REGION 9
SAMPLING OF TRIBAL
ENVIRONMENTAL
ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND NEEDS
FINAL REPORT
Reported by 52 Tribes
in FY 2002
Prepared by the
Regional Tribal Operations
Committee (RTOC) and
EPA Region 9
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PREFACE
This document has been prepared for EPA's Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator
and is intended as a sampling of environmental accomplishments and issues facing tribal
governments in 2002. This document does not address all issues of tribes and does not
uniformly represent all tribes or completely reflect the diversity of tribes in Region 9.
This summary is not intended to deter tribal governments from raising their
environmental issues on a "government to government" basis, but will furnish the
Regional Administrator with a view of some of the common, and less common but
complex, issues that threaten health and environmental resources in Indian Country.
Much gratitude is extended to the many tribes who provided information and
photographs for this report.
AK-Chin Indian Community
Augustine Band of Cahuilla Mission Indians
Big Valley Band of Pomo Indians
Big Pine Paiute Tribe of the Owens Valley
Big Sandy Rancheria
Bishop Paiute Tribe
Bridgeport Indian Colony
Cahto Tribe of the Laytonville Rancheria
Cabazon Band of Cahuilla Mission Indians
Chemehuevi Indian Tribe
Cocopah Indian Tribe
Dry Creek Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians
Duckwater Shoshone Tribe
Elem Indian Colony
Elk Valley Rancheria
Ely Shoshone Tribe
Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria
Fort Bidwell Indian Community
Fort Independence Indian Reservation
Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation
Gila River Indian Community
Hoopa Valley Tribe
Hopland Band of Pomo Indians
Hualapai Tribe
Kaibab Paiute
Kasha Band of Pomo Indians of Stewarts
Point Rancheria
LaJolla Band of Luiseno Indians
Lone Pine Paiute-Shoshone Reservation
Lytton Rancheria, Lytton Band of Pomo
Indians
Morongo Band of Mission Indians
Navajo Nation
Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians
Pit River Tribe
Redwood Valley Rancheria
Resighini Rancheria
Robinson Rancheria of Pomo Indians
San Carlos Apache Tribe
San Manuel Band of Serrano Mission
Indians
Sherwood Valley Rancheria
Shoshone-Paiute Tribes of the Duck
Valley Reservation
Smith River Rancheria
Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation
Table Bluff Reservation - Wiyot Tribe
Tohono O'odham Nation
Torres Martinez Band of Desert Cahuilla
Indians
Trinidad Rancheria
Tule River Tribe
Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk Indians
Walker River Paiute Tribe
Washoe Tribe of Nevada/California
White Mountain Apache Tribe
Yurok Tribe
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Executive Summary
Summary of Tribal Accomplishments in FY 2001-2002
Summary of Tribal Environmental Issues in FY2002
Section A - Tribal Accomplishments
Section B - Tribal Environmental Assistance Requested from EP,
\
Page
1
2
10
A-l
B-l
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Executive Summary
Tribal Environmental Accomplishments
FY 2001 - 2002
Nationally, Indian Country represents an area large than New England,more than 4%
of the nation's land base. Of the 572 tribes in the nation, 147 are located in
Region 9. The Region's reservations make up nearly 50% of all Indian land in the
United States (28 million acres) and approximately 26% of the total population living
in Indian Country (400,000 residents). One third of the state of Arizona is Indian
Land, and approximately 11% of Region 9 is Indian Country. There is a tremendous
variation in population and land area of tribes in Region 9. The Navajo Nation, the
largest tribe in the U.S., has more than 200,000 members and occupies a land base
four times the size of Hawaii, while many others govern one thousand or fewer
members or have reservations smaller than 50 acres.
Of the 147 tribes in the Region, 130 are developing environmental programs tailored
to meet their unique challenges for environmental protection in Indian Country.
Fifty-three of those tribes are currently working under only one EPA program, the
Indian Environmental Assistance Program (GAP). Seventy-seven tribes are working
under two or more EPA programs, having received a GAP grant as well as "treatment
in the same manner as a state" (TAS) approval for at least one federal program.
Thirteen tribes are exercising regulatory authority for at least one federal program.
The Navajo Nation Environmental Protection Agency, which has 18 environmental
programs, recently became the first tribe in the nation to receive primary
enforcement responsibility for the Public Water System Supervision Program under
the Safe Drinking Water Act.
While many of these programs are in their initial stages of development, there have
been many significant improvements in reservation environments in the last decade,
demonstrating the effectiveness of the EPA/tribal partnership.
In addition, tribes in Region 9 have made great strides in developing partnerships
with other federal and state agencies, as well as with neighboring communities.
This collaboration has helped to ensure the protection of their reservation
environments and the cultural resources which are at risk from environmental
degradation.
The following is a sampling of tribal environmental accomplishments in EPA's Region
9 during the past two years. A detailed list of tribal accomplishments can be found in
Section A. The chart depicts results reported by tribes to the Regional Tribal
Operations Committee (RTOC).
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Tribal Accomplishments
Mining I
Pesticides
Air
Resource Protection
Enforcement
Drinking Wtr
Toxic Substances
Clean Water
Waste
Capacity Building
10 20 30 40
Percent of Tribes Responding
50
60
Fifty-two tribes reported accomplishments, and the results are noted in several major
areas: Capacity building, waste, clean water, toxic substances, drinking water,
enforcement, resource protection, air, pesticides, and mining.
Capacity Building:
Ninety percent of all tribes in Region 9 are developing environmental programs. Ten
years ago, only ten percent of tribes in our Region had environmental programs. Half
of the tribes reporting to RTOC said that developing environmental capacity was one of
their three most significant accomplishments in 2002.
Types of accomplishments included:
Developing administrative and regulatory infrastructures;
Developing tribal environmental plans;
Establishing environmental education departments/programs;
Developing community outreach programs;
Establishing environmental assessment procedures; and
Increasing tribal council understanding of environmental issues.
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Waste Management:
Waste management results were reported by
forty-two percent of tribes. In FY 2002, EPA
expanded eligible uses of GAP funds to include
implementation of solid and hazardous waste
programs. As a result many tribes used GAP
funds in FY2002 for activities such as:
Disposal of abandoned vehicles;
Assessment of landfills;
Cleanup of illegal dump sites and
landfills; and
Implementation of recycling programs.
Automobile disposal - Smith River Rancheria
Splitting Tires - Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk Indians
Removal of vehicle in slough
Table Bluff Reservation
Abandoned Trailer Cleanup - Table Bluff Reservation Wiyot Tribe
3
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Waste Management:
(continued)
Before
After
Landfill cleanup - Tule River Tribe
Horses on closed capped dump - Shoshone-Paiute Tribes of the Duck Valley Reservation
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Clean Water:
In the water-scarse West, protection of tribal
water resources has consistently been a top
tribal priority. In fiscal year 2002, over one
third of tribes reported accomplishments in
protecting tribal water resources including:
Monitoring of water quality;
Developing water quality standards;
Enhancing riparian habitat;
Drilling monitoring wells;
Restoring of wetland springs;
Constructing wastewater treatment plants;
Managing non-point sources; and
Developing water re-use programs.
*
Klamath Basin Cooperative Water
Quality Monitoring
Yurok/USFWS/BOR/Karuk Tribe
Monitoring Well - Avenue 54
Augustine Band of Cahuilla Mission Indians
New wastewater treatment plant
Trinidad Rancheria
Riparian native plant restoration
Chemehuevi Tribe
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Toxic Substances:
Many reservations hold a legacy of historic development projects that were built without
tribal environmental review and participation. In some cases, these sites were found to have
contaminated soil and water supplies years after the development itself had been forgotten.
Twenty-three percent of respondents reported reduction of toxic substances at these sites
through the following activities:
Removing leaking underground storage tanks;
Conducting Brownfields development projects;
Minimizing hazardous waste; and
Assessing contamination adjacent to landfills.
Brownfields Pilot Project
Shoshone Tribe
Removal of storage tank - Tule River Tribe
Safe Drinking Water:
Nearly seven percent of tribal homes lack running
water, compared with one half of one percent of
homes nationwide. Forty percent of homes on the
Navajo Reservation lack piped water. Construction
and enhancement of water supplies provides well-
documented improvements in the public health of
tribal communities. A quarter of tribes reported
improvements in their drinking water, including:
Drilling of new wells to provide a potable source
of drinking water;
Locating drinking water sources;
Conducting source water assessments and
obtaining funding for public water supplies;
Building ion exchange treatment plants; and
Preparing emergency plans for drinking water.
Sampling drinking water
Big Valley Rancheria
6
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Enforcement:
Developing and enforcing tribal ordinances is a tangible expression of tribal soverignty,
and is a high priority for many tribes. Region 9 has provided example codes and
ordinances to over 100 tribes.
One fifth of respondents reported the establishment of new environmental codes and
ordinances. For example, a very stringent medical waste management ordinance was
developed by the Gila River Department of Environmental Quality.
Natural/Cultural Resources:
Tribal youth gathering Dogbane for basket
making materials - Lytton Rancheria
Protection of sacred site
Medicine Lake Highlands - Pit River Tribe
Natural and cultural resources are one and the same for many tribes, so protection of
the natural environment often has direct benefits for cultural resources as well.
Preservation and protection of natural and cultural resources are reflected in fifteen
percent of accomplishments reported. The types of activities and results ware diverse
and unique to individual tribes, including:
Development of a cultural ecology ordinance;
Protection of native fish and willow tree nurseries;
Tribal youth involvement with local community to protect and preserve native
agricultural resources;
Protection of cultural and sacred sites;
Implementation of water resource projects; and
Establishment of a community "Diabetes Garden" pilot project.
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Air:
Fifty-eight tribes in Region 9 are located in non-
attainment areas for one or more air pollutants.
Efforts to understand the health and economic
effects of these circumstances have only recently
begun for most tribes. Activities to monitor and
improve air quality were reported by thirteen
percent of respondents.
Accomplishments include:
Establishing tribal weather and air-monitoring
stations;
Conducting source and emissions inventories;
Developing air quality programs;
Testing for radon; and
Cleaning up of air pollution from \andfi\\s.
Weather Station - Bishop Paiute Tribe
Weather Station - Yurok Tribe
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Pesticides:
Several tribes reported environmental results working with pesticides:
Cleanup of a Toxaphene site;
Reduction in the use of pesticides; and
Establishment of an Integrated Pesticide Management Plan.
Mining:
Arizona, Nevada and California are the top three mineral producers in the U.S.
Arizona is the number one copper producer (66%) and Nevada is the number one
gold producer (66%). Nevada has 4 of the world's 10 largest gold mines. Phelps
Dodge of Morenci is the largest U.S. open pit copper mine. Region 9 has 240
active mines and over 60,000 abandoned mines. Mining has environmental
impacts on water quality and quantity, and on air quality, and produces aquatic
toxicity and bioaccumulation, as well as habitat destruction.
Progress in dealing with mining issues was reported by several tribes:
Developing a scope of work to clean up the Rio Tinto Mine; and
Listing Leviathan mine as a Superfund site and reducing pollution of Leviathan
Creek.
Rio Tinto Mine - Shoshone Paiute Tribe
Ely Duck Valley Reservation
Leviathan Mine - Seepage pits
Washoe Tribe
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Sampling of Tribal Environmental Issues
FY 2002
To build upon the progress to date, the tribes in Region 9 have told us that it is
critical to maintain the good working relationships already achieved between tribes
and EPA, both regionally and nationally.
On a regional level, coordination among the Regional Tribal Operations Committee,
the Regional Indian Program Steering Committee, and the Indian Program Office, will
help us to work with tribes on a government-to-government basis and consult with
tribes who are potentially affected by our actions.
Ongoing issues of concern for Region 9 tribes include funding for Clean Water Act
programs (such as Sections 106 and 319), solid waste management on reservations,
drinking water infrastructure, and enforcement and compliance matters.
Frequently Reported Issues:
Percent Reported by Tribes
A total of 172 issues were reported to RTOC by 52 tribes. A detailed list of assistance
requested from EPA can be found in Section B.
The frequently reported issues fell into 11 major categories: Clean Water, Waste,
Capacity Building, Safe Drinking Water, Resource Protection, Toxic Substances, Air,
Emergency Preparedness, Pesticides, Mining, and Enforcement.
10
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Clean Water:
The Clean Water issues, reported by almost two-thirds of the respondents, include:
water pollution control, water quality standards, nonpoint sources, wastewater, and
watershed protection.
While states generally receive formula-based funding for major programs such as
Water Quality Planning and the State Revolving Fund, tribes compete every year for
a limited pool of funding. Continuity of funding is needed for those tribes with a
documented water pollution control program which includes a monitoring and
assessment program, water quality standards, and a system for managing and
reporting on water quality.
Proper treatment of sewage is considered an essential service in every American
community. Despite significant progress in the U.S. as a whole, many tribal
communities still lack basic sanitation facilities such as running water and flush
toilets. Twenty-seven percent of Tohono O'odham families lack either water or
sewer. Tribal wastewater infrastructure needs significant improvements to achieve
parity with states.
Waste Management:
Waste issues were the second largest category of concern reported by the tribes to
RTOC (54%). There are 800 open dumps in Region 9, and 50,000 tribal homes lack
adequate solid waste management.
Specific areas of concern included:
Transfer station/facility needs;
Abandoned vehicles;
Junk yards/landfills and waste;
Solid waste collection service needs;
Solid waste program management;
Solid waste plan implementation; and
Recycling program needs.
Abandoned vehicles - Yurok Tribe
11
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Capacity Building:
At present, approximately 10% of the 147 federally recognized tribal governments
in Region 9 do not have core environmental capacity/staffing presence developed
through General Assistance Program (GAP) grants. The Agency's goal is to assist
every tribe in building environmental capacity. GAP's primary focus, developing
tribal capacity and capability, was enhanced in FY 2001 to include basic solid and
hazardous waste program implementation activities, such as closing open dumps
and building transfer stations.
Capacity Building (36% of issues reported by tribes) includes:
Establishment of tribal environmental programs and infrastructure;
Development of environmental plans;
Hazardous waste program implementation;
Environmental education; and
Development of tribal environmental codes and ordinances.
Safe Drinking Water:
The Indian Health Service estimates that over 6.9% of tribal homes nationwide
lack running water. For example, 40% of Navajo families lack running water.
EPA Region 9 expects that an estimated 40% of tribal systems in California,
Arizona, and Nevada will be in noncompliance for the new arsenic standard.
Twenty-eight percent of the issues reported by tribes to RTOC are related to
drinking water concerns, including:
Renovating drinking water
infrastructure;
Locating a PCE plume contaminating
domestic water wells;
Protecting ground water;
Improving drinking water quality;
Protecting drinking water and
watersheds; and
Constructing water treatment plants. Water-Hauling Station - Navajo Nation
12
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Cultural/Natural Resources Protection:
Several tribes expressed concerns and need for
preservation of natural and cultural resources.
Areas of focus (24% of responses) were to:
Protect the Pine Nut Range and Lake Tahoe;
Develop cultural resources protection policies;
Network with other Tribes to investigate
known cultural sites;
Conduct endangered species programs/studies;
Develop sustainable energy options
(wind and solar);
Obtain designation of the Colorado River
Limitrophe as International Wildlife Refuge with
EPA support;
Protect Coso Hot Springs as a center for
medicinal, religious, and spiritual integrity
with EPA funding, technical assistance and
guidance; and
Preserve sacred sites and historic boatyard site
on Indian Island.
Lake Tahoe - Washoe Tribe
Elf Owl - Southwestern Willow
Flycatcher - Endangered Species
Indian Island - Table Bluff Reservation
Wiyot Tribe
Indian Island historic boatyard site
Table Bluff Reservation Wiyot Tribe
13
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Toxic Substances:
Hazardous waste, underground storage tanks, pipelines and above-ground storage
tanks remain issues for tribes. Twenty-three percent of tribes reported issues with
toxic substances/hazardous waste. The issues reported include:
Cleaningup of contaminated land;
Removal of hazardous waste;
Cleanup of adioactivity, lead, and
arsenic in water and soil adjacent to
a landfill;
Evaluation of damage from
Sulphur Bank mine;
Cleanup of a perchlorate contamination
site; and
Involvement of tribes in the new
Brownfields Law.
Brownfields Landfill - Ely Shoshone Tribe
Air:
Fifty-eight tribes in Region 9 breathe air that does not meet national ambient air
quality standards, primarily due to transport from off-reservation sources. Minor
sources on reservations are unregulated by the EPA. Tribes are also
disproportionately affected by toxic air pollutant deposition on subsistence foods.
Air issues were reflected in 21% of the tribal responses. Among the issues for
which the tribes are requesting assistance are:
Reduction in PM-10 emissions;
Air quality monitoring;
Testing for radon in homes and
buildings;
Development air quality programs;
Achievement of the 8-Hour Ozone
standard;
Obtaining of approval of for Class
1 Air Redesignation; and
Improvement of indoor-air quality.
Owens Dry Lake
Lone Pine Paiute-Shoshone Reservation
14
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Emergency Preparedness:
Reliance on States for emergency response preparedness still leaves tribes vulnerable to
any emergency incident. Fourteen percent of respondents indicated emergency
management preparation as a critical need.
Pesticides:
Pesticides are one of many environmental threats to tribal subsistence lifestyles.
Eleven percent of the responses from tribes concerned needs arising from pesticide
use, including:
Cleaning up pesticide sites;
Assisting tribes with pesticide enforcement; and
Providing technical assistance for pesticide and herbicide usage.
Enforcement Issues:
To protect human health and the environment on Indian lands, full compliance
with tribal and EPA regulatory programs is required. New and innovative
approaches for partnering with the responsible tribal government will have to
be created. Tribal governments and members have a high level of interest and
share EPA concerns for protection of areas that provide quality of life and have
cultural, emotional and spiritual value. Nine percent of the tribes reported
needs relating to enforcement, including:
Establishing tribal environmental health enforcement programs;
Supporting comprehensive tribal regulatory programs; and
Furnishing training for council and staff on the development and
enforcement of environmental codes and ordinances.
Mining:
Mining was reported by several tribes (8%).
Among concerns reported were:
Leviathan Mine;
Rio Tinto Mine;
Sulphur Bank Mine; and
Yerington Mine.
Elem Indian Colony/ Sulphur Bank Mine
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SECTION A - TRIBAL ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Intern identifies aquatic insects in
tribal lab - Bishop Paiute Tribe
Septic tank survey - Trinidad Rancheria
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Environmental Accomplishments in FY 2001-2002 by Tribe
(from responses to RTOC)
Tribe
Ak-Chin Indian Community, AZ
Augustine Band of Cahuilla
Mission Indians, CA
Big Pine Paiute Tribe of the
Owens Valley, CA
Big Sandy Rancheria, CA
Accomplishments
1) Approved Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP); 2) Established Water Pollution Control
Program; 3) Established NPS program (Revegetation Program).
1) Developed and implemented an environmental code which is included in the Ak-Chin
Law and Order Code as its own Title; 2) Established an Open Burn Ordinance; 3)
Established a Solid Waste Ordinance; 4) Created an Environmental Protection Authority to
enforce code violations.
1) Submitted a Tribal Environmental Agreement Plan (TEAP) to EPA; 2) Completed a
reservation-wide EPA Environmental Assessment; 3) Set aside an area of reservation
designated as "Environmental" (protected); 4) Obtained CWA Sec. 106 and 319(h)
funding; FIFRA pesticide grant; 5) Completed a unified watershed assessment.
Drilled monitoring wells to monitor water level for early detection of any potential
contaminant that might adversely impact the natural resources on the reservation.
Removed a business which was out of compliance with federal environmental law.
The Tribe will be drilling a new well in April 2002 to provide a clean source of water for the
Big Pine Reservation. The Tribe is now in compliance with the reporting requirements of
the Safe Drinking Water Act in regards to the MCL violations for PCE.
The Tribe has been able to assert and protect water resources in regard to the water-
gathering activities of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power.
Established the Big Sandy Rancheria Environmental Programs Office in 1996.
Developed several environmentally based codes and ordinances.
Gained the confidence of the Tribal Council, as well as the tribal population, in program's
knowledge and accountability.
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Tribe
Big Valley Band of Porno
Indians, CA
Bishop Paiute Tribe, CA
Bridgeport Indian Colony, CA
Accomplishments
Established Big Valley EPA Office in 1996. Completed environmental survey of Rancheria
and revise on annual basis with updated Tribal Council priorities. Completed
Environmental Plan for Big Valley Rancheria's community infrastructure and proposed
improvements.
Obtained TAS for 106 Clean Water Program. Adopted Water Quality ordinance.
Completed Unified Watershed Assessment.
Adopted Public Safety ordinance that includes solid waste and environmental health
requirements for community. Completed Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan for
Tribe.
Completed Non Point Source Report and Management Plan for Clear Lake watershed.
Obtained TAS for 319 NPS Clean Water Program.
Approved QAPP for sampling of mercury from the surface waters of Clear Lake watershed.
Administrative and Regulatory Infrastructure-Developed and implemented the following:
- Tribal Environmental Management Office;
- Tribal Environmental Protection Agency;
- Environmental ordinances and policies including Tribal Environmental Policy Ordinance,
Tribal Water Code, Tribal Ordinance Prohibiting the Discharge of Pollutants into
Reservation Waters, Public Nuisance Ordinance, Trespass Ordinance, Tribal Environmental
Policy Review.
Water-Developed water resources protection, management, and monitoring infrastructure
including: Water Quality Assessment Report, Unified Watershed Assessment, Wellhead
Protection Plan, Wellhead Protection Ordinance, Water Quality Control Plan, Water Quality
Standards (draft), Water Laboratory, Quality Assurance Project Plan, Flood Plan Mapping.
Land: - Developed an Environmental Protection Plan and Land Management Plan.
- Removed leaking underground storage tanks (USTs).
Air: - Developed and installed a tribal weather station.
- Developed a draft Source and Emissions Inventory.
Initiated inquiries toward the cleanup of the Bridgeport Landfill to federal, state, and local
agencies in 1999. In taking the lead role to resolve this problem, we have helped to
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Tribe
Bridgeport Indian Colony, CA
(continued)
Cahto Tribe of Laytonville
Rancheria, CA
Cabazon Band of Cahuilla
Mission Indians, CA
Chemehuevi Indian Tribe, CA
Cocopah Indian Tribe, AZ
Accomplishments
expedite the conversion to transfer station operations that have taken place in late April
2002.
Completed Electric Resistivity Study of May, 2000 regarding pollution on Rancheria directly
adjacent to Laytonville dump (landfill) through Gashing Associates, Rancho Cordova, CA.
Preliminary Analysis/Site Investigation report under EPA GAP 2001-02, by SECOR
International, Sacramento, CA.
QAPP approved under CWA, Section 106, by Water Quality Technology, Inc. (WQTI), Fort
Collins, CO.
Made significant progress on environmental regulations and training.
Water resources project well underway.
Have begun establishing fire protection pond at Cabazon Resource Recovery Park (a multi-
faceted industrial facility dedicated to recycling and reuse to significantly reduce the flow
of solid waste to dump sites.
Closed Chemehuevi main dump and landfill with funding from IMS. Next project is to
clean up small debris dumps left over from General Patton's training exercises and more
recent debris sites.
Have completed excellent work on our current 319 grant with riparian restoration
activities. The project is new, but is showing excellent progress and potential for
improvement of water quality and protection of our watershed.
Developed a community-wide Emergency Preparedness Plan with support from San
Bernardino County Sheriff and Fire Departments and from the non-Indian community.
Removed all underground storage tanks.
Developed water quality standards.
Developed significant riparian enhancement program. Now being integrated with the
Environmental Protection Office-initiated concept to declare the "Limitrophe" region of the
Lower Colorado River an International Wildlife Refuge.
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Tribe
Dry Creek Rancheria Band of
Pomo Indians, CA
Duckwater Shoshone Tribe, NV
Elem Indian Colony, CA
Elk Valley Rancheria, CA
Ely Shoshone Tribe, NV
Accomplishments
Located drinking water source.
Cleaned up open dump.
Developed environmental ordinances.
Established Solid Waste Management Program: Developed Solid Waste ordinance; hired
Solid Waste Coordinator; closed open-pit dump; purchased compactor truck; currently
providing curbside pick-up services to community.
Implemented Watershed Management Program.
Conducted Radon Testing: Tested tribal complex building and community homes.
Have set up new Environmental Department that has established EPA-acceptable financial
and management practices in accord with federal law.
Established interactive relationship with EPA.
Established environmental consortium of 6 Indian tribes around Clear Lake.
Completed Tribal Environmental Inventory; produced newsletter; submitted grant
proposals to EPA; drafted Solid Waste Management Plan; developed 106 CleanWater
workplan; applied for Environmental Regulatory Enhancement ANA grant.
Submitted application to BIA for training of tribal member as a Water Resource
Technician.
Environmental Program has recently been established. No completed projects yet.
Phase I and Phase II Assessment of landfill completed. Applied for Brownfields Economic
Redevelopment Initiative Demonstration Project.
Developed an integrated Environmental Department through the General Assistance
Program (GAP).
Tested radon in tribal homes and tribal buildings through Indian Radon Pilot Project.
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Tribe
Federated Indians of Graton
Rancheria, CA
Fort Bidwell Indian Community,
CA
Fort Independence Indian
Reservation, CA
Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation,
AZ
Gila River Indian Community,
AZ
Hopland Band of Porno Indians,
CA
Accomplishments
Graton Rancheria's federal recognition status was restored only this last year. The Tribe
is still landless, and thus, has yet to fully exercise its environmental regulatory authority.
Established Forest Hazard Reduction Plan.
Conducted source water assessment and received funding for Public Water Supply System.
Completed establishment of the Tribal Environmental Protection Program.
Enacted environmental enforcement plan.
Begun mapping the reservation in order to create a CIS database.
Developed and implemented an emergency plan for the tribal drinking water system.
Finished clean closure of landfill (self-funded).
Remediated LUST site (self-funded).
Developed tribal environmental program.
Cleaned up toxaphene site.
Dramatically decreased the use of pesticides in its agricultural operations.
Developed medical waste management ordinance (most stringent emission requirements
in the United States).
Closed dump site at unknown creek name on reservation.
Built Wastewater Reclamation Treatment Plant.
Tripled water resource for potable water with drilling of new well.
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Tribe
Accomplishments
Hualapai Nation, AZ
Enacted Hualapai Environmental Review Code and most of its subtitles into law. Subtitles
enacted include: Conservation Ordinance, Forestry Ordinance, Cultural Resource
Ordinance, Agricultural Ordinance, Water Resource Ordinance, Wetland Ordinance and
Solid Waste Ordinance. _ .
Restored the following spring wetlands: Willow Spring, Red Spring, Moss Spring,
Meriwhitica Spring, Mesquite Spring, and Mulberry Spring after the removal of
approximately 105 feral livestock.
Established Hualapai Native Fish Rearing Facility and Native Tree Nursery. Currently have
four Va-acre fish ponds and one two-acre fish pond which drain into a twenty-acre tree
nursery. We have secured funding to line four more 1/2-acre fish ponds. The facility will
continue to be successful with the support of various agencies. US EPA, USFWS, BIA, BOR
and NAU have all contributed. Three hundred and thirty willows will be planted at the
nursery this spring at various locations on the reservation. We will continue to rear
endangered Razorback Suckers at the facility.
Kashia Band of Porno Indians of
Stewart's Point Rancheria, CA
Completed numerous educational activities for the community and the Kashia School:
a) information in the community newsletter on environmental activities, conservation and
recycling; b) a community education meeting about the community water system;
c) informational fliers on solid waste management; d) educational materials on energy
conservation, recycling and other environmental issues for the Tribe and the Kashia
School; and e) education and involvement of the Kashia School in the solid waste
management cleanup project.
Completed preliminary solid waste management cleanup of community and illegal dump
sites.
Coordinated extensively with IHS and EPA on community water system improvements.
Visited other water treatment plants; reviewed and approved preliminary Engineering
Report and Memorandum of Agreement. Held community educational meeting.
Constructed a fire break around the Rancheria property and around each of the residences
to enhance the Tribe's emergency response capabilities.
La Jolla Band of Luiseno
Indians, CA
Solid Waste: Removed trash from open dump sites and closed areas; initiated program to
remove abandoned vehicles from the reservation.
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Tribe
La Jolla Band of Luiseno
Indians/ CA (continued)
Lone Pine Paiute-Shoshone
Reservation/ CA
Lytton Rancheria, Lytton Band
of Pomo Indians/ CA
Morongo Band of Mission
Indians/ CA
Accomplishments
Hazardous waste cleanup days have been incorporated into Tribe's future agenda.
The Tribe has built and maintains an extensive Public Water System (PWS) serving the
three communities on the reservation. The PWS is regularly monitored for coliform
bacteria and other contaminants and serviced by well-trained tribal technicians.
Established several tribal environmental ordinances.
The Tribe has always received very good to excellent reviews pertaining to progress with
the General Assistance Program. The Environmental Department and staff currently
participate in the Clean Water Act Section 106 and Section 319 programs.
Persistently contends with the LADWP concerning the building of a 150-cfs pumpback
station (station should have no more than a 50-cfs capability).
Obtained a 30-day extension for CEQA from the lead agency (Great Basin Unified Air
Pollution Control District) regarding deep-well testing near Coso Hot Springs.
Implemented a new air quality program which will aid in acquiring additional data
regarding PM-10 emissions.
Tribal members are receptive to vital information to maintain and create a healthy
environment to live in, as well as an awareness to adopt environmentally sound practices
at home.
Tribal youth are more involved and aware of their community surroundings. Tribal youth
actively inquire about ways they can improve and help restore and preserve cultural
resources.
Tribal members are voicing concerns and are networking with other tribes to investigate
known cultural sites.
Cleaned up several solid waste dumps on the reservation.
Established a Water Department, which conducts regular drinking water and water quality
sampling.
Established recycling programs for offices, businesses and residences.
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>
CO
Tribe
Pechanga Band of Luiseno
Indians, CA
Pit River Tribe, CA
Redwood Valley Rancheria, CA
Resighini Rancheria, CA
Robinson Rancheria of Porno
Indians, CA
Accomplishments
Established an Environmental Program (long-term commitment).
Completed environmental assessments (goal direction).
Held Tribal Earth Day events (outreach, education and trust).
Cleanup of one large dumpsite on reservation, with another one in progress.
Development of an integrated Environmental Department through the General Assistance
Program (GAP).
Involvement in sacred site protection at the Mededne Lake Highlands and other prime
tribal cultural areas.
Solid Waste: Purchased equipment, hired personnel and started cleanups and recycling;
and created two ordinances: "Burning and Nuisance Dumping."
Environmental assessment and priorities: Have completed overall environmental
assessment and created a process for update it and creation of priorities.
Developed an Environmental Education Program for youth.
Established environmental agency under EPA GAP grant in FY 2000-2001.
Developed contacts with EPA Region 9 Air Division for continued technical assistance.
Applied for three-year Environmental Regulatory Enhancement ANA Grant. Funding will
enable development of environmental laws, rules, and regulations, as well as enforcement
and monitoring policies.
Have established the Environmental Center and environmental programs and services over
the past 6 years.
Environmental Center, expanded to include 8 programs funded by grants and provides
training in various areas. Programs include: EPA-GAP; EPA-CAA 103; EPA-CWA 106; BIA
Watershed Restoration; BIA Forestry Management Plan; BIA Tribal Transportation; BIA
Water Planning (pre-development); VPS Cultural Resources; VPS NAGPRA; EPA Integrated
Pesticide Management Plan.
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Tribe
Robinson Rancheria of Porno
Indians, CA (continued)
San Carlos Apache Tribe, AZ
Accomplishments
Community Diabetes Garden - Robinson was the first local tribe to grow a tribal Diabetes
Garden Pilot Project. The garden has gained regional and inter-regional recognition with
the help of Lake County Tribal Health Department through a cooperative partnership
agreement. The project has also encouraged the 5 other local tribes to start their own
garden projects this year.
Removed several underground storage tanks.
Expanded tribal environmental* infrastructure.
Successfully removed abandoned cars through solid waste program.
Obtained closure for three large open dumps.
Achieved compliance for public drinking water systems after 10 years of noncompliance.
Funded and sponsored environmental education program (summer of 2002).
Conducted LIST inspections for 6 of 7 tribal gas stations and gained compliance for all but
one.
Assisted tribal solid waste sanitation service with funding for startup of transfer station
recyling program.
Received funding for continuation of Water Resource programs: CWA 106, CWA 319,
PWSS Source Water Program.
Removed 250 storage barrels of Hazardous Waste Material.
Conducted asbestos survey and hired outside contractor to perform abatement.
Received funding for Tribal Open Dump Closure Project to close 14 scattered dumpsites
reservation-wide from Solid Waste Interagency Working Group.
Expanded tribal environmental infrastructure from 1 environmental specialist to 3 positions
with an additional 3 positions to be hired in FY2003.
Received 1st Connor Byestewa Environmental Excellence Award presented during the
Annual Tribal/EPA Conference.
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Tribe
Accomplishments
San Manuel Band of Serrano
Mission Indians, CA
Donated $875,000 to eight local cities to synchronize traffic lights that will result in a 12-
15% reduction in smog, rear-end collisions, gas consumption, and a correlating increase in
local -business revenues.
Establishment of a Household Hazardous Waste Program that: a) eliminates household
hazardous waste from the reservation from entering the solid landfills or waterways; and
b) produces paid public service announcements on radio for household hazardous waste
collection facilities in the Inland Empire (to reduce household hazardous waste from
entering landfills or waterways.)
Establishment of a recycling program for the reservation that will reduce the amount of
solid waste entering landfills by 50%.
Sherwood Valley Rancheria, CA
Developed an Environmental Plan.
Cleaned up portion of reservation. Removed 140 cubic yards of household waste,and
metals, and 200 tires.
Developed Environmental Education Department. Provided environmental newsletter to
tribal members and held workshops.
Shoshone-Paiute Tribes of the
Duck Valley Reservation, NV
Rio Tinto Mine: Tribes have successfully elevated concerns about acid-mine drainage and
potential impacts to the Duck Valley Reservation's health and natural resources. Have
effectively worked with EPA Superfund, State of Nevada, and the Rio Tinto Working Group
to craft new AOC/SOW that is now being implemented. Tribes' concerns are being taken
into account for characterization and evaluation of remedial alternatives. Tribes have
begun to implement an assessment within the Reservation to inform all parties of the
extent and nature of impacts to cultural resources and public health. EPA is lending
assistance to the study design, and to sampling and analysis needs.
Solid and Hazardous Waste Minimization: (a) Tribes began remedial efforts using BIA
funding assistance. This included the removal of numerous USTs and a heating oil line,
and the installation of a groundwater monitoring system. EPA involvement has been
minimal and BIA funding has been put off. There needs to be more EPA involvement to
keep the Bureau moving on the cleanup; (b) All open dumps on the reservation have been
closed and a waste transfer system has been installed. Solid waste is collected at the
transfer station and transported to the Elko Landfill. The transfer station also takes
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Tribe
Shoshone-Paiute Tribes of the
Duck Valley Reservation, NV
(continued)
Smith River Rancheria, CA
Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay
Nation, CA
Table Bluff Reservation - Wiyot
Tribe, CA
Tohono O'odham Nation, AZ
Accomplishments
aluminum, cardboard, and white office paper for recycling. The Tribes also are attempting
to implement other integrated solid waste management approaches to reduce the amount
of waste transported to the Elko Landfill.
Tribal Water Quality Program: The Tribes have been able to expand the WQPP to include
annual monitoring and NPS watershed management. They have begun to implement
BMPs by installing road crossings to minimize turbidity and the effects of road erosion in
the Skull Creek drainage. They will continue to utilize BMPs for stream protection and
restoration. The environmental program has hired a chemical engineer to head up the
NPS program and to assist on other water quality issues.
Crushed and removed 200 tons of metal in 2001, including 80 cars, 30 refrigerators, and
miscellaneous scrap metals and white goods.
Developed a Tribal Environmental Code.
Developed a Tribal Recycling Program which recycled 900 pounds of materials in the first
3 months.
Improved well system.
Established Ion Exchange Treatment Plant.
Implemented water reuse program.
Solid waste cleanup project 2002: cleaned up many open dumpsites, burn-trash pits,
hazardous waste (appliances, batteries, tires, abandoned vehicles), uninhabitable
structures (three containing asbestos), household hazardous wastes, abandoned gas
cylinders and drums, and construction debris with alternate sources of funding.
Implemented a variety of drinking water and wastewater infrastructure improvement
projects at multiple sites on the reservation. Constructed community wastewater systems
and built or enlarged wastewater lagoons: Cowlic, Gu Vo, Queen's Well, Pia Oik, and
Santa Rosa. Constructed new drinking water wells, storage tank, and PVC mains: Pia Oik
and Queen's Well (new well).
The Water Resources Study program implemented a Clean Water Act 106 Water Quality
Program after completing the QAPP process.
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Tribe
Tohono O'odham Nation, AZ
(continued)
Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla
Indians, CA
Trinidad Rancheria, CA
Tide River Tribe, CA
Tuolumne Band of the Me-Wuk
Indians, CA
Accomplishments
In July 2002, closed the first five dumps of the original 113 planned for closure.
Approved a solid waste ordinance and green-waste-burning permitting procedure.
Developed capacity to participate in the Salton Sea Restoration Project.
Developed initial tools and organizational structure to implement tribal strategic planning
program.
Investigated (using EPA funds') wastewater alternatives and subsequently constructed
(using tribal funds) a wastewater treatment plant and wastewater disposal leach field to
eliminate a failed on-site wastewater system for the Tribe's major economic enterprise.
The wastewater treatment plant utilizes an innovative wastewater reuse technology to
conserve water and increase the longevity of the new leach field.
Accomplished environmental monitoring, remediation, and wastewater renovation
activities in Trinidad Harbor, acquired by the Tribe in 2002. The Tribe has been providing
oversight and coordination in an underground storage tank remediation activity, which is
the responsibility of the Harbor's previous owner.
Cleaned up and/or closed open dumpsites; removed 140 abandoned vehicles.
Established Water Quality Program.
Removed Tribe's last UST.
Developed and published a solid waste plan and ordinance, including a citation form for
enforcing the terms of the ordinance.
Developed emergency response procedures for chemical emergencies.
Assisted in interpretation of test results for the presence of lead in the water of older
homes.
Obtained GPS equipment and GIS software and began collecting baseline information
about environmental issues and resources.
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CO
Tribe
Tuolumne Band of the Me-Wuk
Indians, CA (continued)
Washoe Tribe of NV/CA
White Mountain Apache Tribe,
AZ
Yurok Tribe, CA
Accomplishments
Initiated a comprehensive solid waste cleanup project which is ongoing. Since February
2002, the following materials have been collected: about 850 tires, 1120 cubic yards of
scrap metal, 300 cubic yards of general debris, 34 TVs/computer monitors, and 66
appliances (refrigerators, freezers, stoves, washing machines, and dryers).
In 2001, the Tribe's environmental office also accomplished a variety of restoration actions
under USDA, EQIP and BOR grants to preserve and restore wetlands, meadows, and a
riparian creek within the Rancheria.
Arranged a county-sponsored household hazardous waste collection event held on
September 30, 2001 on the Rancheria. This event collected 1,270 gallons of sludge, 100
gallons of used oil, and 53 automotive batteries.
Tribe instrumental in getting Leviathan Mine listed as a Superfund Site in May of 2000.
Completion of Sampling and Analysis Plan for the Water Quality Monitoring Program and
Nonpoint Source Assessment Report and Nonpoint Source Management Program.
Completed Structure 1 on the Washoe Nonpoint Source Stewart Ranch Project in January
2002.
Awarded EPA Wetlands Protection grant to develop a wetlands management plan for
Meeks and Taylor/Baldwin wetlands at Lake Tahoe.
Water Quality Standards approved. Achieved program authorization for CWA sections 303
and 401.
Implemented abandoned-vehicle removal program.
Developed demonstration meteorological station project with Tribal Air Monitoring support.
Monitored water quality in the Klamath Basin.
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SECTION B - TRIBAL ENVIRONMENTAL
ASSISTANCE REQUESTED FROM EPA
Beach Site for Native Tree Planting
Chemehuevi Indian Tribe
Abandoned Vehicles - Yurok Tribe
Hot Springs - Lone Pine Paiute-Shoshone
Yerington Anaconda Evaporation Ponds
Walker River Paiute Tribe
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Assistance Requested from EPA in FY 2002
(from responses to RTOC)
Tribe
Ak-Chin Indian Community, AZ
Augustine Band of Cahuilla
Mission Indians, CA
Big Pine Paiute Tribe of the
Owens Valley, CA
Big Sandy Rancheria, CA
Big Valley Band of Porno Indians,
CA
Needed from EPA
Funding for Solid Waste Management Program (trash cleanup, remediation of
abandoned industrial park site, removal of industrial park soil solid waste plan, recycling
plan, and development of .codes/ordinances.) ($174,000).
Funding for Wetlands Management Program: conservation plan; watershed protection
project; assessment and monitoring of ecological integrity; wetlands outreach and
education program; contingency ($130,000).
General Assistance Program: ($113,800); Air Quality Program; ($130,000); endangered
species requiring Special Protection Program ($100,000).
Funding and technical assistance for cleanup of the accumulated waste from illegal
dumping on the Augustine Reservation.
Funding and technical assistance for protection of ground water resources.
Funding and technical assistance for Air Quality Program.
Funding for cleanup of land that has been contaminated by a business illegally disposing
of hazardous waste on the site.
Funding and technical assistance to locate the PCE plume which has contaminated the
Tribe's domestic water wells.
Implementation funding for removal of mini-junkyards and other solid waste problem
areas on the Reservation.
Funding and technical assistance for wastewater/drinking water facilities.
Funding and technical assistance for drinking water quality and quantity.
Funding for solid waste management.
Development of Pesticide Pollution Prevention Program.
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U3
NJ
Tribe
Big Valley Band of Pomo Indians,
CA (continued)
Bishop Paiute Tribe, CA
-T:
i
Bridgeport Indian Colony, CA
Cahto Tribe of Laytonville
Rancheria, CA
Needed from EPA
Continued support of current program and expansion into TAS for:
1) Water Quality Standards; 2) Wetland Activities; 3) NPDES authority.
Water Quality Protection and Management Proqram: Maintain funding levels for CWA
106; continue training and technical assistance; and provide training and technical
assistance in water quality standards implementation and enforcement.
Solid Waste Management Proqram: Increase funding to sustain a tribal solid waste
management program. Continue existing training and technical assistance.
Air Quality Protection and Management Program: Increase funding to sustain tribal air
quality program. Continue existing training and technical assistance.
Administrative and Regulatory Capacity Building and Cultural Resources Protection:
Increase funding to develop and sustain administrative and regulatory capacity building
and cultural resources protection (as tribal cultural values and resources are critical to
understanding and maintaining balance and harmony in the environmental protection
process).
Funding and additional support to rent or purchase heavy equipment needed for cleanup
of reservation solid wastes.
Funding and technical assistance for installation and operation of monitoring wells.
(Ground water monitoring necessary due to close proximity of Mono County landfill and
Public Utility District Sewer Ponds.)
Funding and technical assistance for community outreach/awareness (materials such as
instruction videos, pros and cons of environmental awareness).
Air monitors around periphery of dump and Rancheria.
Hazardous waste cleanup; "space suits" for radiation poisoning prevention due to
radioactivity, lead and arsenic in water and soil adjacent to Laytonville dump.
Clean, pure bottled drinking water due to drinking water contamination (especially heavy
metals, e.g. trihalomethanes).
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Tribe
Cabazon Band of Cahuilia Mission
Indians, CA
Chemehuevi Indian Tribe, CA
Cocopah Indian Tribe, AZ
Dry Creek Rancheria Band of
Porno Indians, CA
Needed from EPA
Completion of environmental regulations and training for the Environmental
Administrator.
Funding for Phase 2 (applied for) to establish a program to test and monitor tribal water
resources (Phase 1 funded under Sec 106).
GAP funding to establish Environmental Planning Department (will apply at end of current
2-year grant).
Funding of 319 and 106 grant requests for Colorado River Water Quality Restoration and
rapid approval of our Water Quality Standards when submitted. Funding of 319 grant for
weed control and technical assistance needed.
Funding for development of our Air Program, and technical assistance with monitoring
equipment and interpretation of data to help alleviate health concerns for tribal
members, due to high levels of particulate matter in the form of dust pollution.
Technical assistance and/or funding for comprehensive studies of endangered species on
the reservation: Southwestern Willow Flycatcher, Elf Owl, Arizona Bell's Vireo and other
species.
EPA support for concept of designating the Limitrophe region of the Lower Colorado
River as an International Wildlife Refuge.
Pressure on Border 21 group to encourage Mexican component to release funds as
"grants," as opposed to loans to small, impoverished communities (e.g., Cucupa Indian
communities in Baja California) for infrastructure needs.
EPA to coordinate awareness and communications of quality of Lower Colorado River as
it impacts downstream stakeholders, among states, federal agencies (especially USBR),
and communities regarding contaminants and their current/expected impacts.
Funding and technical assistance for Drinking Water improvements.
Funding for Clean Water Act.
Funding for Solid Waste/Recycling Program.
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Tribe
Elem Indian Colony, CA
Elk Valley Rancheria, CA
Ely Shoshone Tribe, NV
Federated Indians of Graton
Rancheria, CA
Fort Bidwell Indian Community,
CA
Fort Independence Indian
Reservation, CA
Needed from EPA
Cleanup of Sulphur Bank Mercury Mine Superfund Site: funding for community
involvement and for training of tribal personnel to assfst EPA during cleanup and
monitoring (long-term monitoring will be needed).
Fund technical assistance and tribal research into Native American pathways of exposure
to mercury.
Funding for solid waste cleanup of open dumping on reservation and funding for new
management practice capability.
Funding and technical assistance for abandoned vehicle abatement.
Funding and technical assistance for unauthorized and uncontrolled dumping.
Funding and technical assistance for pesticide and herbicide usage.
Financial assistance for cleanup of landfill (solid waste).
Financial assistance to conduct air monitoring (air grant).
Financial assistance for Drinking Water Programs and Groundwater Protection.
Funding for inventory of federal land holdings in aboriginal territory.
Funding and technical assistance for tribal environmental education.
Funding for watershed protection (drinking water source).
Technical assistance for forest management (promote a healthy and sustainable forest
through effective forest management techniques).
Technical assistance and funding for an Integrated Resource Management Plan.
Funding and technical assistance to build a sewage plant.
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Tribe
Fort Independence Indian
Reservation, CA (continued)
Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation,
AZ
Gila River Indian Community, AZ
Hoopa Valley Tribe, CA
Hopland Band of Porno Indians,
CA
Needed from EPA
Funding to develop a solid waste and recycling transfer station.
Funding and technical assistance for overhaul of tribal drinking water infrastructure.
Funding, technical assistance and greater flexibility in GAP for development and
implementation of environmental compliance/enforcement plan.
Continued EPA funding for-water quality implementation, non-point source controls,
adoption of water quality, standards, and riparian restoration.
Greater flexibility in GAP program for implementation of solid waste plan, including
recycling.
Greater EPA flexibility for determining emitters; resolution of 8-hour ozone standard
designation implementation.
Funding and technical assistance to clean up 3 abandoned pesticides sites (air strip, DDT
and toxaphene).
Funding and technical assistance for completion of Clean Air Act Program (Tribal
Implementation Plan).
Funding and technical assistance for cleanup of Aerodyne Site (perchlorate
contamination).
Section 106 funding as a National Section 106 Tribal Task Force member.
EPA Region 9's involving tribes in the new federal Brownfields law.
The need to streamline the approval process for Tribal Water Quality Standards.
Construction grant funding for water treatment plant.
Construction grant funding for wastewater treatment plant.
Construction grant funding for solid waste facility.
Construction grant funding for solar array.
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Tribe
Hualapai, AZ
Kaibab Paiute, AZ
Kashia Band of Porno Indians of
Stewarts Point Rancheria, CA
La Jolla Band of Luiseno Indians,
CA
Needed from EPA
Funding and occasional technical assistance for Hualapai Lower Colorado River Corridor
Plan.
Funding and occasional technical assistance for Water Quality Standards and permanent
Section 106 target funding.
Permanent Section 105 funding of air program.
Water: need funding, personnel, technical assistance, water quality standards, and
sewage treatment.
Land Use Program: need funding, range management, fire management and outreach
services to livestock owners.
Solid Waste: need community cleanup and equipment (truck and bins).
Air Quality: pesticide cleanup and removal; redesignation of air quality Class I;
prevention of pollution.
Emergency Preparation & Response: need funds, equipment and training.
Technical assistance for cleanup of illegal household waste dumpsites.
Funding and technical assistance for development and implementation of sustainable
energy options (wind and solar) for the Tribe.
Financial and technical assistance to develop and implement Recycling Plan.
Response and funding for a Border XXI Infrastructure Project submitted in July 2001 (an
ongoing issue).
Funding for a solid waste transfer station.
Funding for domestic water and water reclamation.
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Tribe
Lone Pine Paiute-Shoshone
Reservation, CA
Lytton Rancheria, Lytton Band of
Porno Indians, CA
Morongo Band of Mission
Indians, CA
Navajo Nation Environmental
Protection Agency, AZ
Needed from EPA
Funding, technical .assistance and guidance for Lower Owens River Project (LORP)/Owens
Lakebed returning water to the LORP; monitoring the monitors for the Southern Sand
Sheet (SSS).
Funding, technical assistance and guidance to maintain Coso Hot Springs National
Register of Historic Places for medicinal, religious and spiritual integrity.
Funding, technical assistance and guidance to reduce the PM-10 emissions (Owens Dry
Lake is the largest known source of PM-10 emissions in the U.S.).
Expertise needed on training methods and curriculum development geared towards youth
and tribal members (issues such as safe water management, lead poisoning awareness,
and tribal community planning and development.)
Expertise is needed for testing methods for clearance of pesticides and other harmful
exposures to the dogbane plant for safe basket making. If harmful elements are
identified, measures are needed to restore the health of the plant. Priority to have tribal
youth involvement with local community issues to protect and preserve native agricultural
resources.
Expertise on training to investigate and inquire about developments (timber harvest
plans, highway widening projects and other developments within Sonoma County) on
sacred sites, including preservation of sites.
Funding for reservation-wide study of surface and groundwater resources.
Technical assistance for wastewater treatment plant.
Funding and technical assistance for solid and hazardous waste removal.
Enforcement of tribal environmental laws - implementation support for comprehensive
tribal regulatory programs.
Target funding for eligible Region 9 tribes in CWA SectionlOS programs.
Solid waste funding for cleanup of open dumps in'Indian Country (#1 problem on Indian
lands). EPA should facilitate inter-agency approach (a new one) involving BIA, IHS, BOR,
and, DOI.
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CD
do
Tribe
Pechanga Band of Luiseno
Indians, CA
*
Pit River Tribe, CA
Redwood Valley Rancheria, CA
Resighini Rancheria, CA
Robinson Rancheria of Pomo
Indians, CA
San Carlos Apache Tribe, AZ
Needed from EPA
Emeraencv management: Tribes need access to resources, traininq and funding to bring
them equal withstates in preventing, preparing and responding to emergencies.
Air Quality: current designation needs to be re-examined and backed by scientific data.
Proposed new designations should be placed on hold if trust lands are to be included
until it is determined that consultation and determination is acceptable to tribes.
Water Quality: tribes must be given access to resources, traininq and funds to determine
their own water quality.
Focus: give tribes equal time and funds as received by states.
Financial assistance for Water Program: water quality standards, rights, and monitoring.
Financial assistance for Environmental Program; protection of sacred sites and cultural
values.
Financial assistance for Solid Waste Program: clean up of dumpsites and better waste .
management. ;
Design and specifications assistance to resolve wastewater plant malfunctions.
Sustain construction funding for solid waste (issue of affordability of basic services for
low income and the elderly).
Funding assistance for maintenance of water, wastewater, and other public facilities.
Continue GAP funding for completion of the Tribal Environmental Plan.
Continue technical assistance for Air Quality inspector training.
Funding and technical assistance to remove illegal solid waste and prevent dumping on
the Reservation.
Funding for hiring Environmental Education Specialist.
Need a certified Tribal Environmental Inspector to oversee all community infrastructure
projects.
Continued funding to sustain environmental infrastructure.
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Tribe
San Carlos Apache Tribe, AZ
(continued)
San Manuel Band of Serrano
Mission Indians, CA
Sherwood Valley Rancheria, CA
Shoshone-Paiute Tribes of the
Duck Valley Reservation, NV
Needed from EPA
Approval of WaterQuality Standards.
Support by EPA for technical assistance in areas of air quality, water quality, toxics,
pesticides, inspections, compliance, environmental regulations and funding opportunities,
etc.
Addressing the poorest air quality in the nation, all generated from off-reservation
sources. ' *
Change EPA's practice of notifying, instead of consulting, sovereign nations regarding
EPA rules and decision making affecting tribes.
Assistance in dealing with Department of Defense policy limiting its responsibility for
contamination left on former military bases.
More training for Council and staff on environmental codes and ordinances.
More training for Council and staff on enforcement of environmental codes and
ordinances.
Need assistance with solid waste collection and disposal.
Rio Tinto Mine: Tribes require onqoinq fundinq of $100K (for 3 years) to support current
role. Also need technical assistance from EPA Superfund, Regional Lab and Cincinnati
Lab in assessing direction and results of remedial efforts. The letter of the Regional
Administrator to Governor Kenny Guinn regarding Rio Tinto needs to be followed up on
to comply with tribal concerns about the mine.
Town of Owyhee Hydrocarbon Contamination (BIA USTs and Heating Oil distribution
lines): EPA needs to provide more oversight on the Administrative Order in place. To
continue, the old BIA Roads and Irrigation Shops must be demolished and removed.
That will enable the tribes to continue the characterization and remedial requirements.
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CD
I-'
O
Tribe
Shoshone-Paiute Tribes of the
Duck Valley Reservation, NV
(continued)
Smith River Rancheria, CA
Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay
Nation, CA
Table Bluff Reservation, Wiyot
Tribe, CA
Needed from EPA
Water Quality Standards Implementation: Tribes have developed WQSs that are tribally
approved. Need from EPA: (a) Technical assistance in reviewing the
standards-feedback on the appropriateness of the standards, i.e., what else should be in
the WQSs; are they protective enough, how should we revise to take into account
problems such as acid mine wastes, etc; (b) Expedient approval of the CWA 303/401
program by the Regional Administrator. Tribes need to do certain things to facilitate the
above.
Funding and technical assistance for cleanup and prevention of illegal dumping
Reservation-wide.
BEACHES Act funding (for ocean); CWA funding; technical assistance to protect water
quality in water bodies affecting the Rancheria, including the Pacific Ocean, Smith River,
and Lopez Creek..
Funding and technical assistance for improvements to drinking water: reduce lead and
copper levels in distribution, improve storage capacity, and upgrade to meet pending
turbidity standards.
Funding for potable water system.
Funding for wastewater system "water reuse."
Funding for flood control.
Continued support and funding for improving quality (taste) of drinking water.
Assistance for expansion and development of an effective Environmental Education
Program.
Continued support and funding for Solid Waste Program.
Brownfield: Cleanup of historic dry-dock boat sacred site.
Funding support for enforcement infrastructure and personnel.
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Tribe
Needed from EPA
Tohono O'odham Nation, AZ
Solid waste: 113 open dumps need to be closed. Funding needed: $5,531,362 to dose
71 high-priority sites; $1,004,650 to close 40 moderate-priority sites; $57,462 to close 2
low-priority sites.
Provide drinking water and wastewater infrastructure funding: $37.2M total for 798
homes without potable water (14%) and 1,570 homes without sewer and/or water
systems (27%). Need funding and technical assistance for wellhead protection program
for 157 hand-dug wells and 423 irrigation and/or livestock wells.
Need funding and technical assistance to improve drinking water quality: 46 dw systems
maintained by TOUA: Contaminant: a) Nitrate (4); Fluoride (2); Arsenic (1); Coliform
(10); b) 19 out of 20 hand-dug wells tested positive for total and/or fecal coliform in
2001. Twenty-two percent (22%) of current drinking water wells affected by new
arsenic standards. Existing sulfate and potential uranium contamination of community
(North Komelik) drinking water system due to mining.
Border Issues: Improve coordination between EPA, Border Patrol, INS, and Customs to
address environmental issues as a result of illegal immigration (trash, disease, road
dragging, and vegetation damage). Need to look at the shared aquifer.
Chemicals/Hazardous Materials: a) Spills/Incidents-15 petroleum, 6 mercury, 1 PCBs, 12
other (past 4 years);
b) Air Force incidents-A10/F-16 crash, missiles & tanks dropped, hydrazine spill;
c) Underground storage tanks: 69 total historical: 21 in use; 36 pulled; 12 inactive;
d) Pesticides: 4 farms; applications in schools and facilities, household use;
e) Above-ground storage tanks: 4 over 10K gallons; and
f) Lead paint-study pending.
Air Quality: Dust - gravel pits, construction sites, dirt roads.
Indoor Air Quality: Asbestos-old buildings tested as needed; some schools still need
radon testing; mold: 3 incidences in past 4 years; utility poles/railroad ties
(creosote/CCA treated) used in homes; carbon monoxide-3 cases in year 2000.
Endangered Species: wildlife and plants (3 species each); Culturally Significant: Wildlife
(2 species); Plants (16 species).
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Tribe
Needed from EPA
Torres Martinez Desert Chuilla
Indians, CA
Coordinate with Tribal Council to insure proper mitigation (for env. impacts due to
reduction of inflows into the Salton Sea). Monitoring federal and state actions related to
the water transfer projects and EIR, EIS funding for tribal wetlands enhancement
projects.
Unsafe solid and hazardous waste disposal practices, including burning, on some allotted
and fee lands within the Reservation, continue to pose threats of fire fueled by high
winds, as well as air, soil and water pollution. As we do not yet have the enforcement
capability to address these matters, we would appreciate EPA's leadership in seeking to
develop solutions to these problems.
Funding and technical assistance to develop water quality standards for ground water;
financial and technical support to develop a groundwater model and wellhead protection
plan; and assistance in increasing tribal capacity to control public water system within
Reservation boundaries.
U3
I-*
NJ
Continued funding and technical assistance to protect precious water resources and
ensure clean and safe drinking water for all Reservation inhabitants when the issues are
identified with specificity.
Funding and technical assistance to develop code and ordinance for environmental health
issues. Technical training and funding for enforcement through tribal environmental
inspectors. j
Trinidad Rancheria, CA
Funding and technical assistance for completion of Emergency Preparedness and
Response Plan.
Funding for investigation of community wastewater alternatives.
Funding for investigation of recycling opportunities at the Tribe's three economic
enterprises and in the community.
Tule River Tribe, CA
Continued funding and technical assistance to improve Water Quality Program
(groundwater protection and wastewater management).
Funding for construction, training and staff to improve drinking water system and
management.
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ro
i-*
U)
Tribe
Tula River Tribe, CA
(continued)
Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk
Indians, CA
Walker River Paiute Tribe, NV
Washoe Tribe of NV/CA
Yurok Tribe, CA
Needed from EPA
Funding for protection measure (staff and training) relating to biological/cultural issues
for application of an effective TEPA process.
Continued funding for waste cleanup and recycling programs. Rather than requiring each
tribe to internally arrange for waste cleanup, it would be helpful if EPA awarded regional
contracts to commercial vendors that tribes could call on to do the actual cleanup. This
way, the vendor would already be certified to address hazardous materials that might be
unearthed, and EPA would be better able to ensure that consistent standards are
followed.
Base-level funding for travel and per diem for training and attendance at environmental
seminars. While EPA has supported training, small tribes have difficulty retaining trained
technicians so any increases in funding for training would improve the ability of small
tribes to participate in regional training events. Perhaps EPA can publish invitational
travel orders for Agency-sponsored training (and regional meetings such as the RTOC)
rather than having participants pay for the travel out of grant funds or tribal budgets.
Onsite assistance from EPA staff in the development of environmental policies and plans
(in particular to develop integrated resource management plans required by Public Laws
93-638 and 100-472).
Training and equipment for comprehensive emergency preparedness, particularly in
coordination with regional emergency services organizations.
EPA more proactive on Atlantic Richfield Mine in Yerington, NV.
Funding for tribe for emergency preparation for Yucca Mountain.
Continued funding, technical assistance and enforcement for cleanup of Leviathan Mine.
Funding, technical assistance, and enforcement for watershed protection of Clear Creek.
Funding and technical support for protection of cultural and natural resources: Pine Nut
Range and Lake Tahoe.
Increased/secured annual Clean Water Act funding and dedicated EPA legal counsel and
technical support for tribal water quality standards.
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Tribe
Yurok Tribe, CA
(continued)
Needed from EPA
Cooperative agreements, funding and technical support for pesticide enforcement
assistance.
Funding and program flexibility (e.g., GAP II) for solid waste cleanup and infrastructure.
CO
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