response to the President's
Executive Order on environmental justice.
When Mr. Knox finished reading the statement from Region 6, comments followed. They are
summarized below.
Ms. Millard commented that EPA should identify ways to address homogenous areas. She explained
that some people view homogeneous communities as being exempt from environmental justice. For
example, the people of Puerto Rico are Hispanic but that does not mean that the communities are
exempt from considerations of EJ. Predatory siting also is a serious issue in Puerto Rico. Ms.
Millard said that environmental justice issues in these areas seem to fall through the cracks because of
attitudes about homogeneity being excluded from environmental justice. The fact is. Ms. Millard
continued, there are injustices in those areas that should be addressed, regardless of the nationality of
the majority.
Dr. Wright wanted clarification about a situation in Shreveport, Louisiana. Specifically, Dr. Wright
stated, EPA Region 6 has announced that it is pleased with the result of an environmental impact
statement; however, the community is not pleased. Dr. Wright stated that she is very displeased with
Region 6. .
/
Mr. Moore stated that there has been a long history of complaints in Region 6, and, despite attempts
to rectify the situation, problems still exist. He suggested that a meeting with the Regional
Administrator be scheduled to discuss and address the issues. The NEJAC Chairman then stated that
not all Region 6 staff are ineffective.
5.7 REGION 7
Ms. Connie Thigpen, Region 7, substituted for the Region 7 environmental justice coordinator. She
presented information about environmental justice activities in Region 7. Ms, Thigpen stated that
Region 7 comprises Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska. In the Midwest, the prevailing attitude^is
that there are no environmental justice issues and concerns; therefore, things are moving slowly, she
said. Ms. Thigpen noted that Region 7 established a regional environmental justice work group in
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1993. In May 1995, the Regional office was restructured; the environmental justice coordinator is
now working with the Region's ORC to build the environmental justice program.
In its first year of work on environmental justice issues, Region 7 awarded six environmental justice
small business grants; 10 grants were awarded in the second year. Recently, eight environmental
justice and pollution prevention grants were awarded, she said. The Region also has been involved in
the Brownfields Initiative in the Mississippi gateway-St. Louis area. •
The Region has been focusing on educating the states and other regional partners, Ms. Thigpen
continued; its current focus is the community. She announced that, in September 1995, the Region
will host its first environmental justice summit. The event will be the first time that community
groups will be sitting at the bargaining table with state partners, enterprise zone industry members,
and local planning and zoning officials.
5.8 REGION 8
Mr. Mel McCottry, Region 8, discussed environmental justice activities in Region 8. Mr. McCottry
stated that Region 8 is emphasizing community involvement and constantly seeks comment from the
community. In Region 8, more than 50 percent of grants made have been awarded to Native
Americans and tribal organizations. He added that the regional environmental justice work group
emphasizes multimedia environmental justice issues. The work group's efforts have brought about
reinvestment of resources, more extensive community outreach efforts, and the proposal of a radical
reorganization under which the Assistant Regional Administrator would lead enforcement,
compliance, and environmental justice programs.
5.9 REGION 9
Ms. Lori Lewis, Region 9, reviewed environmental justice activities in Region 9. Region 9 began
working on environmental justice issues in early 1991, she said. The environmental justice
coordinator maintains a strong relationship with Title VI and ORC staff.
Ms. Lewis distributed a handout containing information about the Region's activities. There are four
themes in Region 9's approach to environmental justice, she stated. The first theme is the
identification of high-risk communities that have environmental problems and the pursuit of problem
resolution in those areas as a priority. Community groups are brought in to help identify issues and
resolutions. Region 9 has taken a proactive stance on Title VI complaints and has used that process
to identify issues that must be addressed, she continued.
The second theme is public participation. Ms. Lewis reported that Region 9 is attempting to increase
opportunities for low-income and minority populations to participate in local, regional, and national
decision-making processes. Region 9 has targeted 550,000 in grant funding for community groups in
the vicinity of Bayview-Hunters Point, where there is a Superfund site. The grant will be funded
under the Superfund program.
Ms. Lewis identified the Region's third theme as building relationships and partnerships to address
environmental justice issues, an effort that is a priority of the Regional Administrator. The Region's
goal is to build solid relationships, not only with community groups, but also with other federal
agencies and state and local governments.
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The fourth theme is increased awareness of environmental justice, both within and outside the
regional staff, Ms. Lewis continued. For example, Native Hawaiians in Region 9 have special issues.
Region 9 officials have requested that Native Hawaiians be considered by NEJAC and each
subcommittee in future discussions of environmental justice issues.
Region 9 is reorganizing and no decision has been made about the placement of the environmental
justice function. Ms. Lewis further noted that Region 9, like all other regions, receives no funding
from Congress to implement environmental justice, a circumstance that entails a certain level of
uncertainty.
5.10 REGION 10
Ms. Joyce Kelly, Region 10, presented information about EJ activities in Region 10. Ms. Kelly
stated that, under the current organization of Region 10, which consists of Alaska, Idaho, Oregon and
Washington, she manages a policy and planning group and is the lead person responsible for
environmental justice activities. Under a planned reorganization, an Office of Emerging Issues and
Innovative Studies will be created; the environmental justice responsibility will be housed in that
office.
Ms. Kelly reported that Region 10 activities include: (1) conducting workshops to teach community
groups how to apply for grants and to explain how the grant process works, (2) awarding a grant to
the state department of health to conduct blood lead testing in communities of color, and (3) building
partnerships with tribal governments in Native American communities that have high mortality rates.
She added that Region 10 has issued grants for work to determine the nature of the problems in such
areas.
Ms. Kelly stated that a primary goal in the Region is to educate EPA.employees about environmental
justice. On June 29, 1995, the Region conducted an all-employee meeting to discuss environmental
justice and the roles of various staff in relation to the concept. Representatives of three community
groups attended the meeting to speak about environmental justice issues. The meeting increased the
awareness of regional staff about the nature of environmental justice and how it is integrated into
programs in Region 10.
A forum on community injustice and environmental justice is planned for August 1995. At the
forum, people working on environmental justice issues will share information with communities about
ongoing projects. The purpose of the forum is to remove barriers, heighten awareness, and form
partnerships; it will include discussion of concerns of the Asian community and migrant workers.
Ms. Kelly noted that the Region conducts different events every two months to heighten awareness.
Ms. Kelly stated that new managers are being selected in Region 10. She requested that NEJAC
focus on and attempt to influence decisions at the regional level about cultural diversity. Ms. Kelly
mentioned as an example an effort some years ago to move white women into senior management
positions during a reorganization. As a result of that effort, more white women moved into key
positions.
Comments that followed Ms. Kelly's presentation are summarized below.
Dr. Wright observed that the name of the new office sounds temporary. She asked who decides
whether issues are "emerging." Are regions coordinating their listening sessions and other activities
with the ongoing efforts of state agencies, or are parallel activities being conducted, she asked. Ms.
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Kelly responded that it is always a challenge to deal with new issues, such as sustainable development
and, to some degree, pollution prevention. Focus on some of the new, emerging initiatives begins in
Headquarters, and the regions do not receive the same level of support for the initiatives because
regions are not funded to the same extent as Headquarters is funded.
Ms. Thomas stated that the regional Indian offices also are undergoing reorganization. Ms. Thomas
requested that the regional coordinators identify their tribal coordinator 'counterparts and build
partnerships with them. Ms. Lewis responded that, historically, each region has built a structure to
address regional problems.
Mr. Pierle expressed curiosity about the extent to which networks exist among offices and inquired
about Region 10's process for selecting personnel. Specifically, he asked whether there is anything
inherently discriminatory in the region's practice of selecting personnel. The member also asked
whether Region 10 integrates environmental justice with "Sustainable Seattle" efforts. Ms. Kelly
answered that 14 people are designated environmental justice contacts and that the network with other
regions is good, although the network with the states is not as good. Regarding selection of
personnel, she stated that there is concern that people do not always see the value of diversity, and if
employees do not look, act, or talk like others, they may be overlooked. Ms. Kelly also stated that,
as Region 10 environmental justice coordinator, she has been involved in the "Sustainable Seattle"
projects.
5.11 GENERAL COMMENTS ON PRESENTATIONS OF REGIONAL EJ
COORDINATORS
General comments and discussion took place throughout the regional presentations. Summaries of
such comment and discussion are presented below.
Mr. Ray asked the environmental justice coordinators' opinions about the relocation of OEJ in
OECA, in terms of whether it will work and the possible effect of the relocation on the regional
coordinators' jobs. Ms. Thigpen responded that she has the support of the Regional Administrator,
and that tremendous progress has been made since June 1995 in Region 7. She added that progress is
expected to continue. Ms. Millard responded that the relocation of OEJ can be viewed as a
compromise to ensure that OEJ's work continues. The enforcement program is not the ideal location
for OEJ, she observed, but relocation is better than elimination. Ms. Malone-Jones responded that
Region 4 decided to place its EJ office in the Office of Accountability and Enforcement for several
reasons, among them: more resources will be available through that office, that office has more
"clout," and that office is not viewed simply as an enforcement office. It must be made clear, she
added, that OEJ is crucial and cannot take a back seat. If Dr. Gaylord can maintain her visibility,
then it will work, she said.
Mr. Turrentine commented about the irony of having these discussions today about the importance of
maintaining OEJ's visibility and clout, because the assistant Administrators made presentations the
day before and not one of them was a member of a community of color. Mr. Fields was the only
person of color, and he may be a Deputy AA, he observed. Dr. Gaylord confirmed that Mr. Fields
is a deputy AA, but noted that the A A for OSWER is also a person of color.
Mr. Turrentine stated that no Native Americans were represented and wondered whether, although
NEJAC may be fighting a good fight, perhaps fighting without the support of people who ultimately
will decide whether the fight continues.
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Mr. Lee raised the issue of integrating environmental justice into all facets of work under various
programs, and asked how that can be brought about. The issue of cultural diversity is a difficult one,
he said, and NEJAC is barely scratching the surface. There is a lot of resistance, even within EPA.
among people who are very entrenched in the system, Mr. Lee noted. To answer the question of
what will be done under the reorganization to ensure that environmental justice is integrated into day-
to-day activities, the issue of cultural diversity must be addressed, he added.
Dr. Gaylord commented that the decision to move OEJ already has been made, and there is no
indication that business as usual will change. She added that OECA may be a fine location for OEJ
but it is too early to know. Mr. Moore commented that the one must "watch the Scoreboard" to
determine whether the issues really are being considered or whether people simply are listening to Dr.
Gaylord and others and then making the decisions that they wish, regardless of those issues. Mr.
Moore noted that the issue of cultural diversity in the Agency has been brought up by the advisory
council to Administrator Browner, and there have been many discussions about that issue.
Mr. O'Leary commented that combining OEJ with the enforcement program sends the wrong message
and stated agreement with Ms. Millard that such a combination might create barriers to partnerships
and dialogue.
Mr. Pierle stated that, about one year ago, the EPA Administrator had said that environmental justice
was one of EPA's top four priorities. An understanding is needed about the extent to which the
performance evaluations of the Administrator and other EPA staff will be dependent upon progress in
environmental justice areas. Mr. Pierle asked that the performance indicators be identified.
6.0 EXECUTIVE ORDER ACTIVITIES
This section summarizes discussions about EPA activities related to implementation of Executive
Order 12898 and provides an update on the activities of the IWG.
6.1 EPA'S ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE STRATEGY AND IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
Ms. Aterno summarized EPA's obligations in compliance with regard to with Executive Order 12898.
She explained that the White House Domestic Policy Council recently issued a letter outlining
deadlines by which federal agencies must document their progress in complying with the provisions of
the Executive Order:
1
• September 18, 1995 -- Submit to the IWG an interim summary of progress, including
a description of concrete actions that have been or will be completed by March 1996
• December 11, 1995 - Submit a supplemental report on progress
• February 11, 1996 — Submit a final report summarizing progress achieved
Ms. Aterno thanked'NEJAC for its assistance in developing EPA's strategy on environmental justice.
She noted that on Tuesday, July 25, NEJAC members received a draft copy of the implementation
plan. Ms. Aterno asked for NEJAC's assistance in helping to assign priority to the items included in
the draft implementation plan, because the draft was compiled before Congress proposed significant
reductions in EPA funds. Ms. Aterno stated that comments must be incorporated before September
18, -1995, when EPA must submit the interim report on its progress. After discussing ways to
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facilitate comment from NEJAC members, Ms. Aterno suggested that the existing NEJAC
subcommittees take responsibility for issues that most closely align with topics those subcommittees
are addressing and that a smaller group be formed to address issues that affect several areas. Ms.
Aterno stated that the budget process for Fiscal Year (FY) 1997 is beginning, and EPA wants to
ensure that high-priority environmental justice issues are on the table.
Mr. Ray expressed concern about investing time in making comments when it appeared that those
comments may not be addressed, explaining that this concern was not new. Ms. Aterno responded
that Mr. Ray's comments were legitimate. Ms. Walker suggested that EPA prepare a "Response to
Comments" document to allay Mr. Ray's concerns. Ms. Aterno agreed that EPA will generate those
documents for the subcommittees and the full NEJAC.
A motion was made and seconded that each subcommittee address issues applicable to its area of
concern and that the Protocol Committee handle the more generally applicable issues. Ms. Aterno
suggested the motion be amended to include EPA's American Indian Office as a way to ensure that
issues of concern to Native Americans are addressed. Mr. McDermott amended his motion to reflect
Ms. Aterno's suggestion. Ms. Thomas then asked that the original motion be amended to include
EPA's Tribal Operations Committee Group in the process. The motion, as amended, carried with
one abstention.
Ms. Aterno concluded with a reminder to the members that comments to the implementation plan are
due by September 1, 1995.
6.2 STATUS OF THE INTERAGENCY WORKING GROUP ON ENVIRONMENTAL
JUSTICE
Ms. Aterno opened her report with an overview of the IWG. She explained that the members of the
IWG represent 12 federal agencies and 5 White House offices. The IWG consists of eight task forces
and includes a Subcommittee on Policy and Coordination: She reported that the policy and
coordination subcommittee recommended that an evaluation of the task forces be conducted to
determine future activities for the task forces. She noted that after much discussion, the
Subcommittee on Policy and Coordination recommended that:
• HHS take lead responsibility for work on issues recommended by the task force on
health and research through its interagency committee
• Department of Interior (DOI) take lead responsibility for Native American issues,
through its interagency work group on Native American issues.
• The IWG task force on public participation be disestablished
• The IWG task force on enforcement and compliance continue
• The IWG subcommittee on implementation be disestablished
• The membership of the parent IWG be dissolved and its mission transferred to the
IWG's Subcommittee on Policy and Coordination
Ms. Aterno noted that, although proposals have been made to merge subcommittees and task forces,
one positive result that has been brought about by the existence of multiple subcommittees and task
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forces is increased communication among people and agencies who traditionally have not worked as
partners. Another benefit has been involvement of senior management in forging partnerships that
link agencies. Ms. Aterno reported that the IWG Task Force on Enforcement and Compliance
recently brought together approximately 150 federal employees who are working on issues related to
Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The goal of the effort was to share information and open
lines of communication.
Ms. Johnson commented that she had requested a roundtable discussion among members of the IWG.
She said, however, the event was not held, despite some involvement by Ms. Browner on the issue.
Ms. Thomas echoed Ms. Johnson's concerns, adding that the support of senior managers is not
always duplicated at the field or region level. Ms. Aterno responded that the issue will be brought to
Ms. Browner's attention again. Ms. Thomas added that her organization is considering hosting an
interagency meeting with the federal agencies whose activities affect Native Americans living in
Alaska.
7.0 STATUS OF THE OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
Dr. Gaylord opened the second day of the meeting with a review of the recent announcement of the
EPA Administrator that OEJ will be relocated to OECA. She reported that the relocation will occur
between September and October 1995. Currently, she said, the first priority of OEJ is to complete
the implementation plan and incorporate the suggestions and comments received from NEJAC. Other
responsibilities include coordinating activities for the Agency's Environmental Justice Steering
Committee, the Policy Working Group, and other committees. Further discussion of the relocation of
OEJ to OECA appears earlier in Sections 2.5 and 3.1.
Dr. Gaylord stated that major OEJ activities relevant to NEJAC included the recharter of NEJAC, the
appointment of eight new NEJAC members, and the rotation of seven members who had completed
their service. New members have not yet been assigned to subcommittees, she added.
Dr. Gaylord announced that OEJ has developed a matrix that summarizes the recommendations passed
by the NEJAC at its meeting in Atlanta, Georgia and tracks progress toward fulfilling the
recommendations. She stated that although the matrix was used internally to track accountability,
OEJ will extend distribution of the document to the members of the council. Dr. Gaylord stated that
the members can use the matrix to monitor the action items initiated by the NEJAC. Dr. Gaylord
referred NEJAC members to their briefing books, in the section entitled Old Business, which
contained a matrix summarized the public comments and follow-up activities from the January 1995
meeting. Dr. Gaylord also stated that the matrix will be included regularly in briefing books
distributed at future NEJAC meetings. She emphasized that the members should use the matrix to
monitor progress and to ensure that action items are not forgotten. Ms. Walker suggested that, in the
future, matrixes summarize the motions passed during NEJAC proceedings. Dr. Gaylord responded
that OEJ staff will address that suggestion.
In the interest of time, Dr. Gaylord then referred NEJAC members to the EJ 1994 annual report,
which the members could use to review the activities that OEJ has undertaken through 1994. Copies
of the annual report were included in the briefing books. After Dr. Gaylord's presentation, the floor
was opened for comments to which Dr. Gaylord responded.
Mr. Moore recommended that the Protocol Committee of the NEJAC, or another committee chosen
by NEJAC members, meet with leadership of OECA and Dr. Gaylord to discuss some of the issues
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raised about the relocation of OEJ. Those issues included staffing, budget, and restructuring. The
Chairman then clarified for new members that NEJAC's Protocol Committee comprises the
subcommittee chairpersons and the Chairman of NEJAC. Dr. Gaylord stated that the
recommendation already had been recorded as an action item.
Dr. Gaylord announced that Ms. Janice Whitley, special assistant to the Administrator for Native
.American issues, would not be able to attend the meeting, as requested by the Protocol Committee.
Dr. Gaylord stated that Ms. Whitley sent her regrets and noted that Ms. Whitley had prepared a
memorandum discussing her role and activities as special assistant on Native American issues. In the
interest of time, Dr. Gaylord did not read the entire document but highlighted Ms. Whitley's
arrangement of a United Nations Summit of the Elders at which was discussed environmental
restoration issues on Indian reservations and within communities of indigenous peoples. Dr. Gaylord
had attended the meeting, held in New York City on July 18, 1995, as had been recommended during
a recent conference on indigenous peoples in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. NEJAC members were informed
that they could obtain copies of the report of the successful conference upon request. Copies of Ms. '
Whitley's memorandum was distributed to all members of the NEJAC.
8.0 SUBCOMMITTEES OF THE NEJAC
This section summarizes the accomplishments of the four NEJAC subcommittees and discussions
about the future focus of the subcommittees.
8.1 ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF SUBCOMMITTEES
This section summarizes the presentations on the progress and accomplishments of NEJAC's
subcommittees.
8.1.1 Health and Research Subcommittee
Dr. Bullard discussed the activities of the Health and Research Subcommittee and suggested a
rationale for continued interaction with the IWG task force on health and research. Dr. Bullard noted
that NEJAC's Health and Research Subcommittee has made recommendations to (1) change the way
that the provisions of the Research Act are carried out, (2) change policies governing the design of
requests for proposals (RFP), (3) define community-driven research, (4) develop a tool for the
assessment of cumulative risk, and (5) develop research protocols through the application of an
interagency model. He noted that these recommendations are particularly important as EPA and other
federal agencies .begin implementation of their strategies on environmental justice.
Dr. Bullard stated that the IWG task force on health and research seeks guidance from the NEJAC
subcommittee about ways to move forward in a unified manner to develop and implement a
comprehensive health and research plan. The goal is to bring various parties, such as the HHS,
HUD, DOE, together to contribute to the design of a research agenda. Dr. Bullard noted that the
subcommittee should address expectations about developing research protocols for assessing risk and
measuring the health and sustainability of a community. He added that other entities, such as the
President's Commission on Sustainable Development, also must address those issues in terms of
community health and the interrelationships of transportation, housing, empowerment zones, and
other issues.
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Dr. Bullard stated that the subcommittee could also address some of the issues raised by IWG's task
force on data collection. He noted that his only question was the extent to which the subcommittee's
recommendations had been incorporated into ORD's research agenda and into the agendas of other
offices, such as OPPTS and Office of Policy, Planning, and Evaluation (OPPE).
8.1.2 Enforcement Subcommittee
Mr. Ray presented a discussion of the activities of the Enforcement Subcommittee. Mr. Ray stated
that the subcommittee is charged with providing NEJAC with recommendations about enforcement
issues. Mr. Ray noted that, although the current membership of the subcommittee is diverse, the
subcommittee seeks increased support from representatives of tribal groups and labor organizations.
He explained that many issues related to Native Americans and tribal matters have been deferred
because Native American members are not always present at meetings.
Mr. Ray reported that the Enforcement Subcommittee has focused its activities on reviewing subject-
matter briefings from various managers in OECA. Members of the subcommittee have reviewed
planning documents and work plans provided by OECA staff and have made recommendations of
items to be included in future work plans. The subcommittee developed its own work plan for
reviewing and making recommendations. Mr. Ray stated that the subcommittee is drafting a report
about its recommendations to OECA, which it expects to complete during August 1995.
Mr. Ray expressed concern that, with the relocation of OEJ to OECA, OEJ could lose its focus on
agencywide issues and, ultimately, become a work group limited to implementing the many
environmental justice projects developed by OECA.
Mr. Ray reported that the subcommittee also generated recommendations about employee diversity
and the placement of minorities in high-level decision-making positions and issues related to
international borders.
8.1.3 Waste and Facility Siting Subcommittee
The report on the activities of the Waste and Facility Siting Subcommittee was combined with a
presentation entitled "Using Environmental Justice to Address the Crisis in the Urban Environment:
Brownfields Initiative Trips." Section 4.2 of this volume summarizes the presentation.
8.1.4 Public Participation and Accountability Subcommittee
Dr. Wright presented information about the activities of the Public Participation and Accountability
Subcommittee. Ms. Wright stated that, initially, the subcommittee's goal was to develop a model
public participation process through which federal agencies could increase public participation in
decision making. She reported that, to that end, the subcommittee assisted the IWG in developing the
format for the Interagency Public Meeting on Environmental Justice held in Atlanta, Georgia on
January 20, 1995. She stated that the apparent success of the meeting lay in the large number of
people who attended the meeting at Clark Atlanta University and at downlink sites around the country
and in Puerto Rico. Ms. Herrera added that interagency meeting provided an opportunity for "real
people" to be involved in a public participation process.
Dr. Wright stated that the subcommittee also reviewed and provided comments on documents received
from the IWG, particularly on documents that address public participation. Ms. Thomas also noted
that the subcommittee gave priority to but never developed fully suggestions (1) to develop training
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on achieving diversity within the .workplace for EPA employees and (2) to build a mechanism through
which EPA can learn from communities.
8.2 FUTURE FOCUS OF SUBCOMMITTEES
Dr. Gaylord opened the discussion by noting that, since the beginning of NEJAC, members have
acknowledged the need for and recommended the establishment of two additional subcommittees to
address Native American concerns and issues related to the international border. She stated that,
given the limited resources of OEJ, financial support from other program offices within EPA is
needed for the subcommittees. She cited the following as examples: ORD supports the Health and
Research Subcommittee, OECA supports the Enforcement Subcommittee, OSWER supports the Waste
and Facility Siting Subcommittee, and OEJ supports the Public Participator and Accountability .
Subcommittee. Dr. Gaylord stressed that if additional subcommittees are created, a sponsor and
financial support will be needed for each. She urged council members to recognize that EPA is
facing additional budget cuts that require that NEJAC focus on the future of the four existing
subcommittees. Dr. Gaylord identified three options: maintain the current arrangement, revise the
existing subcommittees, or add or subtract subcommittees.
Ms. Aterno concurred, and explained that, in FY 1995, EPA has received 54 million in requests for
FACA travel but had budgeted about $1.7 million for all activities under FACA for the year. Ms.
Aterno pointed out that the Administrator of EPA expressed support for the creation of additional
NEJAC subcommittees to deal with Native American and international border issues; however, the
funding mechanism allows only a certain amount of funds, and a decision must be made about how to
use those funds. Congress has earmarked $300,000 to fund NEJAC during FY 1996, she said, but
passage is not necessarily guaranteed. Ms. Aterno cautioned that this is not an issue of whether EPA
supports NEJAC; rather, it is a matter of the budget process.
Throughout the presentations of the subcommittee reports, various discussions arose about the existing
structure of the subcommittees. Mr. Turrentine expressed concern about reorganizing the
subcommittees given the uncertainty about the future, and stated that if the NEJAC does not continue
to more forward, members might become paralyzed by a fear of projected budget cuts. In that case,
nothing would be done, he said. Mr. Turrentine stated that problems related to environmental justice
today will be problems in the future, regardless of whether EPA continues to fund certain activities.
He suggested that the subcommittees review their mission statements to identify unaddressed issues
and, if any exist, modify their missions to take on additional activities. Mr. Turrentine moved that
the four existing subcommittees continue.
Hon. Rondon-Tollens reminded council members that Puerto Rico is a possession of the United States.
and its citizens are citizens of the U.S. He urged that members not treat issues of environmental
justice in Puerto Rico as international border issues.
Ms. Thomas expressed concerns about the council's past failure to address issues related to Native
Americans, and she asked how Native American issues would be addressed in the future. She also
agreed that international issues were not addressed by the existing committee structure. Mr.
McDermott concurred and suggested the creation of working groups within the existing
subcommittees to address outstanding issues. He also recommended formation of a subgroup or
working group to deal with cultural diversity. Mr. Ray added that he did not feel comfortable about
addressing Native American issues within the Enforcement Subcommittee and urged EPA to identify a
funding source to support a Native American Subcommittee. Chairman Moore expressed agreement
with Mr. Ray's concerns and cautioned the members about limiting future choices.
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At the request of the members, Mr. Turrentine restated his motion, moving that the NEJAC continue
with its present configuration but add two subcommittees to address Native American and
international border issues, respectively. Ms. Walker seconded the motion. After additional
discussion about the poor representation of Native Americans on the NEJAC, the council voted
unanimously in support of the motion. The council also agreed to integrate issues related to Puerto
Rico into the activities of the subcommittees addressing domestic issues.
Dr. Gaylord reiterated that funding is an issue and recommended that the membership of the four
subcommittees be redistributed across the six subcommittees. That way, she explained, the total
budget of NEJAC will not increase. Dr. Gaylord suggested that the members of NEJAC and its
subcommittees be polled to determine which subcommittees members would like to participate in.
9.0 SUMMARY OF PUBLIC COMMENTS
This section presents a summary of comments offered and discussions aired during the public
comment periods on July 25 and 26, 1995. A detailed, verbatim record of public comments is
contained in the full transcript of the proceedings, which can be obtained from OEJ.
9.1 COMMENTS PRESENTED ON JULY 25, 1995
9.1.1 Robin Boland, Environmental Careers Organization
Ms. Robin Boland of Environmental Careers Organization explained that her organization is a
national nonprofit organization established in 1992 to involve young people in environmental careers,
primarily through internships. Ms. Boland thanked OEJ for its efforts to encourage youth to pursue
environmental careers. She shared a success story about an intern in Flint, Michigan, as an example
of the organization's efforts to help young people move into environmental areas. Ms. Boland also
mentioned that an environmental justice workshop for students was scheduled for Detroit, Michigan,
and would include a tour of environmental justice sites in the southwest Detroit area.
9.1.2 Michael Hancock, Farm Workers Justice Fund
Mr. Michael Hancock of the Farm Workers Justice Fund expressed concern about EPA policies to
protect farm workers from health threats. He expressed dissatisfaction with EPA's efforts to protect
workers from environmental hazards, and said that EPA should live up to its pledge to. ensure
protection of farm workers. Mr. Hancock stated that EPA promulgated regulations dealing with
worker protection standards to protect workers from pesticides, and that those regulations resulted
from a 10-year process of dealing with worker protection issues. However, he complained that the
Clinton Administration has allowed the standards to deteriorate, and he stated that there are large
loopholes in the current regulations. He then mentioned that additional concessions to further weaken
the regulations are under consideration, despite strong opposition. Mr. Hancock said that these
circumstances send a message to the environmental justice movement -- that is, despite efforts to
bring about positive changes, decisions, policies, and regulations continually are put in place to
undermine those efforts.
Mr. Velasquez offered the following observations: (1) agricultural interests continue to weaken, and
therefore, is not an easy struggle to promote agricultural issues; (2) the member was not aware of a
response from EPA on the matter; and (3) conditions endured by farm workers in the United States
are not much different from those in developing and underdeveloped countries.
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Ms. Browner mentioned that Dr. Goldman, AA for OPPTS, would be available to speak specifically
about pesticides. She commented that no decision has been made without soliciting public comment.
She further stated that, under the Clinton Administration, a framework exists for worker protection
for the first time. Ms. Browner added that, as with any program, modifications and improvements
will be necessary, and the contributions of knowledgeable people like Mr. Hancock will be sought
and welcomed during that process.
9.1.3 Susan Hagler, HHS Migrant Health Program
Ms. Susan Hagler of the HHS Migrant Health Program stated that the program provides funding to
about 122 health centers that provide medical care for migrant workers. She referred participants to a
handout that complemented her verbal comments. In noting the 2^0-year anniversary of Edward R.
Murrow's "Harvest of Shame," a documentary on conditions among migrant workers, Ms. Hagler
echoed Mr. Hancock's comments about the lack of progress made in the intervening years. She
invited the NEJAC to work in cooperation with the HHS federal advisory council that address migrant
health issues. .
Mr. Velasquez asked whether HHS had explored ways to bring full environmental justice to farm
workers suffering from pesticide-related illnesses. For example, he said, what efforts has HHS taken
to work with state worker compensation agencies to ensure that workers receive full payment and
assistance for their illnesses. He suggested that consideration be given to establishing a special task
force to assist local providers in expanding their response to and treatment of workers, to work
toward prevention, not just treatment. Mr. Velasquez also asked whether (1) the medical technicians
in the clinics have specialized training to recognize signs of pesticide poisoning and (2) whether a
mechanism exists for resuscitation or treatment when pesticide poisoning is suspected or diagnosed.
Ms. Hagler responded that not all the workers have specialized training in recognizing pesticide
poisoning, and that problem is recognized. She also stated that nonprofit, private health centers work
hard to meet basic needs. Her program sponsors regional and national training to increase awareness
of pesticide poisoning, and some money is provided for training of physicians.
Mr. Velasquez countered that often, local care providers sometimes compromise their impartiality by
their desire to "get along with everybody," including growers, and such circumstances might
constitute conflict of interest. Ms. Hagler responded that care providers are required to have migrant
workers serve on their boards. Mr. Velasquez stated that many of the farm worker representatives
are "hand-picked" or "rubber-stamp" members. He added that we must not only educate migrant
workers, but also give them tools and empower them to act on the information they receive. .
9.1.4 Mr. Jerome Smith, Blacks in Government
Mr. Jerome Smith, Chairman of Blacks in Government (BIG) Forum on Environmental Justice,
issued a handout. Mr. Smith stated that his organization had provided briefings on environmental
justice issues to various regions; reviewed and commented on every agency's environmental justice
strategy; and met with other groups, such as the National Association for the Advancement of
Colored People (NAACP) and the United Negro College Fund, which are concerned and about
environmental justice. He stated that it is important for NEJAC to demonstrate a commitment to
ensuring that community involvement occurs and that the community is represented at the decision-
making table for every program, including empowerment zone projects.
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Mr. Smith invited NEJAC to work with BIG to develop a joint outreach effort and devise innovate
ways to work together to achieve outreach objectives. He emphasized that his concerns include
economic security, quality of life, education, and health. Mr. Smith stated that he-has met one-to-one
with all the people listed in his handout as participants.
Ms. Herrera stated that the San Jose community in Albuquerque, New Mexico, has an enterprise
zone, and the work there involves community development and reinvestment. Ms. Herrera expressed
an interest in Mr. Smith's comments and inquired about the identity of the representative of the
NAACP with whom Mr. Smith had worked.
Mr. Lee applauded the efforts of Blacks in Government and then stated that one principle of
environmental justice involves multicultural and multiracial issues. Mr. Lee asked how Blacks in
Government was addressing those issues and commented that no Asians were listed in Mr. Smith's
handout. He then questioned whether all the groups listed in Mr. Smith's handout really understood
what environmental justice is. Mr. Smith responded that he will take the recommendation to solicit
representation of Asian-Americans seriously. He also stated that his organization is taking
environmental justice a step farther by trying to include all stakeholders, including those involved in
Brownfields issues. Mr. Smith stated that his organization is looking for grassroots participation and
is seeking to form partnerships; the organization does not wish to do so in a vacuum.
9.2 COMMENTS PRESENTED ON JULY 26, 1995
9.2.1 Lorraine Granado, Colorado Peoples' Environmental and Economic Network
Ms. Lorraine Granado, Colorado Peoples' Environmental and Economic Network, Denver, Colorado,
offered comments, distributed a handout, and discussed community action in her area. She mentioned
that her organization's work resulted in a $40 million suit to ensure environmental cleanup in her
community; halted construction of a proposed medical waste incinerator; achieved revisions in
industrial zoning codes to protect people of color; and brought about the creation of buffer zones in
her neighborhood. She also mentioned a notice of intent to sue the Southern Pacific Railroad for
spilling 7,000 pounds of hydrochloric acid, necessitating the evacuation of several hundred families'.
Her organization currently is pursuing that matter.
Ms. Granado summarized the top issues facing environmental justice communities, including:
• Addressing community and individual health, in which there are disproportionate
numbers of cases of cancer, birth defects, and child health problems in minority and
low-income communities
• Distribution of more and better information about health studies and risk
communication to communities.
• Addressing the issue of "saturated" environmental problems in African-American and
Latino communities
• Addressing the issue of paniculate matter, particularly in communities dealing with
diesel trucks and petroleum companies within their communities
• Setting health-based standards for all toxins in all media.
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Finally, Ms. Granado asked that communities be revitalized. She stated that residents do.not want
jobs that are going to kill them; rather, they want real, meaningful jobs with promise. She mentioned
that, when the state enterprise zones were established, they were established in minority communities;
as businesses moved in, environmental problems arose.
Ms. Granado said she supports the location of OEJ in OECA. She also stated that the information
discussed during the proceedings was invaluable. Finally, Ms. Granado voiced the criticism that
almost no Latinos, Asians, or Native Americans are represented in decision-making positions,
especially at the regional level.
Ms. Granado commended Mr. McCottry for his help and willingness to let staff members devote their
time to environmental justice issues of concern in the communities. Mr. Lee then moved to recognize
Mr. McCottry's work officially and to acknowledge the commendation from the community group.
Mr. Chuck McDermott seconded the motion and it was carried unanimously.
9.2.2 Steve Hufford, OIRM
Mr. Steve Hufford, OIRM, .showed a presentation on overhead slides and spoke about public access
to information. He commented that EPA considers access to information as common problem. As
such the Agency is developing .an initiative that addresses issues related to access and helps the public
obtain information. Mr. Hufford explained that EPA's Government Information Locator Service
(GILS) will contain a pointer to information resources throughout EPA and will help people find
information through electronic card catalogs. There is a broad base of prospective users, including
the environmental justice community, he said. The system currently is under development, and an
operational system is expected to be in place by the end of 1995.
Mr. Hufford stated that he was soliciting comment on GILS from NEJAC and distributed a survey
designed to determine requirements. He stated that the survey also is on the Internet at EPA's home
page. Ms. Cindy Thomas requested that tribal governments be included in the information
documented through GILS, noting that they are not included in "local governments."
9.2.3 Fran Dubrowski, D.C. Coalition for Environmental Justice
Ms. Fran Dubrowski, D.C. Coalition for Environmental Justice, reported that the D.C. Coalition for
Environmental Justice is a broad-based coalition that was formed in spring 1995 to focus on
environmental justice issues in the District of Columbia, she said. Members of the coalition represent
a variety of interests, including the Anacostia Watershed Society, the Bar Association of Washington,
D.C., the Anacostia Museum of the Smithsonian Institution, and the Lawyers Committee for Civil
Rights.
Ms. Dubrowski stated that, about one and one-half years ago, the American Bar Association urged its
local associations to address environmental justice. Associations in Massachusetts and elsewhere
responded. The D.C. bar association responded and requested that people commit their resources to
addressing environmental justice. That, she said, was the beginning of fhe D.C. coalition.
Ms. Dubrowski stated that the most severe problems in the District are found in low-income areas.
The coalition has formed committees to deal with three issues: (1) public education, (2) government
relations, and (3) community outreach. Ms. Dubrowski thanked NEJAC for its hard work and
leadership and encouraged other bar associations and professional groups to form coalitions like the
D.C. group.
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9.2.4 Percy Pollard, Environmental Careers Organization
Mr. Percy Pollard, Chairman of the Board, Environmental Careers Organization, submitted a written
statement from which Dr. Gaylord read. In his statement, Mr. Pollard requested that NEJAC
consider options to make the meeting more accessible to the public. He stated that it is difficult for
some people to travel and specifically suggested the use of speaker telephones or satellite downlinks to
provide public access from remote locations.
Dr. Gaylord commented that the issue had been raised and considered previously; however options ^
such as satellite downlinks, although expensive, are still being considered.
9.2.5 Lois Berlingeri, Puerto Rico Senate Health Committee
Ms. Lois Berlingeri, Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Senate Health Committee commented that
there are more common areas to bring environmental justice groups together than there are
differences to separate them.
She mentioned that, although Puerto Rico is a beautiful island, large pharmaceutical and other
industries there pay extremely low wages, and the exchange is not equal because industry has
contaminated land, air, and beaches. The government of Puerto Rico is concerned about preserving
the island. She stated that Puerto Rico is still a colony; therefore, it has no representation or vote in
Congress, although it is subject to all existing regulations.
Ms. Berlingeri closed her comments by stating that Puerto Rico's problems, including contamination
of water, emissions from incinerators, asbestos, wetlands issues, solid waste disposal issues, and
health problems, are similar to everyone else's problems.
Mr. Velasquez reiterated that the island epitomizes the issue of communities of color being dumped
on. He stated that years of documentation confirm that Puerto Rico is a dumping ground, a place to
locate companies that otherwise would not be located in the U.S.
Chairman Moore added that the U.S. military perpetuates the problems in Puerto Rico.
Mr. Rondon-Tollens stated that the problems in Puerto Rico are twofold: political and economical.
Puerto Ricans are citizens who do not have the right to vote for President and Vice President. The
issue should be addressed, he said. He stated that, in the north part of the island, the air is totally
contaminated, and asked what EPA has done to resolve the issue that Puerto Rico's standards are
different from all other standards in the U.S. Ms. Aterno resppnded that she will speak with the
Region 2 Administrator about the issues raised and will provide comments during the next NEJAC
meeting.
Mr. Velasquez commented that the community has a right to demand that pharmaceutical companies
be responsible. Democracy should work the way that it is supposed to, he said. That is, there should
be partnerships and participation in decision making. He asked whether water quality standards and
the Clean Air Act had been implemented in Puerto Rico.
44
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10.0 FOLLOW-UP ACTIVITIES
This section summarizes the discussions about action items and possible locations and dates for the
next meeting of the NEJAC.
10.1 ACTION ITEMS FOR THE NEXT MEETING
Dr. Gaylord provided a quick review of the key action items that were discussed during the two-day
meeting:
S Members discussed the resolution about the Brownfields Initiative that Charles Lee
drafted. There was some discussion about whether the "issue" had been fully
explained in the resolution. There also was discussion about whether NEJAC would
be placing top priority on the Brownfields and urban revitalization issue by adopting
the resolution, thereby placing less priority on other issues. After much discussion, it
was moved to adopt the resolution, and the motion was carried.
/ Dr. Gaylord announced that Mr. Lee had asked that Dr. Wright and Dr. Bullard
discuss the Louisiana Energy Services (LES) issue in Region 6. Dr. Wright asked
why EPA failed to refer the LES matter to the CEQ. Ms. Wright stated that, during
a previous NEJAC meeting, a briefing on the issue had been requested. Dr. Gaylord
commented that the briefing was included in the list of action items and that
information about the status of the request will be distributed to members with that
list.
S Comments on the implementation plan are due on September 1, 1995. Members are
to indicate priorities among the issues in their comments to EPA.
/ Subsequent meetings of NEJAC and some assistant Administrators will be scheduled
to discuss various issues.
Mr. Herman has agreed to meet with NEJAC members to discuss issues
related to reorganization.
Dr. Goldman has agreed to meet with NEJAC members to discuss worker
protection standards.
/ The possibility of satellite downlinks to Puerto Rico will be explored.
/ Mr. Ray suggested that the issue of Pacific Islanders and Native Hawaiians be put on
the list for future discussion. Dr. Gaylord agreed.
Dr. Gaylord announced that a complete list of action items will be sent to all NEJAC members.
10.2 POSSIBLE LOCATIONS AND DATES FOR THE NEXT NEJAC MEETING
Dr. Gaylord led a discussion to identify possible locations and dates for the next meeting of the
NEJAC. She noted that the subcommittees would also be holding meetings at that time. Hon.
Rondon-Tollens suggested that the next meeting be held in Puerto Rico. However, Dr. Gaylord
explained that the meeting cannot be held in Puerto Rico because of the federal regulation that
meetings cannot be scheduled for "exotic places."
45
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Members suggested other locations: -
• Mr. Hurst suggested a meeting in the West or some other location where NEJAC
would be able to meet with Native American communities.
• Mr. Ray suggested that consideration be given to budgetary constraints, and that a
cost-effective location be considered. Dr. Gaylord stated that it is less expensive to
hold the meetings in Washington, D.C. to reduce staff and associated travel costs.
• Mr. Bullard suggested that Chicago be chosen, if a location other than Washington,
D.C. were to be considered.
Mr. McDermott commented that meetings should be held in locations other than Washington, D.C.,
because meetings in other locations attract a different type and quality of public comment that adds to
the process.
The Chairman stated that the Protocol Committee would consider all comments received.
46
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APPENDICES
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APPENDIX A
LIST OF THE MEMBERS
OF THE
NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE ADVISORY COUNCIL
FOR 1995-1996
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NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE ADVISORY COUNCIL
1995-96 List (25 Members)
Designated Federal Officer
Clarice Gaylord, Director
Office of Environmental Justice (3103)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
401 M Street S.W.
Washington, DC 20460
(202) 260-6357
Chairperson
Mr. Richard Moore
(505) 242-0416
ACAPEMU - 4
Dr. Robert Billiard • 1 year
Environmental Justice Resource Center
Clark Atlanta University
223 Brawley Drive, SW
Atlanta, GA 30314
Dr. Mary R. English - 2 years
Associate Director
Waste Management Research and Education Institute
327 South Stadium Hall
University' of Tennessee
Knoxville. TN 37996
Dr. Richard Lazarus - 2 years
Washington University
School of Law
One Brookings Dr.
St. Louis, MO 63130
Dr. Beverly Wright - 1 year
Deep South Center for Environmental Justice
Xavier University
8131 Aberdeen Road
New Orleans, LA 70126
INDUSTRY - 4
Mr. John C. Borum - 2 years
Vice President, Environment and Safety Engineering
AT&T '
131 Morristown Road
Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
Mr. Charles McDermott - I year
Director of Governmental Affairs
Waste Management Inc.
1155 Connecticut Avenue, N.W. Suite 800
Washington, D.C. 20036
Mr. Lawrence G. Hurst - 2 years
Director, Communications
Motorola, Inc.
Mail Drop R 3125
8220 East Roosevelt
Scottsdale. AZ 85257
Mr. Michael Pierle - 1 year
Monsanto
800 North Lindburgh St
St Louis, MO 63167
COMMUNITY GROUPS - 3
Ms. Dolores Herrera - 2 years
Executive Director
San Jose Community Awareness Council Inc.
2401 Broadway Blvd. SE
Albuquerque, NM 87102-5009
Ms. Hazel Johnson -1 year
Executive Director
People for Community Recovery
13116 South Ellis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60627
' Dr. Jean Sindab - 1 year
National Council of Churches
475 Riverside Dr. Room 572
New York, NY 101154)050
NON-GOVERNMENT - 4
Mr. Charles Lee - 2 years
Director of Research
United Church of Christ Commission for Racial Justice
475 Riverside Dr., 16th Floor
New York, NY 10015
Mr. John O'Leary, Esq. - 1 year
Pierce, Atwood & Scribner
1 Monument Square
Portland, ME 04468
Mr. Baldemar Velasquez, Director - 1 year
Farm Labor Organizing Committee
3352 Plainview Dr.
Toledo, OH 43615
Mr. Haywood Turrentine - 2 years
' Laborers-AGC Education and Training Fund
1433 Hartford Pike
East Killingly, CT 06243
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STATE/LOCAL - 3
Honorable Salom6n Rond6n-Tollens - 2 years
President of the Natural Resources and
Environmental Quality Commission
Capitolio San Juan, PR 00901
Ms. Velma Veloria • 1 year
House of Representatives
Washington State Legislature
403 John L. O'Brien Bldg.
P.O. Box 40622
Olyrapia.WA 98504-0622
OR 151 IS. Ferdinand St
Seattle, WA 98108
Mr. Arthur Ray, Esq. - 2 years
Deputy Director
Maryland Department of the Environment
2500 Broening Highway
Baltimore, MD 21224
ENVIRONMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS - 4
Mr. Richard Moore -1 year
Southwest Network for
Environmental and Economic Justice
21110th Street, SW
Albuquerque, NM 87102
Ms. Peggy Saika - 2 years
Asian Pacific Environment Network
3126 California Street
Oakland, CA 94602
Ms. Nathalie Walker - 1 year
Sierra Club Legal Defense Fund
400 Magazine Street, Suite 401
New Orleans, LA 70130
Ms. Deeohn Ferris -1 year
Washington Office for Environmental Justice
151 IKStNW, Suite 1147
Washington, D.C. 20005
TRIBAL - 3
Ms. Gail Small -1 year
Executive Director
Native Action
Box 316
Lame Deer, MT 59043
Ms. Jean Gamache, Esq. - 2 years
Tlignit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska
125 Christensen Dr.
P. O. Box 104432
Anchorage, AK 99510
Mr. Walter Bresette - 2 years
Lake Superior Chippewa
P. O. Box 1350
20 South Broad St
Bayfield, WI 54814
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MEMBERS OF THE
NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE ADVISORY COUNCIL
John C. Borum, Environment and Safety Engineering Vice President, AT&T, Basking Ridge,
NJ .
As Vice President of Environment and Safety Engineering, Mr. Borum is responsible for
environmental, product and occupational safety for AT&T. Mr. Borum started his career with AT&T
in 1972 and served in several technical arid supervisory positions at AT&T before beginning his
current position in 1993. He has served on numerous boards and committees, including the Advisory
Board of the Annapolis Center for Environmental Quality; the Board of Directors for Resources for
the Future; the Program Committee of the Corporate Environmental, Health, and Safety Management
Roundtable; and the Environmental Justice Committee of the National Wildlife Federation
Conservation Council. Mr. Borum is the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the International
Cooperative for Ozone Layer Protection and is an associate of the Environmental Law Institute.
Walter Bresette, Lake Superior Chippewa, Bayfield, Wisconsin
** Biographic sketch not received by printing time**
Robert Bullard, Ware Professor of Sociology and Director, Clark Atlanta University,
Atlanta, Georgia %
Robert Bullard is the Ware Professor of Sociology and the Director of Clark Atlanta University in
Atlanta, Georgia. For the past 11 years, Professor Bullard has focused his research on the politics of
pollution and how African-American and lower-income groups have been disproportionately impacted
by environmental stressors. He is the author of "Dumping in Dixie: Race, Class, and Environmental
Quality" and several other key books and articles on environmental justice. Dr. Bullard served on the
National Planning Committee of the National People of Color Environmental Leadership Summit, the
EPA environmental justice meetings, and the Presidential transition team.
Mary R. English, Associate Director, Energy, Environment, and Resources Center, The
University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee
Ms. English has been the Associate Director of the Energy, Environment, and Resources Center, as
well as the Senior Fellow of the Waste Management Research and Education Institute, at the
University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN since 1988. Ms. English holds a Ph.D in sociology, with a
concentration in environmental sociology. Her research and publications have included social and
political aspects of environmental management, stakeholder participation in decisions concerning
future uses of contaminated sites, and national as well as international energy issues. Ms. English has
served on numerous boards and committees, including the National Academy of Sciences Board on
Radioactive Waste Management, National Academy of Sciences Committee on Health Effects of
Waste Incineration, and the Advisory Committee to the National League of Women Voter's Nuclear
Waste Education Project.
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MEMBERS OF THE
6 NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE ADVISORY COUNCIL (continued)
Deeohn Ferris, Executive Director, Alliance for the Washington Office on Environmental
Justice, Washington, D.C.
Ms. Ferris is currently the Executive Director of the Alliance for the Washington Office on
-Environmental Justice and formerly the Director of the Environmental Justice Project of the Lawyers
"Committee for Civil Rights. Ms. Ferris has experience working for government (EPA - legislation
and enforcement), business (AIA), environmental (NWF), and civil rights (LCCR) organizations. She
has expertise in legal, policy, and legislative issues, with extensive experience in congressional
testimony and in drafting environmental justice legislation.
Jean Gamache, Coordinator of Alaska Community Toxics Mapping Project, Greenpeace,
Anchorage, Alaska
As Greenpeace's Native Fellowship Recipient since. 1994, Ms. Gamache serves as the Coordinator of
the Alaska Community Toxics Mapping Project. Ms. Gamache's legal professional experience
includes providing assistance to plaintiffs attorneys related to the Exxon-Valdez litigation,
coordinating efforts from 22 rural communities for individual members of Native class, and
performing public outreach services for local communities. In addition, Ms. Gamache served as a
legislative liaison while a Special Assistant for the State of Alaska.
Dolores Herrera, Director, San Jose Awareness Council, Albuquerque, New Mexico
Ms. Herrera is Director, San Jose Awareness Council, Albuquerque, New Mexico (San Jose is a
community located next to a Superfund site). Ms. Herrera has a professional background in
environmental management and has worked for both business and community organizations. She is a
member of several local, regional, and national educational and environmental organizations. Ms.
Herrera was instrumental in developing awareness of federal action and the need for community input
into Superfund actions. She provides expertise in both local and national Superfund community issues
and can assist the council in outreach issues.
Lawrence G. Hurst, Director, Communications Motorola, Inc., Scottsdale, Arizona
Mr. Hurst is Director, Communications of Motorola, Inc., and is responsible for managing the firm's
public relations, community relations and advertising campaigns. He is the chairperson of the
Motorola Environmental Equity team and is .the point of contact for environmental equity within the
company. Mr. Hurst has a B.S. in Communications Technology and a M.B.A. Recently, Mr. Hurst
served on the Arizona Comparative Environmental Risk Project and in 1994 served on the Arizona
Commission of the Environment's Equity Conference Steering Committee,
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MEMBERS OF THE
NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE ADVISORY COUNCIL (continued)
Hazel Johnson, Director, People for Community Recovery, Chicago, Illinois
As a resident of Altgeld Gardens in South Chicago, Ms. Johnson was instrumental in organizing the
community to look at the incidence of disease there and the extent of exposure to multiple sources of
environmental pollution. She is the Director of People for a Community Recovery in South Chicago.
Ms. Johnson has received a Presidential Environmental Conservation Challenge Award, and the 1992
Women in Action Award. She was a representative to the 1992 UNCED Conference in Rio de
Janeiro. She was noted for developing an inventory of potential community exposure sources,
including waste incinerators, waste landfills, abandoned waste sites, water treatment plants, chemical
plants, and other industry sites affecting the community. In addition, she has challenged the cultural
diversity and commitment of mainstream environmental movement to deal with environmental justice
issues.
Richard Lazarus, Professor of Law, Washington University School of Law, St. Louis, Missouri
»
As a law professor in Constitutional and Civil Rights law, Mr. Lazarus wrote a major article on
Thirsuing Environmental Justice," which has formed the background for the historical legal analysis
of environmental justice and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. His background, expertise, and
experience will help the council in legal, civil rights, and enforcement areas. Former Assistant to the
Solicitor at DOJ, attorney in the Lands and Natural Resources Division of DOJ, and active
Constitutional appellate lawyer, he has briefed and argued numerous Supreme Court cases, including
environmental and civil rights cases and most recently Lucas v. South Carolina Coastal Council.
Charles Lee, Director of Research, United Church of Christ Commission for Racial Justice,
New York, New York
Charles Lee is the Director of Research for the Commission for Racial Justice for the United Church
of Christ. Mr. Lee organized the First National People of Color Leadership Summit, held in
Washington D.C. He directed and authored the Commission's landmark study, Toxic Waste and Race
in the United States: A National Report on the Racial and Sodo-Economic Characteristics of
Communities with Hazardous Waste Sites, the first comprehensive national study of the demographic
patterns associated with the location of hazardous wastes. He has met with EPA on environmental
justice issues and was named to the EPA Superfund NACEPT Committee.
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MEMBERS OF THE
NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE ADVISORY COUNCIL (continued)
Charles McDermott, Director of Government Affairs, Waste Management, Inc. (WMX),
Washington, D.C. and Oak Park, Illinois
As Director of Governmental Affairs, WMX Washington Office, Mr. McDermott manages Federal
government affairs and coordinates state affairs for WMX. In this position, he has responsibility for
congressional and political issues, with a special emphasis on relationships with minority
communities. Mr. McDermott has written about, spoken on, and sponsored studies on environmental
justice issues involving citing of RCRA facilities and will bring a well-developed waste industry
perspective to the Council. He has had previous experience as Chief of Staff to Representative Joseph
Kennedy (where he worked on civil rights legislation) and a Manager of Project Development at
Citizens Energy Corporation in Boston.
Richard Moore, Co-chair, Southwest Network for Environmental and Economic Justice,
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Richard Moore is Co-chair of the Southwest Network for Environmental and Economic Justice, a
multicultural, multinational organization representing hundreds of organizations and individuals
throughout the Southwestern United States. Mr. Moore has worked for over 25 years as a
community activist and organizer. He currently sits on several boards, including the Eco-Justice
Working Group, National Council of Churches, Interfaith Impact for Justice and Peace, the
Environmental Support Center, and The Coalition for Justice in the Maquiladoras, and was active on
the.National Planning Committee of the National People of Color Environmental Leadership Summit.
John O'Leary, Attorney, Pierce, Atwood & Scribner, Portland, Maine
John O'Leary is an attorney with Pierce, Atwood & Scribner, Portland, Maine, and Co-chair of the
American Bar Association Environmental Litigation Section. Mr. O'Leary specializes in
environmental law and litigation and international environmental law. He has written and spoken
extensively on environmental law, Superfund, and international environmental law (including
NAFTA). He was named by Vice President Gore to an environmental delegation to Bolivia. His
broad experience in international and national environmental law and policy, private practice, and
active link to the ABA will broaden the council's .legal perspective.
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MEMBERS OF THE
NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE ADVISORY COUNCIL (continued)
Michael A. Pierle, Vice President for Environment, Safety and Health, Monsanto Chemicals,
St. Louis, Missouri
Michael Pierle is Corporate Vice President for Environment. Safety, and Health at Monsanto and is
responsible for the identification and development of new policy issues and oversight of compliance.
With Monsanto since 1966, he also served in the Office of Environmental Affairs in the Department
of Commerce in 1975-76. Mr. Pierle has been named to a number of national boards, including the
American Industrial Health Council, the Chemical Industry Institute of Toxicology, and the National
Wildlife Federation's Corporate Conservation Council. His professional background is in
environmental engineering, and his experience in toxicology will help balance the Council's
deliberations.
Arthur Wiley Ray, Esq., Deputy Secretary, Maryland Department of the Environment,
Baltimore, Maryland
Mr. Ray was appointed Deputy Secretary of the Environment for the State of Maryland in June 1995.
He is responsible for directing all aspects of pollution control and environmental protection in
Maryland. His previous experience involved being the Manager, Permits and Licensing, of the
Potomac Electric Power Company's (PEPCO) Environmental Group, serving as the Senior
Environmental Attorney for the Baltimore Gas and Electric Company, and serving as legal counsel
with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Mr. Ray .has made significant contributions in the
field environmental justice.
Peggy Saika, Director, Asian Pacific Environmental Network, Oakland, California
Peggy Saika is the Executive Director of the Asian Pacific Environmental Network. She was
previously the Director of the Asian Law Caucus and created and developed a number of nonprofit
organizations in California and New York. In her 24 years of community development, she has
served on numerous boards and task forces, including the California Joint Select Taskforce on the
Changing Family, the Public Interest Law Foundation (NYU), the Ms. Foundation for Women, and
Asians and Pacific Islanders for Reproductive Health, and is currently chair of the New World
Foundation Board of Directors. Ms. Saika is familiar with and can help represent the interests of a
number of populations that are specifically affected by certain pollution problems.
Jean Sindab, Program Director, Economic, Environment, and Hunger Concerns, National
Council of Churches, New York, New York
Dr. Jean Sindab manages and directs economic and environmental strategic planning, program
development, and implementation nationwide for the 42-million member National Council of
Churches in New York. She was a delegate to the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992, as well
as the Co-planner of the Forum on Environmental Racism. She is well known for her coordination of
religious organizations on environmental justice issues.
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MEMBERS OF THE
NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE ADVISORY COUNCIL (continued)
Gail Small, Executive Director, Native Action, Lame Deer, Montana
Ms. Small has been the Executive Director for Native Action in Lame Deer, Montana since 1984.
Her previous legal experience has included working as a professor of Indian law at the Little Big
Horn College in Crow Agency, Montana, as a professor at Dull Knife Memorial College in Lame
Deer, Montana, and as a Reggie Community Lawyer Fellow at the California Indian Legal Services
in Eureka, California. Ms. Small has received various certificates and awards that include the 1994
Rockefeller Fellowship in Environmental and Natural Resources at the University of Colorado and the
1995 Gloria Steinem Award: A National Salute to Women of Vision.
Salomon Rondon-Tollens, House of Representatives, San Juan, PR, District Number 6
Representative, President of the Natural Resources and Environmental Quality Commission.
Mr. Rondon-Tollens has been in the House of Representatives, San Juan, Puerto Rico since 1979.
Prior to assuming his present position as President of the Natural Resources and Environmental
Quality Commission, he was Spokesman of the New Progressive Party Minority at the Natural
Resources and Environmental Quality Commission and at the Commission of Municipal Affairs. Mr.
Rondon-Tollens is a member of the Puerto Rico Governor's Recycling Advisory Council and has been
identified by the nongovernment organization Chelonia as the most outstanding political person in
defending the environment.
Haywood Turpentine, Program Director, Laborers-AGC Education and Training Fund, Pomfret
Center, East Killingly, Connecticut
As the Program Director for the Laborers-AGC Education and Training Fund, Mr. Turrentine
manages the lead and asbestos grants and is responsible for providing various other grant reporting to
the EPA. Mr. Turrentine has extensive experience in various organizations and funds, such as the
Chester County Opportunities Industrialization Centers, Inc. and the Laborers' Training Trust Fund.
He has written about and spoken on various issues concerning community-based employment, youth
preparation, and training professionals for the 1990s.
Baldemar Velasquez, President, Farm Labor Organizing Committee, Toledo, Ohio
As the President of the Farm Labor Organizing Committee (FLOC), Mr. Velasquez has provided
organizing support concerning a variety of issues. This experience includes, in recent years,
negotiation through union agreements for the elimination of the pickle industry's sharecropping
structure, the complete organization of the pickle industry in Ohio and Southeast Michigan, and the
historic conference with Mexico's agricultural unions, establishing a U.S.-Mexico commission to
oversee joint organizing-negotiation efforts with FLOC and corresponding Mexican unions. His most
recent awards include the highest Leadership Award from the Hispanic Heritage Awards, Mexico's
Agulla Azteca Award (highest award given to a noncitizen) and the Development of People Award,
Campaign for Human Development.
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MEMBERS OF THE
NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE ADVISORY COUNCIL (continued)
Velma Veloria, House of Representatives, Washington State Legislature, Olympia, Washington
Ms. Veloria has been the Washington State Representative, llth District, Olympia, WA since 1992.
.Her committee assignments include Ranking Assistant Minority, Trade & Economic Development,
Education, Law and Justice. Ms. Veloria currently serves on the WA State Advisory Committee to
the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, the WA State Joint Task Force on Unemployment Insurance,
and the WA State Rainbow Coalition.
Nathalie Walker, Managing Attorney, Sierra Club Legal Defense Fund, New Orleans, Louisiana
As the Managing Attorney for the Sierra Club Legal Defense Fund (LDF) in Louisiana, Ms. Walker
has direct experience in investigating, developing and litigating environmental cases and
environmental justice cases in the South. Under her leadership, the Sierra Club LDF has been in the
forefront of environmental justice legal actions and in environmental justice issues under Title VI of
the Civil Rights Act. She has written and spoken extensively on environmental law and
environmental justice, including presentations to the American Bar Association and the National Bar
Association.
Beverly Wright, Professor of Sociology, Deep South Center for Environmental Justice, Xavier
University, New Orleans, Louisiana
Beverly Wright is the Director of the Deep South Center for Environmental Justice at Xavier
University. Professor Wright received her Ph.D. in Sociology from the State University of New
York .at Buffalo. She is the author of a series of articles and essays on racial group identification,
achievement, motivation, social stratification, and health and environmental issues in the African
American Community. Dr. Wright was a member of the National Advisory Committee of the
National People of Color Environmental Leadership Summit, and is a leader in developing ties
between universities and communities.
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Addendum to Biographic Sketches
Walter Bresette, Lake Superior Chippewa, Bayfield, Wisconsin
Walter Bresette is a Lake Superior Chippewa from the Red Cliff Reservation, Bayfield,
Wisconsin. He is a partner of the Buffalo Bay Trading, Retail/Wholesale Crafts
establishment; and since 1980, he has been a community organizer and a recognized expert
and lecturer on native rights. He co-authored the award-winning treaty rights book Walleye
Warriors. He is currently working on a national radio series entitled "All My Relations,"
due to begin airing in 1996.
Jean Gamache is on the NET AC to represent the Tlignit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska.
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APPENDIX B
LIST OF PARTICIPANTS
AT THE MEETING OF THE
NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE ADVISORY COUNCIL
JULY 25 AND 26, 1995
-------
NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE ADVISORY COUNCIL
List of Participants
Arlington, Virginia
July 25 - 26, 1995
STAGEY ABRAMS
US EPA
OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-9870 '
FAX: 202-260-0852
RICHARD ALBORES
EPA/OCR Mail Code 1205
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20460
PHONE: 202-260-4518
FAX: 202-260-4580
MUSTAFA All
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION SPECIALIST
US EPA
OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
WESLEY ALLEN
US EPA
OFFICE OF PREVENTION, PESTICIDES AND TOXIC
SUBSTANCS
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-2900
FAX: 202-260-1847
RAIN L. ARCHAMBEAW
ASSOCIATE/INTERN
523 SOUTH 24th STREET
ARLINGTON, VA 22202
PHONE: 202-260-0392
GENA L. ASHE
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS DIRECTOR
AT&T CORPORATION
1120-20th STREET N.W.
SUITE 1000
WASHINGTON, DC 2"0036
PHONE: 202-457-2083
FAX: 202-466-2746
KATHLEEN ATERNO
DEPUTY ASSISTANT ADMINISTRATOR
US EPA
OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATION AND RESOURCES
MANAGEMENT
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-4600
FAX: 202-260-0835
CHRIS BAYHAM
US EPA
OFFICE OF RADIATION AND INDOOR AIR
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-233-9426
FAX: 202-233-9652
ELIZABETH BELL
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION SPECIALIST
US EPA
OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-6357
FAX: 202-260-0852
LOURDES T. BERLINGfRI
SENATE HEALTH COMMITTEE
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
SENATE OF PUERTO RICO
THE CAPITOL
SAN JUAN, PUERTO h!CO 00901
PHONE: 809-723-1965
FAX: 809-725-9790
JANICE BERRY-CHEN
US EPA
OFFICE OF REGIONAL OPERATIONS AND
STATE/LOCAL RELATIONS
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-3870
FAX: 202-260-9365
DEVON BLACKSTONE
ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER
THE ENVIRONMENTAL LAW INSTITUTE
1616 D STREET, NW
SUITE 200
WASHINGTON, DC 20016
PHONE: 202-939-3240
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ANGELIA BLACKWELL
ATTORNEY
US EPA OFFICE OF GENERAL COUNSEL
MAIL CODE 2366
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 260-6952
FAX: 260-0554
DARLENE H. BOERLAGE
US EPA
OFFICE OF ENFORCEMENT AND COMPLIANCE
ASSURANCE (FFEO)
401 M STREET
MAIL CODE 2261
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-0413
FAX: 202-260-9437
HEATHER BOND
9010 PATTERSON AVENUE #25
RICHMOND, VA 23229
PHONE: 804-260-6770
ROBIN BOLIN
ENVIRONMENTAL CAREERS ORGANIZATION
PHONE: (810) 960-0120
FAX: (810) 960-5857
WALTER BRESETTE
LAKE SUPERIOR CHIPPEWA
P.O: BOX 1350
20 SOUTH BROAD STREET
BAYFIELD, Wl 54814
PHONE: 715-779-5071
FAX: 715-779-4010
DANA BREWINGTON
US EPA
OFFICE OF SOLID WASTE AND EMERGENCY
RESPONSE
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-4610
FAX: 202-260-3527
SUE BRIGGUM
WMX
1155 CONNECTICUT AVENUE, NW
SUITE 800
WASHINGTON, DC
PHONE: 202-467-4480
FAX: 202-659-8752
WALTER BRODTMON
ECOSYSTEM TEAM/LEADER
US EPA
401 M STREET, SW
MAIL CODE 2225A
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-564-4181
FAX: 202-564-0028
CAROL BROWNER
EPA ADMINISTRATOR
US EPA
401 M STREET, SW
MC-1101
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-4700
JANICE BRYANT
US EPA
OFFICE OF POLICY, PLANNING AND EVALUATION
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-2730
FAX: 202-260-0174
ROBERT BULLARD
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE RESOURCE CENTER
CLARK ATLANTA UNIVERSITY
223 BRAWLEY DRIVE, SW
ATLANTA, GA 30314
PHONE: 404-880-6910
FAX: 404-880-6909
MABEL BUTLER
COUNTY COMMISSIONER
PO BOX 1393
ORLANDO, FL 32802
PHONE: 407-836-7350
FAX: 407-836-5879
BRAD CAMPBELL
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR
WHITE HOUSE COUNCIL
ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
ROOM 360, 012 OLD EXECUTIVE OFFICE
BUILDING
WASHINGTON, DC 20503
PHONE: 202-456-6224
FAX: 202-456-6546
JON CANNON
US EPA
OFFICE OF GENERAL COUNSEL
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-8040
FAX: 202-260-8046
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ROSEZELLA CANTY-LETSOME
ATTORNEY
US EPA
OFFICE OF CIVIL RIGHTS
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-4567
FAX: 202-260-4580
LYNDA CARROLL
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE COORDINATOR
US EPA
REGION 6 '
FIRST INTERSTATE BANK, AT FRONT PLACE
1445 ROSS AVENUE, 12TH FLOOR, SUITE 1200
DALLAS, TX 75202-2733
PHONE: 214-665-7200
FAX: 214-665-2164
JEWEL CARTER
US EPA
OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-9324
FAX: 202-260-0852
RODNEY CASH
US EPA
OFFICE OF CIVIL RIGHTS
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-4582
FAX: 202-260-4580
DR. VELMA CHARLES-SHANNOW
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE MANAGER
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
14th AND INDEPENDENCE
WASHINGTON, DC
PHONE: 202-690-3509
FAX: 202-690-0681
CAROL CHRISTENSEN
US EPA
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-8129
ANGELA CHUNG
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION SPECIALIST
US EPA
OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-6357
FAX: 202-260-0852
GARNETTA CLARKE
GRANTS SPECIALIST
37 WEST 110th STREET
CHICAGO, IL
312-886-5262
CHEREISE COATES
SUMMER ENVIRONMENTAL INTERN
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND ENVIRONMENTAL
HEALTH CENTER
28 EAST OSTEND STREET
BALTIMORE, MD 21216
PHONE: 410-706-1849
FAX: 410-706-0295
MARSHA COLEMAN-ADEBAYO
OIA
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-3826
FAX: 202-260-4770
MICHAEL A. CORBIN
MAJOR, ENVIRONMENTAL LAW ATTORNEY
901 NORTH STUART STREET
SUITE 400
ARLINGTON, VA 22203
PHONE: 703-696-1230
FAX: 703-696-2940
R. CLARKE COOPER
GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS
499 S. CAPITAL STREET, SW
SUITE 417
WASHINGTON, DC 20003
PHONE: 202-554-9494
FAX: 202-554-9454
SUSAN CRESSWELL
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION SPECIALIST
NATIONAL PUBLIC SERVICE
1849C STREET
MAIL CODE 1210
WASHINGTON, DC 20240
PHONE: 202-208-4274
JOYCE CROSSON-KELLY
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE COORDINATOR
US EPA
REGION 10
PLANNING AND EVALUATION BRANCH
1200 SIXTH AVENUE
. SEATTLE, WA 98101
PHONE: 206-553-4029
FAX: 206-553-6647
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MICHAEL DAVIS
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
SUPERFUND REPORT .
1225 JEFFERSON DAVIS HIGHWAY
SUITE 1400
ARLINGTON, VA 22015
PHONE: 703-416-8526
DAMARIS DELGADO
PUERTO RICAN NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENV
QUALITY COMMISSION
EL CAPITOLIO
SAN JUAN, PR 00901
PHONE: 809-723-1504
FAX: 809-725-8862
MARK DAY
US EPA
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
MAE DROUIN
US EPA
OFFICE OF RADIATION AND INDOOR AIR
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-233-9426
FAX: 202-233-9652
FRAN DUBROWSKI
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
COALITION ON ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
1400 16th STREET, NW
WASHINGTON, DC 20036
PHONE: 202-797-6565
FAX: 202-797-5461
KAREN ELLIS
GOVERNMENT RELATIONS
1341 G STREET, NW
WASHINGTON, DC 20005
PHONE: 202-737-0904
FAX: 202-737-0909
JUDY ENGLISH
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANT
9696 MANTEO COURT
BURKE, VA 22015
PHONE: 703-250-5293
JOHN ESSON
DIRECTOR
ECC
22 RESEARCH DRIVE
HAMPTON, VA 23666
PHONE: 804-865-0605
BOB FAITHFUL
SPECIAL ASSISTANT
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR
M.S. 2340 M1B
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20240
PHONE: 202-208-6191
FAX: 202-208-6970
DEEOHN FERRIS
WASHINGTON OFFICE ON ENVIRONMENTAL
JUSTICE
1511 K STREET, NW
SUITE 1026
WASHINGTON, DC 20005
PHONE: 202-637-2467
FAX: 202-637-9435
ALLIE FIELDS
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION SPECIALIST
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20460
PHONE: 703-305-7666
FAX: 703-308-2962
TIMOTHY FIELDS, JR.
US EPA
OFFICE OF SOLID WASTE AND EMERGENCY
RESPONSE.
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-4610
FAX: 202-260-3537
PAMELA FONT
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION SPECIALIST
US EPA
OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-6357
FAX: 202-260-0852
MARY ENGLISH
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR
ENERGY, ENVIRONMENT & RESOURCES CENTER
327 SOUTH STADIUM
UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE
KNOXVILLE, TN 37996
PHONE: 615-974-4251
FAX: 615-974-1838
DICY FRANKLIN
COMMUNITY PLANNER
US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS
PO BOX 2288
MOBILE, AL 36628
PHONE: 334-690-2668
FAX: 334-690-2605
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ALLISON FREEMAN
US EPA
OFFICE OF RADIATION AND INDOOR AIR
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-233-9426
FAX: 202-233-9652
DAVID GARDINER
ASSISTANT ADMINISTRATOR
US EPA
OFFICE OF POLICY PLANNING, AND EVALUATION
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-4332
PRINCESS GARZA
INTERN/SPECIAL ASSISTANT
1849 C STREET, NW
WASHINGTON, DC 20240
PHONE: 202-208-6191
PETER GATTUSO
US EPA
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-4064
FAX: 202-260-0927
CLARICE GAYLORD
DIRECTOR
OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
US EPA
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-6357
FAX: 202-260-0852
SANDRA GERMANN
US EPA
OFFICE OF WATER
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-5410
FAX: 202-260-7923
DON GOELLNER
PRINCIPAL
BOCKELMANN GOELLNER
9805 PEPPERMILL PLACE
VIENNA, VA 22182
PHONE: 703-883-1312
FAX: 703-883-0195
DANIEL E. GOGAL
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION SPECIALIST
US EPA
OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-6357
FAX: 202-260-0852
RENEE COINS
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION SPECIALIST
US EPA
OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
401 M STREET
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-5745
FAX: 202-260-0852
LYNN GOLDMAN -
ASSISTANT ADMINISTRATOR
US EPA
OFFICE OF PREVENTION, PESTICIDES, AND
TOXIC SUBSTANCES
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-2902
FAX: 202-260-1847
MARIA L. GONZALEZ
EPA
OIA
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20403
PHONE: 202-260-0511
LORRAINE GRANADO
2332 E. 46th AVENUE
DENVER, CO 80216
PHONE: (303) 292-3203
FAX: (303) 292-3341
GARY GUZY
US EPA
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
SUSAN HAGLER
BUREAU OF PRIMARY HEALTH CARE MIGRANT
HEALTH PROGRAM
4350 EAST WEST HIGHWAY
RM 7-5A1
BETHESDA, MD 20814
PHONE: 301-594-4302
FAX: 301-594-4997
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GAIL HALL
US EPA
OFFICE OF RADIATION AND INDOOR AIR
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-233-9426
FAX: 202-233-9652
LOREN HALL
US EPA
OFFICE OF POLLUTION PREVENTION AND TOXIC
SUBSTANCES
MC-7408
PHONE: 202-260-3931
MARTIN P. HALPER
PHYSICAL SCIENTIST
US EPA
OFFICE OF ENVIONMENTAL JUSTICE
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-2452
FAX: 202-260-0852
MICHAEL HANCOCK
FARMWORKER JUSTICE FUND
2001 S STREET, NW
WASHINGTON, DC 20009
PHONE: 202-462-8192
FAX: 202-462-0472
EDWARD HANLEY
US EPA
OFFICE OF COMMUNITY BASED
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-6980
MARSHA A. HARLEY
SENIOR ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE SPECIALIST
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
1849 C STREET, NW
WASHINGTON, DC 20240
PHONE: 202-208-6190
REGINALD HARRIS
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE COORDINATOR
US EPA
REGION 3
841 CHESTNUT BUILDING
PHILADELPHIA, PA 19107
PHONE: 215-597-6529
FAX: 215-597-8255
ROSE HARVELL
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE COORDINATOR'
US EPA
OFFICE OF ENFORCEMENT AND COMPLIANCE
ASSURANCE
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 703-603-8977
HALE W. HAWBECKER
US EPA
OFFICE OF GENERAL COUNSEL
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-4555
FAX: NOT PROVIDED
MELVA HAYDEN
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE COORDINATOR
US EPA
REGION 2
290 BROADWAY, 26TH FLOOR
NEW YORK, NY 10007
PHONE: 212-637-5027
FAX: 212-637-5024
YVETTE P. HELLYER
BIOLOGIST
US EPA
REGULATORY ENFORCEMENT
401 M STREET, SW (2245-A)
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-564-4033
FAX: 202-564-0020
VERONICA HENLEY
EDUCATOR
RUTH K. WEBB SCHOOL
WASHINGTON, DC
PHONE: 301-871-0032
STEVE HERMAN
US EPA
OFFICE OF ENFORCEMENT AND COMPLIANCE
ASSURANCE
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
DOLORES HERRERA
ALBUQUERQUE SAN JOSE COMMUNITY
AWARENESS COUNCIL, INC.
PO BOX 12297
ALBUQUERQUE, NM 87195-2297
PHONE: 505-243-4837
FAX: 505-243-3085
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CHERYL HOGUE
REPORTER
.DAILY ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT
WASHINGTON, DC
PHONE: 202-452-4600
ARTHUR HOLLOWAY
US EPA
OFFICE OF RADIATION AND INDOOR AIR
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-233-9426
FAX: 202-233-9652
ANITA HOPEWELL
UMAB ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTHE EDUCATION
CENTER
28 EAST OSTEND STREET
BALTIMORE, MD 21230
PHONE: 410-706-1849
SYLVIA HORWITZ
US EPA
OFFICE OF GENERAL COUNSEL
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 703-235-5337
STEVE HUFFORD
US EPA
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-9732
FAX: 202-260-3923
ROBERT J. HUGGETT
ASSISTANT ADMINISTRATOR
US EPA
OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-7676
FAX: 202-260-9761
LAWRENCE G. (LONNIE) HURST
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
MOTOROLA, INC.
ARIZONA ISSUES MANAGEMENT
8220 E. ROOSEVELT, R3125
SCOTTDALE, AZ 85257
PHONE: 602-441-7217
FAX: 602-441-3965
SUSAN JEWELL
US EPA
OFFICE OF CIVIL RIGHTS
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-4585
TEJALJHAVERI
US EPA
OIA - POD
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-5437
AMY JOHNSON
EPA INTERN
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-4180
HAZEL JOHNSON
PEOPLE FOR COMMUNITY RECOVERY
13116 SOUTH ELLIS AVENUE
CHICAGO, IL 60627
PHONE: 312-468-3866
FAX: 312-468-8105
.SCHNIQUA JOHNSON
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND ENVIRONMENTAL
HEALTH CENTER
28 E. OSTEND STREET
BALTIMORE, MD 21230
PHONE: 410-706-1849
TYRONE JORDAN
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTHE EDUCATION CENTER
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND
78 E. OSTEND STREET
BALTIMORE, MD 21230
PHONE: 410-706-1849
FAX: 410-706-0295
HEATHER KEITH
MANAGER, STATE ISSUES
CMA
2501 M STREET, NW
WASHINGTON, DC 20037
PHONE: 202-887-1320
FAX: 202-887-6926
JOYCE C. KELLY
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE PROGAM MANAGER
US EPA
REGION 10
1200 6th AVENUE (MO-142)
SEATTLE, WA 98101
PHONE: 206-553-4029
FAX: 206-553-6647
GREGORY KENYON
PROGRAM ANALYST
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-6996
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MARVA E. KING
OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
US EPA
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-0141
FAX: 202-260-0852
CHRIS KIRTZ
DIRECTOR
US EPA
CONSENSUS & DISPUTE RESOLUTION PROGRAM
401 M STREET, SW
MAIL CODE: 2136
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-7565
FAX: 202-260-5478
ELEANOR KITTRELL
SECRETARY
US EPA
OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-6110
FAX: 202-260-0852
ROBERT KNOX
DEPUTY DIRECTOR
OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
US EPA
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-8195
FAX: 202-260-0852
LAURA KOLB
US EPA
OFFICE OF RADIATION AND INDOOR AIR
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-233-9436
FAX: 202-233-9652
ROBIN LANCASTER
ATTORNEY
US EPA
7932 ORCHID STREET, NW
WASHINGTON, DC 20012 •
PHONE: 202-564-4172
ELLIOTT LAWS
ASSISTANT ADMINISTRATOR
US EPA
OFFICE OF SOLID WASTE AND EMERGENCY
RESPONSE
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
RICHARD LAZARUS
WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW
ONE BROOKINGS DRIVE
SAINT LOUIS, MO 63130
PHONE: 314-935-6495
FAX: 314-935-6493
CHARLES LEE
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST COMMISSION FOR
RACIAL JUSTICE
475 RIVERSIDE DRIVE, 16th Floor
NEW YORK, NY 10115
PHONE: 212-870-2077
FAX: 212-870-2162
LILY LEE
REGULATORY IMPACT ANALYST
US EPA
MC-2122
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-9096
LORI LEWIS
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE COORDINATOR
US EPA
REGION 9
75 HAWTHORNE STREET
.SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94105
PHONE: 415-744-1561
FAX: 415-744-1605
DENNIS LIVINGSTON
DIRECTOR COMMUNITY RESOURCES
28 EAST OSTEND STREET
BALTIMORE, MD 21230
PHONE: 410-727-7837
M. LOPEZ-OTEA
FEDERAL LIASON
USNAC
WASHINGTON, DC 20555
FAX: 301-415-2588
CHRISTINE LUONG
US EPA
OFFICE OF RADIATION AND INDOOR AIR
501 3rd STREET, NW
WASHINGTON, DC 2046Q
PHONE: 202-233-9388
FAX: 202-233-9652
JIM MAAS
PROGRAM ANALYST
US EPA
MAIL CODE 5104-MS
401 M STREET. SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-8927
FAX: 202-260-6606
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RHONDA MADDOX
ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER
US EPA
MC-2242-A
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-564-7026
FAX: 202-564-001 5
VIVIAN MALONE-JONES
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE COORDINATOR
US EPA
REGION 4
345 COURTLAND STREET, NE
ATLANTA, GA 30365
PHONE: 404-347-4292
FAX: 404-347-3721
SHEILA MARSHALL
US EPA
OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-3577
FAX: 202-260-0852
LAWRENCE MARTIN
US EPA
OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-7667
FAX: 202-260-0507
RICK MARTIN
ACTING DIRECTOR OF THE MANAGEMENT
EDUCATION STAFF
US EPA
OFFICE OF INFORMATION AND RESOURCE
MANAGEMENT
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-2381
FAX: 202-260-2393
KOLEKA MASIMINI
SUMMER INTERN
US EPA
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-4454
EDWARD MAY
US EPA
RADON DIVISION
501 3rd STREET, NW
WASHINGTON, DC
PHONE: 202-233-9428
NICOLE MAYWAH
HARVARD UNIVERSITY- STUDENT
CAPITAL PARK APARTMENTS
800 4th STREET
APARTMENT S508
WASHINGTON, DC 20024
OFFICE: 202-260-8609
HOME: 202-554-6319
MEL MCCOTTRY
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE COORDINATOR
US EPA
REGION 8
999 18TH STREET, SUITE 500
DENVER, CO 80202-2405
PHONE: 303-293-1645
FAX: 303-293-1647
CHARLES MCDERMOTT
WASTE MANAGEMENT, INC.
1155 CONNECTICUT AVENUE, NW
S'UITE 800
WASHINGTON, DC 20036
PHONE: 202-467-4480
FAX: 202-659-8752
KATY MCGINTY
CHAIR
WHITE HOUSE COUNCIL ON ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY
ROOM 360, 012 OLD EXECUTIVE OFFICE
BUILDING
WASHINGTON, DC 20503
PHONE: 202-456-6224
FAX: 202-456-2710
MARGUERITE (MARGO) MEEKS
US EPA
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-564-4058
TAR-ISHA MERRICK
SUMMER INTERN
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND ENVIRONMENTAL
HEALTH CENTER
28 EAST OSTEND STREET
BALTIMORE, MD 21230
PHONE: 410-706-1849
FAX: 410-706-0295
SHERRY MILAN
US EPA
OFFICE OF ENFORCEMENT AND COMPLIANCE
ASSURANCE
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-9807
FAX: ' 202-260-7553
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MARGARET MILLARD
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE COORDINATOR
US EPA
REGION 5 (HRM-7J)
77 WEST JACKSON BOULEVARD
CHICAGO, IL 60604-3507
PHONE: 312-353-1440
FAX: 312-353-6519
KAREN MOORE
GRADUATE INTERN
NATIONAL COUNCIL OF NEGRO WOMEN
1001 G STREET, SUITE 800
WASHINGTON, DC 20001
PHONE: 202-628-0015
RICHARD MOORE
SOUTHWEST NETWORK FOR ENVIRONMENTAL
AND ECONOMIC JUSTICE
211 10TH STREET, SW
ALBUQUERQUE, NM 87102
PHONE: 505-242-0416
FAX: 505-242-5609.
JAMES MOSKOWITZ
LAW INTERN
2501 M STREET, NW
WASHINGTON, DC 20037
PHONE: 202-887-1373
FAX: 202-463-1594
MARY NICHOLS
ASSISTANT ADMINISTRATOR
US EPA
OFFICE OF AIR AND RADIATION
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-7400
WILLIAM NITZE
ASSISTANT ADMINISTRATOR
US EPA
OFFICE OF INTERNATIONAL ACTIVITIES
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-4870
BRENDA J. NORDENTSTAM, PhD
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR
FACULTY OF ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES
108A MARSHAL HALL
SYRACUSE, NY 13210
PHONE: 315-470-6573
FAX: 315-470-6915
JOHN O'LEARY
ESQUIRE
PIERCE, ATWOOD, AND SCRIBNER
ONE MONUMENT SQUARE
PORTLAND, ME 04468
PHONE: 207-773-6411
FAX: 207-773-3419
MARY O'LONE
US EPA
OFFICE OF GENERAL COUNSEL
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-1489
FAX: 202-260-8393
MARIE O'NEILL
US EPA
OFFICE OF RADIATION AND INDOOR AIR
MC-6607J
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-233-9054
FAX: 202-233-9555
JOY ORTEZA
STAFF ASSISTANT
CHEMICAL MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION
2501 M STREET, NW
WASHINGTON, DC 20037
PHONE: 202-887-1273
FAX: 202-887-5426
JAMES OWENS
SENIOR ASSOCIATE REGIONAL COUNSEL
JFK FEDERAL BUILDING
BOSTON, MA 02203
PHONE: 617-565-3322
FAX: 617-565-1141
CAROL PARKER
US EPA
MC-7506C
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 703-305-7666
KEVIN PARIKH
US EPA
OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-3577
FAX: 202-260-0852
-------
SHIRLEY PATE
REGIONAL/STATE/OECA
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-8318
FAX: 202-260-7553
ROBERT PERCIASEPE
ASSISTANT ADMINISTRATOR FOR WATER
US EPA
OFFICE OF WATER
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-5700
FAX: NOT PROVIDED
DELTA E. PEREIRA
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION SPECIALIST
US EPA
OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
401 M STREET.SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-3565
FAX: 202-260-3565
MICHAEL PIERLE
MONSANTO
800 NORTH LINDBURGH STREET
SAINT LOUIS, MO 63167
PHONE: 314-694-8882
FAX: 314-694-8957
CLYDE PIKES, JR.
MANAGER-ENVIRONMENTAL EQUITY
TEXAS NATURAL RESOURCE CONSERVATION
COMMISSION
PO BOX 13087
AUSTIN, TX 78711-3087
PHONE: 512-239-3600
FAX: 512-239-3515
ARTHUR RAY
DEPUTY DIRECTOR .
MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT
2500 BROENING HIGHWAY
BALTIMORE, MD 21224
PHONE: 410-631-3887
FAX: 410-631-3888
DORETTA REAVES
US EPA
OFFICE OF COMMUNICATION, EDUCATION AND
PUBLIC AFFAIRS
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-3534
FAX: 202-260-0130
KAREN REXING
US EPA
501 3rd STREET
WASHINGTON, DC
PHONE: 202-649-3520
CONCHI RODRIGUEZ
US EPA
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 703-308-2951
FAX: 703-308-2962
HONORABLE SALOMON RONDON-TOLLENS
PRESIDENT OF THE NATURAL RESOURCES &
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMISSION
EL CAPITOLIO
SAN JUAN,PR 00901
PHONE: 809-725-1124
FAX: 809-725-8862
PEGGY SAIKA
ASIAN PACIFIC ENVIRONMENTAL NETWORK
3126 CALIFORNIA STREET
OAKLAND, CA 94602
PHONE: 510-834-8920
FAX: 510-834^8926
SHRETI SANGHAVI
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE COORDINATOR
OFFICE OF COMPLIANCE
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-564-4158
PAULA L. SCALINGI
DIRECTOR, DECISION AND INFORMATION .
SCIENCES DIVISION
ARGONNE NATIONAL LABORATORY
9700 SOUTH CASS AVENUE
DIS/900
ARGONNE, IL 60439-4812
ANTOINETTE SEBASTIAN
URBAN ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNER .
HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
451 7th STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20410
PHONE: 202-708-4251
FAX: 202-708-3363
ANDREA SINCLAIR
US EPA
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-564-4039
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JEAN SINDAB
NATIONAL COUNCIL OF CHURCHES
475 RIVERSIDE DRIVE, ROOM 572
NEW YORK, NY 10115-0050
PHONE: 212-870-2385
FAX: 212-870-2265
GAIL SMALL
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
NATIVE ACTION
BOX 316
LAME DEER, MT 59043
PHONE: 406-477-6390
FAX: 406-477-6421
JEROME SMITH
CHAIRMAN BIG
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE WORKING GROUP
WASHINGTON, DC
PHONE: 202-726-4006
LINDA K. SMITH
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION SPECIALIST
OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
US EPA
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-4604
FAX: 202-260-0852
ANNETTE STANLEY
US EPA
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-7570
CRAIG STEINBURG
LEAD ABATEMENT ALERT
7465 ASPEN PARK ROAD
LORTON, VA 22079
PHONE: 703-550-7331
FAX: 703-550-7307
CONNIE THIGPEN
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE LIAISON-
ADMINISTRATOR'S OFFICE
726 MINNESOTA AVENUE
KANSAS CITY, KS 66101
PHONE: 913-551-7414
FAX: 913-551-7282
CINDY THOMAS
ALASKA NATIVE HEALTH BOARD
TLIGNIT AND HAIDA INDIAN TRIBES OF AK
1345 RUDAKOF CIRCLE, SUITE 206
ANCHORAGE, AK 99508
PHONE: 907-337-0028
FAX: 907-333-2001
RUPERT THOMAS
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE COORDINATOR
US EPA
REGION 7
726 MINNESOTA AVENUE
KANSAS CITY, KS 66101
PHONE: 913-551-7282
FAX: 913-551-7925
ARTHUR A. TOTTEN
US EPA
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-5905
FAX: 202-260-0129
HAYWOOD TURRENTINE
NEJAC
1433 HARTFORD PIKE
EAST KILLINGLY, CT 06243
PHONE: 203-974-0800
PAUL VALDEZ
ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER
US EPA
MEXICO
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20406
PHONE: 202-260-0791
FAX: 202-401-0140
ALEX VARELA
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION SPECIALIST
US EPA
OFFICE OF ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-6357
FAX: 202-260-0852
BALDEMAR VELASQUEZ
DIRECTOR
FARM LABOR ORGANIZING COMMITTEE
3352 PLAINVIEW DRIVE
TOLEDO, OH 43615
PHONE: 419-243-3456
FAX: 419-243-5655
NATHALIE WALKER
SIERRA CLUB LEGAL DEFENSE FUND
400 MAGAZINE STREET, SUITE 401
NEW ORLEANS, LA 70130
PHONE: 504-522-1394
FAX: 504-566-7242
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TRACY WASHINGTON-ENGER
US EPA
OFFICE OF RADIATION AND INDOOR AIR
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-233-9484
FAX: 202-233-9555
MAX WEINTRAUB
LEAD INFORMATION SPECIALIST
NATIONAL SAFETY COUNCIL
1019 19th STREET, SUITE 401
WASHINGTON, DC 20036
PHONE: 202-293-2270 EXT. 934
FAX: 202-659-1192
JANICE WHITNEY
SPECIAL ASSISTANT TO THE ADMINISTRATOR
US EPA
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-4700
FAX: • NOT PROVIDED
DALE WILHELM
NEPA LIAISON
WT8C 406 WEST SUMMIT HILL
KNOXVILLE, TN 37920
PHONE: 615-632-6693
WILL WILSON
US EPA
OFFICE OF AIR AND RADIATION
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-5574
FAX: 202-260-0253
JAMES YOUNGER
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE COORDINATOR
US EPA
REGION 1
ONE CONGRESS STREET, 10TH FLOOR
BOSTON, MA 02114
PHONE: 617-565-3403
FAX: 617-565-3415
AMANDA WOJTALIK
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE INTERN
600 20th STREET, NW
SUITE 405
WASHINGTON, DC 20052
PHONE: 202-208-3301
BEVERLY WRIGHT
DEEP SOUTH CENTER FOR ENVIRONMENTAL
JUSTICE
XAVIER UNIVERSITY
7440 STROELITZ STREET
NEW ORLEANS, LA 70125
PHONE: 504-483-7340
FAX: 504-488-7977
JAN YOUNG
US EPA
NEJAC
401 M STREET, SW
WASHINGTON, DC 20460
PHONE: 202-260-1691
-------
APPENDIX C
HANDOUTS DISTRIBUTED DURING
THE PUBLIC COMMENT PERIODS
-------
PUBLIC COMMENT (Section 9.1.1)
Robin Boland
Environmental Careers Organization
A. Environmental Associate Program and the Diversity Initiative Application
B. Connections Newsletter
-------
The Environmental
Careers
Organization
1995 US EPA Programs
1995 US EPA Application Form
Environmental Associate Program
and The Diversity Initiative
•
Matching talented interns with challenging training assignments
at the United States Environmental Protection Agency
lented
scientifi
regulate
anage
nd other
•ntor to
ntal
MM
deforce
eessin
nation'
nts of
ronmental
• Provide o
students from
environmental
programs to enha
skills and leam abo
environmental careers
EPA.
partnerships
Academic
tions and other
eges.
-------
Welcome to the Associate Program at the US EPA!!
DuuUine for summer projects: February 28, 1995. Please submit your project descriptions as soon as possible, but no later than February 28,1995.
(If wu have January-April Associate assignments, please coll your ECO representative as soon as possible.)
Introduction
Thank you for your interest in sponsoring an Environmental Careers
Organization (ECO) "Associate" in 1995. If you were a sponsor last year
or in 1993, we look forward to serving you again. If this is your.first year
in the program —welcome! We hope that you wilt enjoy your
participation in the Environmental Associate Program.
In FY 1994, more than 150 young environmental professionals from ECO
completed successful Associate projects at the Environmental Protection
Agency. Talented students studying to be scientists, engineers, economists,
communicators, social scientists, and researchers worked on Associate
assignments in Ann Arbor. Research Triangle Park, Boston, Chicago,
Washington, DC and other sites throughout the agency.
What is the Environmental Associate Program?
The Environmental Associate Program matches undergraduate, graduate
and doctoral students pursuing environmental careers with paid, USEPA
internships designed by EPA programs, regional offices and laboratories.
Students from hundreds of colleges and universities apply to be considered
for Associate projects at EPA. The Diversity Initiative portion of the
program recruits students of color from throughout the nation and offers
EPA opportunities to request students from Minority Academic Institutions
exclusively, if desired.
* ./ . •
How does the ECO Diversity Initiative work?
ECO staff recruits talented students of color pursuing environmental
careers, In 1995, over 800 Hispanic,' African, Asian and Native American
people are expected to apply to ECO's program. All of these candidates
will be considered for your training assignment. ECO always seeks to
provide a diverse group of qualified trainees for your consideration.
In addition, ECO and the EPA are working together to provide training
opportunities for students from minority academic institutions. If you
prefer to target your Associate project exclusively for students from
Historically Black Colleges and Universities, tribal-controlled colleges,
arid institutions associated with the Hispanic Association of Colleges and ,
Universities, please mark the box called "Minority Academic
Institutions" on your Project Description Form.
The 1994 Associates were a remarkably diverse group
of professional trainees. For example: .
* Over half of the Associates were Hispanic, African, Asian and Native
American students.
* Many attended minority academic institutions, such as Historically
Black Colleges and Universities and members of die Hispanic
Association of Colleges and Universities.
* 55% were scientific and engineering students.
" 56% were women. •
Who is eligible to be an ECO Associate at US EPAT
Applicants must be currently matriculating students K the undergraduate,
graduate or doctoral level. A "matriculating student" is defined as a person
who is either currently enrolled in a degree program or planning to return
to school within three months of completing an EPA/ECO internship.
Associates must be U.S. citizens.
How long can ECO Associate training assignments
last?
Associate projects must be at least 12 full-time weeks and may not exceed
26 full-time weeks. Most Associate projects are full-time. To encourage
year-round participation, part-time assignments are also available.
What Is the relationship of ECO Associates to federal
employees?
ECO Associates are employees of ECO. They are not federal employees,
nor do they earn any credit toward future federal employment during their
time at EPA. EPA sponsors provide technical direction for the Associate
projects and act as mentors. ECO Associates at EPA are not included in
EPA employee counts.
What kind of funds can be used for the ECO program?
The ECO/EPA partnership is governed by a training grant to ECO. Only
monies which come from sources with specific legislative authority for
training can be used. Please consult the Office of Environmental justice
with questions. (202.260^6357) •
-------
How can I sponsor ECO Associates In 1998?
The process is easy. Simply fill out the attached Project Description Form
and return it to the ECO office nearest you. ECO staff will screen the
national applicant pool and identify the top candidates for your assignment,
based on the student's academic interests and the suitability of your project
as a training assignment. Interviews (phone or in person) are conducted by
you and you select your preferred finalist. ECO will offer your finalist an
Associate assignment at EPA and a start date will be arranged.
May I suggest my own candidates to be ECO
Associates at EPA?
Yes. If you know of eligible candidates who would be appropriate for your
training assignments, contact your local ECO office for instructions on
student application procedures. In addition, if your office would like to
establish special relationships with local colleges and/or minority academic
institutions, contact Robin Boland at 810.960-0120. In 1994, several EPA
offices worked with ECO to provide Associate positions for students from
targeted universities.
How much does the program cost? Who pays?
EPA sponsors pay for their own ECO Associates. The EPA share is 95% of
the total project cost. The total project cost involves the sum of the
direct and indirect costs listed below. Call your ECO office to discuss
specific cost figures for your Associates. ;
A. Direct Costs .
1. Stipend. Stipends are set by you from within the following range:
Undergraduates: $350-500 per week
Graduate and doctoral students: $400-600 per week
2. Fringe. 17% of total stipend for payroll taxes and insurance.
3. Relocation. S500 for travel and "getting started" assistance.
4. Program costs. Covers recruitment, screening, site visits, career
development. Associate gatherings and related services. SI 500 for
the first twelve weeks and $1400 for an additional fourteen weeks.
. After twelve weeks, program costs maybe pro-rated.
8. Other miscellaneous costs i.e. supplies, project related travel, etc.
B. Indirect Costs
8. The indirect charge is 13% of Direct Cost Total (1-5).
C.EPA Total Cost is the Direct Cost (1-5) + Indirect Cost (6) x
95%.
What's the bottom line? v
In 1994, the "average'' summer Associate worked twelve weeks and
received a stipend of S400 per week. The EPA cost for such an Associate
would be S8.176.
What kind of EPA paperwork Is Involved?
Before-your project can begin, you must call your ECO representative to
confirm exact cost figures. After you have done this, complete an EPA
commitment notice for the exact amount of your ECO Associate
assignment. Mail the commitment notice to:
Ms. Renee Coins
Office of Environmental Justice (3103)
Room 2636 WSM, U.S. EPA
Washington. DC 20460
For more information on committing funds for ECO Associates,
call Ms. Coins. (202) 260-5745 Fax: (202) 260-0852 _
Thanks again for your interest.
We look forward to serving you in 1995.
The
Environmental
Careers
Organisation
Contacts Directory
National Program Manager
Robin Boland
29894 Windsor Court
Novi, MI 48377
810.960-0120 Fax 810.960-5857
California Office
(CA, AZ, NM, NV, CO, UT, HI)
381 Bush Street, Suite 700
San Francisco, CA 94104 ,
415.362-5552 Fax415.362-5559
Florida Office
(TX, OK, AR, LA, MS, AL, TO,
KY, GA, SC, NC, VA, WV, FL)
4902 Eisenhower Blvd. Suite 217
Tampa, FL 33634
813.886-4330 Fax 813.882-0589
Great Lakes Office
(ND, SD, MM, IA, NE, KS, MO.
IL,WI,IN,MI,OH,PA)
50 Public Square, Suite 1515
Cleveland, OH 44113
216.861-4545 Fax 216.861-6727
Northeast Office
(ME, NH, Vr, MA, RI, CT, NY,
DE,NJ,MD,DC)
286 Congress Street, Third Floor
Boston, MA 02210
617.426-4783 Fax 617.423-0998
Pacific Northwest Office
(AK, WA, OR, ID,. wY, MD
1218 Third Avenue, Suite 1515
Seattle, WA 98101
206.625-1750 Fax 206.625-9246
Ante of Interest!
Fully funded by ORD...
The 1008 EPA Minority Fellows
In 1995, the Office of Research and Development will once again
sponsor summer internships for student participants in EPA's
Minority Fellows Program. All programs, labs and regional offices
are invited to submit research projects for consideration by this
year's 22 talented Fellows from Minority Academic Institutions
throughout die nation. If your project is selected by a Fellow,
ORD will pay 100% of the cost of the Fellows summer
internship, coordinated for the agency by The Environmental
Careen Organization. THE DEADLINE FOR SUMMER
INTERN REQUESTS THROUGH THE FELLOWS
PROGRAM IS JANUARY 31.1995. For more information,
contact your local ECO office. •
-------
Environmental
Careers
Organization
US EPA Associate Programs
Project Description Form
To request the services of an ECO Associate through this program, please complete and sign this form and return it to your nearest ECO office.
Contact ECO for additional information.
Sponsoring Organization
Oreinmnon Department
Address
Phone ( )
Comaa Person Title Fax ( )
Phone( )
•Direct Supervisor (if different) ; Title Fax ( I
Minority Academic Institutions Option
If you would like ECO to limit candidate selection for this Associate position to students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Hispanic
Association of Colleges and Universities schools and tribally-controlled colleges, please put a check mark in the following box. D
Job Description
Please describe the 1) background 2) objectives 3) specific tasks and 4) expected results. Continue on a separate sheet of paper if necessary.
Number of Associates needed for this project.
Approximate starting date •
Length of placement(s) _ 12 weeks ^26 weeks _ other (specify)
Qualifications Desired
Please describe below the matriculation level (bachelors, masters, etc.) appropriate disciplines and skills you need:
Vi'eekiy salary for ECO Associate/s - range acceptable:.
-------
1995 US EPA Programs
1995 US EPA Application
Environmental Associ
and The Diversity Initi
Matching talented interns with challenging
at the United States Environmental Protection
The Environmental Careers Organization
286 Congress Street
Third floor
Boston, MA 02210
This publication is union primed on post-consumer recycled paper using soy based ink.
-------
Ihe bnrirenMMol
(ertersOreoniiotion, Int.
protects e*de*>Mces
the.ii.imwMiluo.gi.
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ofpfofessioaok. the
or emotion of ween, fltid
theinstiroliMiof
mdnriduoj action. This
H otcoraptehtd through
placement, career
odvice. career products
and reseorch and
foundling founded m
1972 KO has five
regional off kes across
the country ami an
alumni network
of5.MOindi.rdook.
connections
be Eavironrnental Careets Ofganiiotion
ECO Expects to Offer Over 700 Paid
Environmental Internships in 1995
"How will I get a job without work expe-
rience, and how can I get work experi-
ence without a job?" This is the question
that many students will be asking them-
selves as graduation draws near, faced
with the task of beginning their profes-
sional careers. Students and recent grad-
uates with an interest in the
environment, take note: The Environ-
mental Careers Organization (ECO), a
national, non-profit education organiza-
tion, anticipates offering over 700 paid
internships throughout the United States
in 1995.
"In todays dynamic job market and
increasingly competitive workforce, get-
ting your foot in the door can be the
hardest step." says John R. Cook, Jr.,
founder and president of ECO.
"Through innovative partnerships with
numerous agencies engaged in critical
environmental work, ECO is able to
offer paid training opportunities to col-
lege and graduate students, and recent
graduates, who aspire to become envi-
ronmental professionals."
While ECO places interns, or ECO
"Associates", with federal, state, and local
government agencies, corporations, con-
sulting firms, and non-profit organiza-
tions nationwide, the majority of projects
ECO expects to offer in 1995 will be
with four federal government sponsors:
the U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Bureau
of Land Management, U.S. Environ-
mental Protection Agency, and the U.S.
Department of Energy. In 1994 ECO
placed over 650 Associates in challenging
environmental projects in 36 star.es and
the District of Columbia. On average,
continued on back page
•1
ing 1995
Over 1,100
Attend National
Environmental
Career Conference
Alexandria, Virginia was the site of The
Environmental Careers Organization's
Tenth Annual National Environmental
Career Conference and Career Fair. The
Conference, which took place on Noven
her 4-5,1994, experienced phenomenal
attendance, with over ,1,100 people
attending, compared with 525 attendees
at 1993's Conference in Tampa, Florida.
"The conference was a great resource of
information on environmental issues anc
opportunities in the environmental field.
I believe the information I gained by
attending your conference will guide me
into my developing career," attendee B.
Joseph Raiyea wrote to ECO shortly aftc
the Conference.
Thomas Crumbly, Assistant Secretary fc
Environmental Management at the L'.S.
Department of Energy (DOE), delireret
the key-note address. Mr. Crumbly is
responsible for directing, all environment
. management activities at the Departmen
of Energy's nuclear weapons sites, includ
ing waste management operation, envi-
ronmental compliance, and related
technology development and demonstra-
tion activities. In his address he touched
on the past and future practices in the
Department's Superfund program; the
importance of science, economics, and
education in environmental protection;
and challenges facing the DOE and the,
environmental community today. He coi
eluded his remarks by telling the audi-
ence, "Your presence today shows your
interest in pursuing an environmental
career, and I commend you for that
choice. There's a lot of important er
ronmental work to do out there —
tific, technical, and policy-wise •
get the job done, we need qua1'
continued on back f age
-------
President's:
First Environmental Workforce Symposium
Dear Friends:
Remember, just tor
a moment, what it
was like to apply
ror * .'°b Just **'es'1
out of school. After
years of hard
thought and home-
work, many of us
were faced with what was perhaps an
unexpected "Catch-22": "How will I get
a job without work experience, and how
can I get work experience without a job?"
The truth is. times have not changed all
that much. Even1 year more and more
talented, aspiring professionals graduate
and enter the workforce, seeking that
crucial first break into the working
world. And every year many of them race
that same, aforementioned dilemma:
most employers want new hires who pos-
sess not just knowledge, but experience
as well. What to do?
The Environmental Careers Organiza-
tion (ECO) was built on the premise
that the age-old concept of apprentice-
ship was the key to growing the next
generation of environmental profession-
als. Since 1972. with the support and
commitment of organizations and agen-
cies nationwide working on critical envi-
ronmental projects, we've helped ox-er
5,500 men and women start their careers
as "green-collar" workers. These entry-
level professionals have benefited from
the training and experience gained in
their paid apprenticeships; project spon-
sors have benefited from the hard work
performed and the fresh perspectives
presented by their ECO Associates: and
the ultimate beneficiary has been, of
course, the environment.
Whether you're just starting your envi-
ronmental career, or wish to create a pre-
cious and rewarding training opportunity
to an emerging professional. ECO can
help. I encourage you to contact us with
your questions, comments, and feedback.
Sincerely,
Over 90 current and emerging leaden,
key dedskm-makcn, and practitioners
active in shaping the environmental
workforce gadiered for ECO's first Envi-
romnciitu Yvofkiofcc Symposium in
Cleveland, Ohio on June 20,1994. The
Symposium was designed to create an
opportunity for these people to share
ideas, establish relationships, coordinate
action, assess progress, and break new
ground. ' * '
There are educators and trainers in the
environmental field mat spend a lot of
time in isolation," said John R. Cook, Jr.,
ECO President. The concept of the
Environmental Workforce Symposium is
to bring these key players together to
share their experiences, expertise, and
knowledge; as well as to build an identity
among this critical part of die environ-
mental field that has been largely over-
looked. This is all a pan of our ongoing
work to understand the employment
trends and education and training needs
of the environmental field."
The event featured four panel sessions:
The Environmental Workforce and the
Trends and Issues Shaping its Future";
"Perspectives on Leadership Develop-
ment for the Environment"; Improving
the Connections Between die Needs of
the Environmental Marketplace and
Educational and Training Programs";
and "Achieving Diversity in die Envi-
ronmental Workforce". Featured lun-
cheon speaker Judith Stockdale, formerly
of die Great Lakes Protection Fund, dis-
cussed "Challenges to Meet by die Year
2000 - Priorities for die Environmental
Workforce".
"One out of every 25 U.S. workers today
• is a'green cottar* worker, or someone. J*
, v/ho works msofrte capacity b die envi-
ronmental workforce. By die year 2000,
environmental workers wffl comprise one
out of every 20 workers. Businesses and
industries are learning that good envi- -
ronrnental management is good business
management," stated speaker Nicholas
Basra, Senior Editor ofCtemiadEngi-
netring Magazine, during the panel The
Environmental Workforce and the
Trends and Issues Shaping Its Future".
A forthcoming publication will contain
the text of presentations from die Sym-
posium. The publication will be compli-
fncotttn^To d^TQposium flttcpflBBtj mid
will be available for purchase from ECO
in die spring of 1995.
The 1994 Environmental Workforce
Symposium was funded in part by grants
from The George Gund Foundation,
The Cleveland Foundation, and BP
America, Inc.
ECO is currendy planning the Second
Annual Environmental Workforce Sym-
posium to take place in Seatde, Wash-
ington on Monday, June 12,1995. Panel
discussions will focus on die effect of
growth management issues pn die envi*
ronmental •workforce, and a luncheon
speaker who will discuss die results of
ECO's Environmental Studies: 2000
research project. Registration will be
(85.00 per person and limited to 100
people.
Environmental directors, human
resources managers, policy planners, pro-
fessional association officers, college fac-
ulty, career planning coordinators, and
odtersfrom government,industry,.con-
sulting, aranVroia, and the nonprofit sec-
tor should all plan to attend this
important event.
For UIGI nation on tt(istffiftf to ittMo
1995's Environmental Worirforca SyinposiMi
tte 1994 Symposium, call (617) 42W375,
«L2EWS(2397).
¥•- ' • •
John R. Cook. Jr.
President
-------
aking a Closer Look atAmerica's Environmental Studies Pro
ECO recently completed Environmental
Studies: 2000, a national assessment of
environmental studies programs that
examines the linkages between under-
graduate, interdisciplinary environmental
education and the career experiences or'
alumni. The results of the research will
be used to help university environmental
studies programs work in cooperation
with environmental professionals to meet
mutually beneficial educational goals and
to help students prepare for environmen-
tal careers.
ECO has surveyed nearly 1,400 alumni
of environmental studies programs, and
held a national series of focus groups
with environmental employers and envi-
ronmental studies faculty and adminis-
trators. Analysis has revealed that 65% of
all graduates report their first profes-
sional position atter graduation was an
environmental position. These arc num-
bers comparable with the percentages
identified in other studies of social sci-
ence and natural resource graduates
entering professions related to their fields
of stud v.
Below are some examples of additional
findings:
Students with paid internships as part of
their undergraduate program were signif-
icantly more likely to find an environ-
mental position over those who had no
internship experience (77% to 59%).
Both alumni and faculty report a lack of
career services and support for environ-
mental programs on campus.
93% of the survey respondents where
white, and environmental employers
report a lack of people of color both as
employees and applicants.
The communications skills (written and
oral) that students gain as part of the
interdisciplinary environmental educa-
tion play a strong role in the develop-
ment of their careers.
"ECO is not aware of any national study
which goes beyond a simple accounting
ot the existing number and types of envi-
ronmental studies programs, nor are we
aware of any program working for
increased cooperation between environ-
mental employers and environmental
educators," said Douglas O'Reilly, senioi
research associate on the project. The
Environmental Studies: 2000 report will
become available from ECO in March,
1995.
Also, throughout 1995 ECO will be
working to develop partnerships and
increase communication between envi-
ronmental employers and academicians.
ECO and the North American Associa-
tion for Environmental Education are
collaborating in the development of a
symposium on environmental studies
programs, environmental career develop-
ment, and the creation of new channels
of communication between colleges and
employers. The symposium will be held
during the NAAEE's annual conference
being held in September in Portland,
Maine.
For more information, contact Douglas
O'Reilly, Senior Research Associate.
at (617) 426-4375, ext. 140.
ECO receives thousands of cards and letters,
manv of them with questions about envi-
ronmental careers. This is a common ques-
tion pulled from the mailbag at ECO's
national office. Ifvou have c/uestions for
'Ask ECO", please v:rite to us!
Dear ECO,
Can you give me suggestions for gradu-
ate programs in order to make myself
more competitive for environmental
jobs?
Alex Johnson, Indianapolis, IN
Dear Alex,
Because the environmental field is so
diverse and dynamic, the most important
question you need to answer for yourself
is, "What do I want to do?"
There are so many graduate programs!
Recently, we reviewed Peterson's 1994
Guide to Graduate Programs. There are 86
colleges and universities in the United
States offering advanced degrees in envi-
ronmental science; 102 in environmental
engineering; 46 in fish, game and wildlife
management; and 82 in environmental
policy and resource management, to
name a few.
Also realize that graduate programs in
business, economics, law, and public
administration could be what you want,
depending upon what you want to do.
For example, there are 220 colleges and
universities offering graduate degrees in
public administration.
Assuming you have decided what career
path or branch of the environmental pro-
fessions you want to choose, here are
some factors to consider when reviewing
specific graduate programs:
(1) Faculty. Are their interests and
research in line with your career direc-
tion? (2) Students. What are'their educa-
tional and/or professional backgrounds?
How will you fit in? (3) Alumni. Did they
pursue the type of career that you want?
(4) Reputation. What do environmental
professionals outside of academia think
of the program? (5) Career advising and
placement programs. Are there staff,
resources, assistance, and an active place-
ment program for internships and per-
manent jobs?
Finally, another question for you: In
what area of the country do you want to
pursue your career? In selecting graduate
schools, consider a program in the region
or locality where you want to start your
career. Why? Faculty are linked to the
professional networks in those areas.
Many alumni have jobs with area
employers. In other words, you will
already have a network to help you find
that first job right out of graduate school
in the place where you want to be. Good'
luck!
-------
•POTLIGHT QM: in Natoral
U.S. Bureau of Land Management Focuses Attention on Ecosystem Management
In 1976, Congress enacted the Federal
Land Policy and Management Act,
which recognized the value of the
remaining public lands to the American
people and declared that these lands
would remain in public ownership. Con-
gress also codified the principle of "mul-
tiple use" management, or "management
of the public lands and their various
resource values so they are utilised in the
combination that will best meet the pre-
sent and future needs of the American
people."
The U.S. Bureau.of Land Management
(BLM) is responsible for managing 270
million acres of land — about one-eighth
of the land in the U.S.; and 570 million
acres of subsurface mineral resources.
The BLM manages a wide variety of
resources including energy, minerals,
timber, forage, fish and wildlife, habitat,
and wilderness areas.
The challenge that the BLM faces is
how to manage these natural resources
on a sustainable basis in the face of
increasing demands being placed on the
natural resources and increasing concern
over the health of the waterways, grass-
lands, and forests.
"The BLM's primary goal is to improve
the health and productivity of the land"
said Mike Dombeck, Director of BLM.
"We have widened our focus to deal with
ecological issues on an ecosystem scale.
We are recognizing the demands faf new
public land users and balancing these
demands with the needs of traditional
user'groups. As we move forward,'pur
need for more and better scientific exper-
tise on which to base our decisions will
increase."
In October 1991, ECO and die BLM
signed a Master Assistance Agreement in
Washington DC, providing opportuni-
ties for ECO Associates to work with
the BLM on a variety of natural resource
related projects.
In 1993,11 ECO Associates trained
with the BLM in Idaho. Because of the
early success Idaho BLM had in testing
the partnership, the number of place-
ments grew in 1994 to over 100 Associ-
ates, working in Alaska, Arizona,
California, Colorado, Idaho, New Mex-
ico, Oregon, Washington, and
Wyoming.
Denise Meridith, BLM Deputy Direc-
tor, said, "ECO Associates are working
with the BLM on a variety of natural
resource topics, ranging from riparian
inventories to rangeland monitoring;
from fisheries and wildlife work to
botanical inventories of endangered plant
species. While the Associates gain valu-
able experience, they are helping BLM
staff plan for a wide variety of public land
uses without compromising the long-
term health and diversity of the land."
Lisa Healy, (B.S. Botany and Environ-
mental Studies, University of Washing-
ton, 1993) is an ECO Associate working
with BLM in Wenatchee, Washington.
She states, "My project is concerned with
assessing the ecological conditions of
BLM lands and identifying how BLM
activities such as cattle grazing and min-
ing may affect salmon habitat in the
Columbia River basin. I am working on
an interdisciplinary team using my plant
taxonomy and botany skills to identify
dominant species and to look at the
health of individual plants within ripar-
ian areas and upland shrub-steppe com-
munities."
ECO Associates and BLM
Project Advisors take to
"During my project, I conducted timber
inventories and stand exams on the tim-
bered lands owned by the BLM," says
Bryan Rice (B.S. Forestry, University of
Illinois, 1995), a summer 1994 ECO
Associate with the BLM in Tillamook,
Oregon. The internship gave me a
diverse introduction to the timber indus-
try and the delicate balance between the
needs of timber producers and consumers
and the need to preserve wildlife habitat
and ensure environmental health."
ECO Associate Greg Hoffman, (M.S.
Fisheries Biology, University of Wiscon-
sin, 1993) is working with the BLM in
Rawlins, Wyoming in support of their
Bring Back the Natives and Fish and
•Wildlife,2000programs. He is perform-
ing habitat evaluations and strqtm sur-
veys, and assessing riparian conditions.
The end product of his work will be
restoring habitat tor Colorado River cut-
throat trout and two other .endangered
species. "Working with ECO has
afforded me the opportunity to get face-
to-face with the tough issues associated
with riparian areas in the West. The
position has been especially rewarding
because I am playing an active role in
restoring Colorado River cutthroat trout
to their native range."
In December of 1994. Idaho BLM was pre-
sented with IWs Founder's AtnnHw Us '
implementation and ongoing support of BLM's
national partnership with ECO. and for its
commitment to providing training and educa-
tional opportunities to aspiring enwonmen-
: tal professionals.
¥
v
''•£'•''
Oregon (above) «d near
(trevWe. Washington
**
-------
,:*«&.:-
TIEGE DAVIDSON (B.S. Biology,
Geology, and Oceanography, University
of Michigan, 1993) worked as an ECO
Associate with the National Association
of Geology Teachers (NAGT) in Marl-
borough, Massachusetts. The
ECO/NAGT appointment was at the
United States Geological Survey Water
Resources Division as a National Water
Quality Assessment Intern. As a Biologi-
cal Technician, Tiege completed his field
experience collecting samples offish tis-
sues and other organic elements in the
Connecticut River Basin. He also used
his desktop publishing skills to assist
with the completion qf a 300-page
report, in which he did 30 pages of
graphics.
In September 1994, Tiege was awarded
another ECO Associate project with
Arthur D. Little, a multi-national con-
sulting firm located in Cambridge,
Massachusettes. On this project, he
completed a 40-hour training Course
with the Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA). He was then
sent to Canada on a job site at a railroad
station. At this site, he was responsible •
for working on a Health and Safer)' oper-
ating procedures report that included
developing spreadsheets and budgets. •
After the project was completed, he was
appointed to work on an environmental
asbestos survey. This survey involved
assessing sites, collecting water and field
samples, and examining the groundwater
and soil.
Tiege proved him-
self to be such an
asset to this com-
pany, that they
extended his con-
tract for three more
months. Ideally, he
says, he would like
to stay with Arthur
D. Little, and is
hoping to secure a
permanent position
with them in the
Spring of 1995.
VICTOR HO
(B.S. Public
Affairs/Environ-
mental Science
Management, Indi-
ana University,
1994) was selected
for a three-month
project as an ECO
Associate with the
Environmental Protection Agency,
Region V, in Chicago, Illinois.
He began working in the environmental
justice site assessment section and served
on several committees to solve environ-
mental justice issues. His duties included
performing an audit of approximately
3,000 regional files and site inspection
reports needed for a comprehensive writ-
ten assessment of potential Superfund
sites.
As pan of his project, Victor had to
develop a report identifying missing data
and/or documentation on each file and
had to travel to site assessment programs
in six states in the region (Illinois, Indi-
ana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and
Wisconsin) to obtain the necessary infor-
mation/documentation for the develop-
ment of complete and accurate site
assessment files.
Victor did such an outstanding job, hot
only did the EPA extend his contract for.
an additional three months, but they also
offered him a permanent position in
November 1994. Victor is now an Envi-
ronmental Scientist/On Scene Coordina-
tor with the Emergency Response
Branch Division.
OSHEN MORPHY (Bachelorof
Fine Arts, Media Arts, University of
Arizona, 1994) worked as an ECO
Associate with Sea Studios Production
Company in Monterey, California.
Oshen's experience as a ECO Associate
at Sea Studios began by working on a
project with National Geographic. This
project involved filming poisonous ani-
mals underwater and assisting Sea Stu-
dios* staff in video production and
post-production. Upon completion of
this project. Sea Studios sent Oshen to
the Florida Keys as a camera and lighting
assistant to film destroyed springs and
other natural resource landmarks in
Florida.
The Cayman Islands was also another
adventure tor Oshen. At this site, Oshen
was an underwater spectator and produc-
tion assistant filming stingrays, huge
corals, and staghoms for an underwater
documentary. This project was com-
pleted within one week, and then Oshen
, was off to his last audio-visual shooting
site at the Florida Aquarium in Tampa.
At this taping site, Oshen was partially
responsible for studio recording, organiz-
ing footage, audio, and graphics.
"This four month internship with Sea
Studios was quite an enjoyable and edu-
cational experience," stated Oshen.
Oshen was exposed to underwater scien-
tific cinematography and deep sea (up tq^
3,000 feet) video technology, and he was
taught how to film nature for entertain-
ing, motivating, and educational media
programs.
-------
'ssociate Profiles
continued from page 5
ELIZABETH MARTIN (M.S.
Biology/Marine Science, Florida Stare
University, 1992) is working with the
South Florida Water Management Dis-
trict in West Palm Beach, Florida. She is
working on a research study of changes
in structure and function of sawgrass and
cattail communities along an environ-
mental gradient in the Everglades. The
Everglades is a unique subtropical wet-
land ecosystem that has been altered by
human activities such as agricultural dis-
charge and flood control drainage.
Sawgrass and cattail are two plant species
that are important in controlling com-
munity structure and function in the
Everglades. In the past few decades nine
percent of the historically-dominant saw-
grass community has been replaced by
cattail. The specific causes for this inva-
sion are unknown. The study that Eliza-
beth is working on seeks to understand
which environmental factors are driving
this change. Information from this study
will be used to provide insights and guid-
ance for water management practices in
South Florida, to establish a phosphorus
threshold, and to restore die Everglades.
Elizabeth's work on the project involves
the use of various statistical software to
analyze changes in sawgrass and cattail
community attributes along an environ-
mental gradient, editing of manuscripts
and reports, preparation of graphs and
tables, and field assistance with water
quality sampling.
After completing graduate school, Eliza-
beth moved to Greensboro, North Car-
olina and was having difficulty rinding
work in the middle of the state utilizing
her marine science skills. She states.
"The ECO internship with the South
JHorida Water Management District will
enable me to become more competitive
in the job market by broadening my base
of experience to include wetland ecosys-
tems."
This is an exciting project for Elizabeth.
She says, "We are trying to restore the
Everglades using an ecosystem approach
and the whole world is looking at us.
There needs to be a balance between the
needs of the environment and social
needs. We must figure out how the nat-
ural system responds to human impacts
in order to determine how those impacts
should be regulated: for the sake of the
Everglades and all life that depends on
it." It is a large project, and Elizabeth is
making her contribution in this impor-
tant effort to understand and restore the
Everglades.
CHRISTINA ANAGNQ.ST
(BSCE Computer Engineering, The
Ohio State University, 1993) is working
on an Ice and Climate Project with the
U.S. Geological Survey in Tacoma,
Washington. The purpose of the
research conducted by the staff of the Ice
and Climate Project is to better under-
stand how snowpacks, ice sheets, glaciers
and sea ice affect, the global climate sys-
tem and water resources.
Christina's role in this project is to write
a computer program to transfer binary
image information from a computer to a
camera in order to produce imagery that
will be analyzed by the scientists. She is
also developing an animation program to
show retreat over time of the Columbia
Glacier in Alaska. The third component
of her project is to develop a numerical
methods program to model brightness
temperatures as a function ot snow grain
size and height of the snow.
She states that, "...in school, I had no
opportunities to apply technology to the
complexities of the real world, and it is
gratifying to be able-to use my technical
skills creatively to solve problems or to
better understand scientific processes."
Christina received her first degree, a BS
in Psychology from The Ohio State Uni-
versity, in 1981. After graduation, she
established herself in a career as a techni-
cal writer/editor. She says that when she
reentered the job market in pursuit of a
scientific programming position, she was
constantly referred to at interviews as a
"technical writer". She was beginning to
feel that she might not have the opportu-
nity to professionally develop the techni-
cal skills that she acquired as a student.
She feels that the internship with ECO
is giving her the opportunity to begin a
new Career in the sciences.
She states, "Although writing computer
programs and assisting the staff here
with other light computer tasks may not
appear to someone to be 'environmental
work', the overall goal of my work is to
produce output that will help increase
understanding of the processes underly-
ing global climate change. The more
information that is available to the scien-
tific community, the better we can pro-
tect our environment."
-------
MORRIS L. REID (B.A. Econom-
ics, University of Akron. 1992) is cur-
'rently the Confidential Assistant to
Secretary or Commerce Ron Brown.
When Morris was an ECO Associate, he
worked on their Northeast Ohio
Regional Sewer District (NEORSD)
during May-September 1991. He
worked with, the Public Information
Campaign and contributed to their Five
Point Plan to increase public awareness
about a multi-million dollar Water
Purification Sewer Treatment Project.
This project involved building under-
ground pipes to pump water from Lake
Erie to clean the water for the Greater
Cleveland area and other major sur-
roundine counties. As a public informa-
tion oincer. Morris was responsible for
setting up exhibits at libraries and dis-
' cussing environmental justice issues with
various communities, helping residents
understand the increased disruption from
construction in residential areas and
increased water rates for this purification
plant. His affiliation with ECO provided
him with the opportunity to attend
ECO's National Minority Environmen-
tal Career Conferences in Oakland, CA,
and Atlanta. GA.
In 1992. Morris took advantage of his
networking, analytical, and interpersonal
skills and obtained a position working for
Bill Clinton's presidential campaign.
After Clinton was inaugurated as Presi-
dent of the United States, Morris landed
an appointment with the U.S. Depart-
ment of Commerce in Washington,
D.C.
Morris learned invaluable communica-
tion and networking skills through
ECO. "My professional skills and job
experience allowed me to build relation-
ships with many affluent professionals. I
strongly believe that ECO Associates
must take advantage of conferences,
workshops, and career fairs to refine and
enhance their networking and communi-
cation abilities." Morris believes that
networking, diversity, and interpersonal
skills will be the key ingredients for suc-
cess in the future. .
DR.
KATHRYN
KELLY (Dr.P.H.
Environmental
Toxicology and
Hazardous Waste
Management,
Columbia Univer-
siry, 1985) founder
and Chief Execu-
tive Officer of Environmental Toxicol-
ogy International, Inc. (ETI) based in
Seattle, Washington, was an ECO Asso-
ciate in 1979. Kathryn was selected for
an ECO summer internship with Ray-
chem Corporation in California the
summer after receiving her BA in
Human Biology from Stanford Univer-
sity.
Kathryn spent her time at Raychem
"being a sponge", absorbing information
from the environmental health and safety
staff and from consultants by assisting
them in troubleshooting health hazards
at Raychem's chemical plant. Kathryn
says, "I could not have paid enough
tuition for the amount I learned during
that short internship."
At the time that Kathryn applied to
ECO, her interest was in preventing dis-
ease' but she was undecided as to how she
was going to achieve this goal. After her
internship, Kathryn drove past Love
Canal, New York. She says that actually
driving through and seeing the tensions
in this community torn apart by toxic
waste confirmed and solidified for her
the desire to prevent future Love Canals.
After the ECO internship, she obtained
a job with the engineering consulting
firm, Dames and Moore, as an Environ-
mental Toxicologist working on haz-
ardous waste and radioactive waste
issues. She continued to work for Dames
and Moore while pursuing her MPH in
Public Health and then her Dr.P.H. in
Environmental Toxicology and Haz-
•ardous Waste Management from
Columbia University.
In 1985 Kathryn moved to Seattle and
founded ETI. ETI is an international
scientific research and consulting firm
that works toward the prevention, assess-
ment, and communication of risks posed
by hazardous substances in the environ-
ment. Kathryn feels that critical to ETI's
success are "the staffs depth of knowl-
edge in technical issues combined with
their breadth of knowledge in a wide
range of disciplines." ETI seeks to apply
"good science" toward solving environ-
mental .problems.
An example of the approach Kathryn's
firm is taking to solving environmental
problems is their involvement with the
Valdez oil spill. After the Valdez oil spill
in 1989, ETI worked with several parties
involved with and impacted by the spill.
They worked on behalf of Alyeska (the
consortium of oil companies responsible
for oil transport in Alaska) to help ensure
a faster response in case of future spills.
They worked with Exxon, through their
lab, to look at the impacts of what did
happen. They also worked with the
Regional Citizens Advisory Council to
interpret air quality data that had been
collected. While this approach of work-
ing with seemingly opposing sides may
seem controversial, it stems from
Kathryn's and ETI's conviction that "if
you give sound scientific data, you will be
the voice of moderation and be able to
help bring resolution to difficult prob-
lems no matter whose side asks your
advise".
Kathryn's advice for aspiring environ-
mental professionals? "The people most
successful cultivate breadth and depth of
disciplines and knowledge. You must be
sincerely and passionately interested in
improving conditions on the planet. You
need to be able to apply an element of
critical thinking to what you see, hear,
and are told about environmental issues.
The amount of scientific and technical
information is doubling ever 12 to 18
months, and people must be able to
make informed decisions with limited
data, time and budget constraints. Think
two times and reevaluate all you are told.
Think outside the box. Cultivate wisdom
and judgment, not just knowledge."
-------
inference
ooafion
— contintifJ tram rrontfage , '•
internships last six months, but can range
from three months to as long as two
years. Stipend* typically range from $300
to $600 per week, depending on the
nature of the project, the type of organi-
zation sponsoring it, the expertise and
skills required, and where the project is
located.
Eric Stortz. an ECO Associate placed
with MagneTek. Inc., an environmental
consulting rirni in Chicago, said recently,
"Thanks to ECO. 1 have learned so
much more about the environmental
profession that I would never have
learned in the classroom."
To be eligible for ECO's Environmental
Placement Services program, one must
be a currently-matriculating student in a
Bachelor's. Master's, or Ph.D. program,
«>r have obtained a degree within the lasf
three years i eligibility requirements for
projects with the Environmental Protec-
tion Agency and the U.S. Geological
Survey differ slightly). Applicants with
significant academic training in the sub-
jects listed at right have a stronger
chance'«>f being placed hi an internship.
There is no fee to apply, nor is there a fee
to those who arc selected for internships.
People 01 color are encouraged to apply
to ECO'? Diversity Initiative, designed
to inert.IM- the representation of people
of color wivkirur in the environmental
ricld.
To receive an application to ECO's Environ-
mental Placement Services or Diversity Ini-
tiative programs, call (617) 426-4375. ext.
2277.
continuedfromfrontpagt
fessionals in a diverse workforce that rep-
resents the total wealth of our nation's
human resources."
"You're a step ahead of even-one else
[ looking for an environmental job]
because you're here' encouraged Phil
• Benson of Cl-taM Hill during a confer-
ence session. During the two days, over
35 conference sessions were offered for
participants to learn from, interact with.
.and*ask questions of noted specialists and
professionals. The sessions included:
Environmental Equity and Justice;
Groundwater Protection; Hazardous
Waste; Industrial Health and Safety.
Pollution Prevention; Strategies for a
Successful Job Search; and many others.
Over 45 organizations exhibited at the
Career Fair, giving attendees the oppor-
tunity to meet and network with envi-
ronmental professionals. Career Fair
exhibitors included: Law Engineering
and Environmental Services. Inc.;
CH2M Hill. Inc*: IBM Corporation;
The Nature Conservancy. Student Con-
servation Association: Trust for Public
Land; U.S. EPAjWMX Technologies,
Inc.; and the World Wildlife Federation.
EGO Alumna CamUlj-a Btyant, repre-
senting her current employer (whom she
met at the 1993 Conference), the 3M
Company, commented on the enthusi- .
asm of Career Fair participants: "Our
Career Fair exhibit was mobbed. We ran
out of brochures in 30 minutes."
With generous support from various
organizations, ECO was able to offer
121 financial assistance scholarships to
students of color. Conference and schol-
arship supporters,included: BP America,
Inc.; CH2M Hill, Inc.; The Charles
Stewart Mott Foundation; Ford Motor
Company, IBM Corporation; W. K. ,
Kellogg Foundation; Martin Marietta
Energy Systems; Northeast Ohio
Regional Sewer District; Solid Waste
Authority of Palm Beach County,
Florida; U,S. Department of the Interior;
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency;
U.S. Geological Survey, and WMX
Technologies, Inc.
Catherine Tppp, an attendee from Uni-
versity of California-Santa Cruz said,
"This was probably the best career expe-
rience of my life. It was enlightening! I .
learned so much about what's out there.
and met so many people that are doing
. what 1 want to do. Worth even- cent!"
ECO recently announced that the Eleventh
Annual National Environmental Career
Conference and Career Fair will again be
held at the Radisson Plaza Hotel in
Alexandria, Virginia. October 27-28.1995.
For registration and/or exhibiting informa-
tion, call (617) 426-4375. ext. CONF (2663).
fUir.4l7.424.4J7S
F«417.423.W«
taps, fl. 33434-4324
MWM: 113.114.4330
ta.-ll3.in.OStt
MhHorthNft
Suite 1515
Ses«le,W»M101.3021
Mane: 204.425.1758
F«:W.H5.W44
GrattUte
50 Mfc Square,** "IS
OmW, OH 44113-2204
NMM:2U.I41.4S4S
ta: J14.I41.4727
311 fab Struts* TOO
MI04-2I12
MMM:41S.342J5S2
mConiria Street, 3rd bo
lo**,IU0221t-1Mf
HwNr4l7.424.47tt
Fox:417.423.W«
Connections Spring '9!
Edilor-in-iliiel:
Horn Kernell
Contributing writers:
lee DeAngeln
liam Kernell
Douglas O'Deiliy
Carolyn Smith
Linda Summers
Greio 2etleraren
W
The Environmental Careers Organization
286 Congress Street
Boston, MA
02210-1009
Non-Profit Org.
ILS.fKtafe
PAID
fasten, ftU
Pern* No. 54513
1
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PUBLIC COMMENT (Section 9.1.3)
Susan Hagler
HHS Migrant Health Program
A. Statement From Antonio E. Duran, Director, Migrant Health Program
B. Fact Sheet on the National Advisory Council on Migrant Health
C. Summary of the Recommendations of the National Advisory Council on Migrant Health
D. Executive Summary of the Report of the National Migrant Resource Program, Inc. entitled,
"Migrant Health Status: Profile of a Culture With Complex Health Problems"
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. tU«rr>
(4
•"«o i*"
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES Pub,ic Health Service
RTTRF&TT DF PPTMRRY
Health Resources and
Services Administration
Bethesda MD 20814
July 25, 1995
Dear Ladies and Gentlemen of the Council:
I regret that I am unable to attend this meeting, .but prior
commitments have me in Baltimore this week. Nevertheless, I
thought it important to send a staff member and enter a prepared
statement for the record.
My name is Antonio Duran and I am the director of the Migrant
Health Program for the U.S. Public Health Service/Department of
Health and Human Services. My office provides funds to private,
non-profit health centers to provide primary health care to
migrant and seasonal farmworkers' around the country. Our program
began back in 1962 'following Edward R. Murrow's disturbing
documentary, Harvest of Shame, which depicted the deplorable
living and.working conditions of farmworkers in this country.
Since that time, the lives of migrant and seasonal farmworkers
have changed very little. One of the biggest challenges facing
farmworkers then and now is the impact their working/living
environment has upon their lives.
If farmworker families migrate with the growing season, very
often they do not have adequate temporary housing. Many live in
their cars or out in the open. Regardless of their housing
situation, most of their eating and sleeping is done in areas
located close to the fields which puts them at risk of exposure
to pesticide drift or direct accidental spraying, not to mention
the exposure they receive while at work. They bathe in and drink
water contaminated with pesticides and human/animal waste. Due
to the lack of day care and the need for additional income, young
children accompany their parents to the fields, playing or
working unprotected among the pesticide laden plants.
Seasonal farmworkers do not travel with the growing season, but
their living conditions can be equally poor. Many seasonal
farmworkers live in what are called "colonias" along the
US/Mexico border. Basically, colonias are poor, unincorporated
communities that spring up on undeveloped land. They have no
utilities or basic infrastructure, such as sewage, water service,
electricity, or paved roads. As you can imagine, the health
needs are enormous in an area with poor sanitation and polluted
water sources. The Migrant Health Program has been working with
a border health task force, initiated by Dr. Giro Sumaya,.
Administrator of the Health Resources and Services Administration
(HRSA),to develop a strategic plan to meet the public health
needs of the populations along the entire U.S./Mexico border.
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To combat some of the problems facing migrant and seasonal
farmworkers, the Secretary of Health and Human Services created
the National Advisory Council on Migrant Health. The Council,
composed of 15 members - many of whom are current or former
farmworkers, advises the Secretary- on migrant health issues
through annual recommendations. The Council holds annual ' .
farmworker hearings to gather first hand testimony in order to
develop the recommendations. Attached to this letter are the
Council's 1993 - 1995 recommendations on environmental and
occupational health and some literature on farmworkers. You will
see that one of the biggest issues for the Council is the full
implementation of EPA's Worker, Protection 'Standards. It is
imperative to farmworkers that Worker Protection Standards are
strengthened and enforced. Their very lives depend upon it.
Thank you for your time, interest, and the opportunity, to express
our views. Migrant and seasonal farmworkers are the working
poor. They feed America and they deserve environmental justice.
I trust the results of your work will benefit farmworkers across
the country that continue to strive for a better life for
themselves and their families. - '
-Sincerely, r
il^
Antonio E. Duran
Director
Migrant Health Program
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BPffO
NATIONAL ADVISORY
COUNCIL ON MIGRANT HEALTH
DHHS/BUREAU OF PRIMARY HEALTH CARE/MIGRANT HEALTH PROGRAM
4350 EAST WEST HIGHWAY, 7TH FLOOR, ROCKVILLE-, MD 20857
(301) 594-4303 Voice (301) 594-4997 Fax
FACT SHEET
The Secretary of Health and Human Services .(HHS), is authorized
under section 329 of the Public Health Service Act (PHSA) , as
amended, 42 USC 254(b) to improve health services and condi-
tions for agricultural migratory and seasonal workers and their
families; and to provide technical and financial assistance to
public and nonprofit organizations in the establishment and
operation of family health centers, inpatient care and other
health projects.
The National Advisory Council on Migrant Health (NACMH) as
authorized by 42 USC 218, section 217 of the PHSA, is to
advise, consult with, and make recommendations to the Secretary
of HHS and to the Administrator, Health Resources and Services
Administration (HRSA), concerning the organization, operation,
selection, and funding of migrant health centers and other
entities under grants and contracts under section 329 of the
Public Health Service Act.
The NACMH consists of fifteen members who are appointed by the
'Secretary of HHS to serve four year terms. Twelve members are
from governing boards of migrant health centers and other
entities assisted under section 329 of the PHSA. Of these
twelve members, nine are being served by these health centers
or grantees and are familiar with the delivery of health care
to agricultural migrant and seasonal workers. The remaining
three members are individuals who are qualified by training and
experience in the medical sciences or in the administration of
health programs.
Staff support for the NACMH is through the Migrant Health
Program, Division of Primary Care Services, Bureau of Health
Care Delivery and Assistance, HRSA, HHS.
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OCCUPATIONAL
AND
ENVIRONMENTAL
HEALTH
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?AGtS3 NATIONAL ADVISORY COUNCIL ON MIGRANT HEALTH
OCCUPATIONAL/ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
RECOMMENDATION: Farmworkers suffer the highest work relaxed Injury, morbidity, and
mortality rate In the nation. Agriculture is consistently listed as one of the three most
dangerous occupations in the nation. The Council recommends that the Secretary establish
an Interagency group with the Department of Labor, the Occupational Safety and Health
Administration, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Social Security Administra-
tion. This group should consult wrm the Advisory Council to address the enforcement of
regulations and laws protecting farmworker health and safety (e.g., workers compensa-
tion, disability qualification, pesticide exposure, adult and child labor, and field sanita-
tion). Farmworker input Is especially crucial to the success of the recently Issued EPA
worker protection standards. The interagency group should be charged wrth the respon-
sibility to Identify and Implement joint solutions to assure that farmworkers are able to
participate in the programs operated by these agencies, and that legislative and regulatory
loopholes which exempt agricultural workers from basic protections available to other
workers are eliminated.
When evaluating r.eaith risks., occupational and environmental
exposure are usuallv classified as tv.o separate categories. In the
case or agricultural workers, however, it is difficult to draw a
distinction cetween the two. Therefore, for the purpose of address-
ing the tvpes of exposures which rarmworkers risk, the two are
imkea togetner in this background statement. If both factors were
piacea on a spectrum, the range c: environmental and occupa-
tional HSKS might appear as follows:
i Exposure to theeiements: sun. ram. oust ana poiien. andfreezihc
temperatures.
2. Exposure to natural toxins and aiiercens in fruits and vegetables
such as strawberries.
3. Exposure to a wide range of chemicals which are used in all
stages of agricultural production.'
4. Illness and disease caused by impure water sources, improper
disposal of sewage, infestations of rodents and insects, and sub-
standard, crowded, and/or inadeauate housing.6
5. LacK of toilets, potable water, ana hana washing facilities m the
work place.
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NATIONAL ADVISORY COUNCIL ON MIGRANT HEALTH ' PAGE 64
6. Social avstunction due.to overcrowding in labor camps u.e..
suostance souse, child abuse, domestic violence, sexuailv trans-
mirtea ciseases;. - " ••
~. Educational disruption due to constant mobility and urue.ncv
ot work.
8. Working conditions which hinder the employee's ability to
observe good health practices and/or comply with a specified
meaicai regimen.
9..Constant stoop labor.
10. Ladder accidents.
'. '-.ccider.ts mvoivinu iarce ana smail farm equipment.
1 2. Hazaras tor children in the fields. .
1 3. Highway accidents to families in migration due to poor equip-
ment or drowsiness.
14. Inability to qualify for basic health and disability benefits such
as Workmen s Compensation or Social Security due to negligible
status.:'3
CorresDondmg to this spectrum, one would find a range or symp-
toms ana illnesses among workers that wouid encompass dehvdra-
;ion. .;rai .nrections.' frostDite. Timor headaches, gastrointestinal
disbraers. aermatms. severe depression, chronic migraines, mus-
culoskeletai problems, miscarriage, birth defects, cancer, loss of
evesight. loss of limb, social disfranchisement. loss of work and
wages, and ultimately, loss of life.
Reducing environmental and occupational risks for farmworkers
requires the full involvement of ail organizations with responsibility
for agricultural laborers. The Department of Health and Human
Services, the Social Security Administration, the Department of
Labor, the Department of lustice. the Department of Housing and
Urban Development, the Farmers Home Administration, the Oc-
cupational Safety and Health Administration, and Civil Rights must
all be responsible for and responsive to the needs of farmworkers.
The-Council's recommendation that the Secretary combine forces
with these entities to improve conditions for farmworkers is essen-
tial because it will take a combined effort to challenge the status quo.
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NATIONAL ADVISORY COUNCIL ON MIGRANT HEALTH
Basic worker crotecnon stanaaras wnicr, were enactea in tne eariv
pan cnnis centurv exemot acricuiturai workers. Looonoies which
discriminate asamst rarmworKers are in ract riusea more on the
economics or tne agricultural industry ;nan on me well-being or
the worker. More recentiv. field sanitation !987' ana environ-
mental ; 1992! worker protection stanaaras have seen promulgated
to cover agricultural workers: however, the stanaaras themselves
have weaknesses and are nearly impossible to enrorce.
Farms with fewer than eleven workers are exemot from field
sanitation iaws. In 1990. OSHA conducted fieid inspections and
found that b9 oercent of farms that were subject to the law were in
violation, in 1989 the Department of Laoor was aoie to inspect only
1.5 percent of workplaces covered bv tne Fair Labor Standards ACL
The looonoies in the law and the aefioenaes in eruorcement led
the General Accounting Office to conctuae m ;'J92'^auarmwork-
ers are rot aceauateiv protected bv'ieaerai iav.s.'
The iacK of sucn basic requirements for farmworkers as access to
potaole water and toilet facilities has oeen imkea to high rates of
commumcaDle diseases. Dr. lesse Ortiz participated in OSHA's
hearings on fieid sanitation for farmworkers in 1984. He reported
that farmworkers are at 20 times greater risk or parasitic infection
than tne general population, 11 times greater risk of contracting
gastroenteritis and infectious diarrnea. and 300 times more likely
todeveioo infectious hepatitis. Farmworkers nave also been found
to be 3 :o 5 times more likely to develop .urmarv tract infections
due to tne lack of toilets and drinking water.'"
When workers are mjurea on the IOD or disaoiea after years.of
repeatec exoosure. oniv limited numoers aualifv for Worker's
' ~\ t • ' ,
Comoensation or disability benefits."" The single most effective
achievement on behalf of this population would be the assurance
that tnev receive the same protections available to an industrial
worker.
PESTICIDE EXPOSURE Pesticide exposure results in both acute and chronic effects. The
effect of acute poisoning is widely recognized: however, little is
understood about the long term effects of repeated low level
exposure. Ezequiei Morr'in describes his situation: "... the chemi-
cals are affecting the community a lot. and there are no studies that
have been done over a long period of time. I've been a field worker
and I've worked with chemicals. And they produce long-term
allergies, and they cause colds that last two or three years to get rid
of fsici. We believe fit isl because of the chemicais ... when I go
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NATIONAL ADVISORY COUNCIL ON MIGRANT HEALTH "AGE Go
to the oiaces where tnev nave usea chemicals, nyht av.av i break
out. Ana so I have been contaminated."" Some -tuaies reveal
multi-eenerationai effects or oesticide exposure amoau :;.-rnwork-
ers ana their ramiiies. Of sicnmcant note are me Clusters ci cancer
and binn detects whicn have neen aocumented in tne E^iriiman
and McFariand. California.
The Environmental Protection Auencv •- EPA) estimates tnat JOO.OOO
farmworKers surfer acute illnesses ana injuries as a result or pesti-
cide exposure annualiv.-J Lack of effective testing metnoas to verifv
exposure as the cause or a svmptom means that phvsicians are not
able to rule out other oossible causes. Heavy reliance on the use
of pesticides and funuicides in tne auncultural industrv supports
the volume production or inexoensive. blemish-iree rooo which
the consumer has come to demana. Those who beneru most trom
the economic results 01 tne use ot oesticides are iess iiKe:v. to suffer
rrom tne impact of exoosure.
The EPA published the final ruie on worker protection standards
and hazard communication for agricultural worKers on August 21,
1992. EPA has taken a three-pronged approach to protecting
farmworkers trom pesticides on the job. Provisions in the new rule
will attempt to prevent exposure to pesticides, mitigate exposures.
that do occur, and intorm employees about the hazards of the
pesticides they work with.""*
Under this new rule, empiovers are required to provide training to'
all worKers within 16 davs arter an employee begins work. Training
must be oocumentea ana repeated once every five vears. or when
a new hazard is introduced into the workplace. Exemptions to
certain aspects of this rule (e.g.. reentry intervals) have aireadv been
granted to the cut flower and fern industry on the basis of their
request citing economic hardship. Other requests for exemptions
may be forthcoming.3
Testimony from farmworkers at public hearings repeatedly under-
scored the fact that knowledge of what has been applied znd of
required reentry intervals is helpful information, but that farmwork-
ers are not able to sacrifice their jobs and must do what th*11 ?ire
told when they are told in order to feed their families and pp.- -rve
shelter. Estevan Sanchez testified before the National Advr.ory
Council on Migrant Health, "We have seen that the farmers don't
take the measures that should be taken as far as the spraying
because ... they spray in one field and they will bring it right next
to us to work. So it's not very far away from the spray. And a lot of
times they would have to wait four or five days so that the strength
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'AGE c7
NATIONAL ADVISORY COUNCIL ON MIGRANT HEALTH
WORKING CONDITIONS
' or the sorav '.vouid diminishi and other times tnev aon t wait that
long oecause thev neea to do tne work. And so tnev aeaae to nave
the oeooie go to the work as it is."~ In order to effectively
implement measures to orotect rarmworkers. it is necessary to get
farmworKer input ana cetermme the context or the.situation they
must contend with. Failure to do so will result in maopropnate
programs that are madeauate to accomniish the uoai or worker
protection.
It is interesting to note whv agriculture has traditionally been
exempted from occupational protection standards. The evolution
of worker protection arises out of the industrial movement in the
United States. The regulation of age and working hours for chil-
dren, the reduction.of dangers created bv equipment or closely
confined working areas, ventilation of sweatshops, ana unioniza-
tion were ail important acnievements in the maustnai revolution.
Bv contrast, trie small famiiv farm as a workplace was seen to be a
mecca or fresh air ana "Coa's green eartn."
Then as now. however, working conditions included beginning
work before dawn in the damp mists of early morning, stoop labor,
long hours in wet clothing, and exposure to ram. freezing tempera-
tures, and high temperatures. These conditions result in respiratory
and viral problems, dehydration, and chronic poor health.
The aemise of the small famiiv farm and the rise of large agribusi-
ness has only served to intensify the exposure or large numbers of
workers to such risks. It is common knowiedce tnat farmwork is
now the most dangerous occuoatipn in this countrv. more danger-
ous even than mining and construction. Althouun agricultural
workers account for oniv 3 percent of the work force, tnev account
for 14 percent of work-related deaths.
HOUSING
As reflected in the recommendation and background statement on
this subject, housing is the most critical issue for farmworkers.
Failure to mention this issue within any discussion of environ-
mental/occupational risks would be inappropriate. The farm-
worker housing where it exists is substandard and exposes
occupants to physical injury, sanitation-related diseases, and in-
creased risk for infectious diseases, parasites, tuberculosis, and a
host of other preventable disorders. One farmworker testified to the
National Advisory Council on Migrant Health that cabins are
sometimes located within the fields, where farmworkers cannot see
notices posted by the grower regarding pesticide applications.
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NAL ADVISORY COUNCIL ON MIGRANT HEALTH
?AGE 68
For more information on nousmg issues, oiease rerer to tne Housmc
recommendation and bacKerounti statement.
MIGRATION
Migration itseif needs to oe considerea in anv review or occuoa-
tionai risk factors. Such risk factors are elusive in that thev are neanv
impossible to document, vet professionals who work with farm-
workers on a regular basis are highlv ramiiiar with the impact of
migration on the individual lives of farmworkers and their lamiiies.
The seriousness of this impact is frequently diminished bv mvths
perpetuated bv the general public: "Farmworkers like to travel—
they are like gypsies." "Thev are used to these conditions, whv
they're better off here than thev are at home." "It's |ust a.summer
vacation for them—-hey get to travel across the countrv and earn
extra spending monev on top of their regular jobs." "It's like going
camping.' The reaiitv is that rarmworkers are iust like anv other
humans, .vitn need for staoiiitv. continuity, pnvacv. ana secuntv
m their lives.
The impact of constant migration over the span of a child's early
developmental years can be very negative. In addition to the actual
physical risks involved in constant traveling of the highways, like
breakdowns, accidents, and being stranded because of lack of
funds, there are also psychosocial risks related to hunger, long
hours of work, crowding, homeiessness. lack of ability to establish
friendships and relationships, the stress of travel and poverty on
their parents, and academic interruptions. Even if a famiiv manages
to provide a secure environment m spite of the occupational
necessity of traveling, often exposurejo the dvsfunction or other
migrant tamiiies'nas a serious impact.
Although the majority of farmworkers travel as a family unit, there
are also large numbers of single males who leave their families in
order to support them. These males, rar from their homes, are
vulnerable to exploitation by unscrupulous crew leaders and locals
who would involve them m the sale and use of drugs and alcohol
and prostitution.
CONCLUSION
The economic and political forces which combine to perpetuate
the status quo for farmworkers are beyond the control of the
workers themselves. The environmental and occupational expo-
sures they face daily are so closely intertwined that they cannot be
looked at as separate entities. In a presentation to the Surgeon
General's Conference on Agricultural Safety and Health. Dr. Wil-
liam Popendorf stated. "Adverse health effects are the culmination
of an often complex chain of events beginning with the agent
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PAGE, sv
NATIONAL ADVISORY COUNCIL ON MIGRANT HEALTH
emanaunc into the working environment rrom a sometimes nebu-
lous source and traveiinc inrouen a rmvsicai pathway to create
health prooiemsi." Certamiy tne spectrum Described herein is a
complex cnam or events. Dr. Popenaorr also cites Jhe paradigm or
anncipation. recognition, evaluation, and control. It is truly
rnroucn the application or eacn or these steps that occuoationai
and environmental risks for rarmworKers can he effectively re-
duced.
REFERENCES
'. Ingerson. 5. "Farming is Dangerous, bui Fatalistic farmers Oppose Safety
Laws. Wall Street lournai. lulv 20. -1989. pg. !.
I. "Repon to Congressional Reauesiers On Hired F.irmworKers m tne United
States: Health ana Well Being a; Risk." U.S. General Accountmc Office.
February 1992.
j VVilk. \ dene. Occupational rieaitn ot Migrant ana Seasonal Farmworkers in
tne L.r.itea States, ieccno Edition. Wasnmuton. DC: F^rmworKer lustice
Funo.
Environmental Protection ::anoarc.' feoerj; Register. -. oi. 57. Mo. 163.
August. ::. 1992.
3. \Vashmcton Newsline. Association or Farmworker Opportunity Programs.
Septemoer 1992.
6. Dever. C. £. Alan. Profile ot a Population With Complex Health Problems.
Austin. TX: National Migrant Resource Procram. Inc.. 1991.
Coles. Robert. Migrants. Sharecroppers. Mountaineers. Boston. MA: Little
Brown i Co.. 1967.
8. Farmworker Substance Abuse: An Action Plan tor the Year 2000. Austin. TX:
National Migrant Resource Program. 1992.
9. Ortiz.!. £. Composite Summary ana Analysis of Hearing Held by Deoartment
or Labor. Occupational Safety ana Health Administration on Field Sanita-
tion tor Migrant FarmworKers '.Docket »308. Mav 23-lune 29. 1984).
Entereo into OSHA Fieid Sanitation Recoro Octooer 2;. 1985.
'- 3. Pooenaon. William. "Cases. Vaoors. Liquias ana Drugs.' CIH Paoers and
Proceeomcs or the Surceon Cenerai's Conference on Agriculture Safety
aria Health. April 30-Mav 3. !991.
;i. Momn. Eziquiel. Testimonv beiore the National Advisory Council on
Migrant Health. Portiana. Oregon Public Hearing. October 23. 1992.
I 2. Sancnez. Estevan. Testimonv before the National Advisory Council on
Migrant Health. Portiana. Oregon Public Hearing. October 23. 1992.
' 3. Unidentified Farmworker. Testimony before the National Advisory Council
on Migrant Health. Portiana. Oregon Public Hearing, October 23.1992.
1994
UPDATE
OCCUPATIONAL AND
ENVIRONMENTAL
HEALTH1
Full implementation of the Environmental Protection Agency's Worker
Protection Standards has been postponed from April 1,1994 until January
1, 1995. Implementation of these'national standards is a long overdue
measure to 'protea migrant and seasonal farmworkers rronii pesncrae
exposure. The Council urges the Department to work with the EPA ir.
every way possible to assure that all provisions or the Worker Protectior
Standards are implemented as soon as possible.
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Suite 220. Austin. IX "S704
,512)447-0770 voice ••5121447,1666 fax
NATIONAL MIGRANT RESOURCE PROGRAM. INC
Migrant Heaith Status:
Profile of a Culture With Complex Heaith Problems
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The resuas from mis study are significant, shocking, and convincing. The demograpnic patterns, socioeco-
nomic conoiiions. life-style characteristics, and disease categories reflect an agrarian society in a third world
country caught.in an infectious disease cycle. Factors such as poverty, malnutrition, infectious and parasitic
diseases, poor education, a young population, and poor housing equate to a highly vulnerable population in
need of resources... Clearly, the migrant population is at greater risk and suffers more problems than the
general population. Tne results of this research demonstrate the need for more services, care, andtreatment.
The need for oeveioping a health policy and research agenda for migrant farmworkers in this decaae is evident.
iince :he Migrant Heaith Act was passed in "1962,
migrant health centers have struggled to serve the
migrant and seasonal farmworkers and their families
who make up the backbone of this country's agricul-
tural work fores. The on-going battle to bring equal
health status to farmworkers has not been easy. Sadlv,
• * •
current estimates show that these clinics are able to
serve less than twenty percent of this nation's migrant
farmworkers.
Health centers are handicapped in their efforts to focus
attention on this gap in service by the lack of reliable
data on the health status of the farmworkers they serve.
While some data are available for individual clinics or
regions, this information does not give a clear national
picture of the health problems experienced by these
workers and their families.
Now, thanks to the Migrant Clinicians Network in
narmership with.the National Migrant Resource Pro-
m, the first national study of morbidity in the
farmworker population gives us solid evidence that
their health status is far beiow that of the general
population.
Comparison with General Population
• Migrant farmworkers have different and more
complex health problems from those of the general
population.
• Migrant farmworkers suffer more infectious dis-
eases than the general population.
• Farmworkers have more clinic visits for diabetes,
medical supervision of infants and children, otitis
media, pregnancy, hypertension, and contact der-
matitis and eczema.
• Clinic visits for general medical exams account for
only 1.4 percent of all visits to migrant health
clinics, 39 percent below the U.S. average.
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i :ie farmworker regulation has more young people
;nd fewer older seopie :han the general U.S. pop-
• uiation. .
Multiple Health Problems
Multiple and complex health problems exist for .
over 40 percent of ail farmworkers .who visit mi-
grant health clinics.
Patients under one year and over 64 years old had
the highest occurrence of multiple health problems.
The category Factors Influencing Health, which
covers preventive, cervices: produced the most
:i:rJc visits tor all rrjgrant workers. This suggests
:hat prevention ;s a major component in migrant
iieaith clinics.
0
Community Health Status
• As many as 58 percent of ail households in migrant
"homebase" areas are poor, compared with only 1.4
percent nationally.
• Homebase areas have a higher-tnan-average pro-
portion of households with low median income.
low median home vai-js. cr.d low percent of college
graduates.
T.:e overall health c:' farmworkers in hcrnebase
areas is significantly worse chan that of either the
general U.S.. population or farmworkers in non-
home base migrant areas.
Health Status fay Age
Clinic visits for ages i-4 are mostly for infectious
and nutritional heaiih problems. Health problems.
forages 5-9 are also pnmariiy infectious, but dental
problems also appear for the first time in this group.
• Dental disease is the number one health problem
for patients aged 10-14.
Teen pregnancy is the number one problem for
females aged 15-19: dental disease is number one
for males.
• Females age 2C-29 visit clinics primarily for preg
nancy, diabetes, common cold, and reproductive
problems. Males visit primarily for contact derma-
titis and eczema, strep throat and scarlet fever, and
dental problems.
• In the 30-44 age group, two of the top three prob-
lems for both males and females are diabetes and
hypertension.
• Nearly half of ail clinic visits for men and women
in the 45-64 age group are for diabetes, hyperten-
sion, or anhrcpathies.
• Among the eideriy. over cp percent of clinic visits
by males and £0 percent by females are for diabetes
and hypertension.
Geography and Demography
• The non-homebase study counties have a higher
median age than the country as a whole.
• The homebase counties have more children unae*1
15 and fewer elderly over 65 than either the U.S. i
general or non-homebase migrant areas.
• Per capita income in ail study counties except one
is below the U.S. average. Migrant homebase areas
show a 1989 per capita income 50 percent less than
the U.S. value of S 13.218.
• Over 20 percent of the households in the homebase
study area have incomes of under S7,500: the per-
centage for ncn-homehase households ranges from
7 percent to 14 percent.
This stuay of migrant neaith status was cornotated by G. E. Man Dover
of Mercer University as consultant to the National Migrant Resource
Program, ninding tor T,B stuaywas provided by tfte U.S. Deoarmemof
Heailh ana Human Services. Bureau of Health Can Delivery ana Assis-
tance. Migrant Heailh Program. With tecrtnicaisuoponfromme National
Migrant Resource Program. :fta Migrant Clinicians Netwonc sampled
utilization oata from four migrant nealth centers in the states d Michigan
and Indiana (non-nomeoasa areas/, and Texas (a homeoast ana).
The final reoort oh mis stucy wiilbe aveMabie during secondovaner 1991.
To request a copy or tor mere information, contact the Migrant CEnidan-
NetworK at 2512 Soutn IH3S, Suite 220. Austin TX 78704. (512) 44
0770.
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PUBLIC COMMENT (Section 9.1.4)
Jerome Smith
Blacks in Government
A. Agenda for Blacks in Government Fourth Environmental Justice Forum
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BLACKS IN GOVERNMENT
THE FOURTH ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE FORUM
DEVELOPING LOCAL LEADERSHIP:
NOW AND FOR THE NEXT MILLENIUM
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23,1995
17TH ANNUAL NATIONAL TRAINING CONFERENCE
"LEADERSHIP, EXCELLENCE & EQUITY:
GATEWAY TO TOMORROW'S CHALLENGES-
AUGUST 21 - 25,1995
ADAM'S MARK HOTEL
4TH and Chestnut Streets
St. Louis Missouri 63101
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Blacks in Government
The Fourth Environmental Justice Forum
Wednesday, August 23, 1995
8 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Discussion themes:
• Environmental Justice & Local Leadership-the Public Policy Perspective
— Public Participation (agenda-setting)
How can we address environmental justice?
— Partnerships and Contracts (setting expectations)
How can we work together to meet specific goals?
• Environmental Justice & Local Leadership—What's in it for My Family and My
Community? .
— Economic Security (employment and job opportunities)
How can we create jobs for our communities?
— Quality of Life (education, health, human development)
How can we improve our communities?
.-How Can BIG Help?
Welcome
Jerome Smith
Chairman, Interagency Working Group on Environmental Justice
and Forum Organizer
Opening Remarks
Howard L. Tutman Jr.
Chairman, Forum on Environmental Justice
and
President, Blacks In Government, HUD Chapter, Washington, D.C.
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Opening Remarks (cont'd)
Brian Burke
Special Assistant to the President
The White House
Washington, D.C.
Robert Knox
Office of Environmental Justice
Environmental Protection Agency
Washington, D.C.
Rob Hood
Office of the Speaker
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington, D.C.
Program Principals
Dwight P. Robinson*
Acting Deputy Secretary
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Carol Browner*
Administrator
Environmental Protection Agency
Sherri W. Goodman*
Deputy Undersecretary
Environmental Security
U.S. Department of Defense
Thomas Crumbly*
Assistant Secretary
Office of Environmental Management
U.S. Department of Energy
Washington, D.C.
Grover Hankins
Professor, Enviromental Law
Thurgood Marshall School of Law
Texas Southern University
Houston, TX ' '
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Program Principals (cont'd)
Kathleen McGinty*
Chairman
Council on Environmental Quality
Washington, DC
Lois J. Schiffer*
Assistant Attorney General
U.S. Department of Justice
Washington, DC
Deval L. Patrick*
Assistant Attorney General
U.S. Department of Justice
Washington, DC
Peter S. Guerrero*
Director, Environmental Protection Issues
General Accounting Office
Washington, DC
Three groups of panelists representing the following perspectives will give brief
presentations leading to a question and answer period.
I. Community Groups and Institutions
Bertha Gilkey
Cochran Gardens
St. Louis, MO
Reverend Buck Jones
Project HOPE
St. Louis, MO
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I. Community Groups and Institutions (cont'd)
A. Bernard Jones
National Alliance for Defense Environmental and
Economic Development
Washington, DC
Ivie B. Higgins
Environmental Law Institute
Washington, D.C.
Vanessa Marion
Administrator
Operation New Hope
East St. Louis, MO
Hazel Johnson
People for Community Recovery
Chicago, Illinois
John Rosenthal
Environmental
NAACP
Washington, D.C.
(Speaker to be announced)
Native American community
(Speaker to be announced)
La Raza
(Speaker to be announced)
Clean Sites
(Speaker to be announced)
Northeast Midwest Institute
(Speaker to be announced)
Bethel New Life, Inc.
Chicago, IL
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II. Private Sector
(Speaker to be announced)
Chemical Manufacturers Association
Washington, D.C.
Lawrence G. Hurst
National Association of Manufacturers
Washington, D.C.
III. Federal, State and Local Governments
Monique Pugh
National Conference of State Legislators
Washington, D.C.
William Muno
Director, Waste Management
EPA, Region V
Chicago, IL
(Speaker to be announced)
Mayor's Office
City of St. Louis
(Speaker to be announced)
Mayor's Office
City of East St. Louis
.Honorable John Danforth*
Former U.S. Senator
State of Missouri
Elizabeth Peele
Human System and Technology Group
Oakridge Laboratory
Oakridge, TN
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III. Federal, State and Local Governments (cont'd)
Paula Scaling!
Argonne National Laboratory
University of Chicago
Argonne, IL
Facilitator
Eugene W. Cleckley, Chief
Environmental Operations Division
Dept. of Transportation
Federal Highway Administration
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Resource Participants
R. Brown
Office of General Council
Smithsonian Institute
Antoinette Sebastian
Office of Energy
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Robert Faithful
Office of Environmental Justice
U.S. Department of Interior
Georgia Johnson*
Environmental Justice Office
U.S. Department of Energy
Wendell Still*
Council on Environmental Quality
Executive Office of the President
Margaret Hernandez
U.S. Department of Energy
Velma Charles-Shannon
Office of Civil Rights
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Ron Blakely
Office of Civil rights
Environmental Protection Agency
Len Richeson
U.S. Department of Defense
David Saunders
U.S. Department of Defense
Jerome King
Office of Air and Radiation
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
'Invited
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Stacy Jordan
Office of Policy Development and Research
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Sandra Campbell
Office of Chief Financial Officer
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Margaret Brantley
Office of Environmental Justice
U.S. Department of the Interior
Karen Griffin
U.S. Department of Energy
Nathaniel Smith
Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Mariam G. Wiggins-Lewis
Office of Pollution Prevention & Toxic Waste
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Anna Towns
Office of Special Actions
Office of the Secretary
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
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PUBLIC COMMENT (Section 9.2.1)
Lorraine Granado
Colorado Peoples' Environmental and Economic Network
A. COPEEN NEWS Newsletter
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COPEEN NEWS
Newsletter of the Colorado Peoples's Environmental and Economic Network
.Vol. l,No.3 Summer 1995
SECOND COPEEN GATHERING A HUGE
SUCCESS
by Everett Delano
COPEEN's April 7 & 8 gathering, "Grassroots
Voices for Environmentally Sane Choices," proved to
be an auspicious beginning in our efforts to network
communities statewide. More than 60 people attended
over the course of two days, sharing insights and
aspira'tions and beginning a crucial dialogue on the
health of Colorado's communities of color.
Friday kicked off with open and helpful training
sessions on grassroots organizing, air / water toxics
and fundraising. The informative and energetic
speakers included Beth Gallegos of Citizens Against
Contamination, Steve Graham of the Community
Resource Center, Lorraine Granado of the Cross
Community Coalition, Vernice Miller of the Natural
Resources Defense Council, Sonia Pena of Denver
Action for a Better Community, and Suzanne
Wuerthele of the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency.
Friday's delightful dinner, catered by the hard-
working folks at Home of Neighborly Service, was
followed by a refreshing talk by Vernice Miller, co-
founder of West Harlem Environmental Action and
director of the Environmental Justice Initiative at
NRDC. Vernice's words, available on video by calling
the COPEEN office, struck a remarkable balance
between struggle and hope, and inspired many of us to
revitalize our efforts for Environmental Justice.
Saturday's nuts-and-bolts sessions provided
opportunities for frank discussions of present struggles
and suggestions for positive directions on COPEEN's
future. Participants divided into three groups -
grassroots groups, mainstream environmentalist groups
and agency staff- and adopted key proposals for
COPEEN's agenda. Among the items proposed were
suggestions for another gathering within six months,
outreach and diversification throughout the state, and
increased dialogue between and among the participants.
With these goals in mind, COPEEN now
prepares for a bright future. The Advisory Committee
is now meeting twice* a month to implement key
strategies and prepare for coming events. If you are
interested in assisting or in becoming a member of the
Advisory Committee, please call Beth Blissman at the
COPEEN offices, 292-3203. We hope to see you at
future Gatherings!
The COPEEN NEWS is printed on recycled paper with
linseed oil-based inks. PLEASE extend this reduce I
recycle I reuse approach by either recycling this
newsletter or passing it on to a friend....THANKS!
COPEEN Members
Assist Neighbors
in Fight Against
Hazardous
Waste Facility:
by Munir Meghjee
Since its inception, one of COPEEN's mosi
urgent areas of focus has been the practice of Denver':
Zoning Administrator to site polluting industries in the
predominantly African-American and Latino
neighborhoods of Northeast Denver, and the failure of
the local and state government to adequately enforce
environmental laws in this area. Bettie Shaw, and the
organization of which she is President, Park Hill for Safe
Neighborhoods, is fighting one example of this practice.
Laidlaw Environmental Services, Inc., a
multinational corporation with a history of environmental
problems, applied for a permit to site a hazardous waste
transfer station in Northeast Denver. The neighbors to
the site were informed of this at the last minute by the
city, and they requested a public hearing. The public
hearing took place on January 18,1995, before Denver's
Environmental Review Community. At the hearing,
residents of North Park Hill requested specific
information regarding the nature and quantity of
hazardous wastes that would come into the
neighborhood, other areas that Laidlaw had considered
for its facility, and Laidlaw's history of environmental
compliance, among other things. Neighborhood
representatives requested that the permit be denied on the
grounds of "saturation" - that the neighborhood already
suffers from an undue concentration of uses which create
environmental problems.
At Ms. Shaw's request, COPEEN members
Munir Meghjee and Lorainne Granado attended the
meeting to lend support. Ms. Granado provided
testimony at the hearing, placing this permit request in the
national context of environmental justice, and in the long
history of problems with zoning in Northeast Denver.
Needless to say, Laidlaw never adequately
answered the neighbors' questions, relying instead on a
slick public relations campaign. On February 16, 1995,
the Zoning Administrator made the decision to grant the
permit to Laidlaw with conditions.
Park Hill for Safe Neighborhoods is now
appealing the permit to the Board of Adjustment for
Zoning Appeals. In this appeal, they will be represented
by two COPEEN attorneys, Munir Meghjee from the
Sierra Club Legal Defense Fund, and Everett Delano
from the Land and Water Fund.of the Rockies. A
hearing will be held in Denver City Council Chambers on
(continued on p. 2)
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ixeigooors ugu*.
June 27, 1995, at .9 a.m.
Many residents of the area and many businesses
near the site of the proposed facility will attend the
hearing to lend support to Park Hill for Safe
Neighborhoods. We need your help too! This type of
injustice has gone on far too long. Please call COPEEN
staffperson Beth Blissman at 292-3203 for an update on
the results of the appeal and future action to promote
environmental justice.
EPA's Brownfields Initiative
bv Beth Blissman (with technical assistance fromWendy
Thomi, EPA')
"Brownfields" are abandoned, idled or underused
industrial and commercial properties with potential for
reuse. They are usually in urban areas and often in areas
where environ-mental racism is also a concern.
Redevelop-ment of Brownfields is often complicated by
environmental contamination and the issue of liability for
cleanup. More often than not, companies leave these
Brownfields in the urban core and head for the pristine
"greenfields" outside the cities.
However, it is possible for the restoration of
contaminated property to go hand-in-hand with
community development, and perhaps even sustainable
community development (ile. growth which gives back
to the community and the earth at least as much as it takes
away). Positive action to productively use Brownfields
can bring life and strength to a community through
increased jobs and services, an enhanced tax base and a
sense of optimism about the future.
EPA is starting a Brownfields Initiative, which
means that it will start making efforts to work with
business and community people regarding possible future
uses of areas designated as Brownfields. (EPA has not
historically been involved in future .land use issues.)
Currently, there is a pilot project starting in the Sand
Creek Corridor. The EPA is working with the cities of
Denver and Commerce City, and also with CDPHE (the
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment)
to develop strategies for cleanup and sustainable
development.
Also, availability of up to two grants for
Brownfields Pilot Projects.will be announced by EPA
Region 8 this summer. These grants, up to $200,000,
are to be awarded to states, tribes or local governments
with the goal of helping communities develop innovative
ways to overcome the current obstacles to the cleanup
and reuse of potentially contaminated properties. For
more information about the Brownfields Initiative, you
may contact Wendy Thomi at the EPA offices in Denver,
(303) 294-1139, or Mark Alston, also of the EPA, at
293-1520.
ncu*i.ii 4x Environment rair oeneitis
Denver Neighborhoods
COPEEN members assisted with some of the plannin
and set-up for this pro-active event held at the Swanse
Elementary School for the Swansea, Elyria an
Globeville Neighborhoods in North Denver. Thi
summary has been written by Ericka Landeros. a recei
high school graduate from Elyria, Ericka was vote
Colorado bi-lingual student of the year and will />
attending the University of Colorado at Denver next fall.
The Health Fair was held May 13, 1995, and.
was a complete success. The committee counted pvf
600 people that attended the fair. There were a lot c
different services that were provided. Some of tb
services were blood pressure, weight/heigt
measurement, eye screening, hearing tests, vaccination:
food, and a lot of fun for the kids. Without thinkin
twice I would say that the fair was one of the best thing
that have ever happened in the community. Not to sa
that we had a wonderful turnout from the community
Another thing that was wonderful about this fair was tha
it was a multicultural fair in all aspects, because ther
were Hispanic, Anglo, and Black people who attendee
This fair gave everyone the opportunity to meet eac
other as workers of the community, and not just like an
ordinary people. The committee is proud to announc
that we worked very hard in this fair, but it gave us th<
reward to feel the participation from the community. 1:
other words a lot of people worked in this fair, and th<
Community Focus Health Committee doesn't have :
doubt that next year is also going to be a success.
TO RECLAIM
AMERICA
| FROM ILLEOAL
IMMIGRANTS!
Ill
HELP
YOU
PACK.
reprinted with permission of the cartoonist.
COPEEN Editorial Staff: Lorraine Granado, Beth Blissman. This newsletter may be reproduced, IF the source
is referenced, excerpts used in appropriate context, and copies sent to COPEEN. (see address on back page)
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Committee:
WELCOME to new Advisory Committee members: Josh
Dillabaugh, Judith Magann, Kimi Matsumoto, Sue
Cobb. Deborah Price, and Laura Callier. Thank you for
sharing your experience, wisdom and energy in the quest
for environmental justice. The Committee has set up
subcommittees to more effectively manage the many
goals of COPEEN. The subcommittees include:
- Media and Public Education
- Coalition - Building & Political Awareness
- Fundraising
- Community Outreach
If you know of pertinent issues for these subcommittees
to address or if you would like to volunteer for any of the
above subcommittees, simply call the COPEEN office.
We would appreciate your input!
Reflect on the Principles of
Environmental Justice
Seventeen principles were adopted in
October 1991, by delegates to the First National
People of Color Environmental Leadership Summit
in Washington, DC. Since then, the principles have
served as a defining document for the growing
grassroots movement for environmental justice.
This summer, we ask you to reflect upon
Principles number three and five:
3. Environmental Justice mandates the right to
ethical, balanced and responsible uses of land and
renewable resources in the interest of a sustainable
planet for humans and other living beings.
5. Environmental Justice afirms the fundamental
right to political, economic, cultural and
environmental self-determination for all peoples.
Great Spirit
All over the world the faces of living ones
are alike.
with tenderness they have come up out
of the ground.
Look upon your children that they may
face the winds and walk the good road to
the Day of Quiet.
Great Spirit
Fill us with the Light.
Give us the strength to understand,
and the eyes to see.
Teach us to walk the soft Earth
as relatives to all that live.
Sioux Prayer
ANNOUNCEMENTS and
UPCOMING EVENTS:
Videotapes of the Grassroots Organizaing and
Fundraising workshops and both keynote talks from
the April 1995 COPEEN Gathering "Grassroots
Voices for Environmentally Sane Choices"
are now available for check-out at the COPEEN
office. We are located at the Cross Community
Coalition, 2332 E. 46th Ave. in Denver. You may
arrange to pick up the videos by calling 292-3203.
There is no charge for borrowing theses videos, but
donations will be gratefully accepted.
Compost Happens! The Denver Recycles
Backyard Composting Demonstration Site is now
open daylight hours and is located at .the Gove
Community Garden, 13th Ave. and Colorado
Boulevard. Free advice from Master Composters is
available Wednesdays from 5 p.m. - dusk and
Saturdays from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. For more
information contact Denver Recycles at 640-1678.
There will be a Day of Remembrance & Recon-
ciliation to commemorate the 50th anniversary of
the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki on Sunday,
August 6,1995. It will be held at the lliff School of
Theology, 2201 S. University Blvd., and will
include Japanese speakers, documentary videos and
slides, workshops, music, a special Japanese supper
and a ceremony of reconciliation. A registration fee
of $8 is requested, but scholarships are available.
Contact Kristal Parks at 670-2409 or Tom Rauch at
322-6353 for more information.
FREE copies of the 1994-95 directory of People of
Color Environmental Groups are available through
the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation Publications
Hot Line, (810) 766-1766
Summer Reading Suggestions:
White Women, Race Matters: The Social Con-
struction of Race, by Ruth Frankenberg
(Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press, 1993)
The State of Native America: Genocide, Colonization
and Resistance, edited by M. A. James (Boston:
South End Press, 1992)
Race in North America, by Audrey Smedley.
(Boulder, CO: Westview Press, 1993)
If YOUR organization has any announce-
ments or upcoming events to share with <
contact Beth Blissman a! ?92-3203
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DID YOU KNOW...
that the Land and Water Fund (LAW Fund)
of the Rockies provides free legal services
to community organizations involved in
environmental struggles? The LAW Fund,
based in Boulder, represents organizations
throughout the Rocky Mountain West on a
variety of issues. Everett DeLano recently
started with the LAW Fund to improve and
expand the organization's representation of
low-income communities and communities
of color. If your community is faced with a
problem affecting its health or welfare, do
not hesitate to give Everett a call at (303)
444-1188.
Your support can make a DIFFERENCE!
Please send tax-deductible donations to
COPEEN (Colorado People's Environmental
and Economic Network), care of the Cross
Community Coalition, 2332 East 46th Ave.,
Denver, CO 80216-3914. Phone (303) 292-
3203, Fax (303) 292-3341. (Make checks
out to the Cross Community Coalition)
COPEEN doesn't just meet once a year! The CO-
PEEN Steering Committee is currently meeting on
alternate Tuesdays at noon at the Cross Community
Coalition, (see address / phone below) Contact Beth
Blissman if you have suggestions / issues, if you
would like to serve on a committee, or simply for
general information.
' I D°NT TWK o? \T AS A
0? IT A* .- TPAMSPA2=f4T
reprinted with permission of the cartoonist.
COPEEN (Colorado People's Environmental and Economic
Network) c/o Cross Community Coalition
2332 East 46th Ave.
Denver, CO 80216-3914
Address Correction Requested
NON PROFIT ORG
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
DENVER CO
PERMIT NO 1621
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PUBLIC COMMENT (Section 9.2.2)
Steve Hufford
EPA Office of Information Resources Management
A. Presentation on the Government Information Locator Service
B. Public Questionnaire
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The Problem
The Government mutt have the
Information I'm looking for...
But why can't
leverfindlt?!?!
Part of the Solution
Whit (bout creating • tool
to help the public locate
and acceaa ttit public
Information reaourcaa
throughout the Federal
Government?
NOTES
Introducing... GILS
Th* Govarnmant Information Locator Service:
An teutonic dlractonr to F«>*ril pov»mm«nl Monnttlon
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GILS -- Whv?
NOTES
Agency
Mission
STRATEGY: Public ACCMI
to EPA Intonation
Federal
Mandate
STRATEGY: Public Accaaa
to Ftdtrtl Infer litIon
Daacrlptlona of EPA'i
Piibllcly-AvaUabIa Information Raaourcaa
i and
! Direct Accaat to Salactad Information Ri«ourc«i
GILS -- When?
I EPA's GILS is currently in early development The prototype
venion will be operational by September. The initial
operational lyitem will be in place by the end of 1995.
GILS -- What?
A Pointer to EPA's Public Information Resources
-------
GILS -- What?
NOTES
A Locator of
Varied Tvnes of EPA Information Resources
Publication*
(electronic 1 paper)
Audio a Video Product*
Bulletin Board*
Hotline*
Libraries 4 PIC*
Oeogriphlc Initiative*
Regulatory Guidance
Docket*
Non-Docket Material*
Federal Regliter Notice*
Info Collection Requett*
EPA Perionnel Locator
Budget Information
Analytical Method*
Mat'l Safety Data Sheet*
Job Announcement*
EPA Organizational Information
Modeling Tool*
Meaaurement a Aaaeaament Tool*
Grant* a Contract* (» Product*)
Reoorda
Preaa Releaae*
Training
Schedule* a calendar* of Event*
Ecological/Economic Model*
Llitaerver*
Specialized Collection*
Educational Material*
Legislative Information
Catalog*
Standard* Collection*
GILS -- Who?
EPA Constituencies
frequirements1
GILS -- Who?
The GILS Workgroup consists of:
Requirements Team
Meeting with likely uier* to determine the uier*'
requirement* and dealrea for OILS
Data and Metadata Team
Defining what information reaource* ahould be lilted In
OILS,
-------
GILS -- Likely Users
NOTES
Ubrtry Community
SUM & Local Oonmintnti
RigulMd Community
Rnurch Community
Educitlon Community
Bialnrallnduitry •• Otmnl
Emlromuffiil Advocacy Community
Inf omMlon Advocacy Community
Public •Atlugi
Congnii ind Ftdinl Cviraight
Orgtnlutioni
Otntr FtdtnU Agincui/Otpirtmimi
MUw-Added uifoJtinUin
ProtMiloml OrginUttloni
FimneUl Community
Noo-Profitj
EftylronRttntil Juitici
Community
Outside EPA
GILS -- HOW?
Start
With
This
Comprehensive Set of
i_ EPA Information Resources
Information
lyittu
Privacy Act
Syitrai
InTorutlon
DiMMlnatlon
Product*
These
Get
This
^Standard Foraat for
Metadata Raeord
Currant INTERNET
Technology
Raady Acceaa to Dcacrlptlona of EPA'a Inforaatlon
Olaaailnatlon Product• and Syataca
and
Dlrtct Aecaia to Salactad Inforutlon Raaourcaa
GILS -- How (continued!?
-------
Dialogue with Likely Users
NOTES
Opentionil Sytlem |
For Further Information. Contact:
I GILS Workgroup CoChairs: I
Art Oonner, Office of Pesticide Program!
703-305-5476, donner.irt9epaitil.epc.gov
Steve Hutford, Office of Information Reiourcea Management
202-260-9732, hufford.ateveftepamail.epa.gov
I GILS Workgroup team Leaders:!
Requirement* Team:
.Liza Hearnt, Office of Solid Waite and Emergency Reaponae
202-260-3393, hearna.lizaCepamail.epa.gov
Qordon Schialer, Office of Cooperative Environmental Mgat.
202-260-1887, achialer.gordon0epaaail.epa.gov
Data and Metadata Tcaa;
Deb UcNealley, Office of Adain. Resources Mgmt./Clnn.
513-568-7985, mcneilley..deb0epaiail.epa.gov
Hike Weaver, Office of Information Reaources Management
703-23S-S577, weaver.mikeBepamail.epa.gov
Internet I««ue« Team:
Joe Anderaon, Office of Information Reaoureea Management
703-235-5581, anderaon.]oetapamail.epa.gov
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BEFORE WE DESIGN A NEW
INFORMATION SERVICE, WE NEED TO
CONSULT WITH OUR CUSTOMERS.
PROBLEM:
Somebody, somewhere at EPA
is collecting the information I
need, so why can't I find it?
SOLUTION:
EPA's Government Information
Locator Service (GILS), a directory
to EPA's public information. GILS
is both an automated tool and a
service. It will provide electronic
and human assistance to help the
public locate and access EPA's
public information resources.
Please take a moment to fill out
the attached questionnaire so we can
benefit from your thoughts on the design
of EPA's GOVERNMENT INFORMATION
LOCATOR SERVICE (GILS). GILS will help
information users—everyone—locate
EPA's public information resources via the
Internet and other public access
channels.
We need your input on a variety ol
matters—non-technical as well as
technical: what kinds of EPA information
you want, how you think the system
should look, and what access medium
other than the Internet would be useful
to you. We need your input on how
searches should be executed, how you
would want to access the system, and at
what level of detail information resources
should be described.
We know that in order to design a
service that is relevant and effective, we
have to LISTEN to the people who will
use it.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
GOVERNMENT INFORMATION LOCATOR SERVICE
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OMB Control Number 2010-0019
EPA's GOVERNMENT INFORMATION LOCATOR SERVICE Expires on 10/31/9?
PUBLIC QUESTIONNAIRE
Purpose
The survey you have been asked to fill out has been prepared by the Environmental Protection
Agency's (EPA's) Government Information Locator Service (GILS) Workgroup. This survey is
designed to gather input from EPA's customers—the users of EPA's public
information—concerning the design, development, and maintenance of EPA's GILS. The
Workgroup is surveying likely GILS customers to obtain answers about the kinds of
information wanted, the desired format for the information, and preferences concerning
"user-friendly" features.
Background
The mandate for GILS was established by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The
purpose of GILS is to "... help the public and agencies locate and access information
throughout the U.S. Government... GILS will identify information resources throughout the
Executive Branch, describe the information available, and provide assistance in how to obtain
the information."
Initially, EPA's GILS will primarily be a pointer to EPA's vast public information holdings, just
as a card catalog points to the contents of a library's collection. These public information
holdings include EPA's information systems as well as information collections, major EPA
publications, and other major information dissemination products. In the future, EPA's GILS
will provide a means to also directly retrieve frequently-requested types of public information.
Next Steps
Your answers to the questions on this survey will be used to tailor EPA's GILS to best meet
the needs of its users, within resource constraints and Federal Government-wide requirements.
EPA's GILS prototype will be released in the fall, and EPA's initial operational version of GILS
will be ready by the end of 1995. The priorities that users like yourself express will be used to
help set near-term objectives and establish long-term plans for refining GILS.
The GILS Workgroup greatly appreciates your taking the time to respond to this survey. If
you have any questions, please contact Mary Gedney of DynCorp at (703) 222-1491. Please
return this survey to the address shown on the last page by Tuly 31. if possible. Thank you for
your participation.
Public reporting burden is estimated to average 30 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing
instructions, gathering information, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. Send
comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including
suggestions for reducing the burden, to Chief, Information Policy Branch (2316), 401 M Street, SW,
Washington D. C. 20460; and to the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, Office of
Management and Budget, 'Washington D.C. 20503.
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EPA's GOVERNMENT INFORMATION LOCATOR SERVICE
PUBLIC QUESTIONNAIRE
1. To help us understand the context of your response and confirm who the primary users of EPA's GILS may be.
please check one or more of the boxes below that best identifies you. Are you a member of or affiliated with:
D Business/Industry
D Congress and Federal Oversight Organizations
D Education Community
D Environmental Advocacy Community
D Environmental Justice Community
O Financial Community
D General Public
D Information Advocacy Community
D Information Re-Sellers/Re-Packagers
D Library Community (including Academic Libraries)
D News Organizations/Media
D Other Federal Agencies/Departments
O Professional Organizations
D Regulated Community
D Research Community
D State, Local, or Tribal Governments
D Other Non-Profit Organizations
D Other Organization: _ _ _ _
2. EPA's GILS, in essence, will be an electronic card catalog indexed in various ways. Please check the appropriate
boxes for all the subject areas that you would be interested in, based on how useful they would be to you.
of great of moderate of no use
use to me use to me to me
General EPA Information N DO D
For example, EPA Phone Directories (a staff locator), job
vacancies, organizational information, etc.
EPA and Environmental Activities D D D
For example, EPA press releases, speeches, an environmental
schedule/calendar of events (e.g., Earth Day), etc.
EPA Initiatives and Strategies ~- - D D D
For example, environmental justice, the Common Sense
Initiative, Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA)
activities, etc.
Geographic Initiatives D D D
For example, the Great Lakes National Program, the Gulf of
Mexico Program, etc.)
Procurement and Contracting Information D D-D
For example, EPA's Requests for Proposals (RFPs), Commerce
Business Daily (CBD) announcements, EPA's Acquisition
Regulations (EPAAR), etc.
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EPA's GOVERNMENT INFORMATION LOCATOR SERVICE
PUBLIC QUESTIONNAIRE
Fellowships, Grants, and Awards
For example. Comprehensive Environmental Response
Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) grants. Office of
Research and Development (ORD) research grants, and
environmental fellowships.
Libraries and Information Services
For example, EPA's Libraries (at Headquarters and in the
Regions), Public Information Centers (PICs), hotlines, EPA's
bulletin board syttmt* containing environmental information,
special collections, etc.
EPA Documents
For example, EPA publications in electronic form, EPA
catalogs. EPA newsletters, etc.
Legislation and Regulations
For example, environmental statutes, EPA's rules, notices of
proposed rulemaking, dockets, environmentally-related Code of
Federal Regulations Citations, EPA Federal Register Notices,
etc.
EPA Policies, Standards, and Guidance
For example, air emission standards.
EPA Systems and Databases
For example, the Toxic Release Inventory (TRIS), or the
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act Information System
(RCRIS).
Consumer Information ___
For example, product information, educational materials,
material safety data sheets, etc.
Pollution Prevention Information
For example, techniques and suggestions for preventing
pollution.
Science, Research, and Technology
For example, Voluntary Partnership Programs such as Project
XL, Green Lights, etc.
Measurement and Assessment Tools
For example, geographic information systems and data.
of great of moderate of no use
use to me use to me to me
D
D
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EPA's GOVERNMENT INFORMATION LOCATOR SERVICE
PUBLIC QUESTIONNAIRE
of great of moderate of no use
use to me use to me to me
. Modeling Tools D D
Economic models, ecological models, etc.
Risk Assessments and Comparative Risk Projects D O
That is, the ranking of environmental problems based on risks,
the comparison of risks, and the establishment of risk reduction
strategies.
Analytical Test Methods and Protocols D D
EPA-approved test methods, for example, Supcrfund's Contract
Laboratory Program (CLP) methods.
Information About the Regulated Community D D
For example, the location of facilities, pollution limits, and
violations.
Information About Regulated Substances D D
For example, information about pesticides, fungicides, and
ndenticides—i.e., what is available and how to use it.
Compliance Guidance and Training D D
That is, guidance for partners and the regulated community for
complying with environmental regulations.
3. Is there any specific information within the subject areas listed above (or other subject areas), that you would
like to locate and retrieve? If so, please list these examples below.
If this information were provided through EPA's GILS, how would it benefit you?
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EPA's GOVERNMENT INFORMATION LOCATOR SERVICE
PUBLIC QUESTIONNAIRE
4. Do you know of any additional subject areas of great use to you that should be described in EPA's GILS? If so,
please list below.
5. If you were to use EPA's GILS like a card catalog to assist you in finding information, how would you want to
find it organized? Please check all that apply.
D By region
D By state
D By city
D By latitude/longitude
D By Code of Federal
Regulations (CFR)
citation
D By environmental medium
(i.e., water, air, etc)
D By who would use it (public,
businesses, schools, etc.)
D By subject area or keyword
D By chemical or substance
D
By law or by statute (Clean
Air Act. Clean Water Act,
etc.)
By format or media (CD-
ROM, diskette, paper, etc.)
Other:
6. Would you want to access EPA's GILS through the Internet?
If NO, please explain why not
D Yes
D No
7. Are there other access or distribution methods you would prefer for getting to EPA's GILS? If so, check any of
the following that apply:
D Electronic Bulletin Boards •
D Commercial On-line service providers (America OnLine, Prodigy, CompuServe)
D CD-ROM
D Diskette
D Paper
D A GILS Hotline staffed by EPA's GILS assistants
D Other: .
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EPA's GOVERNMENT INFORMATION LOCATOR SERVICE
PUBLIC QUESTIONNAIRE
8. Do you have a use for EPA's historical data (as opposed to just the most current data)?
D Yes D No 'v
If YES, what kinds of historical data? Please list the subject areas below.
9. EPA's GILS can provide a direct link to other Federal agencies' GILS. Which other agencies should be linked to
first or most fully? .
10. What are the most important features that EPA's GILS can provide to make it easy for you to use in locating
and accessing EPA's public information? Please check all that apply.
D On-line help.
D A tutorial.
D A person .to contact for help in using the system.
D A person to use the system for you (i.e., a hotline).
D An EPA person for you to contact to obtain the information described in GILS. .
D On-line E-mail to an information contact person.
D On-line "ordering" (i.e., requesting the information electronically).
D Direct access to the information resource (i.e., interactive querying of databases).
O FAX copy of the information resource described in GILS.
D Other ._
11. Do you have ready access to a computer? "^
D Yes D No -- -. . - —- --
If you do not have access to a computer, please proceed directly to Question 18.
12. Does your computer have access to a modem? D Yes D No
If your computer does not have access to r modem, please proceed directly to Question 15.
13. What is the modem speed?
D 1200 D 2400 D 9600 ' D 14.4 D 28.8
D Don't know D Other
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EPA's GOVERNMENT INFORMATION LOCATOR SERVICE
PUBLIC QUESTIONNAIRE
14. Do you connect to Bulletin Board Systems (BBS)? D Yes D No
If \ ES, what BBSs do you mostly connect to?
15. Do you connect your computer to the Internet? D Yes • D No
If YES, indicate the method you use to connect to the Internet.
D Direct connection via a LAN D Connection through EPA's mainframe
D EPA's All-in-1 Gopher Client D Dial-up via an Internet service provider
D CompuServe D America OnLine D Prodigy
D Other :
If you do not currently connect to the Internet, please proceed directly to Question 18.
16. What applications do you use to locate and retrieve information through the Internet? (Check all that apply.)
D FTP D Telnet D Mosaic D Netscape D WAIS D Gopher
D Internet Email D Don't know
D Other (Describe) •_
17. Do you access any EPA on-line services? D Yes D No
If YES, check the EPA services you access on-line.
D WWW.EPAGOV D GOPHER.EPA.GOV D FTP.EPA.GOV D WAIS.EPA.GOV
D Other
18. Would you like to access EPA information via a touch-tone phone system? D Yes D No
EPA's initial operational GILS system will be on the Internet. If you are familiar with the Internet and have preferences as to how
information is presented to you, please answer question 19.
19. Please check the boxes for each of the options that you would like to see included in EPA's GILS system.
D Options to download information, when available, as (check as many as apply):
D ASCII text file
D Binary file
D WordPerfect document
D Postscript file
D Portable Document Format (PDF) file
(Requires the use of a reader program, such as Adobe Acrobat, to read the file)
D Options to electronically submit requests for information resources.
D Options, when available, to obtain direct, on-line access to the information resources.
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EPA's GOVERNMENT INFORMATION LOCATOR SERVICE
PUBLIC QUESTIONNAIRE
20. In your opinion, what would make EPA's GILS seem "user-friendly"?
Thank you again for your help. Your answers will help us to make EPA's information locator service—CilLS—meet
the needs of those who want to find and access EPA's public information resources. If you have any comments on
the survey, on EPA's GILS, or on something we have not covered that you feel is important, please use the spaa-
below to proviH* us your comments:
PLEASE SEND THE COMPLETED SURVEYBYTULY31. IF POSSIBLE, TO:
Mary Gedney
DynCorp
12750 Fair Lakes Circle
Fairfax, VA 22033
Phone: 703/222-1491
FAX: 703/222-1542
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PUBLIC COMMENT (Section 9.2.4)
Percy Pollard
Environmental Careers Organization
A. Statement
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NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL .JUSTICE ADVISORY COUNCIL
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD
Submitted by:
Percy Pollard
Chairman of Board
Environmental Careers Organization
(810)960-0210
Statement:
To be effective in efforts to have dialogue and participation, I would suggest speakerphone or
downlink availability. This would enable people in remote locations to have access to the forum,
since it is difficult for some people to travel. Concerns of funding and logistics can be offset by
having social organizations pitch in to help.
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